New Orleans: Cemetery Bus Tour At Dark with Exclusive Access

Discover the Dark Side of New Orleans with a Cemetery Bus Tour at Night

This 2-hour guided bus tour in New Orleans takes you into the city’s most haunted cemeteries, including exclusive access to a private cemetery owned by a secret society. For $56 per person, you’ll explore 2-3 cemeteries, learn how to use EMF readers to hunt for paranormal activity, and listen to ghost stories that keep the spine tingling. The tour departs from the heart of the French Quarter, where you can grab a drink beforehand, setting the perfect mood for an evening of spooky exploration.

What we particularly like about this experience is the combination of history and paranormal investigation. The guides are clearly passionate and knowledgeable, offering insights both into the traditions of burial customs in New Orleans and the city’s haunted legends. Plus, the exclusive access into a cemetery owned by a secret society elevates this tour above many others. A second highlight is the use of EMF readers, which adds a fun, interactive element to the experience, giving you a glimpse into the world of ghost hunting.

One aspect to consider is the length of the tour—at just two hours, it’s a quick peek into the city’s dark side. If you’re really into ghost stories or cemetery history, you might find yourself wishing for a longer exploration. Also, since children under 10 are not recommended, it’s better suited for adult audiences or older teens interested in the spooky side of New Orleans.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy history with a paranormal twist, those curious about New Orleans’ burial customs, or anyone wanting an authentic, nighttime experience with a little thrill. If you’re looking for a well-reviewed, fun, and slightly spooky activity, this tour delivers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Exclusive Access: Only company allowed into a private cemetery owned by a secret society.
• Interactive Elements: Learn how to use EMF readers to hunt for paranormal activity.
• Rich Stories: Hear ghost tales and personal paranormal experiences from guides.
• Historical Depth: Explore cemeteries linked to Hurricane Katrina and the yellow fever pandemic.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Nighttime visits make the experience more atmospheric and eerie.
• Great Value: All-inclusive price with transportation, guides, and equipment.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Meeting and Pre-Tour Atmosphere

We start the evening in the lively French Quarter, outside a tour booth next to Bon’s New Orleans Street Food. There’s a relaxed vibe as you choose to enjoy a beer or cocktail before hopping onto the bus. This pre-tour setup offers a chance to settle in and get a sense of the city’s vibrant yet mysterious character—a perfect start to your nocturnal adventure.

The Transportation and Group Size

The tour is conducted on a comfortable bus driven by experienced guides who prioritize safety and a smooth ride. With reviews praising the driver’s skill and professionalism, you can relax during the short rides between cemeteries. The group size tends to be manageable, allowing for a more personal experience. Many reviews highlight guides who are engaging without being overwhelming, and their enthusiasm is contagious.

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Exploring the Cemeteries

You will visit 2-3 cemeteries during the tour, each with its unique story and atmosphere. For example, the Charity Hospital Cemetery and the Hurricane Katrina Memorial Cemetery are notable for their historical significance. The exclusion of daytime visitors makes nighttime visits especially atmospheric—darkness and silence amplify the sense of mystery.

One of the standout stops is an above-ground cemetery that the tour has exclusive access to—an uncommon privilege that adds a layer of intrigue. The cemeteries are beautifully eerie at night, with weathered mausoleums casting long shadows, and the dark sky overhead giving a real sense of stepping into another world.

Paranormal Investigation and Stories

Your guide, often praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling, will teach you how to use EMF readers—hand-held devices designed to detect electromagnetic fields that some believe are linked to paranormal activity. Many reviews mention documented evidence of the unexplained that the guides share, making for an immersive experience.

The stories shared during the tour range from personal ghost encounters to legends of haunted spirits, many of which are rooted in local history. For instance, some reviews mention that the guides are animated and passionate—making the tales more compelling and memorable. A few even report seeing or sensing paranormal phenomena, although, of course, results vary.

The Exclusive Cemetery

The private cemetery owned by a secret society is a major highlight. This part of the tour offers a rare window into New Orleans’ secretive burial customs and adds a layer of exclusivity that elevates the experience. Many reviewers emphasize how special it was to step into a cemetery few visitors get to see, often mentioned as a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity.

Visiting Sites of Historical Tragedy

The tour also pays homage to Hurricane Katrina victims and cemeteries linked to the yellow fever pandemic. These stops serve as poignant reminders of the city’s turbulent past and help put the ghost stories into context. Visitors often find these parts especially moving and worth the visit.

Why the Tour Stands Out

A key reason this tour garners high praise is the blend of education and entertainment. The guides don’t just scare you; they share stories and facts that deepen your understanding of New Orleans’ unique burial traditions and haunted reputation. Many reviews describe guides as personable, humorous, and incredibly knowledgeable, which keeps the atmosphere lively even as the stories turn spooky.

Analyzing the Value and Suitability

At $56, this tour offers solid value considering the exclusive access, use of paranormal equipment, and expert storytelling. The price includes transportation, entry to several cemeteries, and the EMF readers, making it a comprehensive package. The fact that most reviewers rate it around 4.6 out of 5 stars underscores its quality.

However, it’s also worth noting that the tour is just two hours long. For those truly obsessed with ghost lore or cemetery history, this might feel like a quick teaser rather than an exhaustive exploration. Also, the strict age restriction means it’s not suitable for young children.

This experience works best for adults or older teens who enjoy history, ghost stories, or paranormal investigations. It’s especially appealing if you want a spooky, atmospheric activity that combines storytelling with a touch of adventure.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for a unique, nighttime glimpse into New Orleans’ haunted past, this tour offers a lively yet respectful way to explore. The guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm make it more than just a scare; it’s a storytelling experience that leaves you with a deeper appreciation of the city’s burial traditions and ghost legends. The exclusive access to a secret society cemetery is a rare perk, making it particularly appealing for those interested in hidden histories.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, paranormal enthusiasts, and curious travelers who want an evening activity that’s both fun and meaningful. It’s also a good fit if you want to combine a drink or two in the French Quarter before heading into a spooky night adventure.

If you’re after an atmospheric, well-reviewed ghost tour that balances history, mystery, and interactive fun, this experience in New Orleans won’t disappoint.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, children under 10 are not recommended, mainly because of the dark and spooky nature of the experience.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, including travel time between cemeteries.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable, weather-appropriate clothes. Since it’s at night, consider layering and possibly sturdy shoes for walking around cemeteries.

Can I buy alcohol during the tour?
Alcoholic drinks are not included but are available to purchase at check-in, so you can enjoy a drink beforehand.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the bus ride, guides, visits to 2-3 cemeteries, and the EMF readers used during the tour.

Is the tour conducted in English?
Yes, the live tour guide speaks English, and the tour is designed for English-speaking visitors.

In short, this Cemetery Bus Tour at Night offers a compelling mix of history, haunted tales, and paranormal fun. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, the experience provides a memorable way to see and understand the darker side of New Orleans’s unique culture.

You can check availability for your dates here: