French Quarter Haunted Excursion In New Orleans

French Quarter Haunted Excursion in New Orleans: An In-Depth Review

If you’re headed to New Orleans, a city famous for its vibrant culture, historic architecture, and ghostly legends, then a French Quarter haunted tour offers a perfect way to explore the city’s darker, mysterious side. For $35 per person, you’ll spend between 1 to 2 hours walking through 78 blocks of old-world charm, stopping at key sites like Jackson Square and the LaLaurie Mansion, renowned for their spooky tales and centuries-old stories. Led by engaging guides—some reviewers mention Coty, who’s praised for his knowledgeable storytelling—this tour combines history, paranormal stories, and a lively atmosphere.

What we love about this experience are the stops at iconic bars where you can grab a drink to-go, and the use of real paranormal equipment like EMF meters that add a fun, interactive element. We also appreciate that the tour covers more than just ghost stories; it’s a lively stroll through architecture, local legends, and New Orleans’ unique cemeteries. The tour’s flexibility with multiple daily departures makes it easy to fit into most schedules.

One potential drawback is the tour’s social atmosphere, which includes bar stops and group mingling, meaning it might not suit travelers craving a dark, quiet ghost-hunting experience. Also, some reviews mention cancellations or delays, so it’s wise to book well in advance and confirm your spot. This tour appeals most to families, history buffs, and anyone curious about New Orleans’ spooky side—especially those who enjoy lively storytelling combined with cultural insights.

Key Points

• Comprehensive walking experience through the historic French Quarter
• Engaging guides who blend history and ghost stories seamlessly
• Multiple daily departures for flexible planning
• Includes stops at iconic landmarks like Jackson Square and LaLaurie Mansion
• Interactive paranormal equipment adds a fun, authentic touch
• Bar stops for drinks give a relaxed, social vibe
• Cancellations can happen last minute; booking early is recommended

A Closer Look at the French Quarter Haunted Tour

When planning your visit to the French Quarter, a haunted tour like this offers much more than just spooky stories—it’s a chance to walk through one of the oldest neighborhoods in the US while uncovering its hidden secrets. The tour’s two-part format—initially wandering the streets, then exploring historical sites and cemeteries—gives a well-rounded picture of NOLA’s dark side.

Starting Point and Location

Meeting at 941 Bourbon Street, just outside Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, the tour begins in the heart of the French Quarter. This location puts you right in the middle of the lively, historic district, making it easy to combine this with a night out or a visit to nearby attractions. The walkable route covers 78 blocks, providing ample opportunity to soak in the scenery, architecture, and ambiance—especially as the city lights cast a ghostly glow in the evening, if you opt for a nighttime tour.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: The French Quarter
The tour kicks off in the French Quarter, known for its mosaic of Spanish and French influences. You’ll get an introduction to the neighborhood’s long history of pirates, prostitutes, and convicts—all intertwined with the founding of New Orleans. Expect to hear about local customs, legend-filled streets, and some of the city’s most iconic bars. Guests often appreciate the leisurely pace and the opportunity to grab a drink to-go along the way.

Stop 2: Haunted Tales and Paranormal Investigations
This segment delves into the dark side of New Orleans’ history. You’ll learn about unsolved murders, suicides, and stories of real vampires and ghosts roaming the streets. A highlight is the use of a real EMF meter, which adds an interactive element—some guests mention being surprised by the readings, adding credibility and fun to the stories. The guide’s friendly, professional demeanor keeps everyone engaged, even in inclement weather or late hours.

Stop 3: Jackson Square and Historic Landmarks
The final part takes you to Jackson Square, where you’ll see the St. Louis Cathedral, the Presbytere, Ursuline Convent, and the LaLaurie Mansion—famous for being the most haunted house in New Orleans. Here, your guide will explain local burial customs—like above-ground cemeteries—and why tombs are recycled and re-used. You’ll also hear about famous film locations and see homes of Hollywood stars who’ve chosen to settle in this neighborhood.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently cite Coty’s storytelling skills as a highlight, describing him as knowledgeable, fun, and engaging. One reviewer noted that even in the rain, it was worth it because of the guide’s enthusiasm. Others appreciated the mix of history and entertainment, with some saying it was the best part of their trip.

However, a few negative reviews point out cancellations and delays. One reviewer experienced a tour cancellation after the scheduled start time, which emphasizes the importance of booking well ahead and confirming your reservation. Some mention bar stops and bathroom breaks as part of the experience—these add a relaxed, social element but may be less appealing if you’re looking for a strictly ghost-hunting adventure.

How the Tour Works: Logistics and Practicalities

The tour is designed as a moderately paced walk, making it suitable for most travelers in decent health. It’s group size can be large—up to 999 participants—but reviews suggest small group experiences are common, which enhances the storytelling. The price of $35 offers good value, considering the length of the tour, the guides’ expertise, and the access to famous landmarks.

Meeting at the Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop provides a natural starting point, and the tour ends in the heart of the French Quarter—perfect for continuing your exploration or heading to a nearby restaurant or bar. Drinks are not included, but you can purchase beverages along the route, which many guests find adds to the fun.

Group Size and Duration

Tours run multiple times daily, accommodating different schedules. Expect to spend about one to two hours walking at a leisurely pace. Groups typically size up to a large number, but reviews often mention friendly guides who manage the crowd well. The duration is sufficient to cover key landmarks and hear fascinating stories without feeling rushed.

Equipment and Safety

The tour includes paranormal equipment use, like EMF meters, which must be checked out and returned. There’s a $250 fee for lost or damaged equipment, so handle it carefully. Masks are allowed, and the guides take precautions to communicate effectively—especially important given the hearing-impaired guests in some groups.

Authenticity and Value

While the tour is not a guaranteed paranormal experience, it offers a lively, well-researched narrative that combines history, folklore, and local legends. Many reviews highlight the guides’ storytelling abilities and the interesting insights into New Orleans’ culture and architecture.

At $35, this tour provides a lot of value for the money, especially considering the included landmarks, stories, and interactive elements. It’s a great way to get a feel for the city’s **mystical, haunted reputation—without the hefty price tag of private tours or cemetery visits.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families, history and ghost enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys a lively, social atmosphere. If you’re interested in learning about New Orleans’ darker legends while enjoying the city’s stunning architecture and vibrant nightlife, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially good for first-time visitors looking for a comprehensive yet entertaining overview of the French Quarter.

However, if you prefer a quiet, intense ghost hunt or are looking for private, private ghost investigations, this may not be the ideal fit. Also, if timing or cancellations are a concern, be sure to book early and confirm your reservation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children under 18 need to be accompanied by a guardian unless otherwise authorized. Some stops involve bar visits, so check if that’s appropriate for your family.

Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, drinks are not included but are available to purchase along the route. Stops at bars allow guests to grab a to-go beverage.

What if the tour gets canceled?
Tours are rain-or-shine and may be canceled due to weather or other circumstances. You’ll be notified via text or email, and prepaid tickets can be credited for a future tour.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, photos are encouraged. However, audio and video recordings are not permitted.

Are paranormal equipment and ghost-hunting tools provided?
Yes, the tour includes paranormal equipment such as EMF meters, which guests can check out. Damaged or lost equipment incurs a $250 fee.

How long does the tour last?
Expect about 1 to 2 hours, depending on group size, stops, and weather conditions.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Most of the tour is walkable on city streets, but uneven sidewalks and historic streets might pose challenges for some mobility devices. Contact the tour provider for specific concerns.

Final Thoughts

This haunted French Quarter tour offers a fun, engaging way to explore the city’s most storied streets and buildings. From historic landmarks to ghostly legends, guides like Coty bring the stories to life with a mix of humor and expertise. It’s ideal for groups seeking a lively, social experience that combines history, culture, and a touch of the supernatural.

While it’s not a private or deeply spooky investigation, it’s a well-rounded introduction to New Orleans’ mysterious side at a reasonable price. Expect good storytelling, vibrant city views, and the chance to capture paranormal photos—a bonus for those interested in the supernatural.

If you’re ready to walk the haunted streets of the French Quarter, this tour will leave you with memorable stories and a new perspective on the city’s enduring legends. Just remember to book early, bring your curiosity (and possibly a camera), and enjoy the mix of history, mystery, and fun that only New Orleans can offer.

Final Recommendations

This tour is best suited for those looking for a lively, engaging experience that combines history, local culture, and ghost stories. It’s a wonderful choice if you enjoy interactive elements like paranormal equipment, aren’t bothered by group stops at bars, and want a friendly, knowledgeable guide to lead the way.

Travelers interested in more exclusive or private ghost hunts might want to explore other options, but for a balanced, entertaining introduction to NOLA’s haunted heritage, this tour hits the right notes. Expect a fun, informative walk through one of America’s most haunted cities, with plenty of stories to chuckle about and share long after you return home.

Enjoy your ghostly adventure in New Orleans, and remember—laissez les bons temps rouler!