Haunted Drunken History Tour from New Orleans

A lively stroll through New Orleans’ darker, more spirited side, the Haunted Drunken History Tour combines history, storytelling, and a bit of adult fun in the city’s heart. For about two hours, you’ll explore the French Quarter on a guided walk that’s as much about the stories behind the city’s notorious past as it is about enjoying some of its most historic watering holes.

Led by guides like Raffle—whose humor and local insight are frequently praised—this experience is designed for adults 21 and over who enjoy a good story paired with a drink or two. The tour hits five historic stops, including Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop and Tujague’s, and includes a complimentary drink to get you started. What we love most: the playful combination of storytelling with visits to some iconic bars, and the chance to learn about New Orleans’ wild, sometimes grisly, past with a spirited crowd.

One aspect to consider is that the tour isn’t focused on haunted lore as much as it is on history and local culture combined with adult beverages. If you’re expecting ghost stories only, you might find it more about the city’s colorful past than spooky tales. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a lively atmosphere, engaging guides, and a chance to see the French Quarter from a different perspective—preferably with a drink in hand.

Key Points

• Adults-only experience with a focus on history, stories, and drinks
• Visit historic bars like Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop and Tujague’s, some of the oldest structures in New Orleans
• Engaging guides such as Raffle, praised for humor, knowledge, and personable storytelling
• Two-hour duration offers a good balance of walking and socializing without feeling rushed
• One complimentary drink included, with opportunities to purchase more along the route
• Perfect for those wanting an entertaining, local insight-filled evening in the French Quarter

An In-Depth Look at the Haunted Drunken History Tour

When we think about exploring New Orleans, what often comes to mind are jazz tunes on Bourbon Street, vibrant festivals, and haunted legends. But this tour offers a different flavor—a lively blend of history, humor, and adult beverages. It’s an experience designed explicitly for those who want to see the French Quarter through a more spirited lens, both literally and figuratively.

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off sharply at Ryan’s Irish Pub on Decatur Street, a lively spot that sets the perfect tone. Meeting there at 5:00 pm, you’ll gather with a small group—most tours have fewer than 28 travelers—which makes for a cozy, engaging atmosphere. The fact that it’s in the heart of the French Quarter means you’re already immersed in the city’s historic vibe and close to many hotels, public transit, and Uber/Lyft options.

The two-hour experience is designed for ease: mostly flat walking on cobblestone streets, so comfortable shoes are recommended but it’s not physically demanding. Plus, the tour runs rain or shine, so check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: New Orleans Pharmacy Museum
Your journey begins here, at a circa-1823 apothecary turned museum. While the admission isn’t included, the museum’s exhibits of early medicines and superstitious cures offer a fascinating glimpse into life in 19th-century New Orleans. It’s a quick stop, just ten minutes, but it sets the tone for the kind of colorful stories that will follow—think bizarre remedies and eerie legends.

Stop 2: Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar
One of the oldest surviving structures in New Orleans, built in the 1770s, this dimly lit bar is a true gem. It’s believed to have once been a house and has served beer and frozen drinks since the 1700s. Here, you’ll enjoy about ten minutes soaking in the historic ambiance and hearing tales of pirates and privateers, including the notorious Lafitte.

Stop 3: Pirate’s Alley Cafe
Located right in the heart of the French Quarter, this spot pays homage to the pirates who once roamed these streets. It’s a place where stories of plunder and cultural exchange abound. The ten-minute stop offers a chance to appreciate the city’s pirate-infused past and snap some photos of the charming surroundings.

Stop 4: Tujague’s
A favorite for over 160 years, Tujague’s provides a quintessential Creole dining experience—though on this tour, you’ll mainly enjoy its historic bar atmosphere. The ten-minute visit here is filled with stories about old New Orleans and the characters who brought the city to life.

Stop 5: Ryan’s Irish Pub
Your final stop offers a relaxed environment, perfect for unwinding with a local beer or cocktail. This is where many guests rave about the friendly, laid-back vibe and the chance to chat with locals and other travelers. It’s a fitting conclusion to an evening that mixes history with good company.

What the Tour Offers

The key highlight of this experience is the storytelling—your guide, like Raffle, is often praised for their humor, knowledge, and ability to make history come alive. As one review puts it, “Raffle is an amazing guide with funny and relative insights spun with humor!” The stories tend to include the darker, sometimes gruesome, parts of New Orleans’ past—pirates, murders, brothels—delivered in an engaging, no-holds-barred style.

The bars visited are carefully picked for their historic significance and atmosphere, making each stop more than just a place for a drink. They’re living pieces of the city’s past, with stories and characters embedded in their walls.

Drinks and Value

One free drink is included with the tour, giving you a good head start into your evening. You’re encouraged to bring your own libations if you wish, making it a flexible experience. The ticket price of $30 might seem modest, but considering the access to historic venues, engaging storytelling, and the included drink, it offers solid value.

Guests frequently mention how guides like Raffle enhance the experience—his local knowledge, personable style, and humor make the tour stand out. Several reviews highlight how the tour is a fun way to combine sightseeing with socializing, especially if you’re traveling solo or in a small group.

Authenticity and Balance

While the tour emphasizes fun, it doesn’t shy away from the more gruesome and risqué aspects of New Orleans’ past—pirates, murders, brothels, and the city’s darker stories are all on the table. This honesty adds depth and authenticity, appealing to those who want a fuller picture of what makes New Orleans unique.

However, since the guide can and will drink with you throughout, the tone is kept light and humorous. It’s not a serious historical lecture, but rather a lively, entertaining night out that’s rooted in genuine stories.

Possible Drawbacks

Some might find that the focus on ‘haunted’ stories isn’t as intense as they expected—reviews note that it’s more about history with a spirited twist rather than ghost hunting. If you’re after spine-chilling tales, you might be slightly disappointed. Also, given the adult-only nature and alcohol consumption, it’s not suitable for those under 21 or travelers looking for a family-friendly tour.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adults who enjoy a good story, a drink or two, and lively company. If you’re a history buff interested in the colorful, sometimes scandalous, past of New Orleans, you’ll appreciate the honest, engaging narration. It’s perfect for solo travelers wanting a social experience, couples looking for a relaxed, fun evening, or groups that appreciate humor and local insights.

It’s also a fantastic way to start your evening in the French Quarter—whether you’re planning a night out on Bourbon Street or just want a memorable introduction to the city’s more vivid side.

Final Thoughts

The Haunted Drunken History Tour offers a unique mix of storytelling, historic bars, and local culture that many travelers find both fun and enlightening. With knowledgeable guides like Raffle making history entertaining and a well-chosen route through some of the oldest, most atmospheric spots in New Orleans, it delivers good value for the price.

Beyond simply walking around, you’re engaging with the city’s past in a way that’s personal, humorous, and memorable. If you’re comfortable with adult beverages and looking to explore the more colorful stories behind New Orleans’ reputation, this tour will not disappoint.

For those who want a taste of local history combined with a social, lively vibe, this experience can easily become one of your trip’s highlights. Just keep in mind it’s a party-style tour—not a ghost-hunting expedition—and it’s best suited for travelers wanting a fun, authentic, adult-centered night out.

FAQ

Where does the NOLA Drunken History Tour depart from?
The tour starts at Ryan’s Irish Pub on Decatur Street, a central spot in the French Quarter, making it easy to find and access.

Is parking available for the tour?
Parking is limited on-street near the meeting point, but because it’s in the French Quarter, you’ll find plenty of nearby options or prefer to walk or use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft.

Can I use public transportation to get to the meeting point?
Yes, the location is close to the Ursulines Trolley Station and most hotels, so public transit is convenient.

How early should I arrive?
Arrive about 30 minutes early to check in and get ready for the 5:00 pm start. This ensures you won’t miss any part of the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No. Since the tour includes alcohol and mature stories, it’s strictly for guests 21 and older.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for walking—think weather-appropriate clothing and shoes suitable for cobblestone streets. An umbrella or raincoat might be handy if rain is forecasted.

In all, the Haunted Drunken History Tour offers a spirited way to see the French Quarter, learn some gritty and amusing stories, and enjoy a handful of drinks in historic venues. It’s a lively, authentic experience worth considering for your New Orleans itinerary—especially if you’re after a fun night with a local flavor.