Ghosts of New Orleans: Self-Guided Haunted Audio Walking Tour

Short Introduction

If you’re drawn to the dark, mysterious side of New Orleans, the Ghosts of New Orleans: Self-Guided Haunted Audio Walking Tour offers an affordable and flexible way to explore some of the city’s most haunted spots. For just $6.75 per person, you get a self-paced adventure lasting around an hour to 75 minutes, perfect for those who enjoy spooky stories alongside their sightseeing. The tour kicks off at the infamous Lalaurie Mansion and winds through the historic French Quarter, ending near a jazz bar with a secret vampire speakeasy.

What we love most about this experience is its flexibility — you can start when you like, pause whenever you wish, and explore the vibrant streets at your pace. Plus, since it’s entirely based on your smartphone, it’s a no-hassle way to enjoy ghostly tales without the crowds or fixed schedules. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that some users find the app interface challenging, and the outside-only visits mean no inside tours of these historic sites.

This tour is ideal for curious travelers who prefer an independent experience over guided groups, especially those interested in haunted legends, vampire lore, and New Orleans’ spooky history. If you enjoy self-guided adventures with a bit of storytelling flair, you’ll likely find this tour hits the right notes.

Key Points

• Affordable and flexible: Costs only $6.75 and can be taken anytime, anywhere.
• Self-paced exploration: Walk at your own speed, pause, or start whenever it suits you.
• Historic sites outside only: No inside visits, but plenty of exterior stories and legends.
• Engaging narration: A lively voiceover enhances the ghostly tales.
• Wide site selection: From mansions to alleys, a diverse look at the haunted French Quarter.
• Mixed reviews: Some love the stories, others find the app interface tricky.

The Experience in Detail

The Ghosts of New Orleans tour is designed for the independent traveler who wants to explore the French Quarter’s haunted corners without the constraints of a guided group. Starting at the LaLaurie Mansion, you’ll hear about the dark past of this notorious house, infamous for its tragic history and rumored hauntings. The narration is straightforward and atmospheric, though some users report that the tour’s tone can be somewhat monotone, which might impact engagement for some.

Next, your route takes you past the Old Ursuline Convent, where legend has it the Casket Girls arrived with vampire companions, adding a layer of supernatural intrigue. The tour then moves on to a former Civil War hospital, with stories of wounded soldiers still seen wandering the halls after death. As you stroll, you’re only encouraged to view each site from the outside; no inside access is available, which keeps the pace relaxed but might leave some wanting more in-depth exploration.

Among the highlights are the Andrew Jackson Hotel, said to be haunted by those who died of malaria, and Madame John’s Legacy, one of the last wooden structures remaining in the city, shrouded in ghostly tales. The stories of Muriel’s Jackson Square and Place d’Armes Hotel continue the haunted theme, blending historical facts with spooky legends. The tour then takes you to Pere Antoine Alley and Pirates Alley, where legendary figures like Jean Laffite once bargained and fought, adding a pirate flavor to the ghostly tales.

Some of the most engaging stories come from the Pat O’Brien’s bar and Fritzel’s European Jazz Bar, where ghost stories blend with lively nightlife. The secret Vampire Speak Easy at the end offers an extra thrill for those lucky enough to have gathered the secret password earlier in the tour — a fun, thematic touch that adds to the experience.

What the Reviews Say

Many users appreciate the value and freedom this tour offers. One reviewer mentions, “It’s excellent to go at your own pace, stop when you like, and enjoy the city in my own way.” Others, like Georgia, say, “It was such a fun way to see the city; I felt like I was on a guided tour but without the crowds or high costs.” The ability to pause, explore local shops, and avoid large groups is frequently praised.

However, some reviews highlight issues. A minority found the app interface confusing, with one saying, “The link disappeared, and I couldn’t access the tour.” Others criticized the lack of inside visits, which might disappoint those expecting more immersive experiences, especially at sites like the LaLaurie Mansion or the Old Ursuline Convent.

Practicalities and Use

Since the entire tour is delivered via smartphone, there’s no need for physical tickets or on-site pickup — simply download the WalknTours app, purchase the tour, and you’re ready. The tour starts conveniently at the LaLaurie Mansion and ends at Fritzel’s, with the possibility of entering the secret vampire speakeasy if you’ve got the password. It’s available anytime, and you can do it over multiple visits if you wish.

The duration is flexible — most complete it in about an hour to 75 minutes, but you can take longer. The walking distance between sites is manageable, with most sites only a few minutes apart on foot. The audio narration is lively and atmospheric, with some reviews praising the narrator’s tone and storytelling skills, making this a genuinely entertaining experience rather than just a checklist of sights.

Value for Money and Suitability

At just $6.75, this tour delivers excellent value, especially considering you can do it at your convenience and avoid guide fees or crowded bus tours. It’s perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want a mixture of history, legend, and fun stories without breaking the bank.

However, remember that this is a self-guided outdoor tour — if you’re looking for inside visits or a more guided, in-depth experience, this might not be the right fit. It’s best suited for those who enjoy independent exploration, storytelling, and a spooky atmosphere, especially if you’re comfortable navigating the streets with a smartphone.

The Sum Up

The Ghosts of New Orleans self-guided tour offers an affordable, flexible way to explore the haunted side of this vibrant city. Its outside-only focus means you’ll get a good sense of the area’s most haunted landmarks and legends without the hassle of guided group tours or entrance fees. The narration adds a layer of atmosphere, making even the exterior stories come alive.

This tour is well-suited for travelers who value independent pacing, cost efficiency, and a fun, spooky vibe. If you’re interested in legends of vampires, haunted mansions, and ghostly soldiers, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. Just be prepared for some minor app quirks and the outside-only approach — it’s a small price for the freedom and flexibility you get.

Overall, it provides a cost-effective way to add a little supernatural spice to your trip, especially if you’re comfortable with self-guided adventures and want to skip large crowds. Whether you’re a ghost hunter or just curious about the city’s darker side, this tour offers a playful, atmospheric, and memorable experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, since it’s an outdoor, self-guided tour with storytelling, it’s suitable for most ages. Just keep in mind that some stories are spooky and may not be appropriate for very young children.

Do I need to download any special app?
Yes, the tour is delivered through the WalknTours app. You’ll need to download it beforehand on your smartphone to access the tour content.

Can I do this tour at night?
Absolutely. Since the tour has no fixed schedule and is available 24/7, you can start it in the evening for a true ghostly experience.

Is inside access to the sites included?
No, the tour only visits the outside of each site. If you want inside visits, you’ll need separate tickets or guided tours.

How long does the tour last?
Most travelers finish in about 1 to 1.25 hours, but you can take longer if you wish to explore shops or pause for breaks.

Can I share this tour with a friend?
Yes, one purchase covers two smartphones, so you and a friend can listen together at no extra cost.

Are there any additional costs?
No, the tour itself is $6.75 per person. It does not include food, drinks, or entrance fees to any sites.

What if I have trouble accessing the tour?
Customer reviews suggest some users faced app issues, but you can contact the support email provided for assistance.

Is this tour good for those interested in vampire stories?
Yes, it includes stories about vampires, especially at the Old Ursuline Convent and the secret vampire speakeasy at the end.

This self-guided ghost tour offers a budget-friendly, flexible way to enjoy some of New Orleans’ most haunted streets. It’s perfect for independent travelers, ghost enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to explore at their own rhythm, all while soaking in the spooky atmosphere of the French Quarter.