Sin and Tonic Pub Crawl in New Orleans

If you’re heading to New Orleans and craving something a bit different from the usual jazz and beignets, the Sin and Tonic Pub Crawl might catch your eye. This 2-hour tour promises a blend of creepy tales, local spirits, and a taste of the city’s mysterious history. We haven’t done it ourselves, but from what travelers say, it’s a lively way to get to know the city’s darker legends while enjoying some of its hidden bar gems.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides really seem to bring the stories alive, making the experience both fun and informative. Second, the inclusion of drinks at various local favorites adds a social, relaxed layer to the storytelling. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that alcoholic beverages aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget for drinks along the way.

If you’re someone who enjoys history with a spooky twist or just loves exploring local stories over a cocktail, this tour could be a perfect fit. It’s especially good for those who appreciate engaging guides and a bit of ghostly intrigue in their evenings.

Key Points

• Unique blend of history and local legends that add depth to your understanding of New Orleans.
• Expert local guides who keep the stories engaging and lively.
• Multiple bar stops, each with its own character and tales, making the experience social and fun.
• Dark legends and spooky stories that appeal to fans of the supernatural and curious.
• Short, manageable duration perfect for an evening activity.
• Central location close to public transportation, making it easy to join or extend your night out.

What to Expect from the Sin and Tonic Pub Crawl

This isn’t your average bar hop or history tour. It’s a curated experience that mixes the mysterious tales of New Orleans with a taste of local nightlife. Over roughly two hours, you’ll visit four notable spots, each with its own story and ambiance. The tour kicks off at Napoleon House, a historic spot that’s been part of the city since 1914, offering a chance to sip classic cocktails while hearing about some of the city’s darker past.

Though the tour doesn’t include the drinks—those cost extra—you’ll have the chance to purchase beverages at each stop, which many find adds to the relaxed, social atmosphere. The stops are carefully selected for their history and character, not just their drink menus.

Stop 1: Napoleon House

This historic residence turned bar is where your adventure begins. It’s a cozy spot that’s been around for over a century, and the guide will introduce you to some creepy stories about John and Wayne Carter, whose legends are tied to the city’s dark past. The atmosphere here is warm, with a sense of stepping back in time.

Stop 2: Justine

Next, you’ll hear about the Casket Girls—a mysterious legend intertwined with the city’s history. The location offers the chance to buy a drink, making it a perfect spot to chat and absorb the stories. It’s a place that’s both intriguing and atmospheric, fitting for tales of ghostly girls and ghost stories.

Stop 3: Evangeline

Known for its Cajun and Creole dishes, Evangeline adds a culinary touch to the tour. Here, the focus shifts to Madame LaLaurie, a notorious figure whose dark deeds have become part of local lore. You can also purchase a drink, which many find makes the stories even more captivating.

Stop 4: The Court of Two Sisters

The final stop takes you to one of the city’s most charming courtyards, where the legend of The Axeman of New Orleans is shared. This notorious figure’s story is chilling and well-known among locals. Again, drinks are available for purchase, wrapping up your evening on a spooky yet convivial note.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

One of the most praised aspects, according to reviews, is the guides’ knowledge. Multiple travelers mention how guides like Lauren made the experience memorable by explaining everything clearly and making everyone feel like part of the group. As Yanko_M put it, “she explained everything, showed us a lot and made us feel like family.” That kind of warmth and expertise really elevates the tour beyond just a bar crawl.

Several reviewers appreciated the fun and creepy stories. Kay_A summed up her experience with “Tasty drinks and creepy history,” highlighting how the stories combined with drinks made for an entertaining night. Meanwhile, Karen_B described it as a “great night-time tour,” emphasizing the knowledge shared and the opportunity to learn about the city while visiting local bars.

Some small hiccups were mentioned, like the initial confusion about the meeting spot (Viator’s info had a wrong location), but it was easily resolved thanks to the contact number provided. This highlights the importance of double-checking meeting details before your trip, especially with tours in busy, historic areas.

Examining the Value

At $35 per person, this tour delivers a solid bang for your buck, especially given the inclusion of multiple stops and a knowledgeable guide. Keep in mind, drinks aren’t included, so you might want to budget extra for beverages—although many travelers find this adds to the social vibe. The tour’s short duration means it’s a manageable evening activity, fitting well into a broader exploration of the city or a casual night out.

The group size is capped at 20 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate enough for everyone to interact with the guide and each other. This is a big plus if you prefer a more personal, engaging tour rather than a large crowd.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, ghost story fans, and those looking for a fun night out. It’s equally suited for travelers who enjoy storytelling, local legends, and a relaxed social setting. If you’re traveling solo or as a couple, it’s a chance to meet others and share stories over drinks. It’s less ideal if you’re expecting an all-inclusive experience or if you prefer guided tours that include entry inside private locations.

Final Thoughts

The Sin and Tonic Pub Crawl offers a unique glimpse into New Orleans’ darker legends, paired with the chance to sample some of its best local bars. The combination of entertaining guides, engaging stories, and lively stops makes it a good choice for anyone looking to add a spooky twist to their evening. While it’s not a comprehensive history tour or a pub crawl with drinks included, the value lies in the storytelling, atmosphere, and local flavor.

For travelers who enjoy dark tales, engaging guides, and a relaxed pace, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just remember to budget for drinks and double-check the meeting location. Overall, it’s a fun, memorable way to see a different side of New Orleans, especially if you’re curious about its haunted past.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
This tour is geared toward adults interested in stories of the supernatural and local legends. It doesn’t specify family-friendliness, and the focus on dark legends and bar stops suggests it’s best suited for grown-ups.

Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, drinks are not included. You’ll have the opportunity to purchase alcoholic beverages at each location, which many travelers enjoy for the social aspect.

What’s the starting point?
The tour begins at 809 Royal St, New Orleans, near public transportation options, making it easy to access.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a nice quick activity to fit into an evening.

Is the tour suitable for most travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the group is limited to 20 people for a more intimate experience.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before will not be refunded.

What’s included in the tour?
A knowledgeable local guide is included. Entry inside private locations is not part of the tour.

Is this a guided walking tour?
Yes, it’s led by an expert local guide walking through selected stops around the city.

Can I expect any surprises?
While the main focus is on storytelling and bar stops, travelers often find the stories surprisingly spooky and engaging, thanks to the guide’s expertise.

For a night of ghostly tales, local legends, and a taste of New Orleans’ dark side, the Sin and Tonic Pub Crawl offers a relaxed, story-driven experience that’s worth considering if you’re in town.