Legends of New Orleans Walking Tour

When you think of New Orleans, you probably picture jazz, Mardi Gras, and Creole cuisine. But for those intrigued by the city’s darker tales, the Legends of New Orleans Walking Tour offers a fascinating journey into its supernatural side. For just $35 per person, you’ll spend about 2 hours wandering through the historic French Quarter, hearing stories of ghosts, vampires, voodoo, and real unsolved mysteries. The tour is led by knowledgeable guides, and it’s a perfect experience for anyone curious about the city’s eerie legends.

Two things we love about this tour are its well-researched stories—like the haunted LaLaurie Mansion—and the chance to use paranormal equipment such as EMF meters. It adds an interactive element that makes the stories come alive in a way that a simple walk-and-listen wouldn’t. The manageable pacing and small group size (usually around 10-15 people) keep things intimate and engaging.

One consideration is weather—since it’s an outdoor, evening walk, rain or heat can impact your experience. Be prepared for the elements, and wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be covering more than 10 historic sites. Also, while the paranormal activity is part of the fun, it’s important to remember that nothing is guaranteed—this is about storytelling and atmosphere, not ghost-hunting for real spirits.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a good spooky story, appreciate history with a twist, or are looking for a fun, casual way to explore the haunted side of New Orleans. It’s especially great if you want a guided experience that combines local legends with an authentic walking tour through one of America’s most haunted neighborhoods.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling about ghosts, vampires, and voodoo legends in the French Quarter.
• Interactive experience with paranormal equipment like EMF meters.
• Visiting renowned sites such as LaLaurie Mansion and the Sultan’s Palace.
• Manageable 2-hour walk, perfect for an evening activity.
• Expert guides, like Cody, who bring stories to life with knowledge and personable style.
• Affordable value at $35 for a fun, spooky experience that offers more than just stories—it’s about atmosphere and history.

A Detailed Look at the Legends of New Orleans Walking Tour

Starting Point and Duration
The tour kicks off at Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar on Bourbon Street. While it’s a lively area, the tour doesn’t involve inside bar-hopping but begins with a quick introduction outside the historic structure. The entire walk lasts roughly 1 to 2 hours, covering more than 10 locations around the French Quarter—Oldest neighborhoods, historic sites, and infamous murder spots.

The Itinerary and Key Stops
The tour’s first stop is the legendary Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar itself. This historic building, with its dark, weathered façade, sets the mood for tales of pirates and clandestine activity. The French Quarter is the main stage for stories of ghosts, vampires, and voodoo. Here, your guide shares historically accurate tales from the 1700s and 1800s, including the infamous Madame LaLaurie, a woman reputed to have tortured her slaves within her mansion. Visitors get to see the LaLaurie Mansion, which is notoriously haunted and widely documented for paranormal sightings.

One of the local legends involves the Casket Girls—young women arriving in New Orleans with mysterious caskets believed to be linked to vampires. According to lore, they might have brought the city’s first vampires, adding a supernatural layer to the area’s history. The guide discusses documented sightings at more than 10 locations, including the Sultan’s Palace, site of the city’s largest mass murder, where paranormal activity is frequently reported.

Paranormal Equipment and Sightings
A unique feature of this tour is the use of EMF meters and paranormal equipment. Guests are encouraged to check out the gear and potentially sense cold spots or see apparitions. Many past visitors have captured orbs and ghostly images. The guide often shares photos from previous tours, demonstrating that paranormal sightings are a real possibility. This interactive element makes the experience more engaging, especially for those who might otherwise just listen passively.

The Final Stop: Jackson Square
The tour concludes at Jackson Square, the heart of the French Quarter. This iconic park, surrounded by historic buildings, provides a fitting end to the spooky walk. It’s a relaxed spot, perfect for reflecting on the stories, snapping photos, or just soaking in the lively yet mysterious atmosphere of New Orleans at night.

The Guides and Experience
Guests frequently praise guides like Cody for their knowledge, personable style, and storytelling ability. As one reviewer said, “Our guide was very informative and personable,” making the stories come alive. This personal touch, combined with the small group size, ensures everyone feels involved and can ask questions.

Cost and Value
While $35 might seem modest, the value lies in the combination of historical storytelling, paranormal activity, and the atmosphere of the French Quarter at night. The tour offers a balance of entertainment and education, making it suitable for travelers, history buffs, or supernatural enthusiasts. It’s a great way to see a side of New Orleans that most visitors overlook.

Weather and Practical Tips
Since this is an evening walking tour, be prepared for hot, humid nights in summer or cooler evenings in winter. Wear comfortable shoes to navigate cobblestone streets, and bring water. If the forecast calls for rain, consider rescheduling or bring an umbrella—rain doesn’t cancel the tour, but it can affect visibility for paranormal sightings.

Accessibility and Logistics
The tour meets outside Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, and it’s accessible via public transportation. Be sure to arrive a few minutes early to check in and get your gear. Since it’s a moderate-paced walk, it’s suitable for most fitness levels.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Take This Tour?

This tour is perfect for history and ghost story lovers. If you’re curious about New Orleans’ haunted reputation and enjoy interactive experiences, you’ll find this both fun and insightful. The knowledgeable guides make the stories authentic, and the paranormal equipment adds a playful, engaging element. It’s ideal for evening entertainment and offers a unique perspective on the city’s dark side.

However, if you’re looking for a longer or more comprehensive paranormal exploration, this may not be enough. Likewise, if the weather is poor, it could detract a bit from the outdoor experience. But overall, it’s a well-paced, affordable, and memorable way to explore the ghostly legends of New Orleans.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 to 2 hours, covering multiple historic and haunted sites around the French Quarter.

Where does the tour start?
It begins outside Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar at 941 Bourbon Street.

Is it suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but children under 18 need parental permission. Some locations may have age restrictions inside bars.

Are paranormal activities guaranteed?
No, there’s no guarantee of paranormal sightings. The tour emphasizes storytelling, atmosphere, and fun with an optional paranormal equipment experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll be walking over cobblestone streets. Dress according to the weather.

Can I bring my own paranormal equipment?
Guests can check out the equipment provided; bringing personal gear is not mentioned but could be discussed with the guide.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the meeting location is near public transit options.

What if I arrive late?
Late arrivals may not be able to join as the tour starts on time. Contact the tour provider if you’re running late.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, but parental discretion is advised for younger children due to the spooky themes.

What’s the price?
The tour costs $35 per person, offering good value for the stories and interactive elements.

To sum it up, the Legends of New Orleans Walking Tour offers a lively, entertaining glimpse into the city’s haunted tales, perfect for night owls, history buffs, or anyone drawn to the spooky side of the Big Easy. With knowledgeable guides, a manageable pace, and a dash of paranormal fun, it’s a memorable addition to any New Orleans itinerary.