New Orleans Voodoo History Walking Tour

Exploring New Orleans Voodoo: A Deep Dive into Mystique and Myth

If you’re curious about the real story behind New Orleans’ voodoo practices, this tour might be just what you’re looking for. It promises a journey through the city’s shadowy, spellbinding past, with visits to authentic voodoo altars and tales that go beyond Hollywood stereotypes. While it’s not a tour packed with scenic sightseeing, it offers a focused look at a fascinating aspect of the city’s culture—perfect for those wanting something educational and atmospheric.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its emphasis on understanding voodoo as a religion and cultural practice, rather than just a spooky story. The guides, at least from some reviews, are knowledgeable and able to balance historical facts with engaging storytelling. The price point, around $30, makes it accessible, especially considering the hour and a half of walking exploration. However, it’s important to note that this isn’t a tour suited for young children or those expecting a lively, festive vibe—it’s more serious and educational.

A potential caveat? The tour involves a moderate amount of walking and covers specific historical sites, but it doesn’t include visits inside buildings or hands-on experiences—so if you’re after an immersive, hands-on adventure, this might fall short. Also, some reviewers have mentioned that the tone can lean towards being more informational than entertaining. So, this experience suits travelers intrigued by history, spirituality, and cultural roots rather than thrill-seekers or party-focused groups.

In essence, if your idea of a good time is learning about the real voodoo practices in New Orleans, walking through historic streets, and hearing stories that dispel myths, this tour will probably be a good fit. Just keep your expectations aligned with the educational angle, and you’ll get a lot out of it.

Key Points

• Educational focus: The tour centers on the history and practice of voodoo, making it ideal for those interested in cultural and spiritual traditions.
• Authentic sites: You’ll visit real voodoo altars and important landmarks associated with the religion.
• Guides matter: Many reviews praise the guides for their knowledge and engaging storytelling, which enhances the experience.
• Timing and duration: At just 1.5 hours, it’s a manageable walk, but be prepared for some moderate walking and standing.
• Price and value: The cost of $30 per person is reasonable for the depth of information and the guided experience.
• Limited for kids: Not recommended for young children due to the content and evening timing.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Starting at Reverend Zombie’s Voodoo Shop, the most iconic of New Orleans voodoo landmarks, this tour kicks off around 7:30 pm. Arriving about 20 minutes early gives you a chance to settle in and soak up the atmosphere—just as the city begins to wind down from its daytime hustle. The tour operates rain or shine, so dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather.

The initial stop at Rev. Zombie’s Voodoo Shop is more than just a meeting point; it’s a hub of voodoo culture, filled with curiosities and artifacts. Here, your guide sets the tone, prepping you for the stories and sites ahead. You’ll get a brief overview of voodoo’s roots and its connection to New Orleans’ identity, dispelling some of the Hollywood myths that have overshadowed the religion for so long.

From there, the group sets out to explore well-known streets like Bourbon Street and Royal Street. These areas are packed with history, but on this tour, their significance lies in how they relate to voodoo’s story—rather than just being lively entertainment zones. You’ll hear tales from over 100 years ago, including the firm link to Marie Laveau, one of the most famous figures associated with voodoo in the city.

The stops at Bourbon Orleans Hotel and other key landmarks provide a glimpse into the haunted, mystical side of New Orleans. The Orleans Ballroom, for example, is said to be haunted by a dancing girl—adding an eerie touch to an already atmospheric walk. While the tour doesn’t include inside visits, the exterior views and stories are enough to stir your curiosity.

What Makes This Voodoo Tour Stand Out

Most reviews highlight the quality of the guides. For example, one reviewer described their guide as “wonderful” and balancing education with humor, making the experience engaging and approachable. Others have noted the guides’ ability to explain voodoo in a way that’s both respectful and clear, which helps to counteract the misconceptions often perpetuated by movies and media.

Another strong point is the value for money. For around $30, you’re getting a well-structured, hour-and-a-half tour that covers some of the most historically relevant sites related to voodoo in New Orleans. While it may not include inside visits or hands-on rituals, the stories, altars, and walking focus provide a solid educational experience at a reasonable price.

However, some reviews express mixed feelings. One reviewer mentioned that the tour was more “boring” than expected, feeling that it lacked the hands-on exploration of voodoo houses or sites. Others noted that the guide talked too fast or went off on tangents that detracted from the core focus. These comments underscore that your experience may heavily depend on the guide’s style and your expectations—if you’re after a more interactive or lively event, this might not hit the spot.

The Stops and What to Expect

Rev. Zombie’s Voodoo Shop: As the starting point, this shop is a cornerstone of NOLA voodoo culture. Expect to see authentic artifacts and learn about the shop’s significance in voodoo history.

Bourbon Street: Famous for its nightlife, but here, it’s a historical backdrop. Your guide will share stories that shed light on voodoo’s influence amid the street’s lively environment.

Royal Street: Known for its art galleries and historic buildings, it’s also home to tales of old New Orleans, when hysteria and superstitions ran high.

Bourbon Orleans Hotel: The oldest hotel in the city, said to be haunted. The Orleans Ballroom, in particular, is linked to ghost stories of a dancing girl, offering a spooky, atmospheric stop.

Marie Laveau’s Legend: The birthplace of voodoo in New Orleans, this is where you’ll hear about the legendary Marie Laveau, whose influence remains a significant part of voodoo lore.

Throughout the tour, you’ll visit these sites from the outside, soaking in their stories and history. Each stop is designed to deepen your understanding of voodoo’s cultural roots and its place in New Orleans’ identity.

Practical Details & Tips

The tour begins at 7:30 pm, so plan to arrive by 7:10 pm. The meeting point at Vampire Apothecary Restaurant & Bar (also known as Rev. Zombie’s Voodoo Shop) is easy to find in the French Quarter, close to other attractions and public transit.

You should wear comfortable shoes, as the walk involves moderate physical activity. The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, which is a manageable length for most travelers. Since it operates rain or shine, consider bringing an umbrella or rain jacket if rain’s forecasted.

This is a small group experience, capped at 28 travelers, which helps ensure you get quality interaction with your guide, though it also means booking in advance (about 16 days ahead on average) is recommended.

Note that food and drinks aren’t included, so if you want to grab a snack afterward, there are plenty of options nearby.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adults or older teens interested in the history and culture of voodoo, rather than those seeking a lively party or inside access to secret rituals. If you’re curious about the spiritual and historical aspects of New Orleans’ voodoo, this tour offers a respectful, informative introduction.

It’s also good for history buffs, cultural explorers, and anyone who enjoys walking tours that combine storytelling with iconic city sights. If you’re skeptical of ghost stories or prefer a more lively, entertainment-focused experience, you might find this one a bit subdued.

The New Orleans Voodoo History Walking Tour offers a thoughtful, educational glimpse into a misunderstood religion that’s woven into the city’s fabric. Guided by knowledgeable storytellers, you’ll visit real voodoo altars and hear tales that shed light on the tradition beyond Hollywood stereotypes. It’s a solid choice for those looking to deepen their understanding of NOLA’s mystical side without spending a fortune.

While it may not satisfy everyone looking for a high-energy or interactive experience, it excels in providing context and authenticity. The reasonable price, combined with the small-group setting and the chance to explore historic streets, makes it a worthwhile option for culturally curious travelers.

If your interest in history, spirituality, and authentic local culture aligns with what’s on offer, you’ll likely find this tour both meaningful and memorable. Just keep in mind its more serious tone and moderate pace, and you’ll have a more rewarding experience exploring New Orleans’ mystical roots.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it isn’t recommended for young children due to the content and the evening timing, which might be too intense for little ones.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a manageable walk with enough time for stories and site visits.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Reverend Zombies House of Voodoo, located on St. Peter Street, in the French Quarter.

Do I need to book well in advance?
Yes, it’s generally booked about 16 days ahead, especially during peak times, to secure your spot.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
It operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly with comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.

What’s included in the price?
The tour fee covers the guided walk and visits to real voodoo sites. Food and drinks are not included.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Reviews suggest guides like Chrissy and Bri are very engaged and informative, making the storytelling engaging and clear.

Can I see inside the buildings?
No, the stops are mostly exterior visits, with stories shared about the sites’ significance.

Is this tour good for history buffs?
Absolutely. It offers a detailed look at voodoo’s roots and its cultural impact in New Orleans.

What’s the overall vibe of the tour?
It’s more educational than entertaining, with a serious focus on history and spirituality rather than fun or festive activities.

If you’re fascinated by New Orleans’ unique traditions and want a respectful, insightful look at voodoo, this tour is a solid pick. Just be ready for a walk through history, not a lively party scene.