New Orleans Evening Small-Group Haunted Walking Tour

If you’re thinking about exploring the eerie, ghostly tales that make New Orleans the most haunted city in America, this small-group evening walking tour promises an engaging mix of history, spooky stories, and lively local color. While we haven’t experienced it ourselves, the reviews and detailed itinerary paint a compelling picture of what to expect—and what makes it a popular choice among visitors.

What we love about this tour? First, the guides are praised for their knowledge and storytelling flair—delivering tales that are both entertaining and informative. Second, the tour’s small-group size means more personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere, especially important when wandering through haunted streets after dark.

A possible consideration: The tour is family-friendly, which might mean fewer genuinely spooky tales or a less intense haunted experience for those seeking pure superstition or horror. It’s also priced at $37 per person, which offers fair value for the two-hour experience, especially given the mix of storytelling, historic sights, and included bar stops.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a good story, have an interest in ghost lore, and appreciate a bit of local history. If you’re after an authentic, fun night exploring one of America’s most haunted cities—this could be just right.

Key Points

• Small-group setting enhances intimacy and storytelling quality
• Guided by knowledgeable, engaging storytellers
• Includes visits to iconic haunted sites like LaLaurie Mansion and Old Ursuline Convent
• Offers the opportunity to enjoy drinks at local bars during the tour
• Perfect for history buffs and ghost enthusiasts alike
• Good value at $37 considering the duration and inclusions

A Detailed Look at the French Quarter Haunted Tour

A Classic Start in the Heart of the French Quarter

The tour begins at 815 Toulouse Street, right in the heart of the French Quarter—a place bursting with character and stories. As you gather with your small group (limited to 15 people), the atmosphere is set for an evening of storytelling. Your guide will introduce themselves and give a quick overview, possibly sharing what they love most about the stories they’re about to tell.

The first stop is a lively one-hour walk through the historic streets. Here, your guide shares some of their favorite ghost tales, blending history with legend as you pass by the architecture and sights that have witnessed centuries of history. You’re likely to hear about infamous hauntings, murders, and supernatural sightings tied to buildings that still stand today.

The Creole Cookery and Jackson Square: Setting the Scene

Next, you’ll visit New Orleans Creole Cookery, a cozy spot where you can grab a drink and use the restroom. This break gives everyone a chance to settle in and get ready for the more haunting parts of the tour. It’s also an opportunity to experience the local vibe—an authentic Creole restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere.

From there, your group heads to Jackson Square, often called the heartbeat of New Orleans. It’s the site of numerous historical hangings, making it the first location in the city with reported hauntings. The guide will recount stories tied to the square, bringing to life the ghostly legends that still echo through the open space. Expect to hear about the area’s darker past while soaking in the lively street scene.

A Midpoint Break at Harry’s Corner Bar

Halfway through, you’ll stop at Harry’s Corner Bar, a local favorite where you can stretch your legs and enjoy more drinks. This break is not only practical—restrooms and refreshment—but also social, allowing everyone to share their impressions and perhaps swap ghost stories of their own.

The Haunting of LaLaurie Mansion

The highlight of the tour is the visit to LaLaurie Mansion, one of the most infamous haunted sites. The gruesome history of Madame Lalaurie’s cruelty is well documented, and your guide will tell the story of her atrocities that have left a dark mark on the building. Visitors consistently find this site chilling, with many believing it remains haunted to this day. While admission to the mansion isn’t included in the tour price, the story alone makes it worth the mention.

Last Stop: Ghost Stories on a Busy French Quarter Street

Your final segment involves walking down another lively street, where your guide shares more true crime and ghost stories. The energy here is vibrant, contrasting the dark tales with the lively nightlife of the French Quarter. The guide might also point out architectural details and small eerie features that many passersby overlook.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $37, you get a 2-hour guided walk with a knowledgeable, engaging guide, plus stops at bars and significant haunted sites. The tour’s mobile ticket system ensures convenience, and its small size guarantees a more personal experience. Tips are not included, so if you enjoy your guide’s storytelling, a gratuity is appreciated.

However, parking fees are not covered, so travelers should plan accordingly, especially if arriving by car. The meeting point is centrally located, accessible by public transport.

The tour is designed for most travelers, including service animals, and is suitable for a broad audience. Since it’s a group of up to 15 people, the experience feels intimate without being overly crowded.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their storytelling skills and knowledge. One reviewer, Sue_B, appreciated the “great time learning about the sordid history” with a guide she called “super knowledgeable.” Conversely, some found the tour long or less engaging, like Catherine_J, who left early, feeling it was “terribly boring.”

Many mention the lively, personable guides—Dalvin, Adelle, Elaine—who keep things interesting with humor and passion. Jessica_A loved how the guide balanced “history with ghost/spooky stories,” making the experience both educational and fun.

A recurring theme is that the stories and sites feel authentic and atmospheric, especially with the nighttime setting. The stories about the LaLaurie Mansion and Jackson Square resonate with visitors, adding a haunting layer to their visit.

Analyzing the Value

At $37, this tour offers good value, especially considering the duration, guiding expertise, and exclusive access to iconic haunted sites. The inclusion of bar stops enhances the experience, making it more relaxed and social. For those interested in history, folklore, or just a spooky night out, this tour hits the right notes without feeling rushed or superficial.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy storytelling, history, and ghost lore. It’s ideal for those who like a small, interactive group where they can ask questions and hear personal anecdotes. It also appeals to visitors who want a fun, spooky evening that combines local legends with a taste of New Orleans’ lively nightlife.

It’s perfect for curious travelers looking for an engaging way to explore the French Quarter after dark, especially if they appreciate a mix of history and supernatural tales. If you’re traveling with kids, be aware that the stories are family-friendly but may not satisfy those seeking more intense haunted experiences.

The Sum Up

This small-group haunted walking tour offers a lively, authentic glimpse into New Orleans’ spooky side. Guided by passionate storytellers, you’ll explore iconic sites like LaLaurie Mansion and Jackson Square, hearing tales that blend history with legend. The inclusion of stops at local bars keeps the mood relaxed and fun, making it an excellent choice for an evening out.

Its intimate size and knowledgeable guides make the experience stand out, providing a personalized narrative that many visitors find memorable. While it may not satisfy those craving a deeply frightening or intense haunted experience, it offers a balanced mix of history and ghost stories, delivered with enthusiasm and local flair.

If you’re eager for a fun, atmospheric exploration of New Orleans’ haunted past—and you enjoy engaging guides—this tour promises an entertaining, worthwhile evening. It’s a particularly good pick for those wanting to combine history, storytelling, and a taste of local nightlife into one memorable outing.

FAQ

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, the tour is described as family-friendly, making it suitable for kids. However, keep in mind the stories are designed to be spooky but not overly frightening.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, including stops for drinks and breaks.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 815 Toulouse St and ends at the LaLaurie Mansion at 1140 Royal St.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, on average, this tour is booked 16 days ahead, so it’s wise to reserve early, especially during peak tourist seasons.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Are gratuities included?
No, gratuities are not included. If you enjoyed the guide’s storytelling, tipping is appreciated.

Is parking available?
Parking fees are not included, so plan accordingly if driving.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for last-minute plans or changes.

This haunted tour offers a lively, authentic look at New Orleans’ darker stories, perfect for those eager to combine history, fun, and a touch of the supernatural. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking to see your city from a new angle, it’s a storytelling experience worth considering.