Spirits: New Orleans Cocktail & Ghost Tour

If you’re heading to New Orleans and want a way to combine history, spooky tales, and great drinks, the Spirits: New Orleans Cocktail & Ghost Tour might just be what you’re looking for. Based on rave reviews and a well-curated experience, this tour promises a lively stroll through some of the city’s most atmospheric bars while uncovering stories of hauntings, voodoo, and local lore.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s perfect for those who love storytelling backed by real history, not just spooky fiction. Second, it offers a great mix of socializing, learning, and tasting—all wrapped into a two-hour adventure. And honestly, the mix of entertaining ghost stories and excellent bar recommendations makes it a neat way to get a feel for New Orleans’ vibrant nightlife without the hassle of planning every stop.

That said, a big consideration is that drinks are not included in the ticket price, so you’ll want to budget around $8 to $15 per drink. Also, if you’re sensitive to dark or spooky material, some stories might feel a bit intense. Still, it’s mainly aimed at curious travelers who enjoy a mix of history, fun stories, and a few well-chosen cocktails. If that sounds like your kind of evening, this tour could be a real highlight.

Key Points

• Ideal for curious minds interested in New Orleans’ ghost stories and cocktail culture.
• Well-researched stories lend authenticity and depth to the experience.
• Three curated bar stops provide a variety of atmospheres and drinks.
• Engaging storytelling makes history accessible and fun.
• Meetup at 8 pm makes it perfect for an evening activity—no early mornings needed.
• Small group size (up to 18 people) maintains an intimate vibe.

What You Can Expect from the Tour

A Perfect Blend of Ghost Stories and Cocktails

This is not your typical pub crawl or ghost walk. Instead, it’s a crafted experience where each element complements the other. You’ll spend about two hours strolling through historic cobbled Alleys, stopping at three different bars handpicked to match the vibe of the stories being told. The guide, who clearly loves sharing New Orleans’ tales, will weave in documented ghost stories and local legends drawn from the city’s rich culture.

The Storytelling Approach

The guide’s focus on well-sourced stories is a real plus. Unlike tours that lean on sensational or fabricated tales, this experience emphasizes history-backed narratives. As one reviewer points out, “John is a highly entertaining guide and has drawn his stories directly from local lore,” which makes the tales both spooky and credible. Expect to hear about hauntings, voodoo legends, and the city’s darker past, all told with humor and passion.

The Bar Stops

Each bar offers a different atmosphere, and the guide’s recommendations are spot-on. Reviewers mention that the selected venues are far from the typical tourist spots, giving you a chance to experience authentic local hangouts. The drinks are not included in the ticket but are organised in advance, so you can easily order at your pace. Expect to spend around $8 to $15 per drink, which is reasonable considering the quality and the experience.

The Tour Atmosphere

The tour is designed for adults who enjoy engaging stories and good drinks. It’s not a wild party; instead, it’s a professional, entertaining exploration of the city’s secrets. Many reviews praise the guide’s entertaining, theatrical delivery—one even describes a guide as “animated and friendly,” which adds to the overall fun.

Walking and Group Size

The tour lasts about two hours, covering a manageable walking distance through the French Quarter. With a maximum of 18 travelers, it maintains an intimate, friendly vibe. The group size allows for personal interaction, and the guide is happy to chat, answer questions, or give tailored recommendations.

Accessibility and Practicalities

Starting at 523 St Ann St. at 8 pm, the tour is accessible near public transportation, making it easy to join after a day exploring or dining. Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate unless they find dark or intense stories triggering.

The Itinerary: Breaking Down the Experience

Starting Point

The tour kicks off at 523 St Ann St., a location nestled close to the French Quarter’s vibrant streets. This central spot makes it convenient for most travelers to meet up, especially after dinner or a stroll through the city.

The First Bar

Your guide will lead you into the first curated bar, setting the tone with a mix of history and atmosphere. Expect stories that introduce you to New Orleans’ darker past and how it influences its ghostly legends. Reviewers mention that the guide is knowledgeable and passionate, making every story compelling.

The Second Stop

By the second bar, you’ll probably already be feeling the mood—ready for some ghostly tales paired with a refreshing drink. This stop tends to be less touristy, allowing you to enjoy an authentic local vibe. The guide often recommends drinks that are not just tasty but culturally significant.

The Final Bar

The last stop wraps up the tour with a final story, some laughs, and recommendations for the rest of your evening. Many guests appreciate that the guide takes time to chat and connect, especially at the last bar, where lingering conversations often happen.

End of Tour

The tour concludes back at the starting point, but the stories and recommendations linger. Many reviewers say they left with a new appreciation for the city’s history—and a few new favorite bars to revisit.

The Value of This Tour

While the $30 price tag might seem modest, the real value lies in the combination of storytelling, curated venues, and the local insights offered by a guide who’s clearly passionate about New Orleans. You’re not just paying for a walk—you’re investing in a memorable, engaging experience that goes beyond the usual sightseeing.

The privately sourced ghost stories give the tour a credible edge over some more sensationalized options. Plus, many reviews highlight how the guide’s enthusiasm and historical knowledge make the stories stick with you long after the tour ends.

The drinks aren’t included, but the organized setup makes it easy to enjoy at your pace, and the guide’s recommendations often lead to discovering hidden gems you might not find on your own. If you’re someone who appreciates a well-rounded experience—learning, socializing, and tasting—this tour delivers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is great for adults eager to combine history and fun in a relaxed setting. It’s perfect if you love local stories rooted in culture, enjoy good cocktails, and want a more intimate, personalized experience than a big group tour.

If your goal is to get a sense of New Orleans’ mysterious side while sampling some of its best bars, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate well-researched stories and want to support local guides passionate about sharing their city.

However, if you’re very sensitive to dark themes or if you’re traveling with kids, you might want to consider whether the ghost stories could be a bit intense. It’s definitely aimed at adults interested in history, folklore, and cocktails.

FAQs

Are drinks included in the tour?
No, drinks are not included but are available at each stop. Expect to spend roughly $8 to $15 per drink, with the tour organizer providing recommendations to make your choices easier.

What is the meeting point?
The tour begins at 523 St Ann St. in the French Quarter, a central location near public transportation.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 2 hours, walking through cobbled alleys and stopping at three bars.

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes, non-drinkers are welcome. You can participate in the storytelling and socialize, and there are non-alcoholic options available.

What’s the group size?
Maximum of 18 travelers, which keeps the experience intimate and allows for personal interaction.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 8:00 pm—a good time for an evening activity.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

Is this tour kid-friendly?
This is an adult-oriented experience, especially because of the dark themes and drinking component. It’s best suited for travelers 21+ or those comfortable with ghost stories.

Is the tour accessible?
Yes, it’s accessible and near public transportation, but always check with the provider if you have special needs.

Final Thoughts

The Spirits: New Orleans Cocktail & Ghost Tour offers a compelling way to explore the city’s mysteries and libation history in a relaxed, engaging setting. Its focus on well-sourced stories, combined with curated bars and expert storytelling, makes it ideal for travelers who want more than just a sightseeing walk. It’s a great way to meet fellow explorers, learn about New Orleans’ haunted past, and discover some fantastic local drinks.

While it’s not a wild party or a family-friendly event, it’s a smart choice for adults looking for an entertaining, authentic experience. If you value knowledgeable guides, authentic stories, and a good drink or two, this tour is likely to leave a memorable impression.

Whether you’re a history buff, a cocktail lover, or just in search of a fun night out, this tour balances entertainment with education, making it a worthwhile addition to your NOLA itinerary.

Enjoy your trip—and cheers to discovering New Orleans’ best secrets!