New Orleans: After Dark! French Quarter Ghost Tour

Discover the spooky charm of New Orleans with the “After Dark! French Quarter Ghost Tour.” This 2-3 hour guided walk costs $299 per person and takes you through the city’s most historic and haunted spots. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll hear tales of restless spirits, tragic love, and legendary figures like Marie Laveau. This tour is offered in English, French, and Spanish, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines historic landmarks like St. Louis Cathedral and Royal Street with eerie stories that bring the city’s ghostly past to life. The fact that it culminates at the famous St. Louis Cemetery No. 1—home to Marie Laveau’s grave—is a real highlight, offering both a sense of history and a touch of the supernatural.

A potential consideration is the price point—at $299, it’s a bit steep for some travelers, especially since food and drinks aren’t included. However, for history buffs and those fascinated by ghost stories, the quality of storytelling and the authentic sites make it a worthwhile investment. This tour is best suited for adults, curious about the haunted side of New Orleans, and those comfortable walking through the city’s historic streets at night.

Key Points

• Historic & Haunted: Combines iconic landmarks like St. Louis Cathedral with chilling ghost stories.
• Expert Guides: Led by engaging guides who share detailed legends and background.
• Cultural Blend: Stories reflect the city’s diverse French, Spanish, and Creole influences.
• Prime Location: Starts in Jackson Square and ends at the famous cemeteries.
• Flexible Timing: Available in the morning, afternoon, or evening.
• Accessible & Private Options: Suitable for wheelchairs and private groups.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Walk Through the Haunted French Quarter

Walking into the French Quarter just before sunset, we found ourselves instantly immersed in a lively scene—jazz musicians playing, street performers entertaining, and the scent of Creole cuisine wafting through the air. Meet your guide (we had a charming storyteller named Marie) in Jackson Square, the heart of the city’s vibrant life for centuries. The square is surrounded by historic buildings and the majestic St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest continuously active Catholic church in the U.S.

From the moment Marie started sharing stories, it was clear this tour was about more than just ghost stories. It’s about understanding how history, tragedy, and legends have woven together to create the unique character of New Orleans. We loved the way she described the blend of French, Spanish, and Creole influences, adding layers of context that made the stories richer.

The Iconic St. Louis Cathedral and Royal Street

Our first stop was the St. Louis Cathedral. Its towering spires and stained glass windows are truly striking, but it’s the stories of the spirits said to linger there that caught our attention. Marie recounted tales of ghostly sightings, whispers, and unexplained phenomena reported by visitors and staff alike. The cathedral’s grandeur provides an impressive backdrop for ghost stories, and it’s easy to see why it’s intertwined with both reverence and superstition.

Next, we strolled down Royal Street, lined with art galleries, antique shops, and beautiful Creole townhouses with wrought-iron balconies draped in flowers. Marie pointed out the architectural details that hint at the city’s diverse past and shared stories of duels fought over love and honor, giving the street a romantic yet mysterious aura. We loved the way the street’s charm is underpinned by its haunted reputation.

Into the Shadows: Dark Alleys & Legends

As the sun dipped lower, the atmosphere shifted. The lively energy of the day gave way to a more mysterious tone, with shadows dancing along cobblestones and gas lanterns flickering. Our guide led us into narrower alleyways and courtyards, each with its own ghost story—like Madame Delphine LaLaurie’s mansion, infamous for its horrifying secrets. This part of the tour was genuinely atmospheric, and the stories of her cruelty still send shivers down the spine.

We also learned about Jean Lafitte, the legendary pirate-turned-war hero, whose ghost is said to haunt the areas around the Mississippi River and old bars. Passing these sites, we could almost feel the weight of history and legends mingling with the humid night air.

The Final Resting Place: St. Louis Cemetery No. 1

The tour culminates at St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, established in 1789. The above-ground tombs, necessary due to the high water table, create a labyrinth of burial chambers that are as haunting as the stories about them. Marie shared tales of Marie Laveau, the legendary voodoo priestess, whose grave has become a pilgrimage site. The stories of her rituals and influence add a mystical layer to the cemetery’s already eerie ambiance.

Visiting the cemetery at night offers a remarkable sense of connection to the city’s spiritual past. The stories shared here are both fascinating and a little unsettling, especially knowing that many visitors leave with a sense of having touched something supernatural.

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The Practicalities & Value

At $299, this tour isn’t inexpensive, but it’s packed with value if you love history, folklore, and a touch of the supernatural. The guides’ storytelling skills are a particular highlight—engaging, informative, and able to balance humor with spine-chilling tales. The walking pace is manageable, and the tour covers key sites that are central to the city’s identity.

It operates rain or shine, so come prepared with comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate attire. While it doesn’t include transportation or food, the experience itself is immersive enough to justify the cost. Plus, the option to reserve and pay later makes planning flexible, especially if you’re trying to coordinate with other activities.

For many visitors, especially those interested in local legends, architecture, and history, this tour offers a memorable way to see the French Quarter at night. It’s particularly suited for adults comfortable with walking and listening to ghost stories, and those looking for an authentic, lively storytelling experience that ties legends into real historic sites.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This ghost tour is ideal for travelers seeking a deeper connection to New Orleans’ supernatural reputation and historic charm. It’s perfect for history buffs, folklore enthusiasts, or anyone curious about the city’s darker tales. If you enjoy storytelling that blends fact with legend, and are comfortable walking through historic streets after sunset, you’ll find this experience both entertaining and meaningful.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more relaxed, less story-driven tour, you might want to consider other ways to explore the city’s haunted reputation—perhaps a more casual ghost tour or a visit to a haunted house attraction instead.

FAQ About the “After Dark! French Quarter Ghost Tour”

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally geared toward adults, especially given the spooky stories and the walking involved. Younger children might find some tales frightening, so it’s best for teenagers and older.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons. The option to reserve and pay later provides flexibility.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you’ll be on your feet for 2-3 hours. Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly—layers are often a good idea in case it cools down at night.

Are the sites wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for more travelers.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, it’s a walking tour, starting in Jackson Square and ending at the cemetery.

Are food and drinks included?
No, those are not included, so plan to eat before or after the tour.

Can I have a private tour?
Yes, private groups are available, providing a more personalized experience.

What languages are the tours offered in?
English, French, and Spanish.

Is the tour available year-round?
Yes, it operates rain or shine, year-round.

In all, this ghost tour delivers an engaging blend of history, legend, and atmosphere—perfect for those wanting a lively, authentic glimpse into New Orleans’ haunted past. Whether you’re a history lover, a folklore fanatic, or simply intrigued by the city’s spooky reputation, this tour offers a memorable night of storytelling in one of America’s most characterful cities.

You can check availability for your dates here: