New Orleans: Vampires, Voodoo, and Ghosts Tour

If you’re headed to New Orleans and looking to add a spooky twist to your trip, this Vampires, Voodoo, and Ghosts Tour might be just what you need. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but from what we’ve gathered, it offers a compelling mix of history, folklore, and downright eerie stories—all delivered by passionate guides who know their stuff.

What really appeals to us is how this tour marries history and legends in a way that feels genuine and engaging. Plus, with a focus on accuracy and cultural respect, it seems like a thoughtful way to explore the city’s darker side. That said, it’s about 90 minutes long—so if you’re not a fan of walking or if you’re tight on time, it’s worth considering.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who love stories about the supernatural and want to learn more about New Orleans beyond its famous jazz and cuisine. It’s also great if you appreciate guided insights from local historians who make the past come alive.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling: The guides are knowledgeable, often with backgrounds as history teachers or students, ensuring factual and engaging stories.
• Iconic sites: You’ll visit famous spots like the Lalaurie Mansion and Pirates Alley, plus voodoo temples and the Lafitte Blacksmith Shop.
• Balance of history and legends: The tour covers everything from vampire sightings to occult practices, with a focus on accuracy.
• Leisurely pace: The walking is easy, just under a mile, with frequent stops and restroom breaks, making it accessible even if you’re not a quick walker.
• Evening atmosphere: Usually held in the evening, it enhances the spooky vibe and lets you experience the city’s nightlife.
• Affordable: At around $31 per person, it offers good value considering the depth of stories and the company of a local expert.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Meeting Point and Logistics

You’ll find your guide at the Red Door ticket booth at 620 Decatur St., a central spot in the French Quarter. The setup is straightforward, and the tour lasts approximately 90 minutes—perfect if you’re fitting in a few other activities that day.

The tour is wheelchair accessible in terms of steps, but keep in mind that the streets are uneven, which might make it a bit uncomfortable for those with limited mobility or in wheelchairs. The fact that it’s just under a mile long makes it manageable and not overly tiring, especially with frequent breaks.

The Itinerary and Stops

What makes this tour stand out is its carefully curated list of sites intertwining history, legends, and some of the city’s most notorious tales. Here’s what you can expect:

• Lalaurie Mansion: This mansion is infamous for its dark history and appeared on “American Horror Story: Coven.” Walking past it, you get a sense of its grand yet sinister aura. The guide might share stories of the alleged horrors that took place inside, giving you a taste of the city’s haunted reputation.

• Old Ursuline Convent: A historic site that provides a glimpse into New Orleans’ colonial past. It also has spooky associations that make it a fitting stop during a ghost tour.

• Pirates Alley and Lafitte Blacksmith Shop: These locations are deeply tied to pirate lore and feel like stepping into a past filled with swashbuckling stories and secret dealings. The Blacksmith Shop is believed to have been a hideout or meeting place for pirates like Lafitte himself.

• Voodoo Temples: You’ll see actual voodoo sites and temples, offering insight into this often-misunderstood spiritual practice. Expect stories of its influence on local culture and legends of curses and charms.

• May Bailey’s Brothel: Featured on “Ghost Adventures,” this site adds a layer of intrigue and ghostly tales associated with nightlife and mystery.

• Other Sites: The Sultan’s Palace and other nearby locations are sprinkled in, each with their own ghostly or occult stories, making the walk feel like a journey through a living history of supernatural tales.

Guides and Narration

According to numerous reviews, the guides are a big part of what elevates this tour. We love that many guides are actual historians, often with backgrounds as teachers or students, which means they value historical accuracy and can answer questions thoughtfully. Several reviews mention guides like Gomez, Wesley, Jamie, and Orion, highlighting their ability to make stories come alive with enthusiasm, humor, and respect.

One reviewer raved, “Jamie was hands down, the best guide! knowledgeable, kind and a great story teller,” which suggests that a good guide can make or break your experience. Their passion shines through, and you’ll find yourself hanging on every story, whether it’s about vampires or the city’s occult lore.

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The Atmosphere and Vibe

The evening timing enhances the spooky feeling—walking through the French Quarter as the sun sets, with the streets illuminated by lanterns and streetlights, gives an authentic haunted city vibe. Many reviews also mention how walking at night is more atmospheric, especially with stories of past murders and ghost sightings.

The Value and Price Point

At just $31 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. You’re not just listening to stories; you’re walking through neighborhoods filled with history, legend, and dark secrets. Considering the duration, guided commentary, and access to iconic sites, it’s a reasonably priced way to spend an evening.

The fact that you’re with a licensed historian means you’re getting more than just ghost stories—you’re gaining an understanding of the local culture and history, which enriches the experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy stories about the supernatural, creepy histories, or just want a different perspective on New Orleans, this tour is perfect. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a good story, are interested in history, or want to see the city’s haunted spots with knowledgeable guides.

It’s not the best choice if you’re looking for a family-friendly outing or if you prefer daytime activities. The spooky vibe and evening timing mean it’s more suitable for adults or older teens comfortable with ghost stories and the city’s darker tales.

Final Thoughts

This Vampires, Voodoo, and Ghosts Tour offers a genuine and engaging way to experience New Orleans’ haunted side. With expert guides, a well-chosen lineup of sites, and a relaxed pace, it makes for a memorable evening—whether you’re a skeptic or a believer. It balances fun, history, and a little chill, making it a worthwhile addition to your city itinerary.

If you love stories that make your spine tingle, want to learn about the city’s supernatural legends, or just enjoy exploring with a knowledgeable guide, this tour deserves a spot on your list. It’s especially good for those who want an authentic insight into New Orleans’ mystique, presented in a lively, respectful way.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
While there are no steps preventing wheelchair access, the streets are uneven, so it might not be the most comfortable terrain for those with limited mobility or in a wheelchair.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 90 minutes, making it a manageable length for most travelers without feeling rushed.

Is alcohol allowed during the tour?
Yes, the tour is alcohol friendly, so you can bring drinks along for a more relaxed experience.

Where do I meet the guide?
You should look for the Red Door ticket booth at 620 Decatur St., which is in the French Quarter.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, and you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is the guide’s narration in English only?
Yes, the live tour guide speaks English.

What’s the price of the tour?
It costs around $31 per person, which we think is quite reasonable for the experience offered.

Can I join if I don’t know much about New Orleans?
Absolutely. The guides do a great job of explaining the sites and stories, making it accessible whether you’re a local or a visitor.

Is this tour family-friendly?
This tour is geared more towards adults interested in spooky stories and history. It might not be suitable for very young kids, especially those sensitive to ghost stories or darkness.

If you’re looking for a night of storytelling that balances history and mystery, this tour might be just what you need. It’s a solid choice for curious travelers who want to uncover some of New Orleans’ darker secrets while enjoying a relaxed, engaging walk through the city’s most haunted spots.

You can check availability for your dates here: