New Orleans Haunted Cemetery Tour and Ghost Hunt

If you’re interested in experiencing the spooky, mysterious vibe of New Orleans’s cemeteries and stories, this Haunted Cemetery Tour and Ghost Hunt is worth considering. It’s a popular choice, with over 1,300 reviews and a solid 4.5-star rating, and it’s designed to give visitors a safe, engaging way to explore the city’s most haunted spots.

What we really like about this tour is the way it combines narrative storytelling with a touch of paranormal experimentation, like EMF readings, which adds a layer of fun and curiosity. Plus, the exclusive access to a private cemetery at night makes it a highlight—something you can’t do on your own. On the flip side, it’s a shorter experience at just about two hours, so if you’re craving a detailed, slow-paced exploration, this might feel a little quick.

This tour works best for those who enjoy mystery, history, and a dash of the supernatural. It’s particularly suited for curious travelers who want a guided, well-structured experience that balances facts with ghost stories, without the fear factor being overwhelming.

Key Points

• Accessible and well-reviewed: With a high recommendation rate, it’s a tour that’s trusted by many.
• Exclusive cemetery access: You’ll get a rare chance to visit a private cemetery after dark.
• Engaging guides: The guides are praised for their knowledge, storytelling, and passion.
• Balanced experience: It combines bus rides with stops at key sites, including a Katrina memorial.
• Paranormal tools: EMF readers are used to add an interactive element, though reviews note they’re only used at select locations.
• Good value for money: At around $50, it’s a reasonably priced way to see some of New Orleans’s haunted history and landscapes.

A Close Look at the Experience

What’s Included and How the Tour Works

This 2-hour tour is offered by New Orleans Ghost Adventures and features a comfortable ride in an air-conditioned bus, which is a real plus considering Louisiana’s warm evenings. For a reasonable price of around $50.40 per person, you’re led through some of the city’s most iconic cemeteries and haunted sites, all with a guided narrative.

The tour starts in the heart of the French Quarter, at 620 Decatur St., a lively spot where you can grab a drink before heading out. You’re encouraged to bring your own beverages, making the experience a bit more relaxed and social. The group size is limited to 27, helping keep the experience intimate and engaging.

Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Bon’s New Orleans Street Food & Odd Fellows Rest
You begin with a quick walk into Odd Fellows Rest Cemetery, the only private cemetery you’re allowed to access during this tour. The guide takes you inside, sharing stories about the site’s history and its unique tombs. With just 15 minutes here, it’s a tight but memorable introduction to the city’s burial customs.

Second Stop: Hurricane Katrina Memorial
Next, you pass by the Hurricane Katrina Memorial, built for unclaimed bodies from the storm. It’s a poignant stop, giving you a chance to reflect on the city’s recent history and how it’s intertwined with the spooky stories of the area. Again, about 15 minutes are allocated, so don’t expect a deep dive but rather a meaningful stop.

Third Stop: Cemeteries Drive-by & EMF Experience
The tour continues with a drive-by of other notable cemeteries like Cypress Grove and Greenwood, which are famous for their above-ground tombs—an iconic feature of New Orleans’ burial style. Although you only use the EMF readers at one cemetery, many reviews mention that this interactive element adds a fun, tangible way to explore the paranormal side.

What Travelers Say

Many reviewers highlight the knowledge and charisma of the guides. One review states, “David has a vast amount of knowledge and is a good storyteller,” noting that even skeptics found the experience worthwhile. Others mention that guides like Geoff and J are engaging, funny, and respectful—key qualities for making the experience both informative and enjoyable.

A couple of reviews pointed out that the EMF readings are only used at one cemetery, which might be a bit of a letdown if you’re hoping for more paranormal tech. Still, the overall consensus is that the storytelling, combined with the atmosphere and exclusive access, makes up for it.

The Atmosphere and Experience

Since the tour takes place mostly at night, the gloomy, quiet ambiance of the cemeteries amplifies the spooky vibe. Having access to private cemeteries after dark gives the tour a sense of exclusivity and mystery. Though some mention that the 4:15 pm tour is during daylight, most find that the nighttime experience is more atmospheric and fitting for a ghost tour.

Practical Details and Logistics

• The tour is mostly walking, with some steps to board and exit the bus, so it’s not very strenuous but requires mobility.
• It operates in all weather conditions—be prepared with layered clothing and comfortable shoes.
• Parking is limited near the meeting point, so consider walking, public transit, or rideshare options.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible due to bus limitations.
• You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, which is great if your plans change.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy history with a spooky twist. It suits those curious about New Orleans’ cemeteries, voodoo, or ghost stories, but isn’t designed to scare or terrify. If you’re interested in a respectful, well-led tour with a good dose of local lore, this is a strong choice.

It’s also a good option for groups who want a safe, guided adventure rather than wandering around cemeteries solo at night. Families with older kids or teens who are interested in the supernatural might find it engaging, especially with the interactive EMF readings.

FAQs

Which cemetery do we visit during the New Orleans Cemetery Bus Tour After Dark?
You’ll visit Odd Fellows Rest, the only private cemetery allowed access during the tour, and pass by other cemeteries like Cypress Grove and Greenwood, famous for their above-ground tombs.

Does the tour visit Marie Laveau’s tomb?
No, Marie Laveau’s tomb is located in St. Louis Cemetery 1, which isn’t included on this tour. Instead, you’ll learn about other notable figures and the local burial customs.

Does this tour visit the Hurricane Katrina Memorial?
Yes! Your guide will explain the ongoing impact of Hurricane Katrina and you’ll have a chance to pay respects at this significant memorial.

Is parking available near the meeting point?
Limited parking is available, but since the start is in the French Quarter, walking or public transportation is recommended. Rideshare options like Uber or Lyft are convenient alternatives.

Can I use public transportation to get there?
Absolutely. The location is accessible by bus or streetcar stops, making it easy to reach without a car.

How early should I arrive?
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start to find your group and settle in.

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility or wheelchair users?
The bus isn’t wheelchair accessible, and some walking is involved. It’s best suited for those able to navigate steps and short distances comfortably.

The Sum Up

This New Orleans Haunted Cemetery Tour and Ghost Hunt offers a compelling mix of history, local lore, and a touch of the supernatural. It’s well-reviewed for its knowledgeable guides, exclusive cemetery access, and the interactive element of EMF readings. If you’re interested in exploring the haunted side of New Orleans without a lot of fuss, it’s a solid choice that balances storytelling with a respectful, fun experience.

While it’s not a lengthy or overly spooky tour, it provides enough atmosphere and intriguing stories to satisfy those curious about the city’s darker corners. It’s especially good for travelers who want a guided experience with a knowledgeable host, who can share insights and keep the mood respectful and engaging.

If you have a fascination with ghost stories, enjoy historical sites, or simply want to see some of New Orleans’s most atmospheric cemeteries, this tour is likely to leave a lasting impression. Just remember to dress comfortably, arrive early, and keep an open mind—you might just pick up a little ghostly energy along the way.