Movie and TV Show Tour of New Orleans

New Orleans, affectionately called the Big Easy, isn’t just about jazz and beignets. It’s also a star on the screen. This popular tour offers a chance to see the city through the lens of Hollywood, exploring spots where countless movies and TV shows have been filmed. Whether you’re a cinephile or just curious about the stories behind the facades, this two-hour adventure promises a fun, insightful peek into how New Orleans has been captured on film.

What sets this tour apart is the knowledgeable guides and the carefully curated stops that blend film history, local landmarks, and some spooky stories. At just $30, it offers good value — especially for those who love a mix of culture, history, and pop culture. That said, it’s primarily a walking tour, so travelers should be prepared for some light walking and standing, which might not suit everyone.

If you’re looking for an engaging, affordable way to connect with the city’s cinematic side while soaking in some authentic New Orleans atmosphere, this tour is an excellent choice. Fans of supernatural tales, vampire lore, and classic New Orleans movies will especially enjoy it.

Key Points

• The guides are praised for their knowledge and engaging personalities.
• You visit iconic film locations, from historic landmarks to haunted houses.
• The tour is well-paced with a mix of walking and standing, suitable for most travelers.
• It offers a good balance between entertainment and educational insights.
• The price point delivers solid value for a two-hour experience.
• Enthusiasts of supernatural themes and local history will find it particularly appealing.

An In-Depth Look at the Film and TV Tour of New Orleans

Starting Point: From Courtrooms to Circus Sights

The tour kicks off at 400 Royal Street, a prime spot in the French Quarter, where you’ll meet your guide and get ready for a two-hour exploration. The first stop is an eye-opener: the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, housed in the historic LA Supreme Court building. This isn’t just a place for medicine buffs — it’s a window into the city’s earliest days of licensed pharmacy practice. It’s a short walk from Napoleon House, adding a touch of historic charm from the start.

While admission isn’t included, the museum’s location and content are enough to pique curiosity. Here, you’ll learn how true crime, circus acts, and vampire legends all mingle in New Orleans, setting the tone for the tour’s blend of history and pop culture.

Jackson Square: The Heart of Film and History

Next, your group heads to Jackson Square, arguably the most iconic part of the French Quarter. This lively hub has served as a backdrop for over a dozen film productions. Expect plenty of moments where you recognize the square from movies and TV shows, like “King Creole” or “Your Honor.” The square’s historic buildings, street performers, and vibrant atmosphere make it a perfect spot to soak in the city’s soul.

You’ll spend about half an hour here, enough time to snap photos, take in the scenery, and hear about the specific movies filmed in the area. Many reviews highlight the guide’s storytelling prowess, with one saying, “I enjoyed the fact that he had videos and pictures he could show us of the things he was talking about.” That visual context really helps bring the films to life.

Voodoo and the Dark Side of NOLA

From Jackson Square, the tour moves to Voodoo Authentica, a shop and cultural hub offering a glimpse into the city’s mystical side. This stop introduces some of the supernatural themes woven into New Orleans’ identity. The guide shares the truth behind Voodoo, providing context beyond Hollywood stereotypes.

Just nearby, you’ll visit the Old Ursuline Convent Museum, the only building that survived the great fire. It’s a pre-fire structure loaded with stories of witches and vampires, perfect for fans of the darker tales that New Orleans inspires. The tour then takes you past the infamous LaLaurie Mansion, known as the city’s most haunted house. Nicholas Cage once owned this eerie mansion, and it’s linked to stories of horror and spirits.

Exploring the Haunted and the Historic

Continuing, you’ll stop at Starling Magickal Occult Shop, which has featured in film projects and offers a chance to learn about early Civil Rights history across the street at Homer Plessy Community School. It’s a reminder that the city’s stories are layered and complex.

Next up, the second-oldest building in the French Quarter, Madame John’s Legacy, provides a picturesque backdrop for films. Rebuilt after a fire, it’s a popular filming location, and many travelers enjoy imagining scenes from movies shot there. Nearby, the Boutique du Vampyre keeps the vampire theme alive with stories and artifacts, making it a must-see for fans of the undead.

The Final Stops: Vampires, Pirates, and More

Your last couple of stops include Pirate’s Alley Cafe, a charming spot with its own film connections, and the historic Pirates Alley itself. These last locations are perfect for movie buffs who want to connect the dots between the city’s legends and their favorite on-screen moments.

Throughout the tour, reviews highlight the guide’s ability to make each location come alive. One reviewer calls Trevor “very knowledgeable and had great information to share,” while another appreciated the humor and personality he brought. The small group size (max 16) ensures an intimate experience, allowing for questions and more personalized storytelling.

The Practical Details and What You Should Know

The tour costs $30 per person, which we find offers good value considering the depth of local and film-related stories shared. It’s scheduled for about two hours and is suitable for most travelers, though it’s not a sit-down experience — be prepared for some walking and standing. The tour doesn’t include admission to the venues visited, so if you’d like to explore any stops further, you’ll need to pay separately.

Most reviews agree that the tour’s pacing is spot-on, striking a balance between seeing multiple locations and not feeling rushed. It’s perfect for those with a moderate interest in movies, TV, or New Orleans’ supernatural lore. The guide’s engaging personality and visual aids make it more than just a walk — it’s an experience.

Transportation and Accessibility

The meeting point is near public transportation, making it easy to access from different parts of the city. Since the tour is not a transportation-heavy experience, you’ll mainly walk between sites, but the route is manageable for most travelers who are comfortable on their feet.

Cancellation and Weather Policy

You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, a helpful feature given New Orleans weather can be unpredictable. If the weather turns poor, the operator will reschedule or refund. Just note that the tour is weather-dependent, so it’s worth checking the forecast.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for movie and TV buffs eager to connect film scenes to real places. History lovers will appreciate the stories about haunted houses and historic buildings. Fans of supernatural tales and vampire lore will find the dark stops especially captivating. It’s not a tour for those who prefer to stay indoors or who dislike walking, but even with some modest physical activity, most travelers find it manageable.

Couples, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a fun, culturally rich activity will all find value here. It’s a fantastic way to get a different perspective on the city’s character — through its on-screen stories and ghostly legends.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for kids?
While not explicitly designed for children, most travelers of moderate age and fitness can enjoy the tour. Keep in mind it involves some walking and standing, and the haunted houses or vampire themes might be intense for very young children.

Are admission fees to the stops included?
No, the tour price does not include entrance fees to sites like the Pharmacy Museum or the Old Ursuline Convent. Planning for extra costs if you wish to explore some locations more thoroughly is advisable.

How many people are on the tour?
The tour has a maximum of 16 travelers, which helps keep it intimate and allows for questions and interaction.

Is this tour walkable or do I need transportation?
It is primarily a walking tour with brief stops, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The starting point is accessible via public transportation.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about two hours, giving plenty of time to see key locations without feeling rushed.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

What kind of stories will I hear?
You’ll hear about movies and TV shows filmed in New Orleans, the city’s supernatural legends, and some local history tied to the locations.

Is this suitable for people with limited mobility?
Since it’s not a sit-down or bus tour, those who cannot walk long distances may find it challenging. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with light walking.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about two weeks ahead, as spots fill quickly, especially in peak seasons.

This Movie and TV Show Tour of New Orleans offers a unique way to explore the city’s cinematic roots while soaking in the atmosphere of the French Quarter. With a knowledgeable guide, engaging stories, and visits to iconic sites — some haunted, some historic, and many film-famous — it provides genuine insight into how New Orleans has captured imaginations on screen.

For those who love movies, TV, or supernatural stories, it’s a lively, enjoyable experience that makes the city’s on-screen life feel just a little more real. The $30 price tag is reasonable for such an immersive and well-run tour, especially considering the small group size and personalized storytelling.

It’s particularly suited for fans of dark tales, vampire lore, or anyone curious about the city’s filmography. If you’re looking for a fun, authentic, and informative activity that combines culture, history, and entertainment, this tour is sure to delight.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, this journey into New Orleans’ screen history adds a new layer to your appreciation of this vibrant city.