Waters of Katrina: New Orleans Flood History & Resilience Walking Tour
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires around 1–1.5 miles of walking on flat terrain
Overview
Walk the edge of the Mississippi and listen to water’s story in New Orleans: a two-hour guided tour that links colonial levees, 20th-century engineering and Katrina-era resilience with neighborhood insights and riverfront viewpoints. Learn how water shaped the city—and how locals are adapting now.
Waters of Katrina: New Orleans Flood History & Resilience Walking Tour
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The Mississippi leans against the levees like a weight the city can feel—a low, constant presence that hums beneath the ironwork balconies and piazzas of the French Quarter. On a cool morning, your small group gathers at a semicircle of concrete steps by the amphitheater; the guide, a licensed tour guide and environmentalist, arrives with a message and a clipped map. For two hours you’ll walk a compact loop along the riverfront and through the original city, where water’s hand is obvious in brick, parkland and plaque.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Hydrate before and during the walk
Bring a filled 20–32 oz reusable water bottle—short stops won’t always allow for shops between waypoints.
Wear flat, closed-toe shoes
Pavement is the norm but expect some uneven brick and wet patches near the riverfront; comfortable sneakers are best.
Sun protection is crucial
The route is exposed along the river and parks—use sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses especially in summer.
Respect memorial and public spaces
Photography is welcome, but refrain from climbing markers or disturbing community memorials and public artwork.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Brown pelican
- Great egret
History
The French Quarter was laid out in 1721; over centuries settlers built levees and drainage systems that shaped the city’s footprint and vulnerability to floods.
Conservation
Rising seas and subsidence drive local resilience projects; the tour highlights community-led restoration and engineering approaches aimed at reducing flood impacts.
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Adventure Hotspots in New Orleans
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Provides traction and comfort on paved, brick and occasional wet surfaces.
Refillable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated during the two-hour tour with limited on-route water access.
Sun hat and sunglasses
Protects against strong sun on the exposed riverfront sections.
summer specific
Light rain jacket
Quick showers are common—pack a waterproof shell for comfort and warmth.
spring specific