If you’re visiting New Orleans and crave a mix of history, mystery, and a dash of the supernatural, the Ghost Hunt in New Orleans: Quest Experience might just be worth a try. It’s a self-paced exploration game that takes you through iconic neighborhoods like the French Quarter, with stops at haunted sites such as Jackson Square, Lalaurie Mansion, and the New Orleans Voodoo Museum. This adventure costs less than $10 per person, lasts around 1 hour 10 minutes to nearly 2 hours, and offers a flexible way to experience some of the city’s spooky charm on your own schedule.
What we really love about this experience is how interactive and independent it is. The step-by-step instructions guide you from one haunted landmark to another, with challenges and clues that reveal stories you might not find in a typical tour. Plus, the fact that it’s delivered via a phone app means you can take your time and explore at your own pace, avoiding large tour groups and rigid schedules. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer self-guided adventures and want to feel like they’re uncovering secrets on their own.
That said, a key consideration is the technology aspect—the game requires it to work smoothly, and from reviews, some folks have run into frustrations with functionality. If you’re not comfortable troubleshooting or relying on a smartphone, this might not be your best fit. Plus, since attraction entry tickets are not included, you should budget extra if you plan to visit places like Preservation Hall or the LaLaurie Mansion.
This tour appeals most to independent explorers, history buffs with a taste for the supernatural, and those eager to avoid crowded guided groups. It’s an engaging way to combine history, storytelling, and a bit of fun, especially if you enjoy solving puzzles and discovering stories in a more personal way.
Key Points

- Self-guided flexibility allows you to explore at your own pace without a guide.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible for budget-conscious travelers.
- Story-rich stops at iconic sites like Jackson Square and LaLaurie Mansion.
- Interactive clues in the app add an engaging twist to sightseeing.
- Extra attraction costs are not included, so budget accordingly.
- Technology-dependent experience might be frustrating if the app doesn’t work smoothly.
An In-Depth Look at the Ghost Hunt Experience
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The Ghost Hunt in New Orleans: Quest Experience is designed to blend the thrill of a haunted mystery with the charm and history of the French Quarter. It’s an innovative way to explore the city, especially for travelers who prefer independent adventures over traditional guided tours. For just $8.96 per person, the experience offers a tantalizing glimpse into New Orleans’ darker stories without the hefty price tag of guided bus or walking tours.
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How It Works — The Itinerary Breakdown
The tour begins at Jackson Square, one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks and a hub for both history and ghosts. Here, you receive your first clue to unlock the story, setting the tone for a spooky journey. From there, the game guides you to Le Petit Theatre du Vieux Carre, a charming historic theatre that has seen its share of ghost stories. You can linger here or move on as you please.
Next, the clues lead you to Preservation Hall, famous for jazz but with its own ghostly legends. The Faulkner House Books stop is a delight for literature lovers, with the added thrill of solving a mystery among stacks of classic novels. Returning to Jackson Square at Muriel’s Jackson Square provides another opportunity to explore and absorb the atmosphere of the area.
Moving on, the game takes you to the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum—a place steeped in local spiritual practice and folklore. Then, it’s to the lively Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, one of the oldest bars in the U.S., renowned for stories of pirates and hauntings. The final stop at the Lalaurie Mansion is perhaps the most chilling, with its reputation for gruesome history and ghostly tales.
What to Expect at Each Stop
Throughout the tour, you’ll receive new clues for each location, which you’ll need to solve to progress. The clues often involve riddles or puzzles that deepen your understanding of each site’s haunted past.
- Jackson Square offers a dynamic start—it’s lively yet steeped in ghostly whispers.
- Le Petit Theatre provides a more intimate, theatrical atmosphere.
- Preservation Hall mixes history with music, a curious contrast with ghostly tales.
- Faulkner House Books is an atmospheric stop for literature and history enthusiasts.
- Muriel’s Jackson Square combines dining and ghost stories, giving a lively vibe.
- Voodoo Museum introduces local spiritual folklore, a fascinating cultural twist.
- Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop is atmospheric with its pirate history and dark corners.
- Lalaurie Mansion caps the experience with its reputation for gruesome history and ghostly lore.
What We Like
Two features stand out for us. First, the independence this tour affords—there’s no need to stay with a guide or follow a strict schedule. You can take your time, revisit sites, or skip ahead if you prefer. Second, the storytelling aspect, with clues that make the experience engaging and interactive rather than passive sightseeing.
Possible Drawbacks
The main issue is that the app’s functionality may not always be smooth. One reviewer, Tracy R., expressed frustration that she couldn’t get the game to work properly, and her refund request was denied. If you’re not tech-savvy or worried about your phone’s compatibility, this could be a dealbreaker. Plus, since entrance to attractions is not included, some sites like Preservation Hall or LaLaurie Mansion will require extra tickets—adding to your overall costs.
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Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for those comfortable with smartphones and apps, seeking affordable, self-guided activities. It’s perfect for history buffs, ghost enthusiasts, or anyone curious about New Orleans’ darker side who prefers exploring on their own terms. If you’re traveling with kids or older relatives who might find puzzles frustrating, consider their comfort with technology and problem-solving.
Final Thoughts on Value and Experience
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At its core, the Ghost Hunt in New Orleans is a creative way to experience the city’s haunted lore without breaking the bank. Its low cost, combined with the freedom to explore at your own pace, makes it an appealing choice for travelers who want more than just a guided walk—and who enjoy a bit of mystery.
The storytelling and interactive clues make each stop more engaging, especially if you love unraveling puzzles and learning about local legends. Plus, you get to visit some of the city’s most iconic sites—Jackson Square, Lafitte’s, and the Lalaurie Mansion—in a way that feels more personal and immersive than a typical tour.
However, technical issues can tarnish the experience if the app doesn’t work smoothly, so be prepared for potential frustrations and consider your comfort with technology. Remember, the attractions themselves are outside the tour cost, so budget extra if you plan to go inside the museums or historic buildings.
All in all, this tour is best suited for adventurous, independent travelers who enjoy puzzles, ghost stories, and exploring at their own pace. It’s a fun, budget-friendly way to add some spooky intrigue to your New Orleans visit, especially if you’re comfortable with a bit of tech and don’t mind a flexible schedule.
FAQ
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Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Since it involves solving clues on your phone, it’s probably best for older children or teenagers comfortable with technology. Seniors who are tech-savvy might enjoy it too, but those who prefer guided tours or have difficulty with puzzles may find it less suitable.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made about 35 days ahead on average, and the experience is available for booking from December 2021 through June 2026. Booking in advance ensures you secure your spot and get the most out of the flexible schedule.
What do I need to participate?
A smartphone with internet access is essential. The tour is delivered via the Questo app, and you’ll receive instructions after booking. No physical guide or ticket is included, but customer support is available 24/7 if you encounter issues.
How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 50 minutes, depending on how quickly you solve clues and explore each site.
Are attractions included in the price?
No, entrance tickets are not included. You may need to pay extra for certain sites like Preservation Hall or the LaLaurie Mansion if you wish to go inside.
Is this a guided tour?
No, this is a self-guided experience. You won’t have a tour guide physically present, but the app guides you with clues and stories.
What if I encounter technical problems?
Customer support is available 24/7, so if the app isn’t working properly, you can reach out for assistance.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the experience. Refunds are not available if canceled within 24 hours.
Is the experience private?
Yes, it’s a private tour—only your group participates, making it ideal for families or small groups seeking a personalized adventure.
To sum it up, the Ghost Hunt in New Orleans offers a playful, budget-friendly way to uncover the city’s haunted stories on your own terms. It’s perfect for independent travelers who enjoy puzzles, history, and spooky lore, especially if you’re comfortable navigating apps and solving riddles. While technical hiccups can occur, the overall experience’s uniqueness and value make it a worthwhile addition to your New Orleans itinerary—an underground adventure that adds a touch of ghostly intrigue to your trip.
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