New Orleans: After Dark! French Quarter Ghost Tour

If you’re looking for an experience that combines history, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural, the New Orleans: After Dark! French Quarter Ghost Tour might just be your perfect evening activity. Designed for travelers fascinated by ghost stories, legends, and the city’s darker side, this tour promises a mixture of historic storytelling and eerie sights. We haven’t taken this tour ourselves, but based on the detailed reviews and the itinerary, it looks like a fun and immersive way to see the French Quarter after sunset.

What we particularly like about this experience is its focus on authentic storytelling—you’re not just walking around listening to canned facts but hearing about legendary figures like Marie Laveau and ghostly pirates. Plus, the tour includes a visit to St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, home to some of the most iconic and mysterious tombs in New Orleans. The one possible consideration is that it’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are a must, and some might find the spooky stories a bit intense if they’re sensitive to ghostly tales.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers, history buffs, or anyone curious about the city’s haunted reputation. If you enjoy learning through stories and want a taste of New Orleans’ mysterious side, this guided walk is a compelling choice. Now, let’s explore what makes this experience both memorable and worth the price.

Key Points

• Guided walking tour through the historic French Quarter with a focus on ghost stories and legends.
• Visits to iconic landmarks like St. Louis Cathedral and St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.
• Engages with tales of restless spirits, tragic love, and supernatural figures that have shaped the city’s lore.
• Runs approximately 2 to 3 hours, suitable for evening or late afternoon exploration.
• Includes stories about notable figures like Marie Laveau and Madame Delphine LaLaurie.
• Usually offered in multiple languages, including English, French, and Spanish.

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A Detailed Look at the French Quarter Ghost Tour

Starting Point: Jackson Square – The Vibrant Heart of New Orleans

The tour kicks off at Jackson Square, a lively hub filled with street performers, jazz musicians, and artists. Here, the atmosphere is vibrant during the day, but as evening falls, it transforms into a shadowy setting perfect for ghost stories. Meeting in this historic square, you’ll immediately sense the layers of history, from colonial times to modern-day festivities.

Your guide will immediately set the tone by introducing the rich cultural blend that makes New Orleans unique—French, Spanish, Creole, and African influences all converge in this vibrant neighborhood. Expect to see St. Louis Cathedral, with its towering spires and breathtaking stained glass, serving as a stunning backdrop for tales of haunted pasts.

Walking Down Royal Street

Next, you’ll stroll along Royal Street, arguably the most picturesque avenue in the French Quarter. This street is lined with art galleries, antique shops, and elegant Creole townhouses. The wrought-iron balconies, often adorned with hanging ferns or blooming flowers, swirl around you, creating a perfect setting for seeing the city’s historic charm.

As you walk, your guide will share stories about duels fought over love and honor, the city’s role in the antebellum South, and how the blend of cultures influences everyday life—even the architecture. One reviewer mentions that the guides do a good job of mixing the fun and the spooky, keeping things lively but respectful.

Into the Shadows: The Haunted Alleys and Eerie Courtyards

As darkness deepens, the tour heads into more shadowy alleys and dimly lit courtyards. Here, the tales become more intense, with stories of restless spirits and tragic lives. You might pass by locations associated with Madame Delphine LaLaurie, whose mansion on Royal Street is notorious for its gruesome history. The guide recounts her story with a mix of fascination and caution, highlighting the mansion’s reputation as one of the most haunted places in the city.

You’ll also hear about Jean Lafitte, the infamous pirate whose ghost is said to meander around the old bars and passageways near the Mississippi River. These stories add a sense of mystique and history, giving you a window into the city’s past that’s both captivating and slightly chilling.

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The Final Stop: St. Louis Cemetery No. 1

The tour culminates at St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, established in 1789 and famous for its above-ground tombs due to the high water table. The cemetery is a labyrinth of elaborate mausoleums, some of which are said to be haunted by restless spirits. Among these, the tomb of Marie Laveau—the legendary voodoo priestess—is a focal point.

Your guide shares stories of her life, her influence, and the rituals that made her both revered and feared. Many visitors find the cemetery atmosphere to be both beautiful and eerily quiet, with a sense of history palpable beneath the flickering glow of gas lanterns.

What to Expect and Practical Details

Tour Duration & Timing: Usually lasting between 2 and 3 hours, the tour is available in the morning, afternoon, or evening. Evening tours tend to have a more atmospheric feel, especially as the shadows lengthen.

Cost & Value: At $299 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that combines storytelling, sightseeing, and a visit to a historic cemetery. While it’s not inexpensive, the price reflects the guided nature, access to significant sites, and the immersive stories shared.

Group Size & Accessibility: The tour operates as a guided walk, with options for private groups. It’s wheelchair accessible, making it open to a wider range of travelers.

Language Options: Guides are available in English, French, and Spanish, which enhances the experience for international visitors.

What to Bring: Wear comfortable walking shoes since you’ll cover a fair amount of ground. A camera is recommended to take photos of the beautiful architecture and haunting sights. Given the tour operates rain or shine, bring rain gear or sun protection depending on the weather forecast.

No Food or Drink Included: The tour doesn’t include food or drinks but exploring the French Quarter afterward for a meal or a drink is highly recommended.

The Value of This Tour

Considering the price, this tour offers a rich storytelling experience rooted in the city’s haunted reputation and centuries of history. It’s ideal for those who appreciate narrative-driven sightseeing rather than just passively observing landmarks. The stories about Marie Laveau, Madame LaLaurie, and pirate legends add layers to the visual experience, making it memorable.

Multiple reviewers mention that the guides are engaging and knowledgeable, often weaving humor and suspense into their tales. The inclusion of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is particularly valued, as access to historic cemeteries can be limited, and this particular site is steeped in legend.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This ghost tour is perfect for history enthusiasts eager to discover the darker stories of New Orleans. It also suits adventurous travelers who enjoy a bit of spooky storytelling and atmospheric walking. If you’re traveling with older children or teens interested in legends and ghost stories, this can be a fun and educational activity. However, those seeking a less spooky, more leisurely sightseeing experience might prefer a daytime tour or a different activity.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the stories are generally appropriate for most ages, the spooky nature and cemetery visit might be too intense for very young children. Use your discretion based on your kids’ sensitivities.

Does this tour run rain or shine?
Yes, it operates regardless of weather conditions, so come prepared with rain gear or sun protection.

Are there food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour. However, you might find plenty of options for a post-tour meal or drink in the French Quarter.

Can I join if I have mobility issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s always a good idea to check with the provider ahead of time if you have specific needs.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides are available in English, French, and Spanish.

How long is the tour?
Typically, it lasts between 2 and 3 hours, making it a manageable evening activity.

The New Orleans: After Dark! French Quarter Ghost Tour offers a compelling way to experience the city’s historic and supernatural side. It’s a well-rounded combination of vivid storytelling, historic sights, and atmospheric settings. For those interested in legends, haunted places, and the city’s dark past, this tour provides a fascinating and engaging evening. Expect to leave with a deeper appreciation for New Orleans’ unique culture, colorful characters, and ghostly legends—plus some spooky stories to tell long after the tour ends.

This experience is best for curious travelers, history lovers, and anyone who enjoys a good ghost story. While the price is on the higher side, the access to iconic sites and the engaging guides make it a worthwhile investment for an authentic NOLA adventure. Just remember your walking shoes and a sense of curiosity, and you’re set for a memorable night in the city of spirits.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby