French Quarter Haunted Excursion In New Orleans

If you’re considering a ghostly walk through the French Quarter, this tour promises a mix of spooky tales, historical insights, and the lively atmosphere of one of America’s most iconic neighborhoods. We’ve looked into it to help you decide if it’s worth your time and money.

What we really like about this experience are the knowledgeable guides and the ability to enjoy the lively streets while hearing ghost stories and local legends. The tour’s inclusion of bar stops and the use of a real EMF meter add some unique flavor that makes it stand out.

A potential drawback? The tour can be quite social and lively, which might not suit those seeking a quiet, purely spooky experience. Also, if you’re a history buff expecting an in-depth deep dive into every corner, keep in mind that the focus is on stories and atmosphere, not exhaustive history.

This tour is a great pick for anyone interested in ghost stories, local mythology, and the fun vibe of the French Quarter. Families, couples, friends—it’s versatile enough for a broad audience.

Key Points

• Guides Make a Difference: The experience is heavily shaped by knowledgeable, friendly guides who keep the storytelling engaging.
• Lively Atmosphere: The tour includes stops at bars along the route, adding a social, casual element.
• Historical & Paranormal Mix: It offers a good blend of ghost stories, local legends, and historical facts, making it informative and fun.
• Convenient Timing & Duration: Multiple sessions are offered throughout the day, with the total time around 2 hours, perfect for fitting into a busy schedule.
• Price Point: At $35 per person, it’s a fairly affordable way to explore the French Quarter, especially given the mix of entertainment and education.
• Mixed Reviews: While many rave about the guide’s storytelling and the fun factor, some reviews point out cancellations and the limitations of a walking tour focused on stories rather than in-depth history or private access.

Exploring the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point & First Stops

The adventure kicks off on Bourbon Street, at 941 Bourbon St, which is right in the heart of the French Quarter. The tour wanders through 78 blocks of one of the oldest neighborhoods in the U.S.. Expect to soak in the atmosphere of jazz, history, and lively nightlife as you walk past colorful buildings, historic sites, and bustling bars.

During the walk, you’ll be allowed to step into some bars to grab a drink to-go, which adds a laid-back, social feel. Several reviews, like Amy W’s, mention that even in pouring rain, the tour remained enjoyable thanks to the guide’s energy and storytelling.

French Quarter: A Living Storybook

For the second stop, the tour dives into the dark side of New Orleans history. The guide will tell you about the connections between pirates, prostitutes, and early settlers, revealing how these elements shaped the city’s unique character. They also share local mysteries and tales of documented reports of vampires and ghosts, which are sure to capture your imagination.

A real EMF meter is used during this part, giving a sense of authenticity to the paranormal claims. The stories of unsolved murders and suicides add a layer of suspense—especially if you’re into ghost lore.

Jackson Square & Iconic Landmarks

Finally, the tour ends with a visit to Jackson Square, where you’ll see landmarks like the St. Louis Cathedral and the LaLaurie Mansion, renowned for its haunted reputation. Here, your guide will explain New Orleans’ unique above-ground burial practices, which often fascinate visitors.

This part is not just about ghosts but also about appreciating the architecture, culture, and Hollywood connections of the area. Many reviewers highlight how the guide’s storytelling enhanced their appreciation for the city’s complex culture and vivid history.

What the Reviews Say

Reviewers consistently mention Coty, the guide, as a highlight. His storytelling, friendliness, and knowledge are often praised. “Coty was great! Favorite part of my trip was his tour,” said Amy W, capturing the general sentiment of many guests.

Others appreciate the mix of history and fun, with comments like “very informative and fun,” and “lots of interesting stories.” Brenna reports that her teenage kids found the tour engaging, calling it the “highlight of the trip.”

However, not all reviews are glowing. Some guests experienced cancellations or felt that the tour was more about bar stops and stories than actual haunted sites. For instance, one reviewer was very disappointed when the tour was canceled after the start time, highlighting the importance of confirming schedules beforehand.

It’s also worth noting that some guests expressed concerns about COVID safety, pointing out that guides and guests wore masks, but some feel uncomfortable with the social nature of bar stops and group settings.

Duration, Pricing, and Value

At $35 per person, this tour sits comfortably in the mid-range for a guided experience in New Orleans. Given the 2-hour duration and the variety of stops, it offers decent value—especially considering the inclusion of the guide’s storytelling and the cultural insights.

The tour is offered multiple times daily, giving flexibility, and the walking format allows you to soak up the French Quarter’s ambiance firsthand. Just keep in mind that you should be comfortable walking and standing for about an hour or two, with some breaks.

Practical Tips

• Arrive a few minutes early to check in—late arrivals won’t be able to join or get refunds.
• If you’re interested in paranormal equipment, you can check out some gear at the start of the tour (with an extra fee for missing or damaged equipment).
• Drinks are not included but can be purchased along the route. Be prepared for the social aspect if you want to enjoy the bar stops.
• Tours are rain-or-shine, so dress accordingly. The streets can be uneven and sometimes crowded.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for those who enjoy stories, atmosphere, and a lively group setting. It’s especially fun for folks interested in ghost tales and local legends but not expecting a deeply spooky or private tour.

It’s suitable for adults and teenagers who want a fun, engaging walk through the French Quarter, with plenty of chances to stop for drinks and photos. If you prefer a quiet, serious ghost-hunting experience, you might want to look for a night-time, private tour instead.

Travelers who enjoy cultural stories, historic architecture, and a touch of mystery will find this tour hits the right notes—assuming they’re okay with a moderate walking pace and some social stops.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While children over 18 are permitted, some bar stops might have restrictions. It’s best suited for teenagers and adults interested in stories and history rather than private ghost hunting.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 2 hours, with multiple stops along the way. The tour is moderate-paced, allowing time to enjoy sights and stories.

Can I purchase drinks during the tour?
Yes, drinks are not included in the ticket price but can be bought at bars along the route. You’re encouraged to enjoy the lively atmosphere.

What is the meeting point?
You’ll meet on the sidewalk at the gate of the courtyard attached to Lafittes Blacksmith Shop Bar, located at 941 Bourbon Street. Arrive a few minutes early to check in.

What happens if the tour is canceled?
Most cancellations are due to low enrollment or weather. If canceled, you’ll be offered a full refund or a reschedule. Tours are rain-or-shine.

Are masks required?
Guests and guides wear masks during the tour, especially to communicate with hearing-impaired guests. While masks are generally worn, some guests express concerns about COVID safety, so plan accordingly.

Can I bring paranormal equipment?
Yes, paranormal equipment can be checked out at the start of the tour, but a fee applies for missing or damaged gear. Make sure to return it before you leave.

Is this a private tour?
No, it’s a group tour with a maximum of 999 travelers, but reviews suggest the group size is typically manageable and intimate enough for storytelling.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a fun, lively, and engaging introduction to the spooky side of New Orleans, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. The guides are frequently praised for their storytelling, knowledge, and ability to keep the group entertained. The combination of ghost stories, local legends, and the vibrant atmosphere of the French Quarter makes it a memorable experience—especially if you’re in the mood for a little mystery mixed with a healthy dose of local culture.

That said, it’s not a deep-dive into haunted sites or private paranormal investigation, so if you’re craving something more intense or private, you might want to explore other options. The social stops and walking pace could also be a consideration for guests with mobility issues or those looking for a quieter, more serious ghost tour.

This tour is well-suited for curious travelers who want to combine some history, fun stories, and a taste of New Orleans’ vibrant nightlife—all wrapped into a relaxed, engaging walk. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, it’s a solid way to experience the city’s haunted charm.