Shared 2 Hours Saints and Sinners Walking Tour in New Orleans

If you’re planning a trip to the Big Easy and want to experience its more colorful, mysterious side, the Shared 2 Hours Saints and Sinners Walking Tour might catch your eye. This tour promises a peek into the city’s shadowy past, fun tales, and some of the most intriguing spots in the French Quarter. It’s a popular choice, with good reviews and a lively vibe — perfect if you’re curious about the city’s darker history or just love a good story.

What we really like about this experience is the knowledgeable guides who keep things lively and full of interesting tidbits, and the small group size that makes it feel intimate and personal. Plus, starting off with a free Hurricane drink (in a souvenir cup!) inside the Voodoo Lounge sets a fun tone. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that it’s an adults-only tour, so if you’re traveling with kids or teens, this might not be the right fit. Also, it’s around only 2 hours long, so if you’re craving deep dives into specific history, you might find it a bit light on details. Overall, it’s best suited for adults who enjoy storytelling, a bit of mischief, and a taste of New Orleans’ darker side.

Key Points

• Adult-oriented tour focusing on the city’s lurid past and legends.
• Knowledgeable, engaging guides who make history fun and accessible.
• Focus on storytelling and atmosphere, with stops inside notable locations.
• Affordable price point around $21, offering good value for a two-hour experience.
• Small group experience (max 14 people) for more personal attention.
• Starts with a free drink, setting a lively tone from the beginning.

What to Expect from the Saints and Sinners Tour

The tour kicks off inside the Voodoo Lounge at 718 N Rampart St., where you can enjoy a buy-one-get-one-free Hurricane in a fun souvenir cup. This welcoming start helps loosen everyone up and sets the tone for a lively, adult-only exploration of the city. You’ll be encouraged to bring your drink with you as you stroll through the streets, which adds to the relaxed, party-like vibe.

The Stops and Their Significance

1. French Quarter Phantoms
It all begins here, inside the Voodoo Lounge, where your guide will likely share some intriguing stories right away. Expect a mix of legends and local lore that set the scene for what’s ahead.

2. St. Louis Cathedral
This iconic landmark isn’t just for travelers snapping pictures; inside, you’ll find a prayer chapel dedicated to Henriette Dellile, the founder of the Sisters of the Holy Family—the first Black-led convent in the U.S. It’s a powerful detail that adds depth and context to the city’s diverse history.

3. Hotel Villa Convento
A building with a reputation—many say it was once a brothel that inspired the “House of the Rising Sun.” While that claim might be debated, it’s certainly a spot wrapped in stories that evoke New Orleans’ gritty, lively past. Expect to hear about the city’s reputation for nightlife and vice.

4. French Market
Originally called Galliten Street, this area had its fair share of pirates, gamblers, and street gangs, along with legendary figures like the serial killer “Bricktop.” Today, it’s a bustling market, but its history adds a sprinkle of danger and adventure to your walk.

The Guide and Their Role

Reviews mention guides like Wolfy, Hope, Malika, and Angela—each bringing their own flavor but all praised for being knowledgeable, fun, and engaging. One review specifically says Wolfy’s passion about New Orleans made the stories even more exciting. Expect a mix of history, folklore, and some naughty tales that reveal the city’s darker, more playful side.

The Overall Experience

For just $21, you’re getting a well-paced, two-hour tour with a small group, meaning you’ll have room for questions and personal interactions. Numerous reviewers rave about how fun and informative the guide was, with some calling it the “best tour” they did in New Orleans. The tour hits a sweet spot—it’s lively, full of interesting stories, and not overly commercialized.

Value for Money

Considering the price, this tour offers a lot: a lively atmosphere, stories you’ll remember, and insider insights delivered by passionate guides. The fact that it’s booked on average 18 days in advance speaks to its popularity, and the reviews show that many visitors find it worth the cost. It’s a great way to get a sense of the city’s darker past without a huge commitment or expense.

The Downside

A few reviews mention that the tour ended half an hour early, which can be disappointing if you’re expecting a full two hours. Also, since it’s adult-only, families or travelers with children might need to look elsewhere. Lastly, while the tour covers some iconic sites, it’s more about stories and atmosphere than in-depth history, so if you’re looking for a detailed historical tour, this might not satisfy that craving.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is especially suited for adults who love stories, legends, and a touch of mischief. If you’re curious about the seedy underbelly of New Orleans or want a guide who can keep things lively and entertaining, you’ll likely enjoy this walk. It’s also a good pick if you’re traveling in a small group and enjoy social, informal experiences with friendly guides. It’s perfect for those who want a quick, fun introduction to the city’s infamous past without the heavy educational focus—more about atmosphere and tales.

If you’re visiting with children or prefer a more family-friendly experience, you might want to look into other options. Also, keep in mind that since the tour is only two hours, it’s a quick peek—good for a first taste, but not an exhaustive exploration.

Final Thoughts

The Saints and Sinners Walking Tour offers a compelling way to explore New Orleans’ shadowy and fascinating side. For a modest price, you get a lively guide, engaging stories, and a chance to see some notable spots in the French Quarter. It’s perfect if you’re after an authentic, fun, and slightly risqué experience that captures the city’s character.

You’ll love the way guides like Wolfy, Hope, or Angela bring history alive with humor and passion. The small group size means more interaction and a more personal feel. The stops inside historic sites add extra depth to the storytelling, making the tour both entertaining and slightly educational.

If you enjoy stories about pirates, ghosts, and underground speakeasies, and want to hear tales you won’t find in a history book, this tour fits the bill. Just remember, it’s a short, adult-focused experience that emphasizes fun and atmosphere over comprehensive history.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is adults-only with a minimum age of 17 and a minimum drinking age of 21, so it’s best suited for grown-ups.

What’s included in the tour?
A professional guide leads the walk, and you get a buy-one-get-one-free Hurricane drink inside the Voodoo Lounge at the start. Drinks are available for purchase afterward, but alcohol isn’t included in the ticket price.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Voodoo Lounge inside 718 N Rampart St. and finishes at Jackson Square in the French Quarter.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 2 hours, though some reviews mention it ending early, around half an hour before the scheduled time.

Is transportation provided?
No, it’s a walking tour, so you’ll need to make your way to the starting point. It’s near public transportation, making it easy to access.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of participants is 14, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.

Is the tour physically demanding?
It requires a moderate level of physical fitness since it is a walking tour through the French Quarter, but it’s manageable for most people.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking are recommended. Bring a water bottle if you like, and be prepared for weather—consider sun protection or rain gear depending on forecast.

Exploring New Orleans with the Saints and Sinners Tour offers a lively, story-filled peek into the city’s more mischievous and mysterious corners. Perfect for those who enjoy a good story, a bit of history, and a lively atmosphere. Just remember, it’s an adult experience — ideal for a fun night out or an introduction to the city’s darker tales.