New Orleans History and Hauntings Tour

Exploring New Orleans’ famous French Quarter through its ghost stories, voodoo history, and haunting legends sounds like the perfect way to get a feel for the city’s mysterious side. This 2-hour walking tour, offered by New Orleans Drunk History Tours, promises an engaging journey into the city’s macabre and supernatural legends. With a friendly, knowledgeable guide leading the way and over 15 stops packed into this adventure, it’s designed to give visitors a taste of New Orleans’ darker, intriguing history.

What we find particularly appealing is how this tour balances historic storytelling with fun ghost lore, making it both educational and entertaining. Plus, with the use of high-tech ghost-tracking equipment, there’s an interactive element that attracts those curious about the paranormal. However, potential guests should be aware that timing and pacing can vary, especially during busy hours or if the stops involve bars or restrooms. This tour is perfect for those who enjoy mysterious tales, history, and a little spooky adventure — especially if you’re short on time but want a memorable experience.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling from professional guides with a deep knowledge of New Orleans’ haunted past.
• Visit over 15 historic locations in the French Quarter, including famed bars and film sites.
• Interactive experience with high-tech ghost-tracking equipment.
• Flexible duration of approximately 1 to 2 hours, depending on stops and wait times.
• Affordable price point at $35 per person for a comprehensive walking tour.
• Suitable for most travelers, including those with children (most are welcome with guardians).

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour isn’t just about hearing ghost stories; it’s about walking through the very streets where history, myth, and the supernatural intertwine. Starting at Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, a legendary haunt itself, the tour then meanders through the iconic French Quarter, revealing secrets behind its architecture, voodoo practices, and notorious legends. You’ll cover more than 15 locations, which could include film sites and historic buildings, all while absorbing stories from a friendly and professional guide, often praised for their storytelling skills.

Expect a brisk, moderate-paced walk that lets you soak in the atmosphere of New Orleans—the sounds, sights, and smells that make this city so unique. During the walk, you’ll have opportunities to observe street performers, local residents, and the vibrant life of the French Quarter, adding to the overall experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar

This meeting point is a storied bar that’s as much a part of the haunted lore as the tour itself. It’s a perfect starting line because it’s steeped in history and legend, setting the tone for what’s to come. Guests are advised to arrive a few minutes early to check in, as the tour departs precisely at the scheduled time.

The French Quarter Walk

The core of the experience is the approximately one-hour walk through the French Quarter, where you’ll encounter some of the area’s most fascinating stories. The route is carefully curated to cover the best locations linked to history, hauntings, voodoo, and supernatural tales—plus some spots featured in popular movies and TV shows.

Here, guides share insights into traditional burial practices and voodoo rites, offering context that helps demystify some of the city’s more misunderstood traditions. The stories are delivered in an informative and engaging manner, often drawing on historical characters and local legends.

Highlights Along the Route

• Historic architecture: Expect to see buildings with old-world charm, many dating back centuries, each with its own story.
• Haunted spots: Several locations are associated with paranormal sightings—some guests have even captured ghostly images, as one reviewer noted, “Our guide was very knowledgeable and great at storytelling. Even caught a full-body apparition on camera.”
• Cultural insights: Learn about the role of voodoo in New Orleans culture, including rites and symbols, which often feature in haunting legends.

Ending the Tour

The tour concludes back in the heart of the French Quarter, leaving you with a sense of the city’s mysterious, lively history. Because the tour is designed to be flexible, your experience may vary based on walking speed, the crowd, and stops at bars or restrooms.

Why This Tour Offers Value

At just $35 per person, this tour provides a budget-friendly way to explore New Orleans’ darker history and supernatural legends. Considering it includes over 15 stops and the guidance of a professional storyteller, it offers a lot of content for the price. Plus, the use of high-tech ghost-tracking equipment adds a modern twist that keeps the experience engaging.

The reviews indicate that guides like Cody and Ashli excel at storytelling and creating an engaging atmosphere, which is crucial for a tour centered around ghostly tales. One reviewer even shared that their guide “was excellent,” making the experience memorable and fun.

However, it’s important to note that timing can vary—some stops might take longer if the group stops for drinks or bathroom breaks, and late arrivals are not accommodated, as the tour departs precisely on schedule. Weather can also influence the experience since tours are rain-or-shine; preparation is advised.

The Experience & Its Unique Aspects

What makes this tour stand out is how it combines historic facts with supernatural lore, giving you a well-rounded view of New Orleans’ haunted reputation. The stories are not just spooky tales—they’re rooted in local history, culture, and legends that have been passed down through generations.

Guests have appreciated guides like Cody, who bring stories vividly to life, and the fact that paranormal equipment can be checked out adds an interactive element. Some visitors have even experienced “paranormal activity” during the tour, which adds a layer of authenticity for those open to the supernatural.

The tour’s moderate pace helps to absorb the stories without feeling rushed, but it’s worth noting that the duration can extend to up to 2 hours depending on stops and crowd size. This flexibility ensures you can enjoy the experience at a comfortable pace.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour departs from 941 Bourbon Street, a prime location in the French Quarter, making it easy to find and access via public transportation. It does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan accordingly. Guests should arrive a few minutes early, especially since late arrivals aren’t accommodated once the tour begins.

While the tour itself is family-friendly (most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed), children under 18 need guardian supervision unless authorized by the guide. Guests are permitted to bring paranormal equipment—checking it out costs a small fee, and it must be returned before departure.

Rain gear and comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour is outdoors, and weather can change unexpectedly. Remember, it’s a rain-or-shine event, and no refunds are provided if the weather is poor.

Final Thoughts

This New Orleans ghost tour offers a balanced blend of history, culture, and supernatural stories. It’s perfect for travelers who want a short, engaging experience that provides vivid storytelling and a genuine sense of the city’s haunted reputation. The knowledgeable guides, especially those like Cody, really elevate the experience, making the stories come alive.

For those interested in paranormal activity, voodoo traditions, or simply discovering the spooky side of New Orleans, this tour delivers memorable moments without breaking the bank. Its flexible timing and interactive elements make it suitable for a wide range of travelers, from history buffs to curious ghost enthusiasts.

If you’re looking for a fun, informative way to explore the city that emphasizes storytelling and local lore, this tour is a worthy addition to your NOLA itinerary.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 to 2 hours, depending on stops and wait times, making it easy to fit into a busy day.

Where do the tours start and end?
They start at Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, located at 941 Bourbon Street, and end within the French Quarter.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children under 18 need to be accompanied by a guardian unless otherwise authorized. Bars along the route may not allow children inside.

Are drinks or food included?
No, drinks are available for purchase along the route, but they are not included in the price.

Can I bring paranormal equipment?
Yes, paranormal equipment can be checked out at the beginning of the tour for a small fee, but it must be returned before leaving.

What if I arrive late?
Late arrivals are not permitted to join once the tour departs, so arriving early is crucial.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Tours are rain-or-shine, so come prepared for any weather. No refunds are issued due to weather conditions.

Are private tours available?
The data suggests the tour is a group experience, though in case of guide sickness, a private tour was offered as a reschedule.

How much does the tour cost?
It costs $35 per person, which offers good value considering the number of stops, stories, and the guide’s expertise.

To sum it up, this New Orleans History and Hauntings Tour is perfect for those wanting a short, fun, and informative peek into the city’s spooky side. The guides’ storytelling skills, combined with the interactive ghost-tracking, ensure a memorable experience. Whether you’re a history buff, a paranormal enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique way to explore the French Quarter, this tour hits the right notes—just remember to arrive early and bring your curiosity along.