Treasures of New Orleans: Ghosts & Voodoo Private Tour

Experience the mysterious allure of New Orleans through its ghosts and voodoo traditions with the Treasures of New Orleans: Ghosts & Voodoo Private Tour. This carefully curated journey offers an engaging blend of history, legend, and local flavor, all led by passionate guides who bring the city’s haunted tales to life. For just $37, you’ll get roughly two and a half hours of intimate storytelling, authentic sights, and a taste of the city’s darker side.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on making the experience personal and insightful. Instead of generic sightseeing, you’ll dive into stories that only locals would know — from haunted landmarks to infamous figures like Jean Lafitte. Plus, it’s a private experience, giving you plenty of room to ask questions and explore at your own pace.

One thing to keep in mind: the tour is designed for moderate physical activity, so comfortable shoes are a must. While it’s packed with interesting tales and historic sites, travelers craving a more lively, boisterous atmosphere might find it a bit subdued. This tour is especially suited for history buffs, those interested in voodoo mythology, or anyone who loves a good ghost story.

Key Points

• Authentic local stories: Guides share lesser-known tales and legends that deepen your understanding of New Orleans’ haunted reputation.
• Iconic landmarks: Visit famous sites like the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum and St. Louis Cathedral, all with a spooky twist.
• Small group intimacy: The private tour format ensures a personalized experience, perfect for questions and relaxed pacing.
• Cultural insights: Discover the city’s voodoo traditions and ghost lore, enriching your overall visit.
• Affordable value: At $37, this tour offers a detailed, engaging experience without breaking the bank.
• Eco-conscious touring: The entire experience is offered as a carbon-neutral activity, aligning with sustainable travel values.

A Deep Dive into the Treasures of New Orleans: Ghosts & Voodoo Private Tour

Introduction: A Tour with a Touch of the Supernatural

If you’re visiting New Orleans and want to explore its darker, more mysterious side, this private ghost and voodoo tour might be just what you need. It promises an immersive experience, led by local guides who are deeply passionate about their city’s legends. With a focus on authentic stories and historic sites, it’s perfect for travelers eager to learn about the city’s haunted reputation without the crowds or touristy fluff.

One of the standout features of this tour is its small group size—you’ll be part of a private experience, making it flexible and tailored. The guides are well-informed and eager to share stories that aren’t always on the typical tourist trail. For just $37, you get a surprisingly rich itinerary packed with historical sights, spooky tales, and even a drink included. However, some travelers might find the pace a little relaxed or the focus more on storytelling than adrenaline-pumping ghost hunts.

This tour seems best suited for those interested in history, culture, and ghost lore who prefer a more personalized experience. If you’re up for a leisurely walk with stories, this could be a highlight of your trip.

What You’ll Love About This Tour

Authentic storytelling: Guides like Neil, praised for his knowledge and entertainment skills, make the stories come alive, blending history and legend seamlessly.

Iconic landmarks: You’ll stroll around spots like Jackson Square, the oldest Catholic cathedral in the U.S., and the historic Lafayette Cemetery, all infused with ghostly lore.

Local drinks and atmosphere: The tour includes a visit to Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, reportedly haunted by Pirate Jean Lafitte himself. It’s a fun way to end the tour with a drink in a historic, atmospheric setting.

Cultural insights: The tour covers voodoo traditions and their connection to New Orleans’ identity, providing context beyond mere ghost stories.

Economical: Compared to many guided tours, this offers exceptional value—a private guide, stories, and a drink all for less than many group tours.

Eco-friendly: The tour’s carbon-neutral approach aligns well with travelers conscious about sustainability.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Hotel Monteleone

Your journey begins at the Hotel Monteleone, an iconic fixture in the French Quarter, continuously operated by the same family since its opening. It’s a hub for locals, including politicians, and has a storied past. While there’s no admission fee, standing inside this historic hotel immediately immerses you in the city’s timeless charm. The guide might share tales of its past guests and clandestine stories that give you a flavor of the city’s layered history.

Stop 2: Jackson Square, Napoleon House & Pharmacy Museum

Next, you’ll stroll around Jackson Square, surrounded by historic buildings and street artists. Here, two key spots feature in the ghostly tales: The Napoleon House and the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum. The Napoleon House is rumored to be haunted, with stories of unexplained noises and sightings, especially at night. The Pharmacy Museum showcases old apothecary equipment and tales of medicinal practices tied to voodoo and herbal magic, adding a mysterious, mystical dimension.

Stop 3: Louisiana Supreme Court Clerk & Omni Hotel Rooftop Bar

On the other side of the street, you’ll visit the rooftop bar La Riviera at the Omni Hotel. Here, the guide shares the story of Zack and Addie, offering legends about their ghosts haunting the building. This part allows you to enjoy a panoramic view of the city while hearing about its supernatural residents—a hit among visitors who love a mix of history and scenery.

Stop 4: The Cabildo & St. Louis Cathedral

Near the historic Cabildo, you’ll find the St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest in the U.S., and a frequent setting in ghost stories. The square itself is steeped in history, once the site of early settlement. Its connection to ghost tales, weddings, and funerals adds a poignant, spooky atmosphere. You might notice the general peacefulness contrasted with the tales of restless spirits.

Stop 5: Chartres Street & Ghostly Dining

Here, the guide shares stories of a restaurant supposedly haunted by a ghost who sits at a specific table, which you might even be able to reserve. The idea of dining alongside a spectral presence is oddly charming and adds a fun, interactive element to the tour.

Stop 6: St. Mark’s United Methodist Church

In the vicinity, the oldest building in the Mississippi River bottom stands nearby. The guide explains its history and spooky legends, giving you a look into the layers of New Orleans architecture and folklore.

Stop 7: Royal Street & LaLaurie House

Royal Street is famous for its horror stories, notably Delphine LaLaurie, one of the city’s most infamous haunted houses. Stories of her cruelty and the ghostly aftermath have made it a legend, featured even on TV shows like American Horror Story. Several reviewers mention the dramatic storytelling here, making it a memorable highlight.

Stop 8: Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar

Finally, the tour wraps up at Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, believed to be haunted by Jean Lafitte, the legendary pirate. You can enjoy a drink, soak in the historic ambiance, and imagine the ghostly pirate rumbling through the shadows.

What the Reviews Say

The feedback highlights the expert knowledge and engaging storytelling of guides like Neil, who was described as “fantastic and entertaining.” Many travelers appreciated the value for money, especially given the private format and inclusion of a drink. One reviewer mentioned that this tour was “worth doing” and packed with interesting content, making it a highlight of their trip.

However, not all experiences were perfect. One negative review pointed out a guide who failed to show up, illustrating that, like any experience, there’s a small chance of inconsistency. That said, the overall reputation remains strong, with most guests citing the passion and knowledge of their guides as key positives.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

The tour starts at 214 Royal St and ends on Bourbon Street, both central spots easily accessible by public transportation or on foot. It’s a private experience, so only your group participates, which enhances comfort and flexibility. The tour lasts approximately two and a half hours, including stops and stories.

Cost-wise, at $37, it’s quite reasonable, especially considering the personalized feel and the rich storytelling. The inclusion of one alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink adds a nice touch, making the experience even more relaxing.

The tour is carbon neutral, aligning with eco-conscious travel values, and is suitable for travelers with moderate physical activity levels. No hotel pickup or drop-off is included, so plan to meet at the designated starting point.

The Sum Up

The Treasures of New Orleans: Ghosts & Voodoo Private Tour offers a unique, authentic experience into the city’s haunted spots, blending history, legends, and local culture seamlessly. The personal touches, passionate guides, and well-chosen landmarks make this tour stand out as a memorable part of any trip to New Orleans.

It’s especially ideal for those who love stories with a touch of the supernatural, want a more intimate exploration without the crowds, and value local insights over generic sightseeing. The price point is fair, and the tour’s focus on sustainability adds to its appeal for eco-minded travelers.

While it might not satisfy thrill-seekers looking for a haunted house horror tour, it provides enough spooky charm, historical context, and cultural flavor to satisfy curious minds. For a relaxed, insightful evening that reveals the city’s darker side, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the tour is private, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized experience.

How long does the tour last?
It typically lasts around 2 hours and 30 minutes, including stops and stories.

Where does the tour start and end?
The starting point is 214 Royal St, and it ends on Bourbon Street, both central locations in the French Quarter.

What is included in the price?
You get a private guide, stories, and one alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink. The tour is also carbon neutral.

Are food and additional beverages included?
No, only the specified drink is included; any other food or drinks are at your expense.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly specified, the interest and moderate physical activity required make it suitable for children with a curiosity for history and ghost stories.

Do I need to be physically fit?
Yes, a moderate level of physical activity is expected, as it involves walking around historic sites.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

Are pets allowed?
Service animals are permitted, but other pets are not specifically mentioned.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, both the start and end points are near public transit options.

Embark on this ghostly journey through New Orleans’ haunted streets and uncover secrets buried in its storied past. Whether you’re a history lover, a folklore enthusiast, or just here for the spooky tales, this tour offers a meaningful taste of the city’s mysterious charm.