Unsolved Mysteries of New Orleans

If you’re thinking about adding a ghostly twist to your New Orleans adventure, the Unsolved Mysteries of New Orleans tour might catch your eye. This guided walk promises to uncover some of the city’s most infamous legends, from voodoo queens to Civil War spirits, all while you stroll through the shadowed streets of the French Quarter. While it’s a popular choice (bookings are often made 167 days in advance), it’s worth knowing what to expect before you commit.

What drew us in are a couple of standout features: first, the professional guide who shares stories that mix legend with history, making the experience engaging rather than just spooky fluff. Second, the inclusion of paranormal detection equipment adds a fun, interactive element that can spark curiosity for anyone into paranormal stuff. The tour is relatively affordable at $35 per person, making it accessible for most travelers wanting a taste of the city’s darker side.

That said, a potential snag is the mixed reviews — while some visitors loved the storytelling and atmosphere, others had issues, particularly with organization and guide reliability. One guest even mentioned being “ghosted” at the start, which isn’t ideal when you’re eager to explore. So, if you’re someone who values a well-run, dependable experience, this might be a risk. Still, if you’re a fan of ghost stories, legend, and a lively, spirited walk, this tour could be right up your alley.

This experience suits adventurers who enjoy storytelling and ghost lore but also appreciate a good value and are okay with the unpredictability that sometimes comes with small group or themed tours. It’s less about high-end luxury and more about feeling the pulse of New Orleans’ mysterious past.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $35, it offers a budget-friendly way to explore the spooky side of New Orleans.
• Interactive Element: Use of paranormal detection equipment makes it more engaging than just listening to stories.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Many guests praise the guides’ expertise and storytelling skills.
• Dark, Iconic Sites: Stops include the LaLaurie Mansion, Beauregard-Keyes House, and St. Louis Cathedral, all steeped in legends.
• Timing & Duration: The tour lasts approximately 1 to 2 hours, making it a compact but immersive experience.
• Mixed Reviews: While some loved it, others experienced issues like guide no-shows or disorganized start points.

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

This walking tour starts in the heart of the French Quarter, specifically at 941 Bourbon Street — a spot famous in itself for its lively nightlife but also, in this case, for its dark history. The tour takes you through some of the neighborhood’s most haunted and storied streets at night, which really amplifies the spooky vibe.

Stop 1: French Quarter

Here, the guide takes you through the eerie, dimly lit streets, sharing stories of Marie Laveau, the legendary Voodoo Queen of New Orleans, whose influence still echoes in local practices and beliefs. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of Pere Dagobert’s apparition at the St. Louis Cathedral — a site that’s reputedly haunted by spirits from the Civil War era as well.

The tour emphasizes the dark side of New Orleans’ history, including the macabre tale of the Sultan’s Palace, a mansion with a story of murder and massacre. It’s an area that invites curiosity and a bit of shiver-inducing wonder.

Stop 2: Madame LaLaurie Mansion & Civil War Spirits

Next, the group visits the infamous LaLaurie Mansion, often ranked as one of the most haunted houses in the city. The stories around this place involve torture and tragedy, which give it a very sinister aura. Visitors often remark on the chilling stories, and it’s a highlight for those into haunted history.

The tour then proceeds to Beauregard-Keyes House, a historic site once home to a Confederate general. The guide shares tales of Civil War spirits and ghostly sightings, which many find fascinating. It’s a good reminder of how layered New Orleans’ past really is — full of compelling legends and apparitions.

Paranormal Equipment & Bars

Adding to the fun, the tour includes the use of EMF meters — devices designed to detect paranormal activity. This interactive element makes the experience more than just storytelling; it’s a chance to feel like part of a ghost-hunting adventure.

Guests are also allowed to stop at bars along the route, purchase drinks to-go, and continue the exploration in a relaxed setting. This flexibility can add a casual, social element to the tour, especially if you’re traveling with friends or want to unwind after some spooky stories.

What to Expect from the Experience

While the description sounds thrilling, it’s important to note the practical aspects. The tour is a walk, so comfortable shoes and a willingness to explore uneven, sometimes old streets are necessary. The pace is moderate, but you should be prepared for a 1-2 hour walk that might extend if you linger at certain sites or if bars are busy.

The group size can be quite large (up to 999 people, in theory), but in practice, it’s usually smaller. Still, the experience can feel a bit chaotic if there are many participants and some delays. One reviewer mentioned arriving early and waiting over 45 minutes without guidance — a reminder to double-check your reservation and arrive promptly.

The paranormal equipment is a neat addition, but be aware that there’s a $250 fee for lost or damaged gear. Remember, the equipment must be checked out and returned before you leave, so keep an eye on it.

Customer feedback

The two reviews paint a contrasting picture. One reviewer “[was] totally ghosted,” arriving early and waiting without guidance, which is frustrating. Conversely, another mentions a “very knowledgeable guide” who provided a fun, engaging experience with lots of laughs—highlighting the importance of good guide management.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $35, this tour is quite reasonable for a themed, guided walk through some of New Orleans’ most haunted sites. The inclusion of paranormal detection tools offers an added layer of interaction that many ghost tours lack at this price point. However, the value depends heavily on how well the guide executes the storytelling and organization.

If you’re looking for authentic stories, atmospheric sites, and a chance to feel the city’s ghostly presence, this tour can deliver. But if you’re particular about punctuality and guide reliability, be prepared for the possibility of some hiccups.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for mystery and ghost story enthusiasts who enjoy a walk through history with a spooky twist. It’s also good for travelers who want to experience the French Quarter at night, in a small group, with a focus on legends and legends-based equipment. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner who loves a bit of supernatural fun, this could be a memorable part of your trip.

However, those seeking a more polished, highly organized experience might want to consider other options or look for tours with more consistent reviews. Also, keep in mind that the tour doesn’t guarantee paranormal activity, so if your expectations are centered on guaranteed ghost sightings, it’s worth setting your sights more on storytelling and atmosphere.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth Your Time?

For curious travelers who enjoy listening to ghostly tales and exploring haunted spots, this tour offers a good mix of history, legend, and interactive fun. The knowledgeable guides, combined with the chance to use paranormal equipment, make it appealing for those interested in the supernatural. Plus, the affordable price means you can experience a slice of New Orleans’ dark side without breaking the bank.

If you’re okay with the possibility of logistical hiccups or less-than-perfect organization, this tour can be a fun, atmospheric way to spend an evening. It’s especially suited for those who love a good story and aren’t overly concerned about whether you see a ghost or not.

However, if you’re a traveler who prefers seamless experiences or has high expectations for guide professionalism, you might want to read reviews carefully or consider other options. Always arrive early, be patient, and treat it as an atmospheric storytelling outing rather than a guaranteed supernatural encounter.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves walking through historic sites and stories of dark history, which might be intense for young children. It’s not explicitly family-friendly, so use your judgment based on your kids’ interests and sensitivities.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 to 2 hours, depending on the group size and how long you spend at each stop.

Can I purchase drinks along the route?
Yes, guests can stop at bars to buy drinks to-go before moving on to the next location, adding a casual vibe to the experience.

What’s included in the price?
A professional guide and the use of paranormal detection equipment are included. Be aware there’s a $250 fee for lost or damaged gear.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Tours are rain-or-shine, so dress accordingly. In inclement weather, the experience still goes on, but be prepared for the elements.

What if I arrive late?
Late arrivals won’t be refunded and might miss the tour entirely, so it’s best to arrive a few minutes early and check in as instructed.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Based on reviews, guides are generally well-informed and engaging, though organizational hiccups have been noted by some guests.

Can I record during the tour?
Video and audio recordings are not allowed, but you are encouraged to take photos of the sites and paranormal equipment.

In the end, this tour offers a lively, atmospheric peek into New Orleans’ haunted past, perfect for those who love stories and a bit of supernatural fun. Just keep in mind the mixed reviews and organizational quirks, and you’ll have a memorable evening exploring the city’s dark corners.