Ghosts, Gods, & Gangsters of New Orleans

If you’re into stories that mix history, crime, and a touch of the supernatural, then the Ghosts, Gods, & Gangsters of New Orleans tour might catch your eye. This adults-only experience, run by Spirit Empire Tours, promises a 1 hour 45-minute walk through some of the city’s most infamous and mysterious sites, led by a certified guide with a knack for storytelling. For those who love exploring the darker side of a city’s past, it’s a tempting option.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its focus on both the paranormal and real-world crime stories, giving a broad picture of New Orleans’ gritty history. Also, the group size maxing out at 20 travelers keeps things intimate, allowing for a more personal experience. On the flip side, since the tour is entirely outdoors and conducted at night, it’s worth considering the weather and your comfort in cooler months.

This tour is best suited for adults who enjoy true crime, ghost stories, and history—especially those with a curiosity for the city’s more infamous tales. If you’re after a spooky, fact-based journey that doesn’t shy away from the city’s darker legends, you’ve found a good fit.

Key Points

• Expert storytelling helps bring New Orleans’ dark history to life
• The small group setting creates a more engaging, personal experience
• The tour covers a mix of paranormal legends, crime stories, and historic sites
• It’s a cost-effective experience at $32, especially considering the detailed storytelling
• The outdoor, evening setting adds to the spooky atmosphere
• Not suitable for children under 17 due to adult themes and content

What to Expect from the Ghosts, Gods, & Gangsters Tour

This tour offers a well-balanced, 1 hour 45-minute walk through the French Quarter and surrounding areas, packed with stories that mix ghost lore, notorious crimes, and historic legends. It’s designed to give you more than just ghost stories — you’ll learn about New Orleans’ seedy past, its darker legends, and some of its most infamous figures.

The Itinerary Breakdown: A Deep Dive

Start at Old Ursuline Convent Museum
Your journey begins outside this centuries-old building, where your guide recounts the legend of the casket girls—young women who arrived with mysterious trunks that allegedly contained vampiric entities. The story hints that these early settlers might have unintentionally introduced supernatural beings into the city. Standing in the shadows of this historic site, many visitors wonder if something cursed still lingers inside. As the guide shares whispers on the wind, you might feel the weight of history and legend blending together.

Next stop: BK Historic House and Gardens
This grand mansion, once owned by a Civil War general, now tells a different story. Behind its elegant façade lies the scene of one of the city’s most infamous mafia hits, and some believe spirits still roam these halls. The stories of ghostly shadows and echoes of violence add an extra layer of intrigue, especially as night falls and shadows deepen.

Lalaurie Mansion
Arguably one of the most famous haunted spots in New Orleans, the Lalaurie residence is a stop many travelers already know about. Your guide recounts the terrible secrets of Madame Delphine Lalaurie, who was exposed for horrific experiments and human suffering. Many say the tragic spirits of her victims still inhabit the house, and sightings or eerie sounds aren’t uncommon. It’s a chilling reminder of the city’s dark, often disturbing history.

French Market and Gallatin Street
Moving to the site of the city’s red-light district, once notorious for vice, crime, and danger, you’ll hear about the “sirens” who lured sailors into deadly traps. Some stories speak of gangsters and predatory establishments, with whispers of men never seen again. The atmosphere here feels both lively and ominous, a perfect setting for ghost stories rooted in real danger.

Jackson Square
Before it became a vibrant gathering place, Jackson Square was a site of public executions. The guide shares stories of hangings and brutal punishments, making you appreciate the stark contrast between today’s lively scene and its bloody past. While carnival tunes float through the air now, a part of the history lingers in the stones beneath your feet.

New Orleans Pharmacy Museum
This unassuming building has a dark past related to plague years. Stories of fringe doctors conducting questionable experiments in the pursuit of vaccines are woven into its history. Many believe spirits or lost souls remain here, adding a supernatural layer to its history.

Omni Royal Orleans Hotel
Your journey ends outside this grand hotel, which has seen fires, mafia dealings, and even a recent tragic death by suicide. The guide shares personal stories about the haunted atmosphere of this hotel, where visible shadows and lingering pain are part of its long story.

The Experience: Why it Stands Out

What makes this tour unique is the blend of factual history and supernatural storytelling. Guides like Dr. Edward Simmons, who many reviews praise highly, excel at creating an atmosphere that’s both educational and spooky. Many visitors mention how the stories are delivered with a commanding voice and genuine enthusiasm, making it engaging from start to finish.

The group size of up to 20 people ensures a more intimate experience — no large crowds here. This allows the guide to personalize stories and respond to questions, which many reviewers appreciated. As some have noted, the outdoor setting makes it vital to dress warmly in cooler months, and being prepared for night-time walking is important.

The tour’s price point—$32 per person—offers solid value, especially considering the level of storytelling and the number of sites covered in such a short time. For travelers interested in history, crime, and supernatural tales, this tour provides a comprehensive, compelling experience.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Perspectives

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledge and entertainment value of the guide. One said, “Dr. Edward Simmons was a phenomenal guide. The entire tour was entertaining, educational, and exciting.” Others enjoyed the balanced storytelling, with comments like, “Perfect blend of history, spook, and murder.”

The small group setting also gets high marks: “Keeping the tour limited to eight people made it more personal,” a reviewer noted, adding that the guide’s enthusiasm and passion really shine through. Many mention how the stories stick with them long after the tour ends, especially tales involving the Mafia, historic executions, and ghostly sightings.

The tour’s approach to factual storytelling is appreciated—some mention that there’s no unnecessary fluff or myth-making, just real, documented stories that have been passed down through generations. This honesty makes the spooky tales more believable and more impactful.

Practicalities & Considerations

Since the tour is outdoors, it’s essential to dress for the weather. Many reviews highlight the importance of warm clothing during winter months. The 1 hour 45-minute duration is manageable for most, but remember, it’s an evening activity starting at 8 pm, so plan your evening accordingly.

Transportation isn’t included, so arriving on time is up to you. The meeting point is easily accessible at 916 Dutch Alley, and the tour ends at a different location, giving you a chance to explore more afterward or grab a late-night drink.

The tour is strictly for adults—participants must be 17 or older—due to mature themes. Also, since no inside visits are included, you’ll experience the sites from outside, which is typical for a walking tour of this nature.

Is this Tour Worth It?

Given the engaging storytelling, the historical depth, and the variety of sites covered, this tour offers good value for those interested in New Orleans’ darker stories. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy true crime, ghost lore, and historical tales that are rooted in real events. The price is reasonable, considering the guide’s expertise and the intimate experience.

However, if you’re after a more traditional, inside-the-building tour or are traveling with children under 17, this might not be the best fit. The outdoor, adults-only nature means it’s best suited for those comfortable with night-time walking and mature content.

This experience is ideal for adults who appreciate authentic stories about crime, ghosts, and history. It’s perfect if you enjoy a spooky atmosphere combined with factual storytelling. History buffs, true crime fans, and curious travelers who want to get a different perspective on New Orleans will find this tour rewarding.

If you’re in town for a short visit and want a tour with high ratings and consistent praise, this one delivers. It’s not overtly touristy, and the guide’s passion for the city’s darker stories makes it feel genuine.

Ghosts, Gods, & Gangsters of New Orleans stands out as a well-reviewed, engaging way to explore the city’s shadowy past. With its blend of history, crime stories, and haunting legends, it offers a rich experience that’s both educational and spooky. The small-group setting and expert storytelling make it a memorable activity for those who love stories with an edge.

While it’s not suitable for children or those seeking inside visits or family-friendly fun, for adults who want to hear the real stories behind New Orleans’ reputation, this tour hits the mark.

If you’re after a way to see the city’s darker side with a knowledgeable guide leading the way, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s adults-only, 17+ due to mature themes and content.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 916 Dutch Alley, New Orleans.

Is there inside access to any buildings?
No, the tour only visits sites from the outside.

Are drinks or food included?
No, alcoholic beverages are not provided but are permitted responsibly if you bring your own.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly if visiting during cooler months; it’s an outdoor walk at night.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is this tour good for history buffs?
Absolutely. The guide is known for being well-informed and sharing fact-based stories.

What makes this tour unique?
The combination of dark history, true crime, and paranormal stories, all delivered in an intimate group setting.

How is the guide’s storytelling?
Highly praised for being engaging, knowledgeable, and passionate—many reviews mention the guide’s commanding voice and ability to captivate.

If dark tales with a dose of real history sound like your kind of adventure, this tour deserves a spot on your New Orleans itinerary.