New Orleans: Haunted Pub Crawl

Stepping into New Orleans’ French Quarter is like entering a living, breathing ghost story. This two-hour haunted pub crawl promises a mix of spine-tingling tales, historic bars, and a little boozy fun—perfect for those who love a good story with their cocktail. We’ve taken a close look at what makes this experience stand out, along with a few things to keep in mind before booking.

One thing we particularly appreciate is how the guides seamlessly blend entertaining storytelling with local history, making each stop feel both spooky and authentic. The opportunity to purchase drinks at each bar stop adds to the relaxed vibe, ensuring you can sip while soaking up the haunted atmospheres. A potential consideration? The tour is designed to be leisurely, but if you’re not into walking or standing for a couple of hours, or if you prefer very structured tours, this might not be your perfect fit.

This tour is ideal for adventurous night owls, history buffs with a penchant for ghost stories, and anyone wanting to experience New Orleans’ eerie side without sacrificing a good time. It’s a mix of history, humor, and spirits—literally.

Key Points

• Authentic haunted sites: Visit some of the most infamous haunted locations in the French Quarter, including the Lalaurie Mansion.
• Engaging guides: Expect knowledgeable storytellers who keep things lively with humor and vivid tales.
• Flexible drink options: You can buy cocktails at check-in and at each bar stop, making this a fun, alcohol-friendly adventure.
• Leisurely pace: The tour spans just under a mile with frequent stops, allowing plenty of time to enjoy drinks and take photos.
• Price for value: At $26, it offers a fun way to explore haunted New Orleans without breaking the bank.
• Suitable for 21+: The experience is geared toward adults, with a focus on fun and spirits.

The Experience in Detail

Meeting and Start

Your journey begins at the Jax Brewery building just outside Bon’s New Orleans Street Food, where a licensed guide welcomes you and checks you in with your confirmation email. This spot is central and easy to find, so no worries about complicated logistics. The guide’s local knowledge shines through right from the start, setting the tone for a spooky yet entertaining two hours.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: French Quarter Exploration
As you set off, your guide will lead you through the iconic French Quarter, sharing stories about its haunted reputation. This area is packed with history—some dark, some mysterious—and provides a perfect backdrop for ghost tales. The walking is relaxed, about a mile overall, with plenty of opportunities to take photos and soak in the atmosphere.

Stop 2: Lalaurie Mansion
One of the highlights is a quick 10-minute stop at the infamous Lalaurie Mansion. Known for its gruesome history and its feature on shows like “American Horror Story: Coven,” this mansion is a must-see for ghost enthusiasts. Expect some chilling stories about its past residents and the eerie feeling that lingers even during daylight.

Stop 3: Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar
Next up is Lafitte’s, a bar steeped in legend and reputedly haunted. Over 15 minutes here, you’ll not only enjoy a drink but also get to see the historic blacksmith shop’s timeless charm. Many reviewers mention that the stories told here are especially vivid and humorous, making it more than just a bar visit—it’s a glimpse into the city’s pirate past.

Stop 4: Pirates Alley
A quick 10-minute walk takes you through Pirates Alley, a site associated with lore of pirates and smugglers. It’s a scenic and slightly mysterious spot that adds flavor to the ghostly narrative. The guide will share tales that make you feel like you’re walking through a real-life pirate adventure.

Stops 5 & 6: May Bailey’s Place & Vampire Café
Passing by these intriguing locations offers a peek into New Orleans’ darker, more theatrical side. While you won’t go inside these spots, passing by their facades adds context to the city’s haunted reputation.

What to Expect

With frequent bar stops and restroom breaks, this tour is designed to be comfortable and leisurely. The guide shares famous ghost stories throughout, ensuring you’re both entertained and informed. The alcohol-friendly nature means you can enjoy a cocktail at the start and purchase more drinks during the tour, making it perfect for those who like to combine stories with spirits.

Guides and Atmosphere

Reviewers consistently praise guides like John Gomez, Caroline, Maddie, and Coby for their knowledge, humor, and engaging storytelling. Many mention how these guides add a personal touch, making the experience memorable. One reviewer notes Gomez’s ability to make the stories lively and entertaining, while others highlight guides’ patience and enthusiasm.

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts about two hours, covering less than a mile. This makes it accessible for most, and the small group atmosphere helps foster camaraderie and easy interaction. The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can join in on the fun.

Price and Value

At $26 per person, this tour offers great value for a mix of history, storytelling, and bar hopping. Given the number of stops, the quality of guides, and the fun atmosphere, it’s a solid choice for budget-conscious travelers wanting a memorable night out.

Reviews in Action

Multiple guests rave about their guides—“Gomez was very knowledgeable and entertaining,” says one reviewer—highlighting how storytelling and personality make the experience shine. Another mentions that their guide, Wes, made it “the top-rated haunted tour,” with stories told in detail, humor, and with good drinks in hand.

Many reviews also focus on the overall fun and the balance between spooky tales and socializing. Guests appreciated the timely stops for drinks, and some even called it a “great experience for a bachelorette” or a perfect anniversary outing.

Why This Tour Works for You

If you love ghost stories and historic bars, this tour is a fantastic way to see the French Quarter in a different light. The relaxed pace and entertaining guides make it suitable for those wanting to learn something new without feeling rushed. It’s especially good for adults who enjoy a drink and want to combine that with a little eerie storytelling.

Those traveling on a budget will find this experience offers excellent value, especially considering the number of stories, stops, and the overall vibe. It’s also a great way to meet other travelers and share some laughs over ghostly tales.

However, if you prefer structured, highly guided tours with detailed historical narration, some might find this a bit casual. Also, under 21 and non-drinkers should look elsewhere, as this experience is geared specifically for adults.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While drinks can be purchased at each stop, the main focus is on the haunted locations and storytelling. However, since the tour is alcohol-friendly and includes a cocktail at the start, it’s mainly aimed at those who enjoy drinking.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 2 hours, covering less than a mile with frequent stops for drinks and photos.

Where do I meet the tour?
You meet your guide outside the Jax Brewery building, just outside Bon’s New Orleans Street Food. It’s a central, easily recognizable location.

Can I bring my wheelchair?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for most guests.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, the minimum age to participate is 21, aligning with the alcohol-friendly nature of the experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

Final Thoughts

For those seeking a fun, slightly spooky way to explore New Orleans’ haunted past, this haunted pub crawl offers a perfect blend of storytelling, historic atmosphere, and social drinking. Guides like Gomez, Caroline, and Maddie make sure the tales come alive with humor and local flair, elevating the experience beyond just visiting bars.

The itinerary balances history and entertainment, highlighting iconic sites like the Lalaurie Mansion and Pirates Alley, all while providing the chance to enjoy local drinks. The affordable price point makes it accessible, and the relaxed pace ensures you can enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

This tour truly appeals to adventurous adults who want to combine a love of ghost stories with a taste of New Orleans’ lively bar scene. It’s ideal for groups, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy sharing stories over drinks and are curious about the city’s darker legends.

Whether you’re a seasoned ghost tour enthusiast or just looking for a unique night out, this experience is well worth considering for your trip to the Big Easy.

Enjoy a night of spirits, stories, and history—just don’t forget to bring your sense of humor and a comfortable pair of shoes!