New Orleans Legends, Folklore, Myths, Superstitions and Spells Tour

Embarking on the New Orleans Legends, Folklore, Myths, Superstitions, and Spells Tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s spooky side. For just $35 per person, this guided walking journey uncovers tales of ghosts, vampires, voodoo practices, and mythical creatures that have shaped the city’s eerie allure. It’s a great way to get a taste of New Orleans’ supernatural lore while exploring its historic streets.

One aspect we really appreciate about this tour is its intimate, small-group setting, which allows for personalized storytelling and closer interactions with your guide. Plus, visiting iconic spots like Marie Laveau’s Voodoo House and Jackson Square makes it feel like a true adventure. However, since it’s a walking tour, comfy shoes are a must and some stories can be quite spooky — so a little courage is recommended.

This tour is best suited for those with a curiosity for the supernatural, history buffs, or families looking for a spooky yet entertaining experience. It’s not ideal for travelers seeking a non-stop ghost hunt or private, indoor visits, but it perfectly suits those wanting authentic tales with a touch of mystery.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling about haunted legends and local folklore.
• Visit to Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo and learn about voodoo practices.
• Visit to Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, a historic and iconic spot.
• Small-group experience ensures more personalized attention.
• Two hours of moderate walking through the French Quarter.
• Knowledgeable guides who share detailed and interesting stories.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

When considering the value and overall experience, this tour offers a compelling blend of history, folklore, and local legends, all wrapped into a manageable 2-hour walk. It’s designed to give visitors a solid introduction to New Orleans’ spooky stories, making it ideal for first-timers or those with limited time.

The Meeting Point and First Impressions

The tour begins at the gate of the courtyard attached to Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, located at 941 Bourbon Street. It’s important to note that the meeting is not inside the bar itself, nor at the street corner, so punctuality is key. The guide takes a few minutes to check everyone in, and the group then sets off on foot through the historic French Quarter.

The Route and Stops

Over the course of approximately one to two hours, the tour visits more than ten locations, each with its own tales of the supernatural. The route is designed to be moderate in pace, ensuring you get enough time to absorb the stories, take photos, and enjoy the atmosphere.

Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop

While the tour doesn’t meet inside this legendary bar, it’s where the journey begins. Known as one of the oldest bars in New Orleans, it’s steeped in pirate lore and ghost stories, making it a fitting starting point. The building’s dark, weathered facade sets a perfect tone for what’s to come.

French Quarter and the Rougarou Legend

The tour then takes you through the French Quarter, where your guide shares stories of the Rougarou, a legendary creature akin to a werewolf, said to haunt the Louisiana bayous and French communities. You’ll learn about the legend’s origins and why it continues to be a part of local folklore.

Marie Laveau House of Voodoo

A highlight is the visit to the Marie Laveau House of Voodoo, where you’ll get insight into Voodoo practices. The guide explains how Marie Laveau, the famed Voodoo Queen, influenced the city’s mystical traditions. The stop includes a brief 10-minute visit, enough to take photos and soak in the ritualistic atmosphere.

Jackson Square and End of Tour

The tour culminates at Jackson Square, with its lively street performers and historic architecture, providing a lively contrast to the spooky stories you’ve heard. The guide wraps up here, giving you a chance to explore further or grab a coffee.

The Guide: Knowledge and Personality

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides are a standout feature. One reviewer highlighted that the guide shared “great and interesting history about the French Quarter,” and though they suggested the guide could have been dressed better, they appreciated their personality. Another praised the guide’s fun approach and detailed facts, noting that they knew almost everything about the places they passed.

Practical Details

The tour costs $35, which is reasonable given the amount of storytelling, the iconic stops, and the small-group format that ensures you’re not just another face in a crowd. It’s recommended to book about five days in advance, as spots fill up quickly — especially in peak seasons.

The duration is flexible, lasting about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the group’s pace and the wait times at bars or crowded locations. The tour is rain-or-shine, so bring an umbrella or raincoat if needed. Be aware that no refunds are issued if you decide to cancel or if weather causes a cancellation, but prepaid tickets are credited for future tours.

What We Like About This Tour

• The small-group size creates a more personalized experience.
• The stories are detailed and engaging, delivered by knowledgeable guides.
• Visiting iconic sites like Marie Laveau’s Voodoo shop and Lafitte’s adds authenticity.
• The tour balances history and legends—perfect for a well-rounded spooky adventure.

Considerations and Possible Drawbacks

• The tour involves walking, so comfortable shoes are essential.
• Some stories can be quite spooky, especially for children or sensitive travelers.
• The tour starts promptly; late arrivals aren’t refunded, so punctuality is crucial.
• Some locations, like bars, may be busy or crowded, potentially delaying the tour slightly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re fascinated by local legends, vampire stories, or voodoo traditions. It suits travelers who enjoy walking tours and are comfortable with moderate pacing. It’s also family-friendly, provided children are okay with a spooky atmosphere. However, if you’re seeking a private, indoor experience or a tour focused solely on paranormal activity, you might find this tour more casual and storytelling-oriented rather than a full-fledged ghost hunt.

Final Thoughts

The New Orleans Legends, Folklore, Myths, Superstitions and Spells Tour offers a lively, compact glimpse into the city’s mysterious side. With engaging stories and passionate guides, it’s a fun, reasonably priced way to explore the darker legends of one of America’s most haunted cities. The stops are thoughtfully selected, and the atmosphere is perfect for curious spirits eager to learn about New Orleans’ supernatural history.

If you’re after an authentic, story-driven experience that balances fun and education, this tour will meet your expectations. It’s especially suited for those with a love of local folklore or anyone wanting to add a spooky touch to their NOLA adventure.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s described as family-friendly, but keep in mind that some stories can be quite spooky. Use your discretion based on your children’s comfort level with supernatural tales.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable walking shoes are a must since the tour involves moderate-paced walking. Bringing a small flashlight or camera for paranormal photos is optional but encouraged.

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

What if I arrive late or get lost?
Arrive a few minutes early to check-in as late arrivals won’t be refunded or allowed to join late. The guide cannot answer phones after departure, so contact the provider in advance if you’re running late.

Can I take photos or record during the tour?
Photos are encouraged, but audio or video recording devices are not allowed during the tour.

What happens if it rains?
The tour runs rain-or-shine. Be prepared with rain gear if needed. Cancellations due to weather are rare; prepaid tickets are credited for future tours.

In summary, this tour offers an engaging mix of history, storytelling, and local legends, making it an ideal choice for travelers eager to explore New Orleans’ spooky side. Its affordability, friendly guides, and interesting stops make it a worthwhile addition to any ghostly or cultural itinerary.