New Orleans Ghost Tour: Only Tour to Go Inside Real Haunted House

Exploring the Haunted Heart of New Orleans: The Ghost Tour That Goes Inside a Haunted House

Imagine wandering through the narrow, lantern-lit streets of the French Quarter at dusk, feeling the thrill of ghost stories, and then stepping inside a genuine haunted house—not just hearing about it from afar, but actually going inside. That’s exactly what this New Orleans Ghost Tour offers. For just under $30, you get approximately two hours of walking and storytelling, led by a local historian with at least a bachelor’s degree in history, who’s eager to share both the spooky and the factual.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s the only tour in town that actually enters a haunted location—the Place d’Armes Hotel courtyard—giving you a rare, up-close look that most ghost tours only whisper about from the street. Second, the guides are highly praised for their knowledge and storytelling skills—many reviewers mention guides like Leah, Orion, Wesley, or Gomez, who bring history alive with passion and wit.

A potential downside? The tour involves some walking and standing, and it’s not suited for young children or those with mobility issues. Also, the tour is intense and can be a bit shocking in places, which might not be suitable for everyone. But if you’re fascinated by authentic history and ghostly legends, this experience is perfect for those who seek genuine stories, not just cheesy theatrics.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, or travelers who want a more authentic and educational experience of New Orleans’ haunted lore. It suits curious adults eager to learn the truth behind the tales while getting inside access to some of the city’s most notorious haunted sites.

Key Points

• Authentic Access: The only ghost tour that takes you inside a real haunted building—the Place d’Armes Hotel courtyard.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides are well-educated in history and storytelling, making the tales both credible and engaging.
• Historical Focus: The tour emphasizes verified history and not theatrics, appealing to those who want facts with their frights.
• Rich Stops: Includes well-known sites like Jackson Square, Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, and the iconic Lalaurie Mansion.
• Walking Tour: About 2 miles of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must.
• Group Size & Flexibility: Limited to 28 travelers, allowing for a more intimate experience, with the chance to ask questions.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

The Starting Point and Atmosphere

The tour begins at the central meeting spot on Decatur Street, right in the heart of the French Quarter, making it convenient for most travelers. Expect to gather around 15 minutes early, ready to embark on a twice-around-the-block stroll filled with stories. The French Quarter’s enchanting yet eerie vibe sets the perfect mood from the start, with cobblestone streets and old architecture adding to the atmosphere.

Jackson Square: The Historic Heart

Your adventure kicks off at Jackson Square, a hub of local artists, street performers, and history. Walking through this area, you’ll get a quick but vivid introduction to the area’s past, setting the scene for the darker tales ahead. The five-minute walkthrough (admission free) offers a taste of the ambiance that’s filled with ghosts of the past.

Haunted Buildings and Tales of Murder

As you wander through the French Quarter, the guides share verified stories of murder and hauntings linked to the buildings you pass. The approach here is straightforward: actual history backed by research, not ghostly hype. The guides often mention specific stories associated with landmarks, enhancing your understanding of the local lore. For example, the Lalaurie Mansion is a highlight—famous for its gruesome history and rumored spirits. Many visitors enjoy trying to capture spirits on film, adding a fun, personal element to the visit.

Inside a Haunted Courtyard

The most exclusive part of this tour? You get to step inside the courtyard of the Place d’Armes Hotel, the only haunted courtyard accessible during a ghost tour in New Orleans. This 15-minute visit (included in the price) is a rare opportunity to experience what many ghost enthusiasts crave—the chance to stand in a space reputed to be haunted, with stories to match. The hotel’s sinister reputation is part of the city’s legend, and being able to see it up close makes this tour truly unique.

The Iconic Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar

Next, you’ll stop at Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, one of New Orleans’ most famous haunted bars. Many reviews mention how the bar’s history adds to the experience, and some like to grab a drink and soak in the atmosphere—though beverages are not included in the tour. The bar’s dark, rustic charm is the perfect setting for more ghost stories, with the added bonus of being able to relax for a moment in a building that’s reputed to be haunted.

The Pharmacy Museum and Voodoo Insights

The tour also takes in the Pharmacy Museum, where you’ll learn about Voodoo and local spiritual practices, adding depth to the haunted lore. This insight into voodoo’s role in New Orleans’ spiritual landscape helps visitors understand the complex layers of the city’s supernatural stories.

The Haunted Mansion: LaLaurie House

The Lalaurie Mansion is a must-see. Visitors often try to capture spirits on camera, and the guides provide insights into the mansion’s dark history of cruelty and ghostly sightings. The mansion’s imposing façade is impressive, and many travelers mention how the stories, combined with the chance to photograph the site, make for memorable moments.

The End of the Tour

The tour concludes back at the starting point, giving you a chance to reflect on the spooky stories and perhaps head out for a nightcap or explore more of the French Quarter’s nightlife. The roughly two-mile walk is manageable and ensures you see a good cross-section of the city’s haunted hotspots.

Authenticity Meets Entertainment: What You Really Get

We loved the fact-based approach of this tour. Unlike other ghost walks that lean heavily on theatrics and fake scares, this experience emphasizes verifiable history and real ghost stories. The guides’ academic backgrounds (at least a Bachelor’s in history, according to reviews) mean you’re getting credible stories grounded in research, making the experience both educational and thrilling.

The inside access to the haunted courtyard is a rare treat, providing an authentic brush with the supernatural that most other tours can’t match. The stops at notorious haunted sites like Lafitte’s and the Lalaurie Mansion are memorable highlights, especially for photography enthusiasts eager to capture spirit orbs or ghostly apparitions.

The Guides: The Heart of the Experience

Multiple reviews rave about guides like Orion, Leah, Wesley, and Gomez, who are seen as passionate storytellers with a knack for making history come alive. Their ability to blend factual information with engaging narratives keeps the group captivated. Many mention how guides tailor stories for different audiences, making the tour accessible whether you’re a history buff or a casual ghost enthusiast.

Why the Price is Justified

At $29.60, the tour offers value for money, especially considering the inside access and the quality of storytelling. You’re not just paying for a walk; you’re paying for a rich, authentic narrative experience backed by research, and the memorable moments of being inside a haunted location that others only hear about.

Considerations: What to Keep in Mind

The tour involves walking and standing for about two hours, so comfortable shoes are a must. It’s not suitable for young children or people with mobility issues due to some of the locations and the walking distance. Also, the stories can be quite intense, sometimes shocking, so it’s best for adults or older teenagers who can handle spooky tales.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This ghost tour is perfect for adults and older teens who are genuinely curious about New Orleans’ haunted reputation and want to learn the truth behind the legends. It’s especially suited for those who relish historical details and authentic stories over cheesy theatrics. Ghost hunters, history buffs, or anyone looking for a meaningful, well-researched spooky experience will find this tour both satisfying and memorable.

Final Thoughts

For anyone visiting New Orleans, especially those with an interest in history, architecture, or ghost stories, this tour hits a sweet spot. The inside access to a haunted courtyard, combined with knowledgeable guides and verifiable stories, ensures you’ll leave with a richer understanding of the city’s dark side. It’s a value-packed experience that balances spooky fun with educational depth.

While it may not be the right choice for families with small children or those seeking light-hearted entertainment, it’s an excellent pick for adults eager to explore the haunted lore with a serious edge. If you enjoy authentic stories and a chance to glimpse the supernatural firsthand, this ghost tour will definitely make your trip to New Orleans more memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is parking available near the meeting point?
Limited parking is available near the tour’s starting location, but since the meeting point is in the heart of the French Quarter, it’s best to consider walking, public transportation, or ride-sharing for convenience.

Can I use public transportation to arrive at the tour?
Yes, public transit options are nearby, making it easy to reach the starting point without hassle.

How early should I arrive?
Arriving at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time ensures you won’t miss the beginning and can settle in comfortably.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since the stories can be intense and some content may be shocking, it’s not kid-friendly. Parental discretion is advised.

How strenuous is the tour?
It involves about two miles of walking, but it’s generally manageable for most able-bodied travelers.

Are the locations wheelchair accessible?
Due to some of the sites visited, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and layered clothing are recommended, especially since weather can vary.

Does the tour include cemetery visits?
No, the tour mentions some cemeteries but doesn’t visit them, focusing instead on haunted buildings and sites.

Are drinks included at the bar stop?
No, drinks aren’t included, but you can purchase beverages at Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly. If canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

With its blend of authentic haunted sites, engaging storytelling, and inside access, this New Orleans Ghost Tour stands out as a compelling way to explore the city’s spooky side—and learn its real stories. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, it’s sure to add a hauntingly memorable chapter to your New Orleans adventure.