Haunted NOLA: Garden District, Ghosts & Voodoo

If you’re visiting New Orleans and craving a taste of its spooky side, the Haunted NOLA tour might just be what you’re looking for. This 2-hour walking experience takes you through the famed French Quarter, revealing ghostly tales, voodoo secrets, and some of the most photogenic historic sites. It’s a well-rated tour at around $77 per person, and it promises a blend of eerie storytelling and vibrant local culture.

What we find appealing about this tour is its focus on local legends—from haunted houses to Marie Laveau’s legacy—delivered by a guide who’s deeply connected to the city’s supernatural stories. Plus, the chance to snap some great photos of the historic architecture as the sun sets adds a layer of visual magic. On the downside, it’s a walking tour that doesn’t include entry into haunted buildings, which might leave some visitors wanting a little more hands-on spookiness.

This tour seems ideal for anyone interested in history mixed with legends and those who enjoy a lively, storytelling atmosphere. It’s not the best fit if you’re after a dark, intense ghost adventure or if you’re traveling with very young children under 13—it’s more suited to older teens and adults who appreciate a good story and a bit of atmospheric wandering.

Key Points

• Authentic local stories delivered by a guide with deep roots in New Orleans.
• Vibrant atmosphere of the French Quarter as twilight falls, perfect for photos.
• Cultural insights into voodoo practices and unique burial customs.
• Historical landmarks and haunted sites, with some famous legends like Marie Laveau.
• No haunted house entry, focusing on storytelling outside of buildings.
• Accessible in the late afternoon or evening, ideal timing for ambiance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s the Experience Really Like?

From the moment you meet your guide at the corner of 528 Toulouse Street, you can tell this isn’t just a running script. The guide’s enthusiasm and local knowledge make the stories come alive, whether it’s a tragic tale of lost love echoing through an old building or the legend of Marie Laveau, the iconic Voodoo Queen. The guide’s storytelling style is engaging and approachable, making the two hours feel like a conversation with a friend rather than a formal tour.

The walk covers about 2.4 kilometers, which means comfortable shoes are a must. You’ll stroll beneath wrought-iron balconies, where the shadows cast by historic buildings evoke that mysterious atmosphere that New Orleans does so well. The tour is scheduled mainly in the late afternoon and evening, perfect for experiencing the city’s glow and the eerie vibe that seems to seep from every corner of the French Quarter.

One of the tour’s strengths is its focus on local lore rather than just ghost stories; your guide will explain how the city’s cultural blend influences its haunted spots and voodoo rituals. It’s a well-rounded experience that doesn’t shy away from the spiritual and historic significance of the sites, which lends authenticity and depth to the tales.

Highlights and Key Stops

The Haunted Houses and Streets

While you won’t be stepping inside haunted houses, the tour takes you past some of the most reputedly haunted locations in the French Quarter. Expect to hear stories of spirits lingering in historic buildings, some of which have been featured in films and TV shows like True Blood and American Horror Story: Coven. These stories aren’t just spooky—they’re woven into the fabric of New Orleans’ identity.

The Burial Customs and Tombs

A fascinating part of the tour is the insight into above-ground cemeteries. The guide explains why these tombs are designed to withstand high water, highlighting the city’s unique approach to honoring the dead. You might find the stories behind these tombs, with their ornate sculptures and history, quite captivating. Many visitors find it especially interesting to learn about the rituals and traditions influenced by African, French, and Spanish heritages.

More Great Tours Nearby

Voodoo and Marie Laveau

No trip to New Orleans would be complete without at least hearing about Marie Laveau, the legendary Voodoo Queen. The guide discusses her life, her mystical practices, and her enduring influence on the city. Visiting her final resting place is a highlight, and many guests appreciate the opportunity to pay respects and learn more about voodoo’s role in local culture.

The Atmosphere and Photography

The twilight setting adds an extra layer of intrigue. The wrought-iron balconies, the dimly lit streets, and the shadows cast by historic architecture all make for great photo opportunities. Many reviewers mention that they enjoyed capturing the ambiance, which feels like stepping into a film set or a ghost story.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour is a walking experience, lasting about two hours. It covers roughly 2.4 kilometers, so wear comfortable shoes and bring weather-appropriate clothing, especially if rain is in the forecast. Since the tour is not suitable for children under 13, it’s best for older teens and adults who enjoy storytelling and history.

The meeting point is conveniently located at 528 Toulouse Street. The tour is conducted in English by a live guide and is rated 4.4 out of 5, indicating generally positive reviews. Keep in mind that this isn’t a private tour; groups are likely to be larger, which can sometimes affect the intimacy of storytelling.

The price of $77 seems reasonable for a well-guided, culturally rich experience. It offers good value considering the depth of stories, the historical context, and the opportunity for photos and atmosphere. However, since entry into haunted houses isn’t included, if you’re craving actual haunted house adventures, you’ll need to look elsewhere.

What’s Included and Not

Included are the services of your local guide and the walking tour itself. You should bring your ID or passport for verification, and a camera is highly recommended for capturing those spooky streets. Food and drinks aren’t part of the package, so plan accordingly.

Weather and Cancellations

The tour may be canceled in case of bad weather, with refunds issued. If you book last minute and the preferred time isn’t available, you’ll be transferred to another slot on the same day, so flexibility is important.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, and those curious about voodoo and local legends. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy atmospheric strolls in historic neighborhoods during the evening hours. If you love snapping photos of charming, haunted-looking streets, you’ll find plenty here.

It’s not ideal for families with children under 13, or visitors looking for more traditional or intense ghost experiences involving haunted houses or paranormal investigations. Also, if you have mobility issues or require a wheelchair, this tour probably isn’t accessible, as it’s a walking experience through uneven historic streets.

Final Thoughts

The Haunted NOLA: Garden District, Ghosts & Voodoo tour offers a balanced blend of storytelling, history, and atmosphere. It’s a chance to see the French Quarter in a different light, learning about the spirits and traditions that have shaped the city’s character. The stories of Marie Laveau, the haunted streets, and the above-ground cemeteries make for memorable moments and great photo ops.

While it doesn’t include entry into haunted houses, the engaging guide, beautiful scenery, and rich narratives give this tour a solid reputation for providing an authentic taste of New Orleans’ haunted aura. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a good ghost story, cultural insights, and a lively walk through a city that seems to breathe its own mysterious magic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour isn’t recommended for children under 13, mainly because of the nature of the stories and the walking involved.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, bring your ID or passport for verification, and don’t forget your camera to capture the scenic streets and spooky details.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Weather cancellations are also covered, with refunds issued if the tour is canceled.

Is transportation included?
No, the tour is a walking experience, so you’ll need to get to the meeting point on your own.

What if the time I want isn’t available?
You’ll be transferred to another available time on the same day if your preferred slot is booked, but no refunds or subsequent complaints will be accepted for these changes.

Does the tour go inside haunted houses?
No, the tour focuses on storytelling outside of the buildings. You won’t enter any haunted houses during this experience.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
No, unfortunately, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of the walking route.

How much walking is involved?
Approximately 2.4 kilometers over two hours, so comfortable shoes are a must.

In the end, if you’re after a storytelling experience that combines spooky tales with rich culture and picturesque streets, this tour is likely to satisfy your curiosity. It’s a relaxed, engaging way to experience the haunting echoes and mystical traditions that make New Orleans such a uniquely atmospheric city.

You can check availability for your dates here: