New Orleans Voodoo, Mystery, and Paranormal Tour

Exploring the Dark Side of New Orleans: The Voodoo, Mystery, and Paranormal Tour

When it comes to the haunted allure of New Orleans, plenty of tours promise spine-tingling tales and ghostly encounters. The New Orleans Voodoo, Mystery, and Paranormal Tour offers a glimpse into the city’s mysterious past, blending history, local legends, and a touch of the supernatural. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve gathered plenty of details to help you decide if it’s a good fit for your trip.

What we really like about this experience is its affordable price point—only $35 per person—and the fact that it’s led by a local guide who’s knowledgeable about New Orleans’ darker tales. Plus, the inclusion of paranormal equipment adds a fun, interactive twist. On the flip side, some reviewers have noted that the tour can sometimes feel more like a general history walk or pub crawl, which might not satisfy those seeking a highly spooky or voodoo-centric adventure.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who enjoy stories of haunted buildings, pirate legends, and ghost sightings. If you’re expecting to see supernatural entities or get a guaranteed paranormal encounter, it’s worth keeping expectations realistic. For those interested in local lore, atmospheric walks, and engaging storytelling, it’s a compelling way to spend an evening in the French Quarter.

Key Points

• Accessible Price: At just $35, it offers a budget-friendly way to explore New Orleans’ eerie side.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Travelers praise guides like Cody for their insights and friendly vibe.
• Historic & Atmospheric: The tour combines history with a spooky ambiance, especially around iconic sites.
• Interactive Elements: Use of ghost-hunting equipment makes the experience more engaging.
• Duration Flexibility: Lasts about 1 to 2 hours, depending on stops and group size.
• Some Variability: Reviews show mixed experiences, with some expecting more paranormal activity and voodoo content.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar

The tour kicks off at the historic Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, a legendary spot on Bourbon Street. Meeting outside the courtyard gate, not inside the bar itself, sets the tone for an adventure that’s steeped in local legend. This spot alone is worth a visit, famous for pirate lore and ghostly tales, giving you an immediate sense of the city’s mysterious vibe. However, some reviews mention that the tour doesn’t spend much time inside or explore the bar’s history, which might be a missed opportunity for true ambiance.

Exploring the French Quarter

The main part of the walk takes you through the lively, atmospheric streets of the French Quarter. Expect to stroll past historic buildings, some with stories of tragedy, hauntings, or pirate legends. The guide’s commentary is generally engaging, blending facts with local tales. We liked how the tour incorporates the environment’s mood—cobbled streets, wrought-iron balconies, and flickering streetlights—into the experience.

Visiting St. Louis Cathedral & St. Anthony’s Garden

Behind the oldest operating church in the U.S., the St. Louis Cathedral, there’s a garden filled with stories of loss and supernatural sightings. The guide shares tales of tragedies that unfolded here and the area’s haunted reputation. This stop appears to be a favorite among guests who appreciate the historical context mixed with ghostly legends. That said, some critics feel the tour could have gone into more detail about the voodoo and spiritual practices associated with this area.

Paranormal Equipment & Ghost Sightings

One of the tour’s unique features is the inclusion of pro ghost-hunting equipment—a fun element for those curious about the supernatural. Guests can check out and use gadgets like EM meters, which are intended to detect paranormal activity. While some reviews mention that the equipment is mostly a gimmick, others have reported capturing paranormal photos during the tour. Remember, there’s no guarantee of seeing ghosts or spirits, but the tools can add a layer of fun and curiosity.

What We’ve Learned From Guests’ Experiences

Positives:
Many guests rave about the knowledge and friendliness of guides, especially Cody, who’s described as fun and well-informed. The atmospheric route through the French Quarter is appreciated, and the use of paranormal equipment adds a playful element. The tour balances historical facts with spooky stories, making it interesting without feeling too cheesy.

Criticisms:
On the downside, some reviewers feel the tour doesn’t live up to expectations for a true paranormal experience. Comments like “nothing paranormal” or “no voodoo” suggest that the tour’s content can sometimes lean more toward general history than supernatural encounters. One guest even mentioned that the guide kept looking at his phone during parts of the walk, which detracted from the experience. Also, because the tour is sometimes affected by crowds or delays at bars, it can run longer or shorter than planned.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

Pricing & Value

At $35 per person, this tour offers a reasonable price for a quick, engaging walk through the French Quarter’s spooky corners. It includes all taxes and a professional guide, but food, drinks, and paranormal gear are extras. For those interested in the supernatural or local legends, it’s a good value, especially since it’s a guided experience in a city renowned for its ghost stories.

Duration & Group Size

The tour lasts about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the stops and the group’s pace. It’s suitable for most travelers, with a maximum of 28 people, which helps keep the experience intimate enough for questions and interaction.

Meeting Point & Accessibility

Meet outside the courtyard gate of Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop at 941 Bourbon Street—a spot easily recognizable and central in the French Quarter. The tour is accessible via public transportation and near many other attractions, making it convenient to combine with other activities.

Weather & Cancellation Policy

Tours are rain-or-shine, so dress appropriately. If weather issues cause cancellation, you’ll receive a full refund or a rescheduled date. The tour operator is clear about their no-refund policy for weather or personal cancellations, so plan accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs and curious explorers who want a taste of New Orleans’ haunted reputation without paying a fortune. It’s ideal for those interested in ghost stories, pirate legends, and local lore, and who enjoy walking through atmospheric streets. If you’re expecting to see spirits or want a highly voodoo-focused experience, you might find this tour a bit light on those elements.

It’s also suitable for those who enjoy interactive experiences, thanks to the ghost-hunting equipment, but keep in mind that some reviews suggest the paranormal activity can be limited or more suggestive than tangible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Under 18 children are not admitted unless accompanied by a parent or guardian, and some bars along the route may not allow kids inside. If you’re traveling with kids, check the specific location rules beforehand.

Does the tour involve transportation?
No, it’s a walking tour that starts and ends within the French Quarter, making it easy to hop on and off nearby attractions or continue exploring afterward.

Can I take photos or record during the tour?
Photos are encouraged, but audio or video recording devices are not allowed during the tour.

How long does the tour last?
It typically lasts from 1 to 2 hours, depending on stops, crowd levels, and wait times at bars.

What if it rains?
Tours are scheduled rain-or-shine. Be prepared for weather conditions, and if the tour is canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are paranormal equipment checked out for use?
Yes, equipment can be checked out at the beginning of the tour, but there’s a $250 fee for lost or damaged gear. Equipment must be returned before leaving.

Can I join the tour late or leave early?
Late arrivals won’t be refunded and it’s best to arrive a few minutes early. Guests are expected to stay with the group for the duration.

Is there a lot of walking involved?
Yes, it’s a moderate-paced walking tour through the French Quarter, which involves navigating uneven streets and walkways.

What’s the main focus of this tour?
While it includes tales of haunted buildings and ghosts, some reviews mention that it feels more like a history walk or pub crawl rather than a dedicated paranormal experience.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a cost-effective, engaging walk through New Orleans’ haunted streets, this tour offers a good mix of history, local legends, and fun ghost-hunting tools. Its guides are generally well-liked, bringing the stories to life and making the experience enjoyable, especially for first-timers or those looking for a relaxed exploration of the spooky side of the French Quarter.

However, if you’re expecting a deeply paranormal or voodoo-focused adventure, you might find the tour somewhat light on those specific themes. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy atmospheric storytelling and light ghost-hunting fun. The tour’s flexible duration and lively setting make it a nice addition to an evening of exploring New Orleans’ mystique, especially if you’re in the mood for stories and ghostly tales rather than full-on supernatural encounters.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for curious visitors who want a memorable, affordable experience that hits the highlights of NOLA’s haunted reputation without overpromising on the supernatural front. Just go in with an open mind, a sense of adventure, and a good pair of walking shoes—your haunted tour awaits.