New Orleans Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl

Taking a stroll through New Orleans’ streets often feels like stepping into a living history book — and when it comes to tales of spirits, legends, and dark pasts, this city truly earns its reputation. The New Orleans Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl offers an hour and 45 minutes of spirited storytelling, haunted bar-hopping, and eerie sights. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, this tour promises to combine the city’s lively drinking scene with ghostly legends, making it a unique way to experience NOLA’s supernatural side.

One thing we particularly like about this experience is the variety of stops — from historic hotels to pirate haunts, each location promises a mix of history and haunted tales that add depth to your night out. Plus, the focus on local stories and authentic pubs keeps things grounded in the real New Orleans vibe. That said, the tour’s somewhat unpredictable schedule and the reliance on guides’ storytelling style could be a consideration for those expecting a tightly scripted experience.

This tour suits history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a fun, atmospheric way to explore New Orleans after dark. If you enjoy a combination of drinks and spine-tingling tales, this pub crawl could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of history and haunted tales at iconic NOLA locations.
• Visiting four historic bars and sites with varied stories and atmospheres.
• Knowledgeable guides with firsthand accounts add authenticity.
• Flexible duration with stops ranging from 15 minutes to over an hour at certain venues.
• Affordable price point, with drinks purchased separately, allowing personal choice.
• Potential for paranormal encounters, especially at the most active sites like the Ice House Bar and LaLaurie Mansion.

An In-Depth Look at the Haunted Pub Crawl Experience

Starting Point: Jackson Square’s Haunted Vibe

The tour kicks off in Jackson Square, which is believed to be quite haunted. Meeting 15 minutes early means you have a chance to soak in the atmosphere and maybe even catch a glimpse of spirits lurking in the shadows. The square’s reputation as a haunted spot or not, adds a bit of mystique as you gather with your fellow travelers. The meeting point’s prime location near public transportation makes it accessible, especially for those arriving from elsewhere in the French Quarter.

The First Stops: Elegant Hotels and Historic Buildings

The first significant stop is the Omni Royal Orleans Hotel, which inspired the Lez Zeppelin song “The Rover.” This elegant hotel, dating back to 1840s, has earned a reputation for being haunted, with stories from patrons feeling unusual sensations or hearing unexplained noises. The guide shares these first-hand accounts, making the history come alive with ghostly whispers.

Next, the tour visits a building established in 1834, where the ghosts are believed to be attached to the structure itself. The guide recounts spooky experiences from bookstore patrons experiencing unexplained noises and phenomena, giving a tangible feel of how lives intertwined with these haunted places.

Voodoo, Pirates, and Dark Histories

A highlight is the visit to a reputable Voodoo shop opened in 1996, which provides a cultural overview of Voodoo in New Orleans and its influence on local beliefs about spirits and the afterlife. This stop offers more than just tales — it introduces visitors to a vital aspect of NOLA’s spiritual makeup.

The Pirate’s Alley Cafe is next, where the guide shares stories of New Orleans’ swashbuckling past. This seemingly friendly spot hides a darker history, with ghost stories related to pirates and their clandestine activities. The atmosphere here is relaxed, but the stories add a layer of intrigue that gives you a glimpse into the city’s pirate lore.

The Haunted Bars: Ice House and Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop

The Ice House Bar at the Provincial Hotel is known for its paranormal activity. Guests and bartenders alike have reported strange occurrences after hours, making it one of the most active spots on the tour. Expect to hear chilling tales, and perhaps, if you’re lucky, you might even experience something yourself.

Looming over the tour are the LaLaurie Mansion and the building once owned by an infamous ax murderer. The mansion’s tragic history of turmoil, heartbreak, and revenge make it a must-see. The guide recounts these tragic stories as you take in the mansion’s stunning facade, reminding visitors of the dark side behind its beauty.

Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop — arguably the most iconic bar in New Orleans — is the tour’s grand finale. Known as one of the oldest bars in America, its pirate past and ghost stories make it a fitting end to the night. Here, the guide recommends the famous daiquiris to soothe your nerves after hearing tales of spirits and pirates who still haunt the place.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Throughout the tour, the group visits four main watering holes and several haunted sites, with each stop lasting between 15 minutes and over an hour. Guides like Royale and others are praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling, with some reviewers noting that the guides’ firsthand accounts really add authenticity to the experience.

The duration allows enough time to enjoy a drink or two at each location, without feeling rushed. Since drinks are not included, you can pick what suits your taste and budget — giving control over your experience and allowing for personal favorites. For those interested in paranormal activity, the Ice House Bar and LaLaurie Mansion are especially noteworthy, with reports of unseen presences and unexplained noises.

The price of $36 per person is reasonable considering the stops, stories, and guided experience. It doesn’t include drinks, but that’s actually a bonus for those who prefer choosing their own beverages or want to keep the experience budget-friendly. For an extra $6, you can rent or buy an EMF detector — a fun addition if you’re curious about sensing spirits yourself.

The Guides and Stories

The tour’s success largely hinges on the guides. Reviewers have highlighted tour leaders like Royale for their engaging storytelling and ability to make history vivid. One reviewer noted that an experience with a guide who wasn’t present at the start marred the experience, emphasizing the importance of a reliable guide. Overall, guides bring stories to life, sharing local legends, first-hand paranormal encounters, and historical context that deepens the tour beyond just bar-hopping.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Arrive early at Jackson Square for a smoother start and to soak in the atmosphere.
• Dress comfortably — walking and standing for 15-20 minutes at each stop can add up.
• Bring cash or card for drinks and optional EMF detector purchase.
• Be open-minded and ready for spooky stories, but remember that some paranormal activity is anecdotal.
• Consider the timing — the tour starts at 5:45 pm, perfect for a post-sunset experience with the city lighting up around you.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is particularly suitable for history enthusiasts who want a fun, spooky twist on their sightseeing. If you love ghost stories, haunted houses, or pirate lore, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also a good pick for social groups or couples looking for a lively, atmospheric evening in New Orleans.

However, if you’re sensitive to paranormal stories or prefer very scripted tours, this might not be your ideal choice. The tour’s unpredictability, especially with guide engagement and the variable paranormal activity, means it’s best suited for those who enjoy spontaneous, storytelling-driven experiences.

Final Thoughts

The New Orleans Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl offers a blend of history, hauntings, and local culture that captures the essence of the city’s mysterious reputation. With lively guides, legendary bars, and tales of spirits both literal and figurative, it’s a memorable way to spend an evening enjoying NOLA’s darker side.

While it may not be perfect for those seeking highly scripted or tightly organized tours, it excels in authentic storytelling and atmosphere. The combination of historic sites, lively bars, and ghostly legends makes it an engaging experience — one that adds a fun, spooky layer to your New Orleans adventure.

If you love stories of spirits, enjoy a good drink, and want to explore the city’s haunted legends firsthand, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just arrive early, keep an open mind, and prepare for a fun, ghost-filled night.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is generally open to most travelers, but it’s designed for adults—especially since it involves alcohol consumption and potentially spooky themes.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, with stops at four main venues and haunted sites.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are purchased separately, giving you the freedom to choose your favorites at each bar.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking and casual attire are recommended since you’ll be on your feet for most of the tour.

Is gratuity included?
No, gratuity is not included, so tipping your guide is appreciated if you enjoyed the experience.

Can I rent ghost-detecting equipment?
Yes, for an additional $6, you can rent or buy an EMF detector to enhance your paranormal experience.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Last-minute cancellations are not refundable.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the starting point at Jackson Square is near public transit options, making it easy to reach.

To sum it up, this guided pub crawl offers a lively, spooky exploration of New Orleans’ haunted past with a focus on authentic stories and historic bars. It’s ideal for curious travelers looking for a fun night out that blends history, ghost stories, and a touch of adventure — all within the vibrant setting of the Big Easy.