New Orleans Freaks and Geeks Tour

If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans, you might already be excited about its jazz, historic streets, and legendary cuisine. But if you’re curious about the city’s darker, stranger, or more mysterious tales, the Freaks and Geeks Tour offers a fascinating look into the city’s offbeat stories. We haven’t personally taken it, but this tour has garnered some glowing feedback, and it seems like a great way to get a different perspective on the Big Easy.

What really appeals to us about this experience is its focus on local storytelling and the chance to learn about voodoo, ghosts, Mardi Gras traditions, and strange events that shaped the city. Plus, the tour’s compact 2-hour duration makes it manageable even if you’re short on time. One thing that might be worth considering is that this tour is a walking experience, so comfortable shoes are a must. It’s best suited for those who love a mix of history, spooky tales, and lively city vibes—perfect for curious travelers, history buffs, or even fans of paranormal stories.

Key Points

• Focused on the “freaky” and mysterious side of New Orleans, including voodoo, ghosts, and scandals
• Expert local guides share stories that bring the city’s past and legends to life
• 2-hour walking tour, suitable for most travelers, with an emphasis on fun and education
• Includes visits to iconic French Quarter spots like Bourbon Street and Marie Laveau’s Voodoo practices
• Offers paranormal equipment use for those interested in ghost-hunting
• Cost-effective at $35, providing a good value for a guided experience packed with local lore

An In-Depth Look at the New Orleans Freaks and Geeks Tour

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is a walk through the historic and lively French Quarter, starting right at 4:00 pm. From the get-go, your guide—described as a “geeky” local—will take you through the streets, sharing stories that aren’t necessarily part of the typical tourist chatter. The vibe is engaging, informative, and laced with a sense of humor, making it clear this is more than just a basic walking tour.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at 941 Bourbon Street — the gathering point is right outside Lafittes Blacksmith Shop Bar. Don’t worry; the tour won’t involve drinking inside the bar, but you’ll get a feel for Bourbon’s infamous reputation as the heart of New Orleans nightlife. From this iconic street, your guide will lead you through the area, revealing the city’s freaky stories and hidden histories.

Visit the French Quarter — you’ll hear about its founding stories and how it has become a magnet for both revelry and the supernatural. The guide will describe strange events that happened along these streets and share scandalous love stories that have left their mark. These tales give you a vivid picture of the city’s complex past—sometimes tragic, sometimes scandalous, and often fascinating.

Focus on Marie Laveau — the legendary Voodoo Queen of New Orleans. You’ll see where her ceremonies took place and learn about her influence on the city’s culture. If you’re into supernatural stories or just curious about Voodoo’s historical role, this part of the tour is definitely a highlight.

Bourbon Street — expect to get an inside scoop on what makes Bourbon Street so famous, not only for its wild parties but also for its history. The guide will share stories about Mardi Gras traditions and point out where to find some of the best local cocktails—because, let’s face it, no trip to New Orleans is complete without a good drink in hand.

Paranormal tales and equipment — if you’re into the supernatural, you’ll appreciate the stories of haunted places and the chance to use paranormal equipment. The review mentions that some guests have captured paranormal photos, adding an element of fun and curiosity for ghost enthusiasts.

The Personal Touch of the Guides

The reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm. One reviewer called it “OVER THE TOP” and appreciated the fun yet educational vibe. The guides seem genuinely passionate, making the stories come alive with humor and insight. That personal touch makes the experience more than just a walk—it becomes a lively storytelling session.

Tour Duration and Group Size

At about 2 hours, the walk is just the right length—long enough to immerse yourself without feeling rushed. The group size can be quite large (up to 999 travelers), but with a good guide, everyone should be able to hear the stories clearly. Expect the pace to be moderate, with plenty of opportunities to stop, take photos, and ask questions.

Cost and Value

For $35 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. You get a local, licensed guide, a well-structured route through the French Quarter, and insights that you probably won’t find in standard guidebooks. It’s an affordable way to add some fun and strange stories to your trip.

How the Tour Fits Into Your NOLA Experience

This tour complements other sightseeing activities by giving a narrative-driven peek into the city’s darker and more unusual side. It’s especially good if you’ve already seen the typical sights and want to add a twist—whether that’s ghost stories, voodoo history, or just some local legends. The emphasis on storytelling means you’ll leave with a better understanding of what makes New Orleans so unique.

If you’re traveling with a group that enjoys quirky, fun, and slightly spooky stories, this tour is a solid choice. It’s also a good option for those who want a shorter, engaging experience without committing to a full-day adventure.

Practical Details That Matter

• Meeting Point: Outside Lafittes Blacksmith Shop Bar at 941 Bourbon Street, not inside
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours, moderate paced
• Price: $35 per person, a reasonable price for a guided tour of this nature
• What’s Included: A licensed local guide, storytelling, paranormal equipment use (if requested)
• What’s Not Included: Food, drinks, hotel pickup, gratuities, or private property access
• Weather Policy: Tours run rain-or-shine, so dress accordingly. No refunds for weather, but tours are rescheduled if canceled due to weather
• Children: Not explicitly mentioned, but likely suitable for most travelers who can walk comfortably and stay with the group

The Real Value of This Tour

What makes this experience stand out is the combination of fun storytelling and cultural insights. It’s not a dry history lesson; it’s lively, sometimes spooky, often humorous, and full of local flavor. The guides’ enthusiasm shines through, and the stories they tell give you a richer sense of New Orleans’ complex character.

The price point also makes it accessible, especially compared to more elaborate tours. For those interested in ghosts, voodoo, or just looking for a memorable story session in a city known for its legends, this tour hits the mark. Plus, the inclusion of paranormal equipment adds a playful element for those curious about supernatural activity.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a history buff with a taste for ghost stories, a fan of Mardi Gras traditions, or someone intrigued by Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau, this tour will satisfy your curiosity. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy storytelling that’s a little spooky, a little scandalous, and a lot of fun.

Travelers who prefer shorter, engaging experiences that fit into a busy itinerary will find this 2-hour walk perfect. It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling with friends or a couple who enjoy a lively, narrative-driven adventure.

However, if you’re looking for a more family-friendly, less spooky experience, you might want to check other options. This tour leans into the city’s darker tales and paranormal stories, which might not appeal to young children or those sensitive to ghostly themes.

Final Thoughts

The New Orleans Freaks and Geeks Tour offers a lively, engaging look at the city’s more eccentric and mysterious side. With knowledgeable guides, captivating stories, and a focus on local legends, voodoo, and haunted tales, it’s a great way to add some edge to your NOLA visit.

It’s perfect for travelers who love history with a twist, paranormal stories, or just want a fun, interactive experience. The affordability and compact timing make it easy to include in your itinerary without feeling overwhelmed. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring a sense of adventure, and be ready for some wild, spooky tales.

If you’re after a unique, memorable, and fun exploration of New Orleans’ freaky side, this tour might just become a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, it generally appeals to most travelers who can walk comfortably and enjoy stories about ghosts, voodoo, and city legends. Younger children might find some tales a bit spooky.

What’s the meeting point?
You’ll meet outside Lafittes Blacksmith Shop Bar at 941 Bourbon Street, but the tour does not involve entering the bar.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 hours, with a moderate walking pace. It’s designed to be a manageable and engaging experience.

Are drinks or food included?
No, food and drinks are not included. However, the guide may recommend places to get cocktails or local treats.

Can I use paranormal equipment during the tour?
Yes, paranormal equipment can be checked out and used during the tour, but there’s a fee of $250 for lost or damaged equipment.

What if it rains?
Tours are held rain or shine. It’s best to prepare for weather conditions, as the tour does not offer refunds due to weather.

In the end, this tour offers a playful, insightful, and slightly spooky way to experience the quirky heart of New Orleans. Whether you’re a history lover, a ghost hunter, or simply looking for a unique story session, it’s worth considering to spice up your NOLA adventures.