French Quarter Haunted Excursion In New Orleans

When it comes to exploring New Orleans, the French Quarter inevitably takes center stage. Known for its vibrant nightlife, historic architecture, and legendary music scene, it’s also famous for something a little darker—ghosts, vampires, and stories that whisper of a city’s haunted past. This French Quarter Haunted Excursion offers a blend of chilling tales and local lore, making it a popular choice for those curious about the spooky side of the Big Easy.

From what we’ve gathered, this tour is well-loved for its knowledgeable guides and the way it brings the city’s ghostly stories to life. We especially appreciate how it combines history and entertainment—an authentic way to get a deeper feel for New Orleans’ unique character. However, it’s worth noting that the experience, primarily a walking tour, might not satisfy die-hard paranormal seekers expecting supernatural phenomena on demand.

This tour is best suited for families, history buffs, and those looking for a fun, atmospheric walk with plenty of stories and local color. If you enjoy a mix of history, architecture, and ghost stories, it’ll probably be right up your alley. Those seeking a more intense or evening haunted experience might want to explore options with different timing or focus.

Key Points

• The tour provides a balanced mix of haunted stories and local history.
• It’s led by friendly, professional guides with a knack for storytelling.
• The 1-2 hour walking experience covers key sights of the French Quarter.
• Stops include Jackson Square, the most haunted house in New Orleans, and iconic landmarks.
• The tour is highly rated for value and authenticity, with many reviewers praising the guide’s knowledge.
• It’s suitable for most travelers, including families, but late arrivals or weather may impact the experience.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Starting Point at 941 Bourbon Street

The tour kicks off in the heart of Bourbon Street, allowing you to soak up the lively atmosphere right from the start. Meeting outside Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, you’ll get instructions and a quick orientation before heading out. This initial location is an excellent choice because it’s iconic, easy to find, and rich with history—plus, it sets the tone for the spooky stories ahead.

Walking Through the French Quarter

The core of this experience is a guided walk through the 78 blocks of the Vieux Carre, one of the oldest neighborhoods in the U.S. The French Quarter’s stunning architecture, with wrought-iron balconies and historic facades, creates a perfect backdrop for tales of ghosts and vampires. As you stroll, your guide will share stories about unsolved murders, vampire legends, and the city’s gritty past involving pirates, prostitutes, and convicts.

Many guests mention that the guides are friendly and knowledgeable. One reviewer noted, “He was very knowledgeable of New Orleans history and provided interesting stories of French Quarter folklore.” This blend of facts and storytelling helps bring the neighborhood to life—sometimes eerily so.

Stops at Local Bars

An interesting feature of this tour is the opportunity to stop at bars along the route to grab a drink to-go. This makes the experience more relaxed and adds a bit of local flavor. Many visitors appreciate this casual element, especially since it allows for a quick refresh during the walk. Keep in mind that drinks are not included in the ticket price, but purchasing a drink at one of these historic bars can be part of the fun.

Exploring the Dark Side: Unsolved Mysteries & Paranormal Activity

The second hour takes you to locations associated with ghostly activity, unsolved crimes, and vampire legends. The use of a real EMF Meter (a paranormal detector) is a highlight, giving the group a tangible connection to the stories. You’ll visit sites linked to documented reports of spirits wandering streets and the infamous LaLaurie Mansion, known as the most haunted house in New Orleans.

Guests have shared that this part of the tour is both fun and slightly spooky. One reviewer said, “The stories of vampires who held victims and fed off of them made it all feel quite real.” Whether you believe in the paranormal or just enjoy the storytelling, this segment adds a sense of thrill to the walk.

Jackson Square & City Highlights

The final part explores Jackson Square, with its iconic St. Louis Cathedral, and reveals the city’s cultural and architectural treasures. Your guide discusses above-ground cemeteries, explaining why they are reused and how they fit into New Orleans’ burial customs. You’ll also see locations that have appeared in movies, giving you a visual sense of the city’s cinematic allure.

Some of the most notable landmarks include The Cabildo, Presbytere, Ursuline Convent, and The Sultans Palace, rounding out a well-rounded tour of history, architecture, and local lore. One reviewer noted that the guide offered great fun facts at the end, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The value of this tour largely stems from its guides’ storytelling abilities and the chance to see the French Quarter’s most famous sights while hearing some of its best ghost stories. For $35, you get a professional guide, a walking tour, and the flexibility of multiple start times throughout the day.

However, drinks are not included, so if you want to indulge at the bars, you’ll need to budget extra. The tour also charges a $250 fee for any lost or damaged paranormal equipment, which underscores the importance of handling the gadgets carefully.

The group size can be quite large—up to 999 travelers—but many reviews mention that the guides keep the pace moderate and engaging. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but late arrivals or weather conditions might affect your experience.

Practical Tips for Booking and Participating

• Book well in advance—this tour is often booked 18 days ahead on average—especially if you want a specific time.
• Consider going at night if you’re truly after a haunted atmosphere. Many reviews suggest that night tours might amplify the spooky vibe.
• Arrive a few minutes early at the meeting point on Bourbon Street to ensure you don’t miss the start.
• Wear comfortable shoes—this is a moderate paced walking tour through uneven streets.
• Bring your camera—many guests have captured paranormal photos or just great shots of the historic architecture.
• If you’re sensitive to loud noises or busy environments, note that the French Quarter can be lively and bustling.

Authentic Experiences & Honest Feedback

One of the most common praises is for the guides’ knowledge and storytelling skills. Many guests have highlighted guides like Coty and Maddy as particularly engaging and fun, often providing extra tips about local attractions. “Coty did a great job telling stories and gave us fun facts,” said one reviewer, reflecting how guides often go beyond just ghost stories to share cultural insights.

However, not all reviews are perfect. A handful mention tour cancellations or late arrivals, emphasizing the importance of checking confirmation details and arriving on time. For example, a negative review described a tour canceled after its scheduled start, which was frustrating and a reminder to plan backups if your schedule is tight.

This tour offers solid value for its price—especially considering the depth of stories and the chance to see key historic sights in a lively, atmospheric setting.

The Bottom Line

This French Quarter Haunted Excursion is an excellent choice for those who enjoy history, architecture, and ghost stories delivered by engaging guides. It’s suited for visitors wanting an entertaining, informative walk that combines New Orleans’ legendary spirit with its spooky legends. For a modest price, you get a well-rounded experience that balances educational content, local culture, and just enough spooky intrigue.

While it might not satisfy the most dedicated paranormal enthusiasts seeking supernatural phenomena, it offers a fun, atmospheric, and authentic glimpse into the city’s haunted reputation. The tour’s friendly guides and interesting landmarks make it a memorable part of any trip to the French Quarter.

If you’re looking for a light-hearted, walkable adventure that mixes history and ghost stories, this tour is likely to leave you with plenty of stories to tell—and maybe even some paranormal photos to show your friends back home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Generally, yes, especially if they enjoy stories of ghosts and history. However, parental discretion is advised, as some stories might be spooky for very young children.

Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, drinks are not included but can be purchased at bars along the route. The tour allows for a relaxed experience with options to enjoy local beverages.

What is the meeting point for the tour?
The tour starts at the sidewalk outside the courtyard attached to Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar at 941 Bourbon Street. Arrive a few minutes early to check in.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts between 1 to 2 hours, depending on the pace, stops, and bar visits. Most of it is a moderate-paced walk through the French Quarter.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, photos are encouraged. The guide often suggests using paranormal equipment, which can be checked out at the beginning of the tour.

What happens if the tour is canceled?
Tours are rain or shine but can be canceled due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. If canceled, you will be offered a full refund or a rescheduled date.

Is this tour good for people who aren’t into ghosts?
Absolutely. Many guests enjoy the rich history, architecture, and lively atmosphere of the French Quarter. The ghost stories add a fun extra layer but are not the main focus for all participants.

This tour balances entertainment and education with enough spooky stories and iconic sights to make your visit to New Orleans memorable. Whether you’re a history buff or just in it for a fun walk, it’s a solid way to experience the city’s legendary haunted reputation—with a friendly guide leading the way.