The Ghosts of New Orleans Tour

If you’re considering a ghost-themed walk through the historic streets of New Orleans, this Ghosts of New Orleans Tour might catch your eye. Priced at just under $25, it promises a mix of eerie tales, iconic landmarks, and a glimpse into the city’s spooky side after dark. While I haven’t taken this particular tour myself, I’ve spent enough time exploring NOLA to understand what makes it appealing—and what could be a drawback.

Two things that definitely stand out are the small-group setting and the knowledgeable guides. These elements tend to make the experience more personal and engaging. Plus, the tour covers several key spots like Jackson Square and the LaLaurie Mansion, which are as historically intriguing as they are haunted. On the flip side, some reviews mention that the tour leans more toward storytelling than heavy historical detail, which might not satisfy those craving more concrete facts and less ghostly legend.

If you’re a fan of history, haunted tales, or true crime stories, this tour is likely a good fit. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy walking around at night and hearing stories that send a shiver down your spine. However, if you’re expecting to peek inside haunted buildings or go into secret locations, you may be disappointed, as the tour mostly involves outside stops and storytelling.

Key Points

• Small group size makes for a more intimate experience.
• Great for horror lovers and history buffs looking for ghostly stories intertwined with landmarks.
• One hour 30 minutes means you get a solid walk without feeling exhausted.
• Tour guides are often praised for their storytelling and knowledge.
• Some reviews mention the tour is more about legends than detailed history.
• Price point offers a good value considering the length and content.

What to Expect from the Ghosts of New Orleans Tour

This tour is designed to explore the haunted side of the French Quarter after dark. It kicks off at a central location on Royal Street, where you’ll gather with a small group—typically limited to nine people—making it easier to hear your guide and ask questions. The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes, giving you enough time to soak in the spooky stories without it feeling like a marathon.

Your guide will take you through major landmarks like Jackson Square, telling tales about the ghostly legends and historic crimes tied to the area. You’ll learn about haunted hotels and restaurants that you might even consider visiting later in your trip. The highlight for many is a visit to the infamous LaLaurie Mansion, where the story is as chilling as the ghost stories. It’s important to note that the tour stops outside these buildings, so don’t expect to go inside or tour any haunted locations.

The stories cover a mix of legends, crimes, and ghost sightings, many of which are well-loved by visitors. One reviewer mentioned the guide “did involve quite a bit of walking but several breaks were provided,” making it manageable even for those who aren’t super athletic. Many appreciate the storytelling style, which keeps the history lively and engaging rather than dry.

The LaLaurie Mansion and Jackson Square

A major reason many choose this tour is the chance to visit LaLaurie Mansion. Its sinister history, intertwined with ghost stories, makes it a must-see for horror fans. The guide shares the full story behind this house, which adds context and depth to the visit. It’s a quick stop, about 15 minutes, but enough to pique your curiosity and give you a sense of the city’s darker past.

Jackson Square, another stop, is one of the most iconic parts of the French Quarter. While it’s famous for its art vendors and lively atmosphere during the day, after dark, it takes on a more mysterious vibe. The guide shares tales about hauntings and ghostly sightings associated with the square, which many find adds an eerie charm to the area.

From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Lisa and Louis are often praised for their storytelling skills. People mention her “great historical information” and “funny, engaging” style, which makes the stories memorable. One reviewer even called Louis “amazing,” noting how he found cover during rain without missing a beat—an example of the kind of personable guide you might encounter.

The Walking Experience and Group Size

This is a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are a must. The route is designed to cover the most haunted spots while keeping walking manageable. One review mentions “quite a bit of walking,” but with several breaks, so it’s suitable for most visitors with average stamina. The limited group size—no more than nine travelers—means you get more personalized attention from your guide.

The tour’s duration, about 1 hour 30 minutes, hits a sweet spot. It’s long enough to tell compelling stories and visit key landmarks, but not so long that it drags. If you’re someone who enjoys a good ghost story without dedicating an entire evening, this could be perfect.

The Value of the Experience

At $24.99 per person, this tour is priced competitively, especially considering the length, the intimate group size, and the stories shared. With numerous five-star reviews praising guides like Lisa and Louis, the experience feels worth the price. Many mention how the stories are “informative and spooky,” and how the guides “answered questions and made it fun.”

A couple of reviews, however, point out that the tour isn’t what some expected—more of a history walk with ghost stories than inside-access to haunted locations. If your idea of a ghost tour involves visiting haunted buildings or participating in paranormal investigations, you might find this tour a bit tame. But if you enjoy hearing legends while walking through historic streets, you’ll likely find this compelling.

What’s Not So Great?

While most reviews are glowing, there are some criticisms worth noting. One traveler mentioned that their guide’s accent made it hard to understand her, which impacted their overall experience. Another pointed out that it’s mostly outside stops, so those expecting to explore haunted interiors may be disappointed. Plus, the tour doesn’t include any extras like water or fans, so walking in heat or rain might be uncomfortable if unprepared.

Price-wise, it’s a good value for a 90-minute tour, but keep in mind that it’s mostly storytelling outside historic buildings. If your main interest is inside haunted sites, you might want to look elsewhere.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Ghosts of New Orleans Tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy spooky stories, historical landmarks, and walking tours. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate a personal touch with small group sizes. History buffs who enjoy ghost legends will find plenty to love, especially with a guide who’s skilled at storytelling.

It’s accessible for most, but if you’re sensitive to walking or noise, be prepared. It’s not a tour for those expecting to go inside haunted locations or those looking for a fully immersive paranormal experience. Perfect for a quick evening adventure, it offers a fun, atmospheric way to see some of the city’s most haunted spots without fuss or complication.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is generally all-ages. However, since stories can be spooky or intense, parental discretion is advised.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, covering several landmarks and stories around the French Quarter.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 9 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal and engaging.

Is the tour outside or inside buildings?
Mostly outside stops. You’ll see the exterior of landmarks like LaLaurie Mansion but won’t go inside.

Do I need to bring anything?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially since there’s walking involved. No mention of needing to bring water or fans.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. No refunds within 24 hours of booking.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted.

Is this tour available on Mardi Gras Day?
Yes, it was the only French Quarter tour available on Mardi Gras Day, according to reviews.

Will I learn detailed history or just legends?
Expect a blend, but many reviewers say it leans more toward ghost stories and legends than detailed history.

Can I expect to see haunted locations?
You’ll see the exteriors of haunted sites and hear their stories, but no interior access is included.

If you’re after a well-priced, atmospheric walk through the haunted French Quarter with engaging storytelling, the Ghosts of New Orleans Tour offers a fun way to experience some of the city’s darker tales. Perfect for those who love legends, authentic guides, and iconic landmarks—just keep your expectations in check if interior access and heavy historical detail are what you seek.