Ghost Tour and Haunted Pub Crawl Party

Taking a ghost tour in New Orleans isn’t just about spooky stories; it’s about stepping into a city where every corner seems to whisper of the past. The Ghost Tour and Haunted Pub Crawl Party offered by Big Easy Walking Tours is a lively mix of ghost hunting, history, and bar-hopping—perfect for those who want to combine a bit of fright with fun.

What we really like about this experience is how it balances storytelling with genuine access to some of the French Quarter’s most haunted and iconic bars. Plus, the inclusion of a couple of drinks adds a social, party vibe that’s quite different from your average ghost walk. That said, with a price point of $25 per person, it’s a pretty budget-friendly evening, especially considering the mix of history, drinks, and entertainment. One thing to keep in mind: this tour is best suited for those who enjoy a relaxed pace, social atmosphere, and are comfortable with a group of up to 28 people.

If you’re keen on learning about New Orleans’ darker tales while also enjoying some local spirits and lively company, this tour could be just the ticket. It’s especially ideal for travelers looking for a fun, informal way to explore the French Quarter’s haunted spots with a friendly guide.

Key Points

• Combines ghost stories with visits to historic, haunted bars
• One of the few tours allowing inside bar visits with a drink included
• Offers a friendly, engaging guide with high review ratings
• Duration of about 1 hour 45 minutes fits well into an evening
• Price is very reasonable for the experience provided
• Tour includes complimentary Mardi Gras beads and a drink discount

An Authentic Mix of History and Hospitality

This tour is designed to give you more than just ghost stories. It takes you through some of the French Quarter’s most haunted locations, revealing tales that stretch back over 300 years. You’ll begin in front of the Old U.S. Mint building, where your guide will set the scene with a quick overview of the area’s history and the story behind a street named after four Frenchmen. It’s a friendly start that gives context to the eeriness ahead.

From here, the itinerary takes you inside some of the region’s most legendary spots. The Lalaurie Mansion is a highlight—infamous for its gruesome past, this mansion’s reputation as the city’s most haunted house isn’t exaggerated. Your guide will recount the atrocities that occurred there, providing a chilling glimpse into New Orleans’ darker history without the need for a spooky soundtrack. Several reviews mention the guide’s ability to make these stories vivid and engaging, with one reviewer calling Clarissa “AHHH-MAZING,” highlighting how the guides’ storytelling skills greatly enhance the experience.

Inside the Haunted Bars

Next, you’ll visit Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, claimed to be America’s oldest haunted bar. Here, you can enjoy a Purple Drink Daiquiri—an authentic New Orleans cocktail—standing on the very spot where ghostly sightings have been reported. The opportunity to step inside a bar that has survived centuries and countless stories is a real treat, especially since it’s one of the few ghost tours that permit inside visits and drinks.

The tour then moves to the Andrew Jackson Hotel, known as the most haunted hotel in America. Guests often talk about the Poltergeist rumored to haunt the premises, and your guide will likely share the spine-tingling tales associated with it. Several reviewers appreciate how guides like Pandi and Wendy bring these locations to life, blending humor and insight seamlessly.

MRB Bar & Kitchen, a former brothel, is next, adding a layer of gritty history to the evening. The guide will share stories from when it was one of over a thousand such establishments in the city, illustrating just how lively and multifaceted the French Quarter’s past was.

Voodoo and Local Legends

The final stop at BMC Balcony Music Club introduces you to Kalindah Laveux, the Voodoo Queen of New Orleans. This part of the tour is shorter but packed with local lore. Meeting Laveux, or hearing about her, offers insight into the city’s spiritual traditions and their connection to the supernatural stories that persist here.

While the tour includes one shot and drink discounts, it’s designed to foster a social environment. Many reviewers mention how guides hang out afterward, making the experience feel more like an evening with friends than a typical tourist walk. This is a real plus if you enjoy meeting fellow travelers and sharing stories.

Practical Details and Value

At $25 per person, this tour provides a compelling mix of entertainment, education, and socializing. You get inside access to historic, haunted locations, a friendly guide, and a fun group atmosphere—rare at this price point. The inclusion of one alcoholic beverage, along with drink discounts, adds a little extra value, especially as you’ll likely want to sip your drink while soaking in the spooky tales.

The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, making it an ideal evening activity that doesn’t feel rushed. It starts at 507 Frenchmen Street and ends at the MRB Bar & Kitchen on St. Philip Street, conveniently located in the heart of the French Quarter. With a maximum group size of 28, it maintains intimacy while allowing plenty of interaction with your guide.

It’s worth noting that most travelers book about 24 days in advance, which suggests it’s a popular choice, especially during peak seasons. The tour is available as a mobile ticket, making check-in straightforward.

The Guides Make the Difference

Reviews frequently praise the guides—Clarissa, Pandi, Wendy—for their friendliness, humor, and storytelling skills. One reviewer even mentioned meeting Clarissa’s husband, underscoring the personal touch guides bring to the experience. When a guide can blend local knowledge with humor and genuine enthusiasm, it elevates the entire experience from a simple walk to a memorable night out.

Considerations for Travelers

While the experience is generally well-loved, some reviews note that not all stops on the itinerary were visited as planned. For example, two guests expressed disappointment about missing the Lalaurie Mansion and the Andrew Jackson Hotel, likely due to guide choices or logistical reasons. It’s worth considering that group tours sometimes have to adapt on the fly.

Also, since the tour involves inside bar visits, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a social drinking environment. The group size and casual pace make it less suitable for those seeking a strictly historic or eerie experience without a lively crowd.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy a good story, a lively atmosphere, and a bit of ghostly intrigue. It’s particularly well-suited for groups, couples, or solo travelers looking to combine sightseeing, local culture, and social fun. If you’re wary of long ghost walks or prefer a more relaxed, bar-centric experience, this tour ticks all those boxes.

For just $25, you’re getting a well-reviewed, entertaining tour with insider access to some of New Orleans’ most haunted watering holes. The combination of history, spirits, and socializing makes it a compelling value, especially when guided by knowledgeable, personable guides. The inside bar visits distinguish this tour from many others, allowing you to enjoy a cocktail in historic settings while hearing chilling tales.

The tour’s social atmosphere, friendly guides, and authentic locations make it a standout choice for those who want a fun, relaxed evening exploring New Orleans’ haunted side. It’s especially recommended for travelers who appreciate storytelling, good company, and a little local spirit—literally.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
This tour is generally intended for most travelers; however, it involves alcohol and inside bar visits, so it’s best suited for adults over legal drinking age.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, making it a manageable evening activity.

Can I book the tour on the day I arrive?
Most travelers book about 24 days in advance, but last-minute bookings may be possible depending on availability.

Are drinks included?
You get one shot included with your ticket, and drink discounts are offered at certain stops, enhancing the value.

Are the stops all inside buildings?
Yes, several stops like Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar and the Andrew Jackson Hotel are inside, providing a cozy setting for stories and drinks.

Is there a guide available to answer questions?
Absolutely, guides like Clarissa, Pandi, and Wendy receive rave reviews for their friendliness and knowledge.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and consider bringing a light jacket for evening chills.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but since alcohol is involved, it’s for adults only.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

How many people are in a group?
The maximum group size is 28, ensuring a lively but manageable atmosphere.

In essence, this ghost tour and pub crawl offers a lively, authentic look at New Orleans’ haunted side, blending history, spirits, and good company. Whether you’re a history buff, a party-goer, or just curious about the city’s haunted legends, you’ll find this experience a worthwhile addition to your French Quarter visit.