Jingle Bells New Orleans History and Drinks Walking Tour

Exploring the Jingle Bells New Orleans History and Drinks Walking Tour

If you’re looking for a holiday activity that mixes history, ghost stories, and a little holiday cheer, the Jingle Bells New Orleans History and Drinks Walking Tour might just be your perfect match. Offered by New Orleans Drunk History Tours, this experience promises an engaging stroll through the French Quarter, filled with tales of voodoo queens, vampires, and haunted houses—all wrapped up in holiday lights and decorations.

What really catches our eye about this tour is how it balances storytelling with interactive fun, especially with the paranormal detector in hand. Plus, the chance to pop into local bars for a drink (at your own expense) adds a social twist that makes the experience feel relaxed and authentic.

One thing to consider is that the tour is designed to be a walk, so comfortable shoes are a must. Also, since part of the fun involves bar stops, guests should be prepared for some drinking at their own cost, which might not suit everyone.

This tour seems ideal for those who enjoy a spooky story with a festive vibe, history buffs, or anyone wanting a different way to experience New Orleans during the holidays.

Key Points

• Seasonal Charm: The tour offers a unique holiday twist on New Orleans’ iconic French Quarter.
• Interactive Elements: Use of paranormal equipment adds a fun, modern touch to ghost stories.
• Flexible Schedule: Several departure times allow for easy planning.
• Authentic Guides: Knowledgeable, licensed tour guides share well-researched stories.
• Bar Stops: Guests can purchase drinks along the route, adding social and tasting opportunities.
• Walking Pace: Moderate pacing ensures you see key sights without feeling rushed.

A Close Look at What You Can Expect

Overall Experience

This walking tour is designed to be both entertaining and educational. It combines history, legends, and holiday cheer in a way that appeals to a wide range of travelers. The focus on storytelling, ghost-hunting, and local culture creates an engaging atmosphere, especially during the festive season when the French Quarter is lit up with holiday decorations.

Tour Length and Flexibility

With a duration of approximately 1 to 2 hours, the tour is short enough to fit into a busy schedule but packed with enough stories and sights to feel worthwhile. The multiple departure times mean you can choose a slot that best suits your day—morning, afternoon, or evening—making it flexible for different travel plans.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar
Your journey begins at this historic bar, which is one of the oldest in town. While the tour does not meet inside, guests gather at the courtyard gate at 941 Bourbon Street. From here, you’ll start walking through the decorated streets with your guide, who will share stories about the area’s vintage homes, churches, and museums. This is the perfect warm-up, setting the tone with tales of Voodoo, vampires, and the Louisiana Purchase signed at the nearby historic sites.

Stop 2: French Quarter
The heart of the tour is wandering through the French Quarter’s cobblestone streets, illuminated and festive. Here, your guide will highlight iconic landmarks like the St. Louis Cathedral and the site where the Louisiana Purchase was finalized in 1803. Along the way, you’ll get a real sense of the neighborhood’s vibrant past, infused with stories of Marie Laveau, the legendary Voodoo Queen, and haunted houses that give the area its spooky reputation.

A highlight is the use of a paranormal detector—an EMF meter—to add a layer of excitement. Guests have noted that the guide’s storytelling makes the history come alive, making you feel like you’re stepping into a haunted movie scene.

Stop 3: Jackson Square
The tour wraps up at Jackson Square, a lively hub where you can soak in the sights and possibly discuss your ghostly encounters. The entire walk provides a balanced mix of educational content, spooky tales, and holiday ambiance.

Guides and Atmosphere

Guests consistently praise the guides—especially Cody, who was highlighted in a recent positive review for his authentic storytelling and warm knowledge. The guides are licensed, certified, and well-versed in local lore, which makes the storytelling feel credible and engaging. Their enthusiasm adds to the experience, making the spooky stories more vivid and memorable.

Value for Money

At $33, the tour offers an affordable way to explore New Orleans’ haunted side and learn about its history. The inclusion of paranormal equipment, the atmosphere of holiday lighting, and visits to historic landmarks make it a good value—especially when you consider the exclusive stories and personal touch guides bring.

Drinking and Socializing

While drinks aren’t included, guests are encouraged to purchase beverages at the bars along the route. This adds a social element and an opportunity to sample local drinks—an important part of the New Orleans experience. The tour’s flexible bar stops mean you can enjoy a cocktail or two without feeling rushed, though the pace remains steady so you won’t spend too long inside any one spot.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re interested in combining history, ghost stories, and holiday cheer in a relaxed, walkable setting. It suits those who appreciate knowledgeable guides, enjoy a bit of paranormal fun, or want to see the French Quarter decorated during the festive season. It’s also great for groups who want a light-hearted, engaging activity that blends storytelling with a social drink.

If you’re more interested in private, in-depth ghost tours or historical deep dives, this might not be your best fit—but for a lively, story-driven stroll, it hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

The Jingle Bells New Orleans History and Drinks Walking Tour offers a lively, well-paced exploration of the French Quarter’s haunted past and holiday magic. The guides’ local knowledge, combined with interactive elements like paranormal detectors, makes it stand out. While not a deep-dive into history or ghost hunting, it’s a fun, engaging way to see the city’s iconic sights and hear its spooky legends.

For travelers craving a lighthearted, festive experience that combines storytelling, cultural insight, and a bit of social drinking, this tour delivers great value. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy stories told by passionate guides and want to add a memorable, spooky twist to their holiday trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 18 are not admitted unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. Some bars along the route may not admit children, so it’s best to check in advance.

How long does the tour last?
The walking tour typically lasts from 1 to 2 hours, depending on the group size and how long stops inside bars might take.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the gate of the courtyard attached to Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, located at 941 Bourbon Street. It concludes at Jackson Square in the heart of the French Quarter.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks aren’t included but are available for purchase at the bars along the route. You can bring your own, too, if you prefer.

What is the tour pace like?
The tour is moderate paced, allowing guests to comfortably walk and listen without feeling rushed or exhausted.

Can paranormal equipment be checked out?
Yes, paranormal equipment such as EMF meters can be checked out at the start of the tour for an extra fee, and must be returned before leaving.

What is the guide’s expertise?
Guides are licensed and certified, with a reputation for engaging storytelling and local knowledge—adding authenticity to the experience.

What happens if the tour is canceled?
Tours are rain-or-shine; however, if canceled due to severe weather or other reasons, prepaid tickets will be credited for a future tour.

Final Word

The Jingle Bells New Orleans History and Drinks Walking Tour is a lively, festive, and engaging way to experience the French Quarter during the holiday season. It’s perfect for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a different take on New Orleans’ iconic sights. With knowledgeable guides, fun paranormal twists, and opportunities to socialize over drinks, it offers a balanced mix of education and entertainment that’s hard to beat at this price point. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring your curiosity—because you never know what spirits (ghostly or otherwise) you might encounter.