New Orleans Cemetery and Paranormal Investigation Bus Tour

Exploring New Orleans’ Haunted Cemeteries and Paranormal Sites by Bus

If you’re curious about the spooky stories and haunted history of New Orleans, this Cemetery and Paranormal Investigation Bus Tour offers a unique way to explore some of the city’s most storied graveyards without the hassle of walking in the dark. For $40, you get about two hours of transportation, storytelling, and perhaps a few ghostly surprises, all led by guides who know how to keep things lively and respectful.

What we love about this tour is how it combines historic insights with a dash of the supernatural—think elaborate 19th-century tombs, eerie orbs in photographs, and stories of Hurricane Katrina’s enduring impact. Plus, it’s a great way to see some iconic sites like the Hurricane Katrina Memorial and Masonic Temple Cemetery while staying cozy on a bus.

One thing to keep in mind is that it’s mostly a bus tour, which means you won’t be walking around the cemeteries for long. Some reviews mention that it can feel a bit rushed, especially if you’re eager to get closer to the tombs or explore more in-depth. Still, if you’re looking for a balanced mix of history, mystery, and fun stories—especially if you’re traveling with friends or family—this tour hits the mark.

This experience suits those who enjoy a good ghost story, appreciate historic architecture, or want a behind-the-scenes look at New Orleans’ unique burial traditions—all from the comfort of a bus and with a friendly, knowledgeable guide.

Key Points

• Convenient Transportation: You’ll travel comfortably by bus, avoiding the difficulty of walking between cemeteries late at night.
• Rich Historic Content: Guides share fascinating tales of the cemeteries’ elaborate tombs and local legends.
• Visiting Iconic Sites: The tour includes the Hurricane Katrina Memorial and Masonic Temple Cemetery, offering both reflection and intrigue.
• Interactive Element: Use of tools like EMF readers makes the ghost hunt feel more authentic.
• Moderate Duration: About two hours, perfect for a quick, engaging glimpse into New Orleans’ haunted past.
• Mixed Reviews on Depth: Some guests wish they had more time at each site or more in-depth exploration, but most appreciate the balance of story, scenery, and the ghostly vibe.

A Detailed Look at the Tour

Starting at the Voodoo Tavern and PoBoys

The tour begins conveniently near the heart of the French Quarter, at 1140 Decatur St. This location’s lively atmosphere makes it an easy meet-up spot, especially if you’re already exploring the historic district. Expect to arrive about 30 minutes early to settle in and get ready for the spooky ride. The tour promises pickup and drop-off service, which simplifies logistics after a day of sightseeing.

The Hurricane Katrina Memorial

The first stop is the Hurricane Katrina Memorial, located on the site of Charity Hospital’s pauper’s field. As one of the most emotionally charged sites on the tour, it memorializes 85 unclaimed victims of the 2005 levee failures. The somber atmosphere is complemented by the surrounding storm-shaped pathways—an evocative setting for reflection. Guests often describe it as an “unfussy place” but profoundly affecting, providing a moment to contemplate the tragedy and its ongoing impact on the city.

Guests have noted that the memorial is “easily missed” if not pointed out, making it a quiet, contemplative spot—perfect for those interested in the city’s resilience and darker history. Some reviews emphasize the importance of this stop, with one guest noting it “does its duty in giving one substantial pause.”

Exploring City Park

Next, the bus takes you through City Park, a sprawling, historic outdoor space that’s been enchanting locals and visitors since 1854. This 1,300-acre oasis offers scenic views of moss-draped live oaks, lush gardens, and quiet spots that have hosted everything from dances to duels. While you won’t get out here for a long walk, it’s worth noting that the park’s beauty adds to the overall mysterious and almost timeless vibe of the tour route.

Masonic Temple Cemetery #2

A highlight for many is the Masonic Temple Cemetery #2, founded in 1865. This cemetery is notable for its elaborate, often communal tombs, which reflect the Masonic tradition of pooling resources for their burials. Its unique triangular shape and the streets around it—especially Conti Street—are designed to mimic Masonic symbols like the square and compass.

Guides often point out the unusual tomb designs and the history of the Freemasons in Louisiana. Reviewers appreciated that the guide explained the symbolism behind the layout, making the experience both educational and slightly eerie. The ironwork and grouping of crypts create an ambiance that guests describe as “distinctly different from the Catholic cemeteries.”

The Paranormal Component

Throughout the tour, guides provide live commentary and occasionally utilize tools like EMF readers, which add a fun, interactive element. Several guests have reported spotting eerie orbs or capturing strange images on their cameras, which fuels the ghostly atmosphere. One guest noted that “the sticks were scary watching them move by themselves,” highlighting the lighthearted yet spooky vibe.

The Aftermath of Hurricane Katrina

Another poignant part of the tour is hearing about Hurricane Katrina’s aftermath, especially at the memorial site. Guides share personal stories and historical context, helping visitors understand the lasting scars and resilience of New Orleans. This segment adds depth to the ghost stories, grounding them in real, impactful history.

Authentic Experiences from Visitors

Many travelers have appreciated guides like Henry, Kendall, and Trish for their knowledgeable, humorous, and engaging storytelling. Comments such as “Roy was an amazing guide” and “Trisha made everything 5 times better” reflect the importance of a good guide in elevating what could be just a bus ride into an engaging, memorable experience.

Some visitors expressed a desire for more time at the cemeteries, feeling 30 minutes is somewhat brief considering the number of sites. Conversely, others enjoyed the focused, fast-paced tour that covers key locations without dragging on.

A few reviews mention unexpected drama, like a guide’s altercation with a local café, which can detract from the experience but seems to be an outlier rather than the norm. Overall, most guests agree that the knowledgeable guides and the stories they tell are the real highlight.

Evaluating the Value and Practical Details

While $40 might seem modest for a two-hour tour, it’s helpful to consider what you’re getting: transportation, engaging storytelling, and access to sites that are either difficult or impossible to explore alone after dark. Plus, the use of paranormal tools adds a playful, interactive dimension that many find worth the price.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, ghost enthusiasts, and curious travelers eager to learn about New Orleans’ unique burial traditions and its ghostly legends without the physical exertion of walking long distances at night. It’s especially fitting if you prefer to stay warm and dry while soaking up stories from a comfortable bus.

However, if you’re looking for an in-depth, museum-quality exploration of each cemetery, you might find this tour somewhat brief. But for those who want a lighthearted, atmospheric introduction to New Orleans’ haunted side, it’s perfect.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for families with older children, couples, or groups of friends interested in both history and ghost stories. It’s not overly strenuous, and the group size of up to 24 means you’ll get a more personalized touch—guides often tailor their stories based on the audience. If you appreciate entertaining guides and a well-balanced mix of history and the paranormal, you’ll likely enjoy this tour.

If you’re a photographer, the tour’s stops—especially under a full moon—offer opportunities to capture atmospheric shots, some guests even reporting seeing “ghostly orbs” in their photos. Just keep in mind that some reviews suggest that daytime visits might offer better visibility for the tombs if photography is your main goal.

In Summary: Our Final Take

This New Orleans Cemetery and Paranormal Investigation Bus Tour offers an engaging and accessible way to explore the city’s haunted sites without the fatigue of long walks or late-night wandering. The knowledgeable guides and the inclusion of paranormal tools make the experience stand out, especially for those new to ghost hunting or interested in the city’s unique burial customs.

The tour’s balance of history, stories, and spooky sights makes it a versatile choice for many travelers. It’s ideal if you want a quick, fun, and informative evening that adds a layer of understanding to the iconic cemeteries and Katrina’s aftermath.

While some guests wish for a longer or more in-depth visit to each site, most agree that it provides good value for the price and a memorable peek into New Orleans’ eerie charm. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to get a feel for the city’s haunted reputation from a comfortable, guided bus ride.

FAQ

Which cemeteries does the tour visit?
It typically stops at the Charity Hospital pauper’s field, Masonic Temple Cemetery #2, St. Louis Cemetery #3, and the Holt Cemetery, among others.

Does it include Marie Laveau’s tomb?
No, Marie Laveau’s tomb is in St. Louis Cemetery 1, which isn’t part of this tour. You’ll see other prominent tombs and resting places instead.

Is the Hurricane Katrina Memorial part of the tour?
Yes, the memorial is included, and guides discuss Katrina’s lasting effects on New Orleans, making it a poignant stop.

Can I park near the meeting point?
There is limited parking nearby, with rates applying. The location is in the French Quarter, so walking, public transit, or ride-sharing are good options.

Does the tour use public transportation?
No, transportation is provided via the tour’s bus, with pickup and drop-off at the starting point.

What time should I arrive?
Plan to be at the meeting point at least 30 minutes early to ensure a smooth start.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, it’s appropriate for guests 6 and above. However, some morbid tales may be scary for younger children.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
The bus isn’t wheelchair accessible, and some walking is required to board and exit.

To sum it up, this tour offers a balanced blend of history, ghostly tales, and cultural insight. It’s perfect for those who want a fun, immersive introduction to New Orleans’ haunted sites without the hassle of wandering alone at night. Guides like Kendall and Trish bring stories to life, and the paranormal element keeps things engaging. Whether you’re a casual tourist or a seasoned ghost hunter, it’s a memorable way to spend an evening in the Big Easy.