New Orleans: French Quarter Ghost and Haunted House Tour

Exploring the Haunted Heart of New Orleans: The French Quarter Ghost and Haunted House Tour

If you have a fascination with ghost stories, eerie legends, and a taste for the supernatural, then this French Quarter Ghost and Haunted House Tour by Tour Orleans is likely to catch your interest. This 2-hour adventure takes you through some of the most famous haunted spots in the city, led by local guides who know the spooky tales behind every corner. With a focus on authentic stories, historical landmarks, and even a rare inside look at a genuine haunted house, it offers an engaging way to explore New Orleans’ mysterious side.

One of the things we really appreciate about this tour is its combination of storytelling and sightseeing. It’s not just about creepy tales—it’s also about understanding why New Orleans is considered one of the most haunted cities in America. Plus, the chance to go inside a haunted building makes it stand out from typical ghost tours. However, it’s worth noting that some may find the pace a bit brisk, especially if you like to linger over details or enjoy a more relaxed stroll.

This tour is a fantastic pick for history buffs, horror enthusiasts, or anyone wanting to add a spooky twist to their NOLA visit. Families with kids and visitors who enjoy a fun, non-intimidating atmosphere will also find it suitable, especially since it’s kid and alcohol friendly. If you’re looking for a spooky experience that balances entertainment with education, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Authentic Haunted Locations: The tour visits verified haunted spots like the Lalaurie Mansion, May Bailey’s Brothel, and more.
• Inside Access: Unique among ghost tours in New Orleans, it’s the only one that allows entry into a haunted house.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Jenna, Orion, and Gomez are praised for their storytelling, humor, and historical insights.
• Flexible & Family Friendly: The tour welcomes kids and allows drinks, making it suitable for a relaxed evening out.
• Well-Paced & Interactive: Frequent stops with restroom breaks and engaging stories keep guests involved without feeling rushed.
• Affordable Value: At $30 per person, it offers a compelling mix of history, entertainment, and spooky fun.

Why You’ll Love This Tour

We loved the way this tour balances entertaining storytelling with authentic historical insights. The guides, many of whom are highly praised for their humor and knowledge, manage to keep the atmosphere lively while sharing some pretty chilling tales. For example, Jenna’s lively narration and her ability to answer questions in detail help make the experience memorable. Reviewers have called her “fabulous,” “amazing,” and “well-informed,” which speaks volumes about the quality of the guiding.

The tour’s itinerary includes some of the most iconic haunted sites in the French Quarter. You’ll see the infamous Lalaurie Mansion, known for its dark past and its appearance on “American Horror Story Coven,” as well as May Bailey’s Brothel, featured on “Ghost Adventures.” These stops aren’t just photo ops—they’re steeped in stories of murder, ghosts, and tragedy, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a true ghost story.

What really makes this tour special is the inside access to a haunted building. This isn’t just about looking from the street and imagining what might be happening behind closed doors. The detailed reviews confirm that this is a rare opportunity, giving you a closer—and possibly paranormal—look at what makes the location genuinely haunted.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at the Red Door ticket booth on Decatur Street, the tour kicks off with an introduction to the haunted history of the French Quarter. You’re then guided through the district, stopping at various landmarks, each with its own story.

French Quarter: The heart of the city’s haunted reputation, bustling during the day but eerily quiet at night when the spirits are said to be more active.

Jackson Square: Beyond its artistic charm, Jackson Square is shrouded in ghost stories, with some claiming to have seen apparitions and unexplained movements.

Muriel’s Jackson Square: Known for its delicious food and historic ambiance, this spot also boasts ghostly legends that make for fun storytelling stops.

Old Ursuline Convent: A site with centuries of history, where some visitors have reported strange noises and ghostly appearances.

Lalaurie Mansion: Famous for its tragic and gruesome past, this mansion’s reputation as a haunted house is reinforced by its history of a horrific fire and stories of lingering spirits.

Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar: The oldest bar in New Orleans, with tales of ghostly patrons and mysterious happenings, perfect for a quick break.

Bourbon Orleans Hotel: Offering a glimpse into the city’s storied past, including tales of ghost sightings and unexplained phenomena.

Pirates Alley: Known for its connection to infamous pirates and haunted tales, this narrow alleyway adds a touch of adventure.

Throughout the tour, guests often praise the balancing of historical facts with spooky stories, making the experience both educational and fun. The guide’s storytelling techniques—sometimes theatrical, sometimes humorous—keep the energy high, even during the cooler evening hours.

Inside the Haunted House Experience

One of the standout features according to reviews is the exclusive opportunity to go inside a genuine haunted house. This is a rare offering among NOLA ghost tours, and guests have found it particularly thrilling. Being able to step into a location with a verified haunted history provides a more visceral experience—whether or not you believe in spirits, it’s undeniably atmospheric. As one reviewer mentioned, the guide Gomez’s eloquent storytelling made each detail come alive, and he even finished the tour with a song, adding a personal touch.

The inside access is designed to give you a sense of what it might be like to experience paranormal activity firsthand. While some may find it a bit intense or spooky, the overall tone remains friendly and approachable, suitable for kids and adults alike.

Practical Details & How to Make the Most of Your Tour

Pricing & Value: At $30 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. You’re paying for a guided walk through some of the most haunted spots in New Orleans, combined with inside access and the stories that bring each location to life. Considering the expert guides, the inside visit, and the engaging itinerary, it’s a solid choice for those on a budget but seeking a memorable experience.

Duration & Timing: Lasting roughly 2 hours, the tour’s length is ideal for fitting into an evening after dinner or as part of a full day in the city. Check availability for the start times—most tours probably run in the evening when the atmosphere feels more eerie.

Group Size & Pace: The reviews suggest guides like Jenna and Orion manage the group well, with a pace that’s brisk enough to see everything but not rushed. Frequent stops mean you can catch your breath, take photos, and ask questions. The group size seems manageable, making it easier to connect with the guide and stay engaged.

Accessibility & Comfort: The tour is wheelchair accessible, and since drinks are allowed, you can enjoy an adult beverage while listening to the spooky tales. The meeting point is in front of Bon’s New Orleans Street Food, a convenient central location.

Authenticity & Guide Quality

Many reviews highlight the knowledge and humor of the guides, who manage to keep things lively while delivering factual stories. Jenna’s storytelling, in particular, gets rave reviews for her energetic, informative style. Orion’s theatrical performance and attention to detail also stand out, with reviewers noting how their guides excel at creating a fun, memorable atmosphere.

The inclusion of humorous anecdotes, occasional singing, and personalized attention makes the experience more than just a walk—it becomes a storytelling show that keeps you hooked. The guides’ ability to answer questions and tailor the experience on the fly adds to the overall value.

The Sum Up

The French Quarter Ghost and Haunted House Tour by Tour Orleans offers a wonderfully balanced experience for anyone curious about New Orleans’ haunted past. For a reasonable price, you get access to some of the most iconic haunted sites, engaging storytelling from passionate guides, and a rare inside look at a true haunted house. It’s perfect for history lovers, ghost enthusiasts, and those looking for a fun, spooky evening without too much scare factor.

This tour’s strength lies in its authenticity, storytelling quality, and inside access, making it a standout choice for anyone wanting to see the haunted side of New Orleans in a relaxed, entertaining manner. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or on your own, it’s a memorable way to experience the city’s dark, mysterious charm.

If you’re after a spooky yet educational adventure, a good laugh, and some eerie stories to tell later, this tour ticks all those boxes. Just be prepared to walk, listen, and maybe even shiver a little—NOLA’s ghosts are waiting.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is kid-friendly, and the atmosphere is more fun than frightening, making it appropriate for families.

Can I bring drinks on the tour?
Absolutely, you’re welcome to bring a drink with you, which can add to the relaxed, fun vibe of the experience.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 2 hours, giving ample time to explore several key haunted locations.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Red Door ticket booth located at 620 Decatur St, in front of Bon’s New Orleans Street Food, and ends back at the same spot.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is designed to be wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a professional tour guide, a detailed tour of the French Quarter, access to notable landmarks, and frequent stops with restroom breaks.

Are there any additional costs?
Drinks are not included, so if you want a beverage during the tour, you’ll need to bring your own.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since the tour involves a fair amount of strolling. A flashlight or phone flashlight might be handy for darker spots.