New Orleans’ Historic Haunted Bar Crawl

Introduction

Our review of the New Orleans’ Historic Haunted Bar Crawl offers a close look at one of the city’s most atmospheric vignettes. This tour combines the fun of exploring local bars with the thrill of hearing spooky stories rooted in the city’s dark past. It’s a lively way to spend an evening in the French Quarter, especially if you’re drawn to tales of ghosts, pirates, and mysterious characters that seem to linger in the historic streets.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are its small-group setting—limiting the tour to just 15 people for a more personalized vibe—and the blend of storytelling with classic New Orleans cocktail culture. You get to enjoy some authentic drinks while hearing about the haunted history that makes this city so uniquely spooky. A potential consideration, however, is that alcohol is at your own expense, which means the “value” depends on your enthusiasm for drinking and storytelling alike.

This tour is well-suited for history lovers, ghost enthusiasts, and nightlife explorers who want a more intimate and storytelling-focused experience. If you’re after a lively, atmospheric night with a dash of the supernatural, this one’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Small group of 15 ensures a more personal experience
• Visit four atmospheric bars with haunted histories
• Includes engaging ghost stories and local legends
• Duration around 2 hours, perfect for an evening outing
• Drinks are not included but can be purchased at each stop
• Well-rated tour with a 4.7/5 from 37 reviews
• Guided by licensed, local guides who bring stories to life
• Starts at Witches Brew Gallery and ends at Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point: Witches Brew Gallery & Haunted Sanctuary

Your journey begins at the Witches Brew Gallery, a fitting place for a haunted-themed tour. Here, you’ll meet your guide and get ready to explore the French Quarter’s dark corners. This is more than just a bar crawl—it’s a storytelling session that sets a spooky tone. The tour’s meet-up location is conveniently central, making it easy to find.

First Stop: Pirate’s Alley Café

The first stop is the Pirate’s Alley Café, a spot with a historic vibe and a chance to try absinthe, a drink long associated with bohemian spirits and night-time mystique. According to reviews, this is the “place to try absinthe in New Orleans.” Here, you’ll hear stories about pirates, pirates’ hauntings, and the alleys’ dark past. The brief 10-minute stop allows for a quick sip, but it’s enough to set the mood.

Second Stop: Harry’s Corner Bar

Next, the group moves on to Harry’s Corner Bar, a classic dive bar with a genuine neighborhood feel. It’s praised for its authentic local atmosphere and being a “good, classic dive bar.” The guide shares tales of ghostly characters who supposedly haunt the hotel, adding a layer of intrigue. You’ll want to try the “Ghostbuster,” a cocktail that seems perfect for the haunted theme. The stop lasts about 15 minutes, just enough for a quick drink and story swap.

Third Stop: MRB Bar & Kitchen

The third venue is MRB Bar & Kitchen, known for its “Green Drink,” which adds a splash of color and mystery. This bar is also recommended for its oysters, making it a potential future return spot. Here, stories might focus on local legends and ghostly sightings. The 15-minute stay offers a relaxed pace to enjoy your drink and absorb the haunted tales.

Final Stop: Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar

The tour concludes at Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, one of the oldest bars in New Orleans and a true icon of the French Quarter. Known for its pirate lore and purple drink, it offers a fitting end to the night. The bar itself is atmospheric—dark, historic, and filled with stories of pirates and ghosts. The 15-minute stop allows for some reflection on the night’s stories and a final drink in a setting that’s steeped in history.

What We Like and What to Consider

The guided experience is a highlight, with the licensed local guides bringing the haunted tales to life with enthusiasm and authenticity. As one reviewer notes, guides like Taylor and Christie add a lot of value with their knowledge and storytelling skills. The tour’s small size enhances the connection, allowing you to ask questions and engage more deeply with the stories.

The tour’s pacing is well thought out. Each stop is short enough to keep the energy up but long enough to enjoy the ambiance and stories. Although drinks are not included in the $40 ticket price, that allows you flexibility—whether you want a full cocktail experience or just a sip of something local.

The value for money hinges on your interest in ghost stories and local history. Some guests might find that the stops don’t always match the “haunted” theme perfectly—one review noted disappointment in not visiting all the listed bars—but overall, most visitors appreciate the blend of history, atmosphere, and storytelling.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The tour lasts about 2 hours, making it an ideal evening activity without feeling exhausting. It’s near public transportation, so getting to the meeting point is straightforward. Keep in mind that terrain challenges in the French Quarter may require moderate physical fitness, especially if you have mobility issues. The tour is capped at 15 travelers, ensuring you won’t feel lost in a crowd.

What Others Say

One guest called it a “total Taylor tour,” praising the guide’s knowledge and safety measures. Conversely, a few reviews mention cancellations—sometimes due to unforeseen circumstances like guide health or weather—but the company offers full refunds and rebooking options. Such hiccups are rare but worth considering when booking.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This haunted bar crawl is perfect for those who enjoy informal, storytelling evenings with a spooky twist. It’s especially appealing if you like local legends, historic pubs, and intimate group experiences. It’s not a traditional “drink and party” outing—more of a cultural and ghostly exploration with a fun, relaxed vibe. If you’re traveling with friends or solo and want an evening of history, mystery, and a dash of fun, this tour hits the spot.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $40 per person, this tour offers a good value considering the guided storytelling, the historic venues, and the intimate atmosphere. It’s a chance to learn about New Orleans’ haunted reputation in a setting that feels both fun and authentic.

The guides make all the difference, bringing stories to life and creating a sense of camaraderie among participants. The setting of historic bars adds a tangible sense of place, making each ghostly tale more real.

If you’re after an engaging, atmospheric night that combines history, local lore, and a bit of nightlife, this tour is a clever way to spend an evening in the French Quarter. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate small-group experiences and want to explore the city’s spooky side with knowledgeable guides who bring the stories to life.

FAQ

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Witches Brew Gallery & Haunted Sanctuary located at 311 Exchange Pl, in the heart of the French Quarter.

How early should I arrive?
It’s best to arrive about 30 minutes before the scheduled start time to check in and get settled.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are at your own expense, but each stop offers a variety of cocktails and beverages to try.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
While efforts are made to accommodate all guests, the terrain of the historic French Quarter can present challenges. Please consider your mobility before booking.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours are not canceled due to rain, cold, or snow, but only in cases of flooding, tropical storms, hurricanes, or lightning. In such cases, the tour may be rescheduled or refunded.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Last-minute cancellations may forfeit the fee.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly designed for children, the focus on ghost stories and atmospheric bars might appeal mainly to adults or older teens interested in ghost lore and local history.

In short, the New Orleans’ Historic Haunted Bar Crawl offers a charming, story-rich experience that blends history, local culture, and a touch of the supernatural. It’s a memorable way to get a different perspective on the French Quarter’s storied past—perfect for those who enjoy a good ghost story with their cocktails.