New Orleans Voodoo, Mystery, and Paranormal Tour

Imagine wandering through the old streets of New Orleans, hearing stories of ghosts, vampires, and voodoo that seem as much rooted in legend as history. That’s what this Voodoo, Mystery, and Paranormal Tour offers—an engaging, atmospheric walk through some of the city’s most intriguing tales. Designed for curious travelers who love a spooky story or two and enjoy authentic local guides, this tour promises a glimpse into NOLA’s hidden supernatural side.

We’re especially fans of the local guide who brings stories alive with enthusiasm and knowledge, and the chance to walk through the vibrant French Quarter on a guided route that balances history with ghostly legends. The inclusion of paranormal equipment adds a thrill for those interested in the possibility of real ghostly encounters. However, a potential drawback is that some visitors have found the tour more historical than haunted and felt it lacked the supernatural punch they expected.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy engaging stories, historic sites, and a bit of ghost-hunting fun. If your idea of a perfect NOLA experience involves a little mystery and a lot of color, this could be a good choice—just keep your expectations in check about seeing actual spirits.

Key Points

• Authentic local guides make the stories engaging and memorable.
• The French Quarter provides a lively, atmospheric backdrop for exploring New Orleans’ spooky tales.
• Paranormal equipment adds an interactive element, appealing to ghost enthusiasts.
• The price point ($35) offers solid value, especially considering the guided experience and included stories.
• Some reviews mention that the tour leans more towards history and local legends than actual paranormal activity.
• The tour is rain-or-shine, with a flexible duration of 1 to 2 hours depending on stops and crowd levels.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar

The tour kicks off at the legendary Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, one of the oldest bars in the U.S., located at 941 Bourbon Street. The meeting takes place outside the courtyard gate, not inside the bar itself. This detail is key—expect a quick check-in and a prompt start, as late arrivals won’t be accommodated once the tour departs. The setting is perfect; Bourbon Street’s lively vibe acts as a backdrop to the spooky stories ahead.

Navigating the French Quarter

From this bustling start, the guide leads you through the French Quarter, the heart of New Orleans’ historic charm. This area is packed with age-old buildings, corner cafes, and a palpable sense of history—perfect for storytelling. The walking pace is moderate, allowing you to soak in the scenery and listen to tales of ghosts, pirates, and hauntings. Expect to hear about haunted buildings and documented sightings, with the guide weaving in local legends and historical tragedies.

One reviewer appreciated this part of the tour, mentioning that the guide shared “all the tragic events that happened here,” adding depth to the experience. Another noted that it felt more like a general history tour combined with a pub crawl, but ultimately appreciated the atmosphere. The tour’s route might include stops at notable locations like St. Louis Cathedral, where stories of tragic events and spiritual unrest are shared.

Visit to St. Louis Cathedral and its Garden

A highlight is the stop at St. Louis Cathedral and the nearby St. Anthony’s Garden. The guide shares stories of tragic events and spiritual unrest, giving a layered depiction of the site’s history. Guests are encouraged to look for evidence of paranormal activity, with some claiming to have captured photos of spirits or unusual phenomena. This stop offers a tranquil yet eerie atmosphere, especially when the stories of ghostly sightings and supernatural activity are woven into the setting.

Paranormal Elements and Ghost-Hunting Equipment

One of the tour’s unique features is the use of professional ghost-hunting equipment. Guests are allowed to check out devices designed to detect paranormal activity, which adds a hands-on element for those intrigued by ghost stories. But, based on reviews, this equipment is more of a gimmick than a guarantee of evidence. Some visitors felt that the EM meters were not fully explained or discussed, giving the impression of a novelty rather than a serious investigation.

The Balance of History and Paranormal Tales

While many guests leave enchanted by the stories and atmosphere, some reviews underscore that the tour leans more toward local legends and historical tragedies than actual ghostly encounters. One reviewer lamented, “There was nothing on voodoo, and the EM meter was given to one person to carry and never discussed,” suggesting that the paranormal aspect might be more superficial than substantive.

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts approximately 1 to 2 hours, depending on group size and crowd levels. Groups are usually limited to around 28 guests, providing enough space for interaction but still maintaining an intimate vibe. The moderate pacing means you won’t feel rushed, but don’t expect the tour to slow down for lengthy stops—there’s a good balance between walking, storytelling, and looking around.

Practical Considerations

The $35 price point offers decent value for the guided experience, especially considering the stories, the equipment, and the walk through historic and spooky sites. Keep in mind that food, drinks, and gratuities aren’t included, and the tour does not offer hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan accordingly. It’s a walk-up experience, with most bookings made 24 days in advance, and it’s suitable for most travelers—except perhaps very young children or those with mobility issues, due to the walking involved.

Weather and Cancellation Policies

Tours run rain or shine, so come prepared for weather variations—shade in summer, rain gear in rainy seasons. The tour provider is strict about no refunds—if you need to cancel, you might get a reschedule or credit, but not a refund. They also reserve the right to cancel or delay due to weather or unforeseen circumstances, with notifications via text or email.

Who Will Love This Tour

If you’re a fan of ghost stories, local legends, and historic sites, this tour offers a fun way to get a taste of NOLA’s haunted reputation. The knowledgeable local guide makes a difference, breathing life into the tales and giving you a sense of the city’s hidden layers. Ghost hunters or paranormal enthusiasts might appreciate the equipment, but should temper expectations about actually seeing spirits.

This tour is perfect for history buffs who want a spooky twist, or anyone curious about New Orleans’ darker stories. If your goal is a serious paranormal investigation, or you’re seeking a tour with a heavy focus on voodoo, you might find this tour somewhat light on those aspects.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

We think this tour offers good value for those interested in a lively, storytelling-based exploration of New Orleans’ haunted sites. The local guide’s knowledge and the atmospheric French Quarter make it a memorable experience, especially for first-timers or those intrigued by ghost tales. The paranormal equipment adds a bit of fun, though don’t expect it to turn up evidence of spirits—more like a souvenir of your ghost-hunting adventure.

For a lighthearted, atmospheric walk that blends history and ghost stories, this tour hits the mark. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for an engaging way to learn about NOLA’s spooky side without deep dives into voodoo or supernatural investigations. Just keep your expectations aligned with the stories—and enjoy the ghostly ambiance of the Big Easy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children under 18 need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Some bars along the route may have age restrictions.

Does the tour include any private or inside visits?
No, the tour stays on public property, and no entry into private locations is permitted.

What should I wear or bring?
Dress comfortably for walking. Since the tour is outdoors, bring an umbrella or rain gear if needed. Parental discretion is advised for very young children.

Can I use paranormal equipment during the tour?
Yes, you can check out paranormal equipment at the start of the tour. Just note there’s a fee of $250 for lost or damaged gear.

What if it rains during the tour?
Tours are rain or shine. Come prepared for the weather, whether it’s hot, cold, or wet.

Are there any hidden costs?
No hidden costs, but drinks and gratuities are not included. You may want to tip your guide if you enjoyed the experience.

How far does the tour walk?
Expect a moderate pace over the course of 1 to 2 hours, covering several historic and spooky sites within the French Quarter.

In summary, if you’re looking for an affordable, lively exploration of New Orleans’ mysterious side, this tour offers a thoughtfully guided stroll through the city’s haunted corners. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate storytelling, atmospheric settings, and a touch of ghost-hunting fun. Just go with an open mind and a sense of adventure—who knows, you might even capture a paranormal photo or two!