New Orleans Vampire Walking Tour

If you’re looking for a way to add some dark intrigue to your trip to New Orleans, the Vampire Walking Tour might just be your perfect evening activity. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve read plenty of reviews and gather that it offers a mix of folklore, film history, and eerie tales that bring the city’s shadowy side to life. For those who love a little supernatural mystery paired with a historic city, this tour promises an engaging, fun, and atmospheric experience.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines local storytelling with actual sites in the French Quarter, making history and myths feel immediate. Plus, the knowledgeable guides seem to add a lot of personality and flair, making the stories memorable. On the flip side, it’s worth considering that the overall experience is about two hours of walking, so it’s best suited for those comfortable in a walking tour setting. If you’re someone who loves vampires, dark tales, or simply wants a different way to explore New Orleans, this tour could be a hit.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling: Guides share folklore, historical stories, and urban legends with a theatrical touch.
• Iconic locations: Visit filming sites of Interview with a Vampire and notable vampire taverns.
• Dark ambiance: The tour is conducted at night, heightening the spooky vibes.
• Affordable price: At just $30, it offers good value for an engaging local experience.
• Small group intimacy: With a maximum of 28 travelers, you’re likely to get a more personalized feel.
• Variety of stops: From Jackson Square to Royal Street, each spot adds to the mysterious narrative.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour is priced at $30 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the depth of stories and sights you’ll encounter. It’s a mobile ticket, so you can easily join in without worrying about printing anything. The ticket covers the 2-hour haunted walk through the French Quarter, but food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly if you want to grab a snack afterward.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Saint Louis Cathedral

Your journey begins at Saint Louis Cathedral, the iconic centerpiece of Jackson Square. This historic church, glowing softly at night, sets a perfect spooky tone for the tour. Your guide, who is described as theatrical and animated, will meet you here at 8:30 pm, ready to lead you into the dark side of the city.

Jackson Square and Surroundings

A quick five-minute stop inside Jackson Square allows you to take in the silent grandeur of this historic park. It’s a great spot for a photo or just to soak in the ambiance before heading into the deeper streets.

Exploring the French Quarter

The bulk of the tour takes place in the winding streets of the French Quarter. Here, your guide will weave tales of vampire scandals, crimes, and legends pulled from police reports, archives, and local lore. The streets look charming and even romantic by day, but at night they transform into a realm of shadows, perfect for stories of creatures lurking in the dark.

• You’ll visit a noted vampire tavern, which adds a tangible link to the city’s nightlife and dark history.
• The tour visits famous filming locations of Interview with a Vampire, giving fans of the film a chance to see where some of the most iconic scenes were shot.
• Expect a mix of folklore, historical anecdotes, and urban legends, all delivered with a theatrical flair that keeps the atmosphere fun and slightly freaky.

Boutique du Vampyre

A highlight is a stop at Boutique du Vampyre, where local artists sell vampire-themed items. This isn’t just a quick gift shop stop; it’s an oddity experience that adds a quirky, artistic touch to the tour. Many reviewers mention how memorable and unusual it is—definitely worth the 15-minute visit.

Royal Street and Legendary Tales

The tour wraps up along Royal Street, where your guide shares stories of the Carter Brothers and Jacques St. Germain—local figures associated with vampire legends. These stops add layers to the spooky narrative, blending fact and fiction seamlessly.

What People Say About the Tour

The reviews reveal that guides like Rose Sinister and Chase make a big difference. Many describe guides as knowledgeable, engaging, and passionate about vampire lore. As one reviewer put it, “Rose is a great storyteller! She’s taken the time to learn about history and myths and it shows throughout the tour.” Others mention how the stories, combined with the atmospheric streets, create an immersive experience that feels both entertaining and a little chilling.

Some reviews mention the good value for the price, noting that at $30, the tour offers a lot of entertainment, storytelling, and iconic sights. Many praise the well-researched, detailed stories that mix real crimes, legends, and pop culture references, adding depth to what could otherwise be just a spooky walk.

However, not all reviews are glowing. A few folks mention issues like scattered storytelling or difficulty hearing the guide, especially if the group gets loud or noisy. One reviewer from Louisiana expressed disappointment in the guide’s behavior, but this seems to be an outlier, as most reviews highlight friendly, engaging guides.

Tips Based on Reviews

• Arriving early helps you get a good spot near the guide.
• Dress comfortably for walking — the streets are uneven and the tour is about two hours long.
• Be prepared for weather; it’s an outdoor experience, so rain can affect visibility and comfort.
• Keep in mind the tour is quite atmospheric and spooky, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy eerie stories and dark themes.

The Value for Your Money

At $30, this tour is a budget-friendly way to explore the haunted, vampire-laden side of New Orleans. It’s particularly appealing for those who love stories that blend fact and fiction, and who appreciate a theatrical, storytelling approach. The tour’s duration, location, and small group size mean you’ll get a good mix of entertainment and intimacy.

If you’re a fan of vampire lore, film locations, or just enjoy a spooky night walk that feels like a mini adventure, this tour won’t disappoint. It’s a unique way to experience the French Quarter after sunset, with stories that stick with you long after the walk ends.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those interested in vampire legends, spooky stories, or Gothic atmospheres. It suits travelers looking for an evening activity that combines history, pop culture, and a touch of the supernatural. It’s good for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who enjoy storytelling and a bit of theatrical flair. Although not specifically marketed as family-friendly, older kids and teens who are fans of horror stories or vampire movies might find it fun—just be prepared for the dark, eerie vibe.

FAQ

What’s the start time of the tour?
The tour begins at 8:30 pm, giving you plenty of time to explore the city during daylight first.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 2 hours, which is a comfortable length for most walking tours without feeling too long.

Where does the tour meet?
You’ll meet your guide outside Saint Louis Cathedral at 700 Chartres St, a central and easily accessible location.

Are tickets easy to get?
Yes, the tour uses mobile tickets, and most travelers book about 22 days in advance, so it’s wise to reserve early during busy seasons.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the spooky, dark theme means it might be more suitable for teens and adults.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the entire 2-hour haunted walk in the French Quarter, but food and drinks are not included.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

The New Orleans Vampire Walking Tour offers a well-rounded, atmospheric experience that combines history, legends, and pop culture in a setting perfectly suited for tales of the undead. Guides like Rose Sinister or Chase add a layer of authenticity and fun, making it more than just a walk — it’s a storytelling adventure that captures the city’s mysterious allure.

It’s best suited for travelers who love ghost stories, vampire lore, or just want a memorable, spooky night out. With its reasonable price, engaging stops, and lively guides, this tour provides a solid taste of New Orleans’ darker side without breaking the bank. Just remember to come prepared for a bit of walking and the dark, and you’re set for a night of fun and fright.

Happy haunting!