New Orleans Dead of Night Ghosts and Cemetery Bus Tour

Planning a visit to New Orleans and intrigued by its spooky reputation? The Dead of Night Ghosts and Cemetery Bus Tour promises an evening filled with ghostly tales, haunted grounds, and a taste of the city’s darker side. As someone who’s examined many ghost tours, I can say this one has earned a strong reputation, with a solid 4.7 out of 5 from over 1,600 reviews. But what exactly does this tour include, and is it worth your time and money? Let’s break down what you’ll experience, what makes it stand out, and what to expect along the way.

Two things we love about this tour are the knowledgeable guides who keep stories engaging and the variety of haunted sites that provide excellent photo opportunities. A potential drawback is that the tour involves a moderate amount of walking, and some might find the ghost stories a bit heavy on history and lighter on palpable hauntings. It’s perfect for those curious about the spooky side of New Orleans but who also appreciate historical context. If you’re into ghost stories, cemeteries, and a bit of local lore, this tour will likely appeal.

Key Points

• A 2-hour bus tour exploring New Orleans’ most haunted locations
• Led by knowledgeable guides with a lively, engaging style
• Stops include historic cemeteries, voodoo sites, and memorial grounds
• Expect some walking and plenty of photo opportunities
• Cost is $55 per person, offering good value for the experience
• Suitable for most travelers, regardless of age or background

What the Tour Is All About

The Dead of Night Ghosts and Cemetery Bus Tour is a guided adventure that takes you through several of New Orleans’ most haunted spots. It’s designed to blend storytelling, history, and spooky sightings into a compact two-hour journey. The tour is operated by Haunted History Tours, a company with a reputation for delivering engaging and authentic ghost experiences.

It begins at the Rampart Treehouse, on North Rampart Street, where a professional guide will welcome you and prepare you for the evening. The tour’s main feature is the bus ride, which means you’ll stay seated most of the time, with brief stops at each location. This setup makes it accessible for those who prefer not to walk long distances but still want to get a good feel for the city’s haunted corners.

Why Choose This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a mix of history and ghost stories without the fuss of extensive walking or complicated logistics. It’s also great for those who enjoy atmospheric storytelling, as guides tend to be knowledgeable and lively—many reviews praise the guides’ energy and expertise. Plus, with an average booking window of two weeks in advance, it’s a popular choice for visitors planning ahead.

The Itinerary: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Stop 1: Bayou St. John

The tour kicks off at Bayou St. John, a spot with a dark allure rooted in history and voodoo lore. In the 19th century, Marie Laveau, the legendary voodoo queen, reputedly performed rituals here. The Magnolia Bridge over the bayou still draws those seeking spiritual encounters on St. John’s Eve. Expect a quick 15-minute stop that’s perfect for snapping photos and soaking in the atmosphere.

Many reviewers appreciated the historical context here, noting that the guide shared fascinating tales about Marie Laveau and the area’s voodoo traditions.

Stop 2: St. Louis Cemetery No. 3

Next, the bus takes you to one of the city’s most haunting cemeteries, built during the 1800s amid yellow fever epidemics. This cemetery, often called a “cemetery on top of a cemetery,” was once a leper colony with its own burial grounds. You’ll get about six minutes outside to look around and take pictures, but most of the experience will be from the bus or during brief stops, making it less strenuous.

Reviewers note that the cemetery’s history as a leper colony adds a layer of eeriness, and many have seen apparitions here or felt unusual touches in the dark.

Stop 3: 5050 Canal Street

This is the oldest potter’s field in New Orleans—an area with a reputation for ghost sightings. Over the years, visitors have reported seeing full-bodied apparitions or being touched by unseen hands. The stop lasts about eight minutes, giving you a chance to walk around and experience the somber, haunted atmosphere.

Some guests report a “creepy” feeling, and a few have experienced inexplicable sensations during their brief walk.

Stop 4: Hurricane Katrina Memorial

This stop might be the most emotionally charged, featuring tombs of 85 unclaimed victims of the 2005 levee failures. The memorial also bears the names of others who lost their lives during the disaster. The bus pulls up for about 15 minutes, providing a moment for reflection amid a site of tragedy.

Many reviews express appreciation for the guide’s respectful tone and insightful background on the memorial’s significance.

Stop 5: New Orleans City Park

The tour concludes with a quick visit to City Park, where you can stretch your legs and perhaps grab a snack at Café du Monde (own expense). This 15-minute break offers a breather before heading back to the starting point.

Reviews often highlight that the guide’s local knowledge enriches this stop, giving you tips for enjoying the park or nearby attractions.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $55, you’re getting a professional guide, an air-conditioned bus, and a well-paced tour that covers several haunted sites. The tour is designed to be comfortable, with most of the time spent seated, making it accessible for most travelers.

Extras like food or drinks are not included, and alcoholic beverages are not permitted on the bus—worth noting for those wanting to toast or relax during the ride. Gratuities are appreciated but not mandatory.

The Experience: What It Feels Like

Guides like Christian and Drew have received high praise for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and humor. As one reviewer noted, Christian kept everyone engaged with lively storytelling and answered questions with a smile. This lively approach makes the spooky tales more memorable and less dry. Expect to hear about ghostly sightings, tragic histories, and local legends—all delivered in a style that balances respect and fun.

The bus itself is comfortable and climate-controlled, so you won’t be shivering or sweltering. The stops are brief but give just enough time to absorb the atmosphere and capture photos. Many guests mention that the tour’s stories enhance their appreciation for the city’s haunted reputation, blending history and paranormal tales seamlessly.

Authenticity and Value

While some reviewers have pointed out that the tour leans heavily on history with less emphasis on “haunting” in the traditional sense, the overall experience strikes a good balance. The $55 price tag is reasonable considering it’s a guided, small-group experience that covers multiple sites. Given the positive reviews and the high recommendation rate, most guests find it offers good value.

Particularly for first-time visitors or those interested in New Orleans’ darker stories, this tour offers a compelling mix of education and entertainment. The fact that it operates in all weather conditions makes it flexible, though you should dress appropriately.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, curious travelers, and ghost enthusiasts who prefer a structured, guided experience over wandering on their own. It’s also suitable for visitors who want a snapshot of the city’s haunted spots without the physical exertion of extensive walking. The presence of knowledgeable guides adds depth and authenticity, making it more than just a spooky ride.

It might not satisfy those craving intense paranormal encounters or long ghost hunts, but it’s an excellent introduction to New Orleans’ haunted reputation, especially for those who enjoy storytelling and a touch of tragedy.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For anyone interested in a balanced, well-organized ghost tour that combines history, storytelling, and a few eerie surprises, this bus tour hits the mark. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge turn what could be a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable experience. It’s especially suited to travelers who appreciate authentic tales and scenic stops rather than long walks or overly theatrical performances.

The tour’s affordability and high review scores suggest it offers a solid value—giving you an engaging peek into New Orleans’ haunted past without breaking the bank. You’ll leave with a better understanding of the city’s darker side and plenty of stories to tell.

If you’re intrigued by ghost stories, historical cemeteries, and the city’s spooky legends, this tour is an excellent way to add a mysterious edge to your NOLA adventure.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, including stops at various haunted sites.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Rampart Treehouse, 740 N Rampart St, New Orleans.

How many people are usually in the group?
The tour operates with a maximum of 28 travelers, ensuring a comfortable, small-group experience.

Is the tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes, the tour runs in all weather; just dress accordingly for rain or sun.

Are alcoholic drinks allowed on the bus?
No, alcoholic drinks are not permitted on the bus.

What’s included in the tour price?
You get a professional guide, an air-conditioned vehicle, and the tour experience. Food and drinks are not included.

Can I bring my camera?
Absolutely. Expect plenty of opportunities for photos of the cemeteries and atmospheric sites.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the content may be more appropriate for older children or teens interested in ghost stories and history.

In short, this tour offers a thoughtful blend of spooky tales, historical insights, and scenic stops around New Orleans’ most haunted spots. It’s a great choice for those who want to learn about the city’s darker side without too much physical effort, all delivered with expert storytelling and a dash of local color.