New Orleans Original True Crime Pub Crawl

Exploring the New Orleans Original True Crime Pub Crawl: A Deep Dive

If you’re a fan of true crime stories and lively nightlife, the New Orleans Original True Crime Pub Crawl might just be your perfect evening outing. This tour promises a mix of fascinating murder tales, historic mysteries, and some of the city’s best local bars. It’s garnered high praise from those who’ve joined, boasting a perfect 5-star rating from seven reviews, which says a lot about how well it hits the mark.

What we love about this experience is how it balances storytelling with socializing. The guides seem to know their stuff, making the stories come alive, and the pub stops give you a chance to unwind and enjoy some of New Orleans’ signature drinks. Plus, the tour’s pace—lasting about two to two-and-a-half hours—is just right for an evening activity without feeling rushed.

One possible consideration is that the stories can be quite graphic and blood-drenched, which might not be ideal for everyone. Also, since the drinks are not included, you’ll want to budget for your own beverages, though the stops are conveniently located at some historic and atmospheric spots.

This tour is likely best suited for adults who love true crime, enjoy a casual social scene, and are interested in a local’s perspective on NOLA’s darker side. It’s perfect for those looking for a fun, engaging way to spend an evening in the French Quarter, mingling with fellow crime enthusiasts and soaking up the city’s vibe.

Key Points

• Highly Rated: Consistently receives 5-star reviews, praised for knowledgeable guides and interesting stories.
• Flexible Drinking: No drinks are provided, but there’s plenty of opportunity to enjoy local cocktails.
• Historic & Modern Crimes: The stories range from the city’s historic mysteries to modern murders, including serial killers.
• Fun & Informative: Guides are personable and full of interesting facts, making the stories engaging.
• Comfortable Pace: Lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours, ideal for a relaxed evening.
• Group Size: Limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

What to Expect from the Tour

An Invitation into NOLA’s Dark Side

Starting at Golden Lantern on Royal Street, the tour kicks off in the heart of the French Quarter. The first stop at Harry’s Corner Bar sets a lively tone, with an outrageous true crime story that immediately hooks you. You’ll get about 20 minutes here to sip a drink and get comfortable.

The tour then moves to Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, one of the city’s most historic and atmospheric bars. Over roughly 25 minutes, you’ll hear about another notorious crime, blending the spooky vibe of the bar with chilling tales. The stories are graphic, sometimes blood-drenched, and quite vivid—perfect for true crime fans who appreciate detail.

Next up is the French Quarter visit to the Pour House NOLA, where you’ll learn about one of America’s most horrific serial killers. You’ll spend around 25 minutes here, and the location itself adds to the eerie feel of the stories.

Unique Venues with Dark Histories

The Dungeon, a bar with historical connections to a gruesome crime, is your next stop. Its name and ambiance promise an immersive experience, and the guide will share details that make the connection come alive. Afterward, at Fahy’s Irish Pub, another friendly spot, a new crime story awaits. Each bar offers a different atmosphere, from historic to lively, all while delivering compelling tales.

The tour wraps up at Bar Tonique on North Rampart. During the final 10-minute chat, you’ll reflect on the stories and the city’s fascinating criminal past. This relaxed ending allows for conversation and perhaps a few more drinks if you like.

How the Tour Works

• Booking & Pricing: At $29.99 per person, it’s an affordable way to combine culture, history, and entertainment. Booking about 27 days in advance is common, indicating good demand.
• Meeting & Ending Points: Starts at Golden Lantern and concludes at Bar Tonique, both in the French Quarter, making transportation easy.
• Guides: The guides are consistently praised for being personable, knowledgeable, and engaging—crucial for a tour based on storytelling.

The Experience in Detail

The Stops and Their Stories

Harry’s Corner Bar: We love how this opening sets the tone. The story is outrageous enough to keep you intrigued, and the casual bar atmosphere makes it easy to relax and listen. One reviewer called the stop “awesome,” emphasizing the mix of good drinks and even better stories.

Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop: Known as one of New Orleans’ oldest bars, it’s an atmospheric setting for more murder tales. The stories here might surprise you with their intensity, and the historic ambiance complements the narrative perfectly. Reviewers mention the bar’s charm alongside the dark tales, making it a standout.

French Quarter & Pour House NOLA: This stop offers a deep dive into a serial killer case, adding a layer of macabre fascination. The guide’s storytelling skills shine here, making the gruesome details vivid but never gratuitous, which seems to keep most guests engaged without feeling overwhelmed.

The Dungeon: As a unique bar, it offers a sense of stepping back into a darker past. Its connection to a horrific crime makes it memorable, and the guide’s explanations help piece the stories together. Guests have noted the connection to real crimes adds an extra layer of intrigue.

Fahy’s Irish Pub: Another lively pub with a compelling crime story. The atmosphere is lively, and it’s a good place to digest what you’ve heard while enjoying a drink. One reviewer said their guide was “amazing,” which seems to be a common theme.

Bar Tonique: The final stop provides a laid-back chance to reflect on the night’s stories and enjoy the city’s vibe. The shorter duration here makes for a relaxed finish.

What the Reviews Say

Multiple reviewers highlight Donna, the guide, as a major plus. Comments like “Donna was personable and knowledgeable,” and “she kept us interested and got us familiarized with the streets,” show that a good guide makes or breaks the experience. One review even called her “the best tour guide we had all week,” which is high praise.

Guests also appreciate the stories’ interest level—some mention that the true crime stories are “on point” and “fascinating,” with enough detail to satisfy true crime buffs. The atmosphere at each bar is also praised, with many noting the historic or quirky settings add to the experience.

Is this tour worth it?

Given the price point, it’s a good value for those who enjoy storytelling, history, and socializing. The experience is well-paced, the guides are engaging, and the variety of venues keeps things interesting. Plus, the chance to sample some local drinks and learn about the city’s darker history makes for a memorable night.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for adults who are interested in true crime, enjoy a social setting, or want a fun, memorable way to explore the French Quarter after dark. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling with friends or a partner who appreciates storytelling and atmospheric bars. Since the stories can be quite graphic, it’s best for those comfortable with bloodier or more intense crime tales.

While not explicitly designed for families or children, the focus on mature themes and graphic content suggests it’s best suited for grown-ups. If you’re a history buff with a curiosity for the city’s darker side, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people who don’t drink alcohol?
Absolutely. The tour doesn’t include drinks, and you’re welcome to bring or buy whatever you like—whether that’s alcohol or just water. The focus is on the stories and the atmosphere, so beverage choices are flexible.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, making it a manageable evening activity that won’t take over your night.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Golden Lantern, 1239 Royal St, and concludes at Bar Tonique, 820 N Rampart St, both in the French Quarter. This makes transportation easy before and after.

How far apart are the stops?
They are all within walking distance in the French Quarter, making the tour very walkable and allowing for spontaneous exploration or additional drinks afterward.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility if your plans shift.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the maximum is 20 travelers, ensuring the guide can keep everyone engaged and the experience intimate.

What’s the price?
At $29.99 per person, it’s quite reasonable considering the storytelling, guide expertise, and the chance to explore multiple bars.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 27 days ahead, which suggests good availability if you plan early.

In the end, the New Orleans Original True Crime Pub Crawl offers a well-rounded and entertaining way to spend an evening in the French Quarter. It combines storytelling with local history and a lively pub scene, all led by guides who really know their stuff. Whether you’re into true crime or just looking for a fun way to experience NOLA’s nightlife, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to bring your curiosity—and maybe your best crime-solving grin.