New Orleans: French Quarter Ghosts and True Crime Tour

Introduction: What to Expect from the French Quarter Ghosts and True Crime Tour

If you’re curious about the dark and mysterious stories that swirl around New Orleans’ most famous neighborhood, this French Quarter Ghosts and True Crime Tour might just be your perfect pick. It’s a two-hour walk through one of America’s most colorful and historic districts, blending ghost stories with real crime tales that have left their mark on the city.

What really draws us in is how authentic and well-told these stories are. The guides are master storytellers, with a knack for bringing history—and its darker chapters—to life. Plus, the tour’s focus on true crime adds a fascinating twist that keeps even skeptics engaged. We also love that it’s a relatively short, walkable experience that feels like a deep dive into the city’s shadowy corners.

Of course, it’s not for everyone. The tour is for ages 12 and over, and it involves some walking—about a mile—so it’s best suited for those comfortable on their feet. Also, if you’re expecting a family-friendly, light-hearted stroll, this might lean a bit toward the eerie and intense. Still, if you’re into ghost stories, history, or just want a different perspective on New Orleans, it’s worth considering.

This experience feels like a good fit for those who love stories—whether you’re a history buff, a true crime fan, or just someone looking to add a little spooky intrigue to their trip. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of what makes this tour special.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling from guides who are also history experts.
• Blends ghost tales with true crime stories that are rooted in real events.
• Short, walkable experience that covers about a mile in 2 hours.
• Great value at $30 per person, especially considering the engaging guides and unique stories.
• All guides are contactable beforehand via text, making it easy to find them.
• Ages 12 and over only, perfect for mature audiences interested in spooky or historical tales.

Exploring the French Quarter: A Historic and Haunted Hotspot

The tour kicks off in the heart of the French Quarter, a neighborhood that has been many things over the centuries—from a Native American gathering place to a hub of colonial, criminal, and cultural activity. Walking into this district feels like stepping into a living, breathing piece of history, layered with stories of hardship, innovation, and mystery.

Your guide, Joshua or whomever you get assigned, will lead you through this area, weaving stories of interesting lives and bizarre deaths. Because the tour is limited to 12 and up, it tends to attract adults or older teens who can appreciate the layered stories without feeling overwhelmed by the scarier details.

One thing that stands out is how the guide’s storytelling makes the area’s long and complex history accessible. You’ll learn about the original Native American presence, the early French settlers, and the dark chapters involving convicts, asylum inmates, and enslaved Africans—all within the first year of the neighborhood’s existence. It’s a reminder of how vibrant and tumultuous this place has been.

The Mix of Ghosts and True Crime Stories

This tour is a bit of a rollercoaster, balancing supernatural tales with actual crimes. The stories are presented with an engaging flair, making you feel like you’re hearing secrets told by a friend rather than just listening to a lecture.

Some highlights include the infamous Madame Lalaurie, a socialite serial killer from the 19th century, and the Ax-Man, a jazz-loving killer who terrorized the city. The stories of trunk murderers—not just one, but two different stories—add a true crime edge to the tour, appealing even to those who might usually shy away from ghostly tales.

The guide’s passion shows through, and many guests find the stories both spine-tingling and fascinating. One reviewer raved, “Our guide, Joshua, was hilarious and made the whole experience memorable. He answered all questions and was clearly passionate about sharing New Orleans’ darker stories.”

What the Tour Includes and How It Works

The entire experience lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours and covers roughly a mile on foot. Expect to stroll through narrow streets, stopping at key spots that hold stories of ghostly encounters and infamous crimes.

You’ll meet your guide under a streetlight at 721 St. Philip Street, between Bourbon and Royal. They’ll send you a text beforehand, so it’s easy to find them. The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a nice touch, and it’s mostly evening, adding to the spooky vibe.

The tour focuses on storytelling rather than theatrics, so don’t expect actors or costumes—just a knowledgeable guide sharing chilling tales. The price point of $30 is quite reasonable for this kind of experience, especially given the engaging storytelling and local insights.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic storytelling is what we love about this tour. The guides are not only knowledgeable but also skilled at making history engaging and sometimes chilling. Several reviews mention how easy it is to ask questions and how the guides genuinely enjoy sharing their stories.

The blend of ghost lore and true crime adds depth and variety. You get to learn about notorious figures like Madame Lalaurie and hear about ghostly apparitions like singing priests and river spirits—stories that are rooted in truth, not just legend.

Many guests appreciated the small group setting, which encourages conversation and personalized attention. One reviewer noted, “It was more of a two-way interaction, and that made the tour much more enjoyable.”

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros:

• The stories are well-researched and genuinely fascinating.
• Guides are friendly, engaging, and knowledgeable.
• The tour covers not just ghost stories but also true crime, giving a well-rounded spooky experience.
• The pricing is affordable for what you get.
• The small group size allows for questions and interaction.
• The location and timing set the perfect mood for a spooky evening.

Cons:

• The tour is not suitable for under 12, so families with young children might want to skip it.
• Some reviews describe the storytelling as bland or nonchalant, though most found it engaging.
• If you’re expecting horrific horror, the stories tend to be more intriguing than terrifying—more lore than nightmare fuel.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adults and older teens interested in history, ghost stories, and true crime. It offers a great way to explore the French Quarter after dark, making it ideal for those who appreciate storytelling and a bit of spooky ambiance.

If you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or even with a small group of friends, you’ll likely enjoy the chatty, personal atmosphere. It’s particularly good for those who want an authentic local experience that combines education with entertainment. And if you’re a skeptic, many stories are rooted in actual events, which make for great conversation starters.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $30, this tour offers a well-rounded, engaging look at New Orleans’ darker side. You’ll leave with stories that are both fun and thought-provoking, a few chills, and a better understanding of how history and legend intertwine in the French Quarter.

Guides like Joshua make the experience memorable, and the mix of ghost tales with true crimes keeps things lively and intriguing. It’s a perfect evening activity if you’re seeking something different from the typical sightseeing, especially if you enjoy stories that stay with you long after the tour ends.

If you want to hear about the haunted history and notorious deeds that have shaped this city, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children under 12?
No, it’s only for ages 12 and over, mainly because of the mature themes and storytelling style.

How long does the tour last?
It runs about 1.5 to 2 hours and covers approximately one mile on foot.

Where do I meet the guide?
You meet under the streetlight in front of the large school building at 721 St. Philip Street, between Bourbon and Royal Streets. The guide will text you beforehand.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for more people to participate.

What’s included in the price?
For $30, you get a guided walking tour focusing on ghost stories and true crime stories in the French Quarter.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour conducted in English?
Yes, the tour and all guides are in English.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not allowed, though assistance dogs are permitted.

How do I know who my guide is?
Your guide will contact you by text before the tour, so you’ll know exactly who to look for.

In the end, this tour offers a compelling look into the spooky and criminal side of New Orleans, with guides who keep the stories lively and authentic. Whether you’re a history lover, a true crime enthusiast, or someone looking for an atmospheric evening, it’s a tour worth considering when visiting the French Quarter.

You can check availability for your dates here: