New Orleans: Vampires, Voodoo, and Ghosts Tour

This tour promises an intriguing walk through the spooky, mysterious, and sometimes downright creepy stories that make New Orleans famous. While we haven’t experienced it ourselves, the reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a well-rounded, engaging way to get acquainted with some of the city’s darker legends—and its fascinating history.

What we love about this tour is the balance between storytelling and historical accuracy, making it both entertaining and enlightening. The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and charisma, turning what could be a superficial ghost story into a meaningful glimpse into the city’s past. Plus, exploring iconic sites like the Lalaurie Mansion and Pirates Alley offers great photo opportunities and a real sense of place.

A possible consideration is that the tour involves walking through uneven streets, which could be less comfortable for travelers with limited mobility or those in a wheelchair. While there are no stairs, the terrain isn’t perfectly smooth, so some may find it a bit challenging.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of history, legend, and a touch of the supernatural. It’s especially suited for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, and those curious about voodoo or vampire lore. If you’re looking for a fun, atmospheric introduction to the haunted side of New Orleans, this tour hits the right notes.

Key Points

• Authentic and historically accurate storytelling focused on vampires, voodoo, ghosts, and other local legends
• Engaging guides—often local historians, teachers, or students—who make the history come alive
• Iconic sights like the Lalaurie Mansion, Pirates Alley, and voodoo temples, adding visual interest
• Leisurely pace with regular stops, restroom breaks, and a walk under a mile long, making it accessible
• Alcohol-friendly environment—you can enjoy a drink while exploring the spooky side of town
• Affordable price point at around $31, offering good value for a 90-minute guided experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting at the Red Door ticket booth on Decatur Street, the tour kicks off in the heart of the French Quarter. The meeting spot is convenient and easily recognizable, especially if you’re familiar with the vibrant, historic center of New Orleans. Once gathered, your guide, a licensed historian, takes the lead—often a local with a passion for storytelling and a solid grasp of the city’s darker chapters.

The first stop is the Lalaurie Mansion, a haunted landmark made famous by its appearance on “American Horror Story.” This grand townhouse is notorious for its gruesome past—an ideal starting point to set the tone for the eerie tales ahead. Our reviews praise guides for their storytelling skills, with one reviewer noting that their guide, Gomez, was “very knowledgeable and very entertaining,” adding that he tailored the tour to the group’s interests.

Next, you’ll visit the Old Ursuline Convent, a site that offers a glimpse into New Orleans’ early colonial days, with tales of both spiritual protection and mystical happenings. The tour weaves in stories of vampires, with the guide recounting the first sightings of these legendary creatures in the city, adding a layer of myth to the historic sites.

Throughout the walk, you’ll pass by May Bailey’s Brothel, seen on the “Ghost Adventures” TV show, and Pirates Alley, where legends of buccaneers and hidden treasures linger. The Sultan’s Palace and Lafitte Blacksmith Shop also feature in the route, giving travelers a chance to see the architecture and ambiance of old New Orleans while soaking in stories of pirates, mayhem, and witchcraft.

The voodoo temples offer insight into the spiritual practices that have influenced the city’s culture, and the tour’s focus on the occult makes it clear that these stories aren’t just ghostly tales—they’re woven into the fabric of life in the French Quarter.

The tour is designed to keep a relaxed, unhurried pace, with plenty of stops and bathroom breaks, making it suitable for most visitors. The evening timing adds to the ambiance, as the streets turn quieter and the shadows lengthen.

What’s Included and What to Expect

Your guide, typically a local historian, leads the 90-minute walk, sharing stories that are both fact-based and folklore-inspired. The tour is wheelchair accessible, although uneven streets might pose some difficulty, so travelers with mobility issues should consider that.

The experience is alcohol-friendly, so if you’re carrying a drink or plan to grab a cocktail before or after, it’s not a problem. It’s a leisurely stroll that’s just under a mile, meaning you can enjoy the sights without feeling rushed.

The Value of the Tour

At $31 per person, the cost is quite reasonable, especially given the richness of the stories and the quality of the guides. Reviewers frequently mention guides like Jamie, Wesley, and Orion as being knowledgeable, engaging, and passionate, which greatly enhances the experience. One reviewer even called Jamie “hands down, the best guide,” highlighting how individual personalities can make the tour stand out.

This tour offers a good balance of entertainment and education, with enough spooky stories to satisfy thrill-seekers and enough historical context for the curious. The inclusion of famous sites seen on TV and in popular media adds a fun layer of familiarity that visitors often appreciate.

The Stories Behind the Stops

Lalaurie Mansion: Known for its dark past involving cruelty and supernatural rumors, this mansion’s history is a perfect starting point. Its fame from “American Horror Story” boosts its allure, but the real stories about its former owner, Madame Lalaurie, carry enough intrigue to keep visitors captivated.

Old Ursuline Convent: This quiet, historic site is more than just stone walls—stories of spiritual protection, secret societies, and mystical happenings make it a rich stop for fans of both history and the supernatural.

Pirates Alley and Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop: These spots evoke the pirate legends of New Orleans, with tales of Jean Lafitte and pirates hiding treasures, adding a swashbuckling flavor to the night.

Voodoo Temples: Explaining the spiritual practices that influence local culture, these sites give a glimpse into the mystical side of New Orleans, often intertwined with stories of curses, protection, and rituals.

May Bailey’s Brothel: As featured on TV, this historical site offers a peek into the city’s more colorful past, intertwined with ghost stories and legendary figures.

More Great Tours Nearby

Authenticity and the Guide’s Role

Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and storytelling abilities. Several mention guides like Gomez and Wesley as being “fantastic,” “passionate,” and “tailoring the tour to our interests.” Such personalized storytelling keeps the experience lively and engaging, making history fun rather than dry.

The guides’ approach of blending factual history with legends ensures the tour appeals to a broad audience—those interested in facts, as well as those craving ghostly tales. The emphasis on local expertise means you’re getting a perspective rooted in genuine knowledge, not just hearsay.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour lasts roughly 90 minutes, with a leisurely walking pace covering just under a mile. Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to explore further on your own afterward. Since the tour is in the evening, bring a light jacket or layers, as temperatures can cool down.

While the tour is wheelchair accessible, uneven streets might be uncomfortable for some. Restroom breaks are provided, which is helpful given the duration.

Booking is flexible—you can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. That gives you peace of mind if your plans change.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

If you’re intrigued by haunted houses, vampire legends, voodoo practices, and the darker stories of New Orleans, this tour will resonate with you. It’s especially perfect for those who appreciate historical context coupled with engaging storytelling.

Families with older children, fans of TV shows like “American Horror Story” or “Ghost Adventures,” and anyone curious about the city’s spooky reputation will find this experience both fun and insightful.

Final Thoughts

This Vampires, Voodoo, and Ghosts Tour offers a captivating introduction to the mysterious side of New Orleans. Priced at $31, it provides a solid value for a 90-minute guided walk filled with stories, history, and a dash of the supernatural. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge shine through, making the experience both fun and educational.

For those who enjoy a relaxed pace, authentic local insights, and iconic sights, this tour is a perfect way to spend an evening in the French Quarter. It’s especially suited for travelers who love stories rooted in history but enjoy a spooky twist—making it a memorable part of any New Orleans trip.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children? The tour is generally family-friendly, but since it involves some spooky stories, parents should consider their children’s comfort with ghostly tales. It’s best for older kids and teenagers.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot ahead of time, especially during peak seasons. You can book with the option to pay later, offering flexibility.

How long does the tour last? The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes, covering just under a mile of walking, with regular stops and restroom breaks.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but uneven streets might pose some challenges. It’s advisable to contact the provider if you have specific mobility concerns.

Can I bring alcohol on the tour? Yes, the tour is alcohol-friendly, so you can enjoy a drink while strolling through the historic streets.

What sites will I see? Key sites include the Lalaurie Mansion, Old Ursuline Convent, Pirates Alley, Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, voodoo temples, and May Bailey’s Brothel.

What should I wear? Dress comfortably with layers suitable for the evening weather. Wear sturdy shoes, as the streets can be uneven.

In summary, this tour offers a wonderfully balanced mix of history, legend, and local color, perfect for those wanting to explore the haunted and mystical side of New Orleans. Whether you’re a ghost story enthusiast, a history lover, or simply curious about the city’s darker legends, it promises an evening of fascinating tales and iconic sights—well worth the modest price.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby