Discovering the Haunted Heart of New Orleans: A Deep Dive into the Walking Tour

If you’ve ever wondered why New Orleans is often called the most haunted city in America, this Haunted Excursion Walking Tour might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of an experience that’s both eerie and fascinating. It’s designed for anyone curious about the city’s darker stories, supernatural legends, and stunning architecture, all wrapped into a manageable two-hour walk.
What drew us in are the opportunities to see iconic landmarks while learning about the city’s ghostly tales, along with the chance to use paranormal equipment like EMF meters firsthand. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that this is a walking tour, so it’s best suited for those comfortable on their feet and with an interest in history or spooky stories. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small group, this tour offers a mix of culture and chills that many will find captivating.
If you love stories of haunted streets, ghosts, or vampires, and enjoy exploring historic neighborhoods with a bit of mystery, this tour could be a real treat. It’s especially appealing if you’re looking for something different from the usual sightseeing—something that teases the imagination and offers a glimpse into the city’s legendary “dark side.”
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points

- Learn about New Orleans’ reputation as the most haunted city in America through stories and historic sites.
- Visit over 15 landmarks including Jackson Square, St Louis Cathedral, and historic districts teeming with legend.
- Experience a mixture of history, architecture, and supernatural tales in a manageable 2-hour tour.
- Use paranormal detection equipment like EMF meters yourself, adding an interactive element.
- Tour is wheelchair accessible, suitable for a variety of travelers.
- A private group option is available for a more personalized experience.
If you're drawn to exploring New Orleans on foot, we've looked into these other walking experiences
Why This Tour Stands Out
This walking tour offers a well-rounded peek into New Orleans’ spooky side, with a good mix of history, architecture, and ghost stories. What makes it particularly appealing is the combination of storytelling and real landmarks. You’ll find yourself wandering through the French Quarter, one of the most visually striking parts of the city, where the historic buildings and lively street scenes set an atmospheric backdrop for ghostly tales.
The tour’s price point—$27 per person—is quite reasonable considering the length, the in-depth stories, and the included equipment. It’s a good value for those interested in a quick but immersive spooky experience, especially given the number of landmarks you get to see.
Itinerary and Highlights

Meeting Spot and First Impressions
Your adventure begins in front of the Legendary Blacksmith Shop Bar on Bourbon Street—a location that sets the tone for what’s ahead. It’s a practical start point that’s easy to find and offers a bit of local character. Remember, you meet on the sidewalk outside, not inside the bar, so plan to arrive a few minutes early.
More Great Tours NearbyExploring Iconic Landmarks
From the get-go, this tour is filled with real sights: the St Louis Cathedral, Ursuline Convent, and Jackson Square. These are not just tourist magnets—they are steeped in stories connected to the city’s haunted reputation. The guide will point out the historic architecture and share tales about the dark mythology surrounding these spots.
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Paranormal Equipment and Interactive Fun
One of the tour’s standout features is the use of EMF meters and ghost detectors. These aren’t just props; you’re encouraged to use the equipment yourself, which adds a tangible thrill to the experience. It’s a fun way to get involved, especially if you’re a bit skeptical or just curious about the supernatural.
Haunted Streets and Legendary Stories
As you stroll through the French Quarter, the guide shares stories of real vampires, ghosts, and unsolved murders. Some locations are said to have housed vampire victims or been sites of tragic suicides. One reviewer described it as “the most fun we had on the trip,” emphasizing how engaging and lively the guide made the stories.
Architectural Beauty and Historic Landmarks
Along the way, you’ll pass over 15 notable stops, including the Cabildo and Presbytere museums, which, besides their architectural beauty, hold clues to the city’s haunted past. You’ll also see where Hollywood stars have chosen to live, adding a touch of glamour to the spooky tour.
The Experience: What We Think Travelers Will Love (and Not)
The Atmosphere
The French Quarter’s stunning architecture and lively street scenes create a perfect setting for ghost stories. The dim lighting and historic buildings give the tour a naturally spooky vibe, amplified by the tales of supernatural occurrences. It’s more about the storytelling than actual ghost-hunting, but the interactive element with paranormal equipment elevates the experience.
The Guide
From reviews, it’s clear the guide makes a big difference. A knowledgeable, lively guide can turn a simple walk into a memorable experience. One reviewer called their guide “very informative and very fun,” which suggests the storytelling is engaging without feeling too scripted.
The Value
At $27, this tour offers a lot—two hours of exploring legendary sites, hearing chilling stories, and trying out paranormal detectors. It’s a good deal, especially considering how much ground you cover and the fact that you get to see many of the city’s historic landmarks.
Considerations
While the tour is wheelchair accessible, it’s still a walking experience, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Also, some bars along the route may not permit children, so if you’re traveling with young kids, it’s worth checking ahead. The tour runs in the morning, afternoon, or evening, offering flexibility, but the spooky atmosphere might be best enjoyed after sunset.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for history buffs, ghost story lovers, or anyone intrigued by New Orleans’ reputation as a haunted city. It’s also great if you’re seeking a tour with a bit of interactive fun, thanks to the paranormal equipment. If you prefer guided tours that balance landmarks with storytelling, and enjoy a little mystery, this tour will hit the mark.
However, if you’re more into high-energy or outdoor adventures like boat rides or jazz cruises, this might not be your top pick. It’s also not ideal if you’re sensitive to spooky stories or looking for a family-friendly activity—though it’s suitable for most adults and older children.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth Your Time?

For those curious about the supernatural side of New Orleans, this walking tour offers an engaging, reasonably priced way to explore the city’s legendary haunted reputation. Its balance of history, architecture, and ghost stories makes it stand out from typical sightseeing excursions. Plus, the interactive element with paranormal tools adds a fun, hands-on twist.
The tour’s success hinges largely on the guide’s storytelling skills and the atmospheric locations. With glowing reviews praising the guide’s informativeness and entertainment value, it seems to deliver on both fronts. It’s a solid choice if you’re interested in a taste of the city’s spooky legends without committing to a lengthy or overly intense experience.
If you’re visiting New Orleans and want to see more than just the surface, this tour can add a memorable layer to your trip. It’s a journey into the city’s mysterious past, perfect for those who enjoy a good ghost story paired with some sightseeing.
New Orleans Haunted Excursion Walking Tour
FAQ

Q: Where does the tour meet?
A: It starts on the sidewalk in front of the Legendary Blacksmith Shop Bar at 941 Bourbon Street, but not inside the bar itself.
Q: How long is the tour?
A: It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable length for most travelers.
Q: Is it suitable for wheelchair users?
A: Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, so most guests with mobility needs should be comfortable.
Q: Can I use paranormal equipment myself?
A: Yes, during the tour you’ll have the chance to use an EMF Meter and Ghost/Paranormal Detector.
Q: Are there private group options?
A: Yes, private tours are available if you prefer a more personalized experience, and they can accommodate up to 28 guests.
Q: Is there a chance to buy drinks along the route?
A: Yes, you’ll pass through areas where you can stop for drinks, but some bars may not permit children inside.
In the end, whether you’re a seasoned ghost hunter or just someone looking to add a spooky twist to your visit, this New Orleans haunted tour offers a fascinating mix of stories, sights, and interactive fun. It’s a great way to see the city’s iconic landmarks while uncovering its darker legends—an experience worth considering if you’re in the mood for some ghostly tales.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Walking Tours in New Orleans
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