French Quarter Ghosts and Ghouls of New Orleans

Exploring New Orleans after dark? Then the French Quarter Ghosts and Ghouls tour might just be your perfect spooky adventure. This one-hour walk promises eerie tales, historic sites, and a glimpse into the city’s ghostly reputation—all led by knowledgeable guides who know how to spin a good story. It’s a well-loved experience, favored by many, and offers a mix of history and supernatural lore.

What we love about this tour is its intimate pacing and the way it balances storytelling with history. The guides are praised for their friendliness and expertise, making the experience both fun and educational. Plus, at just $32, it’s surprisingly affordable for a guided walk through the city’s haunted past.

However, there’s a consideration for those who prefer longer tours or more interactive experiences. The hour-long format means you’ll get a taste of New Orleans’ ghost stories, but if you’re seeking a deep dive or ghost-hunting adventures, this might feel a bit brief. Still, it’s a great fit for travelers who want a quick, engaging overview of the city’s darker side—perfect for a short evening activity, especially if you’re new to the city or want a break from the bustling nightlife.

Key Points

• The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, making it easy to fit into any evening schedule.
• It covers eight historic sites in the French Quarter, each with its own ghostly legend.
• Guides are highly praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and storytelling skills.
• The tour costs $32 per person, offering good value for a guided walk.
• An extended tour option is available for those wanting more stories and details.
• The tour operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly and be prepared for weather.
• Small group sizes (max 35) ensure a more personal experience.
• The tour begins at iconic St. Louis Cathedral and ends at a well-known local restaurant, Muriel’s Jackson Square.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Jackson Square

Starting at the heart of the French Quarter, Jackson Square is more than just a postcard scene. This historic plaza, once a site of public executions, has long been linked to ghost stories. Visitors often mention feeling strange sensations or seeing apparitions amid the lively atmosphere. The contrast of vibrant activity and ghostly tales makes this a compelling opening point, setting the tone for the night.

Old Ursuline Convent Museum

Next, we visit the Old Ursuline Convent, the oldest building in the Mississippi Valley. Its long history as a religious school and residence has led to reports of strange noises and ghostly figures. The building’s age and significance add depth to the haunted reputation, making it clear why it’s a favorite among ghost enthusiasts.

Beauregard-Keyes House

This grand mansion, now a museum, is said to harbor spirits of former residents. Several visitors have reported seeing ghostly figures wandering the ornate rooms, and staff sometimes note unexplained phenomena. The elegant architecture creates a stark contrast to the eerie stories, which adds a layer of intrigue.

LaLaurie Mansion

Perhaps the most infamous site on the tour, the LaLaurie Mansion’s dark past of cruelty and torture has cemented its reputation as a haunted spot. Chilling ghost stories are associated with this building, and its reputation for supernatural activity is well-earned. Visitors love the mix of history and spectral tales here, which can be both unsettling and fascinating.

Andrew Jackson Hotel

Housed in a building from the early 19th century, this hotel is known for its ghostly residents. Guests have reported encounters with spirits, making it a lively part of the tour’s ghostly narrative. The historic charm of the hotel adds to the authentic feel of the experience.

New Orleans Vampire Cafe

A Gothic-themed café with dark ambiance and vampire lore—this spot combines dining with tales of the supernatural. Visitors often mention ghost sightings and strange occurrences, making it a fitting addition to the tour’s spooky lineup. The themed atmosphere enhances the sense of stepping into a Gothic novel.

Pere Antoine Alley

A narrow, historic passageway, Pere Antoine Alley, is steeped in ghost stories. Named after a revered priest, it’s said to be haunted by spirits of past residents. Its atmospheric character makes it a perfect spot for some ghostly reflection.

Faulkner House Books

Housed in William Faulkner’s former residence, this charming bookstore has its own ghostly reputation. Visitors report unexplained sightings among the stacks, adding a literary twist to the supernatural tales. It’s a cozy, quiet place that feels steeped in stories—both written and spectral.

Muriel’s Jackson Square

The tour ends at a popular restaurant, known for its vibrant atmosphere and haunted reputation. Guests have experienced unexplained phenomena here, often related to spirits of former occupants or secret histories. Dining here after the tour offers a fun, ghostly-themed finish to the evening.

What to Expect During the Tour

Walking at a relaxed pace, your guide will share lively commentary about each location’s history and hauntings. Most stops are brief—around 6 minutes—allowing for stories and some time to absorb the atmosphere. The group size, capped at 35, ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, and guides often tailor their stories to the audience’s interests.

The tour is a mix of outdoor walks and brief stops inside historic buildings, with the majority of the experience being storytelling. No transportation is involved; it’s all on foot, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Since it operates in all weather conditions, be prepared for rain or shine.

The Value of This Tour

For $32, the tour offers a solid introduction to the haunted underbelly of New Orleans. It’s especially valuable for those who appreciate storytelling backed by historical context. The guides’ reputation for being friendly and knowledgeable is a big plus, making the experience feel personal rather than scripted.

The option to extend the tour adds extra stories and depth, which is worth considering if you’re a true ghost enthusiast. Keep in mind, the tour is short—about an hour—so if you’re craving a comprehensive, in-depth ghost-hunting adventure, you might want to look at longer or more specialized tours.

Real Traveler Insights

One reviewer highlights the importance of meeting instructions, noting that multiple tours start nearby but clarifying the exact meeting point can help avoid confusion. Many travelers praise the guides, especially mentioning how friendly and personable guides like Ashley and Royale enhanced their experience.

Some reviews offer a more cautious note. A few found the tour not worth their time or money, citing that it was less engaging or that they had a less-than-ideal guide. However, these seem to be exceptions rather than the rule, as most reviews praise the storytelling and fun atmosphere.

A Few Words of Caution

While the tour is generally well-reviewed, some travelers noted that their groups were very small or that the guide’s performance varied. If you’re someone who prefers a highly interactive or immersive ghost-hunting experience, this might feel somewhat limited in scope.

Practical Details

• Meeting point: St. Louis Cathedral, 615 Pere Antoine Alley
• Ending point: Muriel’s Jackson Square, 801 Chartres St
• Duration: Around 1 hour
• Price: $32 per person, with optional extended tour
• Availability: Book on average 13 days in advance; highly recommended during busy seasons
• Weather: Operates in all weather, so dress appropriately
• Group size: Max 35 travelers
• Accessibility: Near public transportation, moderate physical fitness required
• Booking: Mobile tickets available, easy to show on your device
• Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This ghost tour is ideal for travelers who want a quick, entertaining glimpse into New Orleans’ spooky side. It’s perfect if you enjoy stories rooted in history, or if you’re traveling with friends or family who love a good ghost story. Great for those with limited time but eager to explore the city’s darker legends.

History buffs and casual travelers alike will find value here, especially given the friendly guides and affordable price. If you’re seeking a lively, atmospheric walk with some spooky tales peppered with local color, this tour delivers.

However, if you prefer longer, more interactive ghost-hunting adventures or highly personalized experiences, you may want to consider other options. Also, those who dislike walking or have mobility issues should note the moderate physical activity involved.

The Sum Up

The French Quarter Ghosts and Ghouls tour offers a solid, enjoyable way to experience New Orleans after dark. With its well-curated stops, engaging storytelling, and affordable price point, it provides good value for those interested in the city’s haunted lore. The guides are generally praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the walk both educational and fun.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who appreciate history, enjoy ghost stories, or want a lighthearted yet spooky evening activity. It’s not overly long or intense, making it a perfect fit for a short evening outing, a pre-dinner activity, or a fun break from more active pursuits.

While it might not satisfy hardcore ghost enthusiasts seeking a full-blown paranormal investigation, it’s an authentic taste of New Orleans’ haunted reputation. The mix of historic sites, atmospheric storytelling, and local legends makes for a memorable experience—one you’ll talk about long after you’ve left the French Quarter.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for most ages. It’s a walk-focused experience with engaging stories; however, younger children might find some stories a bit spooky.

Do I need to book in advance?
It’s recommended to book about 13 days ahead on average, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.

What should I wear?
Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Comfortable shoes are a must for walking.

How long does the tour last?
The standard tour lasts about 1 hour. There’s an option to extend for more stories if desired.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at St. Louis Cathedral, 615 Pere Antoine Alley, and concludes at Muriel’s Jackson Square, 801 Chartres St.

Are tickets mobile?
Yes, the tour uses mobile tickets, which can be easily shown on your device.

Is there a guide included?
Absolutely. A professional, friendly guide leads the group, offering live commentary and storytelling.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What makes this tour stand out?
Most travelers highlight the knowledgeable guides, authentic stories, and good value for money as key strengths.

Would you recommend this tour?
Yes, especially for those who enjoy a mix of history, storytelling, and a touch of the supernatural—perfect for a fun, atmospheric evening in New Orleans.