French Quarter Haunted and Tipsy Tour

Our review explores a popular small-group tour that promises to unveil New Orleans’ haunted history while making stops at some of the city’s most iconic and atmospheric bars. Designed for those intrigued by ghost stories, voodoo lore, and local legends—especially with a drink in hand—this tour offers a lively blend of history, mystery, and fun.

What we love about this experience is how it balances entertaining storytelling with authentic visits to historic sites. The guide’s knowledge shines through, making the stories come alive, and the small group size ensures a more personal, engaging experience. Plus, the inclusion of bar stops is a clever touch, turning an ordinary walking tour into a social event.

On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind: it’s not a “boozy” tour in the sense of heavy drinking, but rather a relaxed, tipsy-friendly walk with a focus on spooky stories and local lore. If you’re expecting a wild night out, this might not fully satisfy that craving.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of history, storytelling, and socializing—perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or anyone interested in experiencing a different, more mysterious side of New Orleans without long hours on your feet or deep research.

Key Points

• Small-group experience with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and storytelling
• Visits to iconic haunted venues like Muriel’s Jackson Square and the Lalaurie Mansion
• Includes interesting bar stops, perfect for enjoying local drinks while hearing spooky tales
• Knowledgeable guides who verify stories when possible, adding credibility to legends
• Duration of approximately 2 hours, striking a good balance between sightseeing and storytelling
• A chance to get photos after the tour to remember your ghostly adventure

The French Quarter Haunted and Tipsy Tour: An In-Depth Look

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect at Each Stop

Starting at Cuban Creations Cigar Bar, travelers gather in an inviting atmosphere that’s both elegant and laid-back. This bar is notable as the only smoking bar in the French Quarter, which adds an authentic smoky dive vibe to the experience. Here, your guide sets the tone with some classic New Orleans cocktails and introduces you to stories of hauntings and local legends. Based on reviews, many travelers appreciate the casual, friendly atmosphere and the personalized attention—especially if you’re lucky enough to be the only ones on the tour, as some guests have experienced.

Next, the tour moves to Muriel’s Jackson Square, believed to be the most haunted restaurant in the city. With a reputation so strong, they even keep a ghostly table set aside—an amusing and spooky detail that adds to the intrigue. The 10-minute stop allows for a quick peek into this storied spot, with stories of ghostly apparitions and strange happenings that many guests find memorable.

A stroll through Jackson Square brings history to life. Your guide shares tales about the bloody legacy that built the square and the story of an ill-fated Spanish baroness held prisoner in a castle—stories that make the square feel like a place of both celebration and lingering mystery.

The visit to Voodoo Authentica offers a brief but meaningful introduction to Voodoo and Marie Laveau, the legendary Voodoo Queen. Guests often enjoy learning about the secret underground railroad and the crimes and powers associated with Voodoo, which add layers to New Orleans’ mystique. This stop is flexible—guides might tailor the stories based on the group’s interests, making it a personalized experience.

The tour then explores French Quarter architecture, where the guide shares bizarre, tragic, and sometimes hilarious stories about the buildings and their former inhabitants. The visual backdrop of classic wrought-iron balconies and centuries-old facades makes the stories more tangible.

Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar is a highlight—claimed to be the oldest bar in New Orleans, housed in the oldest building to house a bar in the country. Here, you’ll hear tales about pirate Jean Lafitte, a legendary figure in local lore. Although drinks are not included, many guests take the opportunity to enjoy a drink in this historic setting.

Next, a stop at the Ice House Bar of the Provincial Hotel reveals a haunted hotel with a chilling past—details are kept mysterious, but guests often find themselves intrigued by the legend.

The Lalaurie Mansion stands out as the most notorious site. Known for the terrifying crimes committed by a high-society couple, this mansion’s story has forever stained the city’s conscience. The guide recounts chilling details of the serial killers’ atrocities, creating a sense of haunting history.

Finally, the tour visits the Old Ursuline Convent Museum, where legends of vampires and supernatural tales originate. Whether true or myth, this site is a perfect ending for a spooky, story-filled walk.

The Experience: Atmosphere, Guides, and Stories

Guides are praised for their knowledge and storytelling ability. Many reviews mention guides like Evan, who verified stories when possible and shared both legends and factual history. Travelers appreciate that the stories are verifiable, adding credibility to the tales, which enhances the overall experience.

The small group size—usually 15 or fewer—means you’re less likely to feel lost in a crowd or overwhelmed. Guests have noted how this allows for more personalized storytelling and opportunities to ask questions.

The bar stops are a clever way to make the tour more social. Guests often comment on the fun of sipping a cocktail while hearing about ghostly legends, creating a seamless blend of history and leisure.

Value and Cost Analysis

At $30 per person, the tour offers considerable value. You get not just a walk through haunted sites but also, in many cases, a short history lesson, an authentic atmosphere, and a chance to socialize in historic bars. The tour’s length—about 2 hours—is just right for those wanting an engaging experience without feeling rushed or exhausted.

The inclusion of photos after the tour allows travelers to remember their spooky adventure, adding a personal touch to the experience.

Practicalities and Considerations

The tour starts at Cuban Creations on Toulouse Street and ends at Royal Street. It’s accessible near public transportation, making it easy to join or leave as needed. Confirmations are quick, and tickets can be canceled for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, offering some flexibility for planning.

Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, making it suitable for a variety of guests. The tour is designed to be fun but not overly “boozy”—so don’t expect wild drinking or drunken antics, but rather a relaxed, tipsy ambiance.

Review Highlights and Authentic Perspectives

Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides. Danyele highlights how “Josh was a sweet guy and told good stories,” while Gina praises Evan for his depth of knowledge and great storytelling skills. Many mention the small group size as a major plus, allowing for more engagement and a relaxed atmosphere.

However, some reviewers express mild disappointment if their expectations aren’t met. One comment noted it “wasn’t very boozy or spooky,” which suggests that if you’re after a wild night or full-blown ghostly hauntings, this might not be the ideal fit. The tour’s focus is more on storytelling and historic ambiance with some drinks along the way.

Others find it great for a relaxed evening, especially if you want to combine sightseeing with socializing and some ghost stories. The photos afterward are a bonus, helping preserve memories of the experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs who enjoy ghost stories, small groups seeking a more intimate setting, or travelers interested in the authentic atmosphere of the French Quarter. It’s great for couples, friends, or solo travelers who want a mix of entertainment and insight, without a heavy focus on alcohol or scare factor.

If you’re a light drinker or prefer more intense haunted experiences, you might want to look for tours with a focus on actual haunted sites or spirits. But if you want entertaining stories combined with a social vibe, this tour delivers.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s primarily aimed at adults given the bar stops and spooky stories. Check with the provider if you have young children or specific needs.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, providing ample time for sightseeing, stories, and bar stops without feeling rushed.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the tour price, but guests are welcome to purchase drinks at the stops, such as Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not eligible for refunds.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Cuban Creations Cigar Bar on Toulouse Street and ends at 1035 Royal Street, both centrally located in the French Quarter.

Is the tour accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transit, making it easy to access without a car.

Final thoughts

For those seeking a fun, engaging way to explore the haunted heart of New Orleans, this French Quarter Haunted and Tipsy Tour offers a memorable combination of spooky stories, historic sites, and lively bar stops. The small-group format ensures a cozy, personal experience, while the knowledgeable guides bring each legend vividly to life.

Designed more for storytelling and atmosphere than heavy drinking, it’s an ideal choice for curious travelers who love a good ghost story, appreciate local history, and enjoy social outings. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, this tour provides a distinctive peek into the darker, more mysterious side of the Big Easy.

To sum it up, if you’re after a relaxed, entertaining glimpse of New Orleans’ haunted past with a side of local flavor, this tour delivers. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy stories verified by guides and value authentic historic ambiance over over-the-top theatrics. With a modest price point and rave reviews about the guides, it’s a strong choice to add a touch of spooky fun to your NOLA visit.