French Quarter True Crime Walking Tour

Experience the darker side of New Orleans with the French Quarter True Crime Walking Tour. For just $30 per person, you’ll spend around two hours exploring one of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods while hearing stories of murder, disappearance, and misdeeds that have left a mark on the city’s history. Led by passionate guides, this tour takes you off the typical tourist path and into the shadowy corners of the French Quarter, revealing stories many travelers miss.

What we love about this experience is the carefully researched stories—some of which have appeared on crime shows—and the personalized feel when touring with guides who are eager to share their knowledge. The tour’s interactive storytelling keeps everyone engaged, and the walking pace is manageable even for those unfamiliar with the area. A second highlight is the unique perspective it offers on New Orleans’ history, blending true crime with local lore and architecture.

One potential consideration is that the tour includes disturbing material—it’s not suited for small children or anyone sensitive to gruesome details. Also, since the stories are carefully selected to fit into the two-hour window, some guests might find they wish for more depth or more stories.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, true crime enthusiasts, or travelers eager to see a different, spookier side of the French Quarter. If you’re interested in stories that go beyond the usual ghost tales, and appreciate guides who bring authenticity and vivid storytelling, this walk offers a compelling way to spend part of your New Orleans visit.

Key Points

• Authentic stories based on thorough research, some featured on crime TV shows
• Engaging guides who are passionate and knowledgeable about local crime history
• Manageable two-hour walk with a short break to rest or refresh
• Focused on true crime stories, some of which are quite gruesome, so suitable for mature audiences
• Ideal for curious travelers seeking a different perspective on the French Quarter
• Affordable at $30, offering excellent value for a mix of history, storytelling, and local culture

An In-Depth Look at the French Quarter True Crime Walking Tour

If you’re looking to add a bit of mystery and intrigue to your New Orleans adventure, this French Quarter True Crime Walking Tour might just be the highlight. Combining authentic stories with a walk through the historic streets, it offers a different lens on the city’s vibrant culture. The tour lasts about two hours and covers several crime-related sites in the French Quarter, starting at the Vampire Apothecary Restaurant & Bar on St. Peter Street.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Hear

This tour is centered around locations in the French Quarter associated with infamous crimes and mysterious disappearances. The guide’s storytelling is rooted in facts, with some stories so compelling they’ve gained notoriety on popular crime TV shows. While specific stops aren’t listed in great detail, the stories are curated to highlight the darker, spooky side of New Orleans—think unsolved murders, kidnappings, and lesser-known misdeeds.

The tour ends back at the starting point, making it a convenient option if you’re staying nearby or plan to explore more of the Quarter afterward. Each stop offers a glimpse into the city’s complex history with crime, blending architectural details with tales of misdeeds that have been buried or overlooked over the years.

The Guides: Knowledgeable and Engaging

Guests frequently praise the guides’ expertise and engaging storytelling. Virginia, in her glowing review, mentions her guide’s “super informative and engaging” style—covering many stops at a good pace. Another guest, Tara, appreciated having a retired police officer as a guide, whose “knowledge” added depth to the stories. The guides are described as charismatic, animated, and willing to answer questions, making the experience feel personalized and authentic.

What Makes This Tour Special?

One aspect many reviews highlight is the balance of history and storytelling. The guide’s thorough research ensures the tales are accurate, and some stories are so captivating that they’ve been retold on television. The stories are not overly sensationalized but are presented with enough detail to send a chill down your spine. For example, Robbin R describes the tour as “exciting,” especially the story behind Cafe Du Monde, which adds a local flavor.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

As you walk through the streets, expect to hear gory, mysterious, and sometimes unbelievable stories. The tour does include a short mid-point break—some guests find this helpful to refresh or use the restroom, even if it may seem unnecessary for a two-hour walk. The group size is limited to 28, ensuring a more intimate experience, and service animals are allowed.

Guests consistently mention the entertaining narration and the “dramatic effect” guides use to bring stories to life. Michelle T notes how the guide “told stories really well, with a lot of dramatic effect and comedy,” making it a memorable night for the group.

The Price and Its Value

At $30, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the depth of storytelling and the personal attention from guides. Compared to other paid experiences in New Orleans, this walking tour is budget-friendly and provides a unique, immersive experience that’s hard to find elsewhere. Travelers seem to feel that the stories and guide’s charisma justify the cost, making it an excellent addition to your itinerary.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adults and teens over 13 who are comfortable with potentially disturbing content. It’s ideal for those who enjoy true crime stories, history, and local lore. If you’re a fan of storytelling that mixes factual details with a dash of drama, you’ll find this tour rewarding. Families with older children might enjoy it, but younger kids or the faint of heart should pass due to the nature of some stories.

Final Thoughts

The French Quarter True Crime Walking Tour is a compelling way to explore New Orleans from a different angle. It combines authentic, well-researched stories with a lively, personable guide, making it more than just a stroll through historic streets. For just $30, you get an experience packed with intrigue, local legends, and a bit of the city’s darker side—perfect for those who want to see beyond the music, food, and celebrations.

While it’s not suitable for children or those sensitive to graphic crime details, it offers a unique perspective that many will find fascinating. The stories stay with you long after the walk ends, and the guide’s charisma makes the experience both fun and educational. Whether you’re a true crime fanatic or just curious about the city’s hidden tales, this tour is a worthwhile addition to your New Orleans trip.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, this tour is not recommended for small children or the faint of heart due to the disturbing nature of some stories. You must be at least 13 years old to participate.

How long does the tour last?
The walking tour lasts approximately 2 hours, including a short break, and covers various crime-related sites in the French Quarter.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Vampire Apothecary Restaurant & Bar at 725 St Peter and ends back at the same location, making it convenient to access.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 28 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and engaging experience.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking. Bring a water bottle if you like, and be prepared for potentially spooky or grisly stories.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

Is there a specific guide I might get?
While the reviews praise guides like Drew and Soren, the specific guide you’ll have can vary. They are all well-versed and enthusiastic about sharing their knowledge.

In summary, if you’re drawn to stories of crime and mystery, want to learn about the hidden side of the French Quarter, and enjoy engaging storytelling, this tour offers a memorable, authentic experience. It’s a perfect way to add some suspense and local flavor to your New Orleans trip without breaking the bank.