New Orleans: Drunk History Walking Tour

Introduction

If you’re heading to the French Quarter and looking for a tour that combines history, local legends, and a good bit of fun, the New Orleans Drunk History Walking Tour might just be your perfect match. It’s a two-hour jaunt that promises to show you the city’s darker side while throwing in a few drinks along the way — all guided by lively, knowledgeable storytellers.

What makes this tour stand out is its blend of entertaining storytelling—with a humorous spin—and its stops at some of the city’s iconic bars. You get to learn about pirates, ghosts, voodoo queens, and the city’s founding myths, all while soaking up the lively atmosphere of Bourbon Street.

A potential downside? The tour’s focus on drinking means you’ll want to be comfortable with some alcohol and walking. It’s also not a traditional historical tour; instead, it leans into mischievous legends and fun facts, so history buffs looking for in-depth academic insights might find it a bit playful.

This experience is best suited for adults who love history or ghost stories, enjoy a drink or two, and want a relaxed, engaging way to explore the French Quarter. If you’re traveling with friends, celebrating a birthday, or just want to see the city through a more humorous lens, it’s a solid choice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Lively guides with a sense of humor bring the city’s stories to life
• Stops at historic bars allow for casual drink refills and a taste of local nightlife
• Focus on dark tales, legends, and paranormal stories makes it a fun, spooky experience
• Two-hour walking tour covers key landmarks in the French Quarter
• Affordable at $30, offering good value for the mix of stories and entertainment
• Accessible and flexible, with options for private groups and wheelchair accessibility

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour kicks off on the sidewalk in front of Lafittes Blacksmith Shop Bar on Bourbon Street. From there, your guide will lead you through the French Quarter, sharing stories that swing between history, ghost tales, voodoo, and some urban legends. Expect lots of walking, but not so much that you’ll be exhausted—it’s comfortable enough for most people with average mobility.

Exploring the Dark Side of the French Quarter

We loved the way the guide takes you into the less polished, more mysterious corners of New Orleans. You’ll visit landmarks like the famous St. Louis Cathedral and see where key moments like the Louisiana Purchase were signed. The tour also includes stops at the city’s most haunted house and locations tied to voodoo history, particularly Marie Laveau’s property, which is a highlight for many.

Ghosts, Vampires, and Paranormal Reports

If you’re into spooky stories, you’ll appreciate hearing about the ghosts, vampires, and reports of paranormal activity still lingering in the streets. The guide shares tales of vampires and ghosts, some of which have become part of New Orleans’ folklore. One reviewer mentions that the guide will tell you where “the most predictable ghosts and vampires lurk,” which is perfect for fans of paranormal tales.

More Great Tours Nearby

Voodoo and Marie Laveau

A significant part of the tour revolves around voodoo practices and the legendary Marie Laveau, the voodoo queen of New Orleans. You’ll visit her property, often a point of fascination for visitors. The guide explains how voodoo came to the city and discusses some of the ceremonies that once took place in the area. It’s a mix of history and legend, making the stories both entertaining and intriguing.

Bar Stops and Drinks

One of the tour’s unique features is its frequent stops at local bars. You’re encouraged to refill your drinks (with your own purchases) and soak up the lively atmosphere of Bourbon Street. The guide often waits outside while adults go inside for refills, giving you the chance to enjoy the vibe without feeling hurried. It’s a relaxed way to experience the city’s nightlife while learning stories that add context to the surroundings.

Tour Guide and Atmosphere

Reviews consistently praise the guide’s personality — many mention guides like Coty, who is described as hilarious, knowledgeable, and engaging. Guests often comment on how much they loved the stories, with some saying they learned more on this tour than on other more formal ones. The casual, personable style of the guides makes the two hours fly by.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour is designed to be a stroll through the French Quarter, touching on key landmarks and lesser-known spots. Expect to hear about:

• The history of voodoo and Marie Laveau, including her property and the ceremonies held there
• The significance of above-ground vaults in New Orleans’ burial rituals, which is a distinctive feature of local cemeteries
• The founding stories involving pirates, prostitutes, and convicted felons, which helped shape the city’s culture
• Haunted sites and ghost stories, including visits to the most haunted house
• The Louisiana Purchase signing spot and the iconic St. Louis Cathedral

Most reviews note that the stories are delivered with humor, sometimes exaggerated for effect, but always engaging. One reviewer raves about how “Coty told stories much better than other tours,” and how the stories were “interesting and funny.” It’s clear that guides aim to entertain while educating.

The Value for the Price

At $30 per person, this tour offers a fun mix of history, local color, and nightlife. Considering the number of bar stops, the lively storytelling, and the access to legendary spots, many find it to be a good deal. It’s not a comprehensive historical deep dive but rather a lively, well-rounded introduction to New Orleans’ darker tales.

While drinks aren’t included, the tour’s stops at bars mean you can enjoy a cocktail or two without feeling like you’re missing out. The focus is on entertainment and atmosphere—it’s about the stories, the vibe, and the shared experience.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers private groups, making it flexible for different needs. It departs on time from the designated meeting spot, and guests are advised to arrive a few minutes early. The guide’s phone-free approach during the tour ensures everyone stays engaged, and the small-group vibe keeps it personal.

The Sum Up

The New Orleans Drunk History Walking Tour offers a lively, humorous look at the city’s dark side, blending ghost stories, voodoo lore, and local legends with bar stops to keep things fun. It’s perfect for those who want an engaging, laid-back experience that balances storytelling with a taste of Bourbon Street nightlife.

If you’re after a tour that doesn’t take itself too seriously but still provides a wealth of entertaining tales, this is a great pick. It’s also a solid option for groups of friends, couples, or anyone who enjoys a good story paired with a drink in the vibrant heart of New Orleans.

While it’s not an in-depth academic exploration, the guide’s storytelling and the atmosphere make it a memorable way to spend a couple of hours exploring the city’s more mysterious and legendary side. Just remember, this tour leans into fun and folklore—if that’s what you’re craving, you’ll likely walk away with a big smile.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is designed for adults, especially since it involves bar stops and a focus on drinking. It’s not recommended for children or minors.

Where does the tour meet?
It meets on the sidewalk in front of Lafittes Blacksmith Shop Bar at 941 Bourbon Street. The guide waits outside by the courtyard gate.

Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, drinks are not included. You’ll visit bars along the route and can purchase beverages as you go.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, covering key landmarks and stories in the French Quarter.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, it’s wheelchair accessible and can accommodate private groups with special needs.

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

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking for about two hours.

Is there a limit to the group size?
While the standard tour is small-group, private options are available for tailored experiences.

Are photos or videos allowed?
Video recording is not permitted during the tour, but still photos are typically okay unless specified otherwise.

What if I get too drunk or disruptive?
The guides reserve the right to refuse service or ask guests to leave if they are excessively intoxicated. No refund will be given if asked to leave for this reason.

In all, this tour offers a fun, spirited way to experience New Orleans’ darker tales and lively nightlife, making it a memorable part of any trip to the French Quarter.

You can check availability for your dates here: