New Orleans: 2-Hour Paranormal Investigation Tour

If you’ve ever wondered what goes bump in the night in America’s most haunted city, the New Orleans: 2-Hour Paranormal Investigation Tour offers a fascinating way to find out. While we haven’t personally tagged along, many travelers have shared their impressions, and the overall vibe suggests it’s a mix of spooky storytelling, some genuine investigation, and a chance to get a different perspective on the French Quarter’s historic streets.

What really stands out is the knowledgeable guidance and the chance to become a ghost hunter for an evening—using a real EMF meter and paranormal detectors. On the flip side, some reviews point out that the experience can vary, and not everyone will get the same level of “ghostly” activity or investigation. Still, this tour seems best suited for those intrigued by the supernatural but wanting a laid-back, guided experience rather than an intense paranormal quest.

One thing to keep in mind is the price point—at $28 per person, it’s quite affordable for a two-hour tour in the city. It’s a good pick if you’re curious about haunted tales and enjoy exploring in a small group. That said, if you’re expecting a fully immersive ghost-hunting adventure, you might be a bit disappointed. It’s more of an informative, fun experience with a hint of mystery that suits curious travelers rather than hardcore paranormal investigators.

If you’re interested in the stories behind the spooky spots of the French Quarter but don’t want a long or overly intense tour, this might fit the bill well. It’s especially appealing for those who want a glimpse of New Orleans’ haunted history with helpful guidance from locals familiar with the city’s dark corners.

Key Points

• Affordable and Compact: The tour costs just $28, making it accessible for most travelers.
• Guided Investigation: Led by a local guide who shares stories and demonstrates paranormal detection tools.
• Visit Haunted Spots: Stops include a dozen locations across the French Quarter, including cemeteries, bars, and streets.
• Insightful Guides: Multiple reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and friendly approach.
• Varied Experiences: Some guests, like Julia, have reported guides not showing up or misleading experiences, so expectations should be realistic.
• Family-Friendly: Robin mentioned that the tour was suitable for her family, with a broad age range, though you’ll want to check if children are comfortable with spooky themes.
• Flexibility: Available in different times of the day, with a private group option—good for some personalized attention.
• Weather and Cancellations: Tours are weather-dependent and may be canceled if insufficient participants, so flexibility can be helpful.
• Booking and Policies: Fully pre-paid with no refunds if canceled less than 24 hours in advance; consider carefully before booking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect During the Tour

This two-hour adventure begins at the courtyard of Lafittes Blacksmith Shop Bar, where your guide will meet you on the sidewalk (not inside the bar). From there, the journey takes you through the historic streets of the French Quarter, covering over 70 blocks of one of the oldest neighborhoods in the U.S.

Your guide introduces you to top haunted sites—some of which are cemeteries, haunted houses, pubs, and streets believed to be hotspots for paranormal activity. The tour emphasizes investigation rather than just storytelling, with the use of an Electromagnetic Field (EMF) Meter and other paranormal detection devices. The idea is to give you a taste of what ghost hunters might experience, even if it’s more about sensing cold spots, seeing apparitions, or noticing orbs rather than definitive proof of spirits.

The stops are spread across the neighborhood, and you may pause at locations that have a reputation for paranormal activity. The guide will share haunted tales and historical anecdotes to set the scene before you try to sense activity yourself.

The Experience at Each Location

• Mass burial ground: Known for cold spots, apparitions, and orbs, which are often experienced or seen by visitors.
• Haunted houses and streets: Expect stories of ghost sightings, unusual sounds, and unexplained phenomena.
• Cemeteries: In a city like New Orleans, the cemeteries are iconic spots for ghost stories and are often part of paranormal tours.

The Group Dynamic and Atmosphere

Guests have noted that the guide is generally polite, knowledgeable, and welcoming—making the experience comfortable even for those new to ghost hunting. Robin appreciated that her guide was eager to answer questions and involved the group, which fostered a relaxed atmosphere. Some reviews mention a wide age range, so it seems suitable for families or groups with kids (though you’ll want to gauge their comfort with spooky themes).

The Pros and Cons

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The Bright Side

• Knowledgeable Guides: Many reviewers praise guides for their storytelling skills and knowledge of New Orleans history.
• Interactive Experience: Using a real EMF meter enhances the fun and gives you a feeling of being a ghost hunter yourself.
• Accessible and Affordable: The small price and short duration make it easy to include in a day of sightseeing.

The Challenges

• Variability: As some guests, like Julia, experienced guides not showing up or misleading their expectations, the experience can differ. It’s a good idea to confirm details before booking.
• Limited Investigation: Some may expect a full-on paranormal investigation, but this tour is more about storytelling and sensing phenomena.
• Weather Dependence: The tour is outdoors, so rain or cold could affect your experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re fascinated by ghost stories, enjoy exploring historic neighborhoods, and want a relaxed, guided adventure, this tour could be a good fit. It’s ideal for first-timers curious about paranormal activity without the commitment of a full investigation. Families with older children who are interested in spooky stories might also find it enjoyable, especially given the friendly and knowledgeable guides.

However, if you’re expecting intensive ghost-hunting or highly immersive paranormal investigations, you might find this experience somewhat light. Likewise, if you’re easily spooked or uncomfortable with creepy tales, some stops could be unsettling.

Final Thoughts

This 2-hour paranormal investigation tour offers a fun, approachable way to explore New Orleans’ haunted reputation. Its affordability and the quality of guiding make it accessible, especially if you’re new to ghost tours or traveling on a budget. You’ll get to step into the shoes of a ghost hunter, learn eerie stories, and walk through some of the city’s most haunted spots—guided by locals who know the city’s darker corners well.

While it isn’t a full-blown investigation, the interactive tools and atmospheric stops make it a memorable experience for those curious about the supernatural side of New Orleans. Just keep your expectations in check, especially around the variability of the experience and weather factors. It’s a tour that rewards the curious and those open to a little spooky fun.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many guests, including families, have enjoyed it. Robin mentioned that her group ranged from ages 12 to 50. Still, you should consider your kids’ comfort with spooky stories and outdoor walking.

What’s included in the tour?
A local guide leads you through the French Quarter, and paranormal detection tools like an EMF Meter are used to enhance the experience.

Where does the tour start?
Meet your guide on the sidewalk at the courtyard gate of Lafittes Blacksmith Shop Bar, located at 941 Bourbon Street. Remember, it’s outside the bar, not inside.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about two hours, covering over 70 blocks of the French Quarter.

What locations do we visit?
You’ll visit a dozen haunted spots, including cemeteries, haunted houses, streets, and bars with paranormal activity.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it takes place outdoors, so rain or weather issues could lead to cancellations. It’s good to have a backup plan or check the forecast.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. However, all sales are final if canceled later, so plan accordingly.

What if the tour does not meet minimum participants?
The operator might cancel at the last minute, in which case you’ll be contacted and offered a different tour or a full refund.

Are there private group options?
Yes, private groups can be booked, which might be a good idea if you want a more personalized experience.

In the end, this paranormal tour is a great option if your main aim is to enjoy some spooky stories, learn about New Orleans’ haunted reputation, and try a bit of ghost-hunting fun without a hefty price tag. It’s a laid-back way to get a taste of the supernatural side of the city, especially if guided by knowledgeable locals.

You can check availability for your dates here: