New Orleans Haunted Ghost Tour

A Closer Look at the New Orleans Haunted Ghost Tour

Our review explores an experience that promises to unveil the darker, more mysterious side of New Orleans — the Haunted Ghost Tour offered by New Orleans Ghost Adventures. While we haven’t taken the tour ourselves, the detailed reviews, itinerary, and features paint a compelling picture of what participants can expect. Whether you’re a history buff, a ghost-story lover, or just curious about the city’s eerie corners, this tour could be a memorable part of your trip.

What we love about this experience are two key points: first, the fact that it’s led by a knowledgeable guide who balances historical facts with engaging storytelling. Second, the tour’s flexibility and kid-friendly nature make it accessible to a wide audience. A possible consideration is the sound quality — some reviews mention issues with loud surroundings or the need for better amplification — so if you’re particularly sensitive to noise or want a more intimate storytelling experience, it’s worth factoring that in. This tour is best suited for families, history enthusiasts, and those intrigued by New Orleans’ spooky lore.

Key Points:
– Led by a professional guide who combines history with ghostly tales
– Visits iconic, haunted sites in the French Quarter, including the Lalaurie Mansion and Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar
– Tour length of up to 2 hours offers good value for a leisurely, insightful experience
– Kid-friendly content makes it suitable for families, with stories that appeal to all ages
– Moderate walking involved, but not overly strenuous
– Cost-effective at $30 per person, with the added benefit of informative narration

Exploring the Tour Itinerary: From Mississippi’s Levee to Lafitte’s Bar

The adventure begins at a conveniently located meeting point on Decatur Street, right in the heart of the French Quarter, giving you easy access and minimal travel fuss. You’re encouraged to arrive 15 minutes early, perhaps with a little pre-tour snack at Bon’s New Orleans Street Food, which is right next to the meeting spot. It’s a smart move — not just for catching the start on time but also for enjoying some local bites, which can provide an authentic taste of the city’s street food culture.

The first stop is near the Mississippi River levee, an essential part of New Orleans’ history. Here, your guide explains how the river and levee shaped the city’s development, setting the stage for the tales to come. It’s a good way to get oriented and appreciate the city’s unique geography, as well as the significance of the mighty Mississippi to the local culture.

Next, you move over to the legendary Lalaurie Mansion. Known for its chilling stories of a 19th-century socialite accused of horrific acts, this site is a favorite for ghost enthusiasts. Expect to hear about the mansion’s haunted reputation, and some guides even suggest you might try to capture a spirit on camera. Several reviews highlight the storytelling here — one calls it “fun and knowledgeable,” with a reviewer noting they appreciated the mix of history and the supernatural tales.

The tour continues to Jackson Square, a lively hub filled with street artists and historic buildings. As you walk through, your guide shares spooky tales from the past, adding a layer of mystery to the vibrant scene. This blending of lively present and haunted history makes Jackson Square a fascinating spot, both visually and narratively.

The next stop is Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, said to be America’s oldest bar. It’s an atmospheric place to soak in pirate lore and enjoy a drink (not included) if you wish. The reviews praise this part of the tour, with one mention noting the “authentic pirate history,” making it a highlight for those interested in the city’s swashbuckling past.

Throughout the tour, you’ll visit several iconic locations, each with its own story and ambiance. While the itinerary is manageable for most, keep in mind that there’s a fair amount of walking involved, and the outdoor nature of the tour means you should dress comfortably and prepare for weather variations.

The Guide and the Stories: Balancing History and Haunting Tales

The real charm of this tour lies in its guides. Multiple reviews praise the guides — Orion, Sean, Candy, Jenna — for their engaging storytelling, humor, and knowledge. One reviewer highlights Orion as “great,” with a “passionate and fun” approach, while another commends Sean for maintaining humor and historical accuracy, making the stories both informative and entertaining.

Some feedback points to consider are the sound quality and the need for better amplification, especially in louder areas or crowded spots. One reviewer mentioned that stories could sometimes be lost in loud environments, suggesting that a microphone or better sound system could improve the experience.

What makes this tour stand out is its ability to weave historical facts with spooky legends, making the stories more meaningful. For example, the tales of the Lalaurie Mansion aren’t just ghost stories; they’re rooted in real events and personalities, giving the tour an educational edge amid the thrills.

Tour Duration, Cost, and Overall Value

Spanning roughly 1.5 to 2 hours, the tour strikes a good balance between being immersive without feeling rushed. The price point of $30 per person is quite reasonable, especially considering the depth of storytelling, the expert guide, and the chance to explore multiple haunted sites in the French Quarter.

Given that the tour is suitable for all ages and is kid-friendly, it offers excellent value for families looking to combine entertainment with education. The included stops and the richness of the stories ensure that you’re getting more than just a walk; you’re gaining insights into New Orleans’ haunted lore and history.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Arrive 15 minutes early to check in and settle in.
• Wear comfortable shoes — the tour involves walking on uneven surfaces and outdoor paths.
• Dress in layers, as weather can vary, and some parts of the tour are outside.
• Bring a camera if you’re interested in capturing the haunted atmosphere.
• Be mindful of noise levels if you’re sensitive, and consider bringing ear protection if needed.
• Tipping guides is customary, so consider gratuities, especially if you enjoyed the storytelling.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This walking tour suits those with a curiosity for history, ghost stories, or New Orleans’ unique culture. It’s especially family-friendly, making it a good choice for travelers with children who can handle some spooky tales. The moderate pace and engaging narration mean it’s suitable for most fitness levels, but note that wheelchair accessibility is limited due to the terrain and historic locations.

If you’re interested in a spooky, cultural experience that combines storytelling with local sights, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a taste of the city’s haunted side without the intensity of more extreme ghost hunts or nighttime excursions.

The Sum Up

The New Orleans Haunted Ghost Tour offers a fascinating blend of history, local lore, and spooky storytelling, all led by passionate, knowledgeable guides. For $30, it provides good value, especially for families or history buffs eager to see iconic sights like Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop and Jackson Square while learning about their haunted reputations.

While the sound system could be improved, the overall experience is lively, engaging, and informative. It’s a gentle introduction to the city’s darker tales, perfect for those who enjoy a mix of myth and history told with a sense of humor and respect for the past.

If you’re looking for an authentic, family-friendly haunted experience in New Orleans that combines storytelling with sightseeing, this tour is well worth considering. Just remember to arrive early and dress for the weather — and prepare for a fun, spooky walk through one of America’s most haunted cities.

FAQ

Is parking available near the meeting point for the New Orleans Haunted Ghost Tour?
There’s limited parking near the starting location on Decatur Street. Rates vary, and since it’s centrally located in the French Quarter, walking or public transportation is often more convenient. Ride-share services like Uber or Lyft are good options too.

Can I use public transportation to get to the meeting location?
Yes, public transit stops are nearby, making it easy to reach the tour starting point without a car.

How early should I arrive for the tour?
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled start time to ensure a smooth check-in process.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it is kid-friendly and designed to appeal to a broad audience. However, some stories might be a little spooky for very young children.

How strenuous is the tour?
It involves some walking, but it’s generally manageable for most people and not considered strenuous.

Are drinks available at the bar stop?
While drinks aren’t included, you can purchase beverages at Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar and enjoy them while soaking in the historic ambiance.

In sum, this ghost tour offers a balanced, well-led look at New Orleans’ haunted sites, blending history, lore, and lively storytelling. It’s ideal for those seeking an engaging, family-friendly way to explore the city’s spooky side without breaking the bank.