New Orleans: Cemetery Bus Tour At Dark with Exclusive Access

If you’re curious about the darker, spookier side of New Orleans, this Cemetery Bus Tour at Dark promises a unique peek into the city’s haunted past. From what we gather, it’s an experience that combines history, paranormal investigation, and a touch of mystery—all wrapped into a compact 2-hour journey.

What immediately catches our attention is the exclusive access to a private cemetery owned by a secret society, something most visitors never get to see. Plus, the chance to use EMF readers to hunt for paranormal activity adds an interactive element that can turn a simple ghost story into a personal investigation. A second highlight? The tour starts with a relaxing drink or cocktail — a good way to settle in before that eerie darkness sets in.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is not suitable for children under 10, and the overall vibe is definitely spooky—so it’s better suited for those who aren’t overly squeamish about ghosts or the supernatural. If you’re into haunted history with a splash of adventure, this might just be your next memorable night in the Big Easy.

Key Points

• Exclusive access to a private cemetery owned by a secret society adds a rare touch.
• Paranormal tools like EMF readers make the experience interactive and engaging.
• The tour combines ghost stories and local haunted history for a well-rounded spooky experience.
• Start with a drink—get in the mood before venturing into the dark.
• Experienced guides lead the way, sharing personal stories and documented evidence.
• The 2-hour duration balances a thorough exploration without feeling too long or rushed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

This tour offers a wonderful blend of history, mystery, and interactive fun. Meeting at a central spot in the French Quarter, you’ll have a chance to grab a drink or some food before the tour kicks off. The friendly and knowledgeable guides are often praised for their storytelling skills, making the journey both informative and captivating. We’ve read multiple reviews where guides like Jeff, Jai, and Geoff are singled out as personable, funny, and full of fascinating stories—adding a genuine warmth to what could otherwise be a chilling experience.

The bus ride itself is a comfortable, 2-hour window that whisks you through some of New Orleans’ most iconic and haunting cemeteries. The tour visits 2 to 3 cemeteries, including some with historical significance like the Charity Hospital Cemetery and the Hurricane Katrina Memorial Cemetery. Each stop is paired with tales of the city’s haunted past and stories about the people buried there.

What makes this tour stand apart is the exclusive access to a secret society cemetery—a rare chance to see a burial ground that most visitors never get to explore. This spot adds an extra layer of mystery and intrigue, especially for those interested in secret societies or underground history. The fact that you’re allowed in after dark is what amplifies the eerie atmosphere and the sense of adventure.

Using EMF Readers: More Than Just a Ghost Story

An especially popular part of this experience is the use of EMF (Electromagnetic Field) readers. Under the guidance of the tour guide, you’ll learn how to operate these devices and try to detect paranormal phenomena yourself. Many reviews highlight this as a fun, hands-on element that transforms the tour from passive storytelling to active investigation.

While some guests mention that EMF devices can be hit or miss—some finding “something,” others feeling the readings are unreliable—the overall impression is that it adds an exciting, interactive dimension. It’s also a chance to consider the unexplained on your own terms, which can be quite fun whether you believe in ghosts or just enjoy a good story.

Ghost Stories and Haunted History

Throughout the tour, guides weave in chilling ghost stories and personal paranormal experiences. We’ve seen descriptions of guides sharing documented evidence of unexplained phenomena, which lends credibility and intrigue. A recurring theme among reviews is how engaging and animated the guides are, making the stories come alive.

Guests have shared that the history of burial customs and haunted legends of New Orleans make for a compelling narrative. The city’s above-ground cemeteries, especially at night, create a surreal, atmospheric setting that amplifies the spooky stories. Visitors often comment on how the cemeteries look even more haunting after dark, with some mentioning the possibility of spotting ecto-mist or other paranormal signs, as one reviewer did.

The Heart of the Tour: Respect and Authenticity

Many reviews emphasize the respectful attitude guides maintain while discussing sensitive topics like the Hurricane Katrina Memorial Cemetery or the history of diseases like yellow fever. This respectful tone, combined with the engaging storytelling, allows guests to enjoy the experience without feeling like it’s overly sensationalized or disrespectful.

The professionalism of the guides shines through, with many reviewers praising their knowledge and passion. Whether it’s learning about burial customs or hearing personal stories, the guides seem genuinely invested in sharing New Orleans’ haunted history.

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Is It Worth the Cost?

At $56 per person, this tour offers a good value considering what’s included: visits to 2-3 cemeteries, exclusive access, EMF readers, and a knowledgeable guide. When you factor in the opportunity to explore some of the most haunted spots in the city, plus the interactive element, it’s a compelling package.

Some reviews mention that the tour feels well-organized and the time just right—long enough to get immersed in the stories and activities but not so long that it drags. The included exclusivity of the private cemetery really ups the ante for those interested in unique, behind-the-scenes experiences.

The Overall Vibe: Spooky but Respectful

While the tour does have a spooky vibe, it’s not over-the-top scary or gimmicky. Many guests mention feeling comfortable, especially if they enjoy ghost stories and paranormal investigations. However, it’s worth noting that children under 10 are not recommended**, as the content and atmosphere could be unsettling for younger kids.

The overall experience seems to strike a nice balance—bringing the mystery and eeriness of New Orleans’ haunted history to life with stories, sights, and hands-on ghost hunting, all within a respectful and friendly environment.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a fan of haunted history, ghost stories, or paranormal investigations, this tour offers a memorable way to experience New Orleans after dark. It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy interactive activities, like using EMF readers, and want to access sites most visitors can’t see. The knowledgeable guides and the atmosphere at night make for a compelling, immersive experience.

On the flip side, if you’re easily frightened or prefer a more lighthearted or daytime exploration, this might not be the best fit. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children, the spooky content and dark cemeteries might be too intense. Still, for adults and older teens interested in the city’s darker side, it’s a solid choice that’s both fun and respectful.

FAQ about the Cemetery Bus Tour at Dark

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not really. It’s recommended for ages 10 and up because of the dark, spooky setting and mature themes.

How long is the tour?
It lasts around 2 hours, and it’s usually available in the evening, perfect for experiencing the eerie atmosphere.

What’s included in the price?
You get the 2-hour bus tour, visits to multiple cemeteries, access to a secret society cemetery, EMF readers for paranormal hunting, and a professional guide.

Can I buy drinks beforehand?
Yes, you can grab a beer, cocktail, or food before the tour at the meeting point, which is conveniently located in the French Quarter.

Is there a bathroom break?
Yes, the tour includes a short stop between cemetery visits, so you can use the restroom or grab a snack.

How interactive is the tour?
Quite interactive. You’ll be shown how to use EMF readers and encouraged to look for paranormal activity yourself, adding a fun twist.

What about safety?
The guides are experienced and professional. The bus ride is comfortable, and the tour is designed to be respectful and insightful, not overly frightening.

Do the guides tell ghost stories or just historical facts?
Both. They share ghost stories, personal experiences, and documented paranormal evidence, blending history with spooky tales seamlessly.

In the end, if you’re looking for a tour that mixes history, ghost stories, and a little adventure, and you don’t mind a spooky setting, this New Orleans Cemetery Bus Tour at Night is worth considering. It’s well-reviewed, offers authentic access to hidden sites, and provides a fun way to explore the city’s haunted reputation.

You can check availability for your dates here: