New Orleans’ Historic Haunted Bar Crawl

Exploring the Haunted Side of New Orleans: A Look at the Historic Haunted Bar Crawl

If you’re looking to combine a bit of spooky storytelling with some of the city’s most atmospheric watering holes, the New Orleans’ Historic Haunted Bar Crawl offers just that. While I haven’t personally tried this tour, the buzz around it suggests it’s a fun, engaging way to spend an evening in the French Quarter. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy stories of ghosts and legends with your drinks, and fancy exploring some historic bars that have stood the test of time.

One thing we really love about this experience is its small group setting, which keeps things cozy and personal. Not to mention, the guide’s wealth of knowledge about the city’s haunted past adds a layer of authenticity and intrigue. The tour also hits some of the city’s most iconic bars, like Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, which is said to be the oldest bar building in New Orleans. However, a possible consideration is that drinks are not included in the ticket price, so budget accordingly if you plan to indulge. Overall, it’s ideal for those who want a mix of history, ghost stories, and great nightlife without a long commitment—perfect for an evening outing.

Key Points

• Intimate group size: Limited to 15 people for a more personal experience.
• Historic and atmospheric bars: Visit renowned spots like Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop and Pirate’s Alley.
• Ghostly stories: Guides share dark tales of New Orleans’ haunted characters and past.
• Cost-effective: Only $40 per person, with drinks paid for separately.
• Duration: About 2 hours—ideal for a quick, immersive experience.
• Accessible experience: Near public transportation, though terrain in the French Quarter can be challenging for mobility issues.

What to Expect from the Haunted Bar Crawl

This tour is crafted for folks who enjoy combining a little history with some lively nightlife. Starting at Witches Brew Gallery, the tour kicks off with an introduction to some of the darker tales that haunt the city. The first stop is Pirate’s Alley Café, where you can try absinthe, a drink historically associated with bohemian decadence and rumored to have mystical effects. It’s a good way to get into the mood for the stories ahead.

From there, you’ll move to Harry’s Corner Bar, described as a classic dive bar. Here, the guide might share tales of ghosts wandering the streets after hours. A quote from a past guest notes how much they appreciated the guide’s knowledge and safety awareness, which is vital when navigating crowds or traffic. The next stop is MRB Bar & Kitchen, where trying the Green Drink is highly recommended, along with their oysters if you’re hungry.

The final bar on the tour is Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, famous as one of the oldest bars in the city. It’s said to have a long history connected to pirates and ghostly legends. Visitors may find the purple drink here intriguing, but the guide warns to drink it with caution.

The Stops in Detail

Pirate’s Alley Café

This is where many first-timers get their absinthe experience, which adds a bit of a thrill. The atmosphere here is rich in history, and drinking absinthe in such a storied setting feels authentic. The guide’s storytelling about the bar’s past makes it more than just a drink stop—it’s about feeling connected to the city’s bohemian roots.

Harry’s Corner Bar

A straightforward dive bar with a no-frills vibe, Harry’s provides a relaxed environment to hear ghost stories and soak in local color. According to reviews, the guide’s knowledgeable commentary makes the visit memorable, and the casual setting encourages good conversation among guests.

MRB Bar & Kitchen

Here, the Green Drink is the star, and it’s a fun, vibrant option that fits the spooky theme. The tour also hints that the bar is known for its oysters, which could be worth a return visit. The bar’s atmosphere is lively but intimate, ideal for sharing ghost stories and laughs.

Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop

The tour concludes at a true historic gem—Lafitte’s, the oldest bar building in New Orleans. The aura here is almost palpable, with tales of pirates and hauntings swirling around. The purple drink, which has become somewhat legendary, is best enjoyed with a little caution, as the guide suggests.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros:
– The small group size makes for a more engaging, less rushed experience.
– Knowledgeable guides bring stories to life, making history feel relevant and spooky.
– Visiting historic bars like Lafitte’s adds genuine character and a sense of stepping back in time.
– The tour is reasonably priced at $40, offering good value considering the atmosphere and storytelling.
– The route is well thought out, with each stop offering something unique.

Cons:
– Drinks are not included, so you’ll need to budget for that separately.
– The tour is about two hours, which is perfect for a quick evening but might leave some wanting more depth or longer stories.
– Terrain in the French Quarter can be uneven or crowded, which might be a challenge for some.

The Guest Feedback

The reviews paint a mostly positive picture. Guests rave about guides like Taylor and Christie, who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer mentions how safe they felt, especially while moving through busy streets, thanks to the guide’s attentiveness.

However, there have been some cancellations—unfortunately, sometimes due to unforeseen circumstances like medical emergencies, which is understandable but disappointing. One guest shared their frustration about a last-minute cancellation, but the tour provider responded with professionalism, emphasizing refunds and communication.

A common theme among the positive reviews is the entertaining storytelling and the overall value — most say it’s a fun way to spend an evening, especially if you enjoy ghost stories and historic bars.

Practical Details & Tips

• The tour departs at 7:00 pm from Witches Brew Gallery, so arriving about 30 minutes early is wise.
• It’s a mobile ticket, so you can keep your phone handy.
• Be prepared for moderate physical activity; the terrain can be uneven.
• Since drinks are not included, bringing some cash or card for purchasing beverages is necessary.
• The tour is ideal for those who appreciate history with a spooky twist but may not be suitable for children or those with mobility concerns.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves ghost stories, historic bars, and the lively energy of the French Quarter, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially suited for adults looking for a relaxed yet engaging way to explore New Orleans’ haunted past without a long commitment. It’s perfect for small groups, couples, or friends who want an evening filled with fun stories and great ambiance.

For those on a budget, the price point is reasonable, especially considering the experience’s authenticity and storytelling quality. But if you’re after a bar crawl with included drinks or longer hours, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the New Orleans’ Historic Haunted Bar Crawl offers a well-rounded mix of ghost stories, historic venues, and local flavor. The small-group vibe and knowledgeable guides ensure you’ll get a personalized experience, making the city’s haunted legends feel alive. While drinks aren’t included, the atmosphere and storytelling more than make up for it, especially if you’re eager to experience the city’s darker side in a fun, relaxed setting.

This tour is best suited for those who appreciate history and spooky tales, enjoy sharing stories over a drink, and are looking for a memorable evening in the French Quarter. If you’re prepared for a little walking and some uneven terrain, it’s definitely worth considering for your New Orleans itinerary.

FAQ

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Witches Brew Gallery & Haunted Sanctuary on Exchange Place, about 30 minutes before the 7:00 pm start time.

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is designed for adults, especially since drinks are involved and the themes are spooky. It might not be ideal for children.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, the tour cost is $40 per person, but drinks are paid for separately at each venue.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for roughly 2 hours, making it a nice short evening activity.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
While efforts are made to accommodate all guests, the terrain in the French Quarter can pose challenges for mobility, so plan accordingly.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours aren’t canceled for rain, but they could be canceled due to severe weather like storms or hurricanes. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel the tour if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What should I bring?
Bring your ID, some cash or card for drinks, and comfortable shoes for walking.

Is the group size limited?
Yes, no more than 15 people, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.

In summary, if ghost stories, historic bars, and a lively night out sound appealing, this haunted bar crawl in New Orleans could be just what you need to add some spooky fun to your trip.