Discover the Spooky Side of New Orleans with a Ghost Adventure Using Real Paranormal Equipment

If you’re curious about ghost stories and haunted locations, this New Orleans Ghost Adventure offers a unique twist: it’s one of the few tours in the city that uses actual paranormal investigation tools. Starting at the legendary Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, you’ll walk through the French Quarter, stopping at some of the most notorious haunted spots, including the LaLaurie Mansion, St. Louis Cathedral, and Jackson Square. The tour costs around $40 per person and lasts for approximately 1 to 2 hours, making it an accessible way to experience the city’s ghostly side.
What we love most about this experience is the hands-on element—using professional EMF meters to try and detect paranormal activity adds an engaging layer of interaction that typical ghost tours lack. The guides are generally praised for their knowledgeable and friendly demeanor, making the stories come alive while you’re walking through historic streets. Plus, the tour’s focus on haunted locations from popular shows like American Horror Story adds a pop-culture connection that makes the spooky tales even more captivating.
A potential drawback is that some guests have experienced inconsistent experiences—reviews mention that sometimes the paranormal equipment isn’t used as expected, or guides may be absent if there are logistical issues. Plus, because the tour involves walking and standing in the heat or rain of New Orleans, comfort and weather preparedness are important considerations. This tour suits those who enjoy a mix of history, storytelling, and interactive fun, especially if you’re intrigued by the idea of ghost hunting with real gear.
This experience is perfect for visitors who are curious about paranormal activity, enjoy walking tours in the evening, and want a fun, interactive way to explore New Orleans’ haunted reputation. Keep in mind, it’s not a guarantee of catching spirits but rather an entertaining and atmospheric adventure that invites you to connect with the city’s haunted past.
Key Points
- Authentic Paranormal Equipment: The tour features real EMF meters, adding an interactive element.
- Historic Spots: Stops include the LaLaurie Mansion, St. Louis Cathedral, and Jackson Square.
- Knowledgeable Guides: Guests praise guides for their friendliness and storytelling skills.
- Flexible Duration: Lasts about 1 to 2 hours, depending on group pace and stops.
- Weather Preparedness: Tours run rain or shine, so dress accordingly.
- Mixed Reviews: Some guests report guides being absent or equipment not always used as expected.
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A Practical Review of the New Orleans Ghost Adventure

Exploring New Orleans’ French Quarter at night is already a thrilling experience, but adding a ghost-hunting twist makes it even more memorable. The tour begins at Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, one of the city’s oldest bars, steeped in history and ghostly tales. From there, the guide takes you through the narrow, lantern-lit streets, stopping at well-known sites like the St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square—places with fascinating histories and stories of apparitions, disembodied voices, and mysterious happenings.
The Itinerary in Detail
Stop 1: Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar
You’ll meet your guide here, a lively hub filled with legend and lore—perfect for setting the mood. The tour doesn’t include entry into the bar, but the exterior alone offers plenty of atmosphere. Many visitors find it a fitting starting point because of its reputation as one of the most haunted bars in the city.
Stop 2: French Quarter Walk
Expect a leisurely stroll through the heart of the city, with stops at historic locations only locals might know. The guide shares ghost stories, some dating back centuries, and relates tales inspired by the city’s dark past—like pirates, voodoo, and tragic deaths. The highlight is often the LaLaurie Mansion, infamous for its history of cruelty and rumored paranormal activity.
Stop 3: LaLaurie Mansion
This mansion is perhaps the most famous haunted site, thanks to its gruesome history and modern pop-culture appearances in shows like American Horror Story. The guide offers both historical context and ghost stories, but some guests note that this stop is brief—around 8 minutes—and not always as spooky as expected. Still, it’s a must-see for lovers of haunted architecture.
Stop 4: St. Louis Cathedral
The tour continues with a visit to one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Here, stories of ghostly sightings and spiritual legends add a layer of mystery to the historic building. Expect about 10 minutes at this stop, enough to hear some chilling tales and appreciate the architecture’s grandeur.
Stop 5: Jackson Square
The final stop is at this lively, historic park, where stories of ghostly activity mingle with the vibrant street performers and artists. The guide shares stories from both the past and present, giving you a well-rounded picture of the square’s haunted reputation.
Paranormal Equipment & Interaction
One feature that sets this tour apart is the use of professional EMF meters. Throughout the walk, guests are invited to try detecting paranormal activity themselves, which many find adds excitement. The guide checks out and returns all equipment, and there is a $250 fee for any damages or loss—a small price for peace of mind when handling delicate gear.
Some reviews reveal inconsistent experiences with the equipment. For example, one guest noted that the paranormal tools weren’t always used as promised, and guides sometimes weren’t present. This underscores the importance of managing expectations—this isn’t guaranteed ghost-hunting but rather a chance to engage with haunted locations in a fun, semi-interactive way.
The Guide & Group Size
Guests frequently mention Cody as a great guide—friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging. The group size is limited to 50 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable. Smaller groups tend to be more interactive, allowing guests to ask questions and participate actively.
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The Price & Overall Value
At $40, this tour is reasonably priced considering the inclusion of real paranormal equipment and the chance to explore iconic haunted sites. Compared to more traditional walking tours, the added paranormal element offers extra entertainment value. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that the experience hinges on storytelling and atmosphere rather than guaranteed paranormal activity.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Wear comfortable shoes—this is a walking tour, and New Orleans streets can be uneven.
- Bring a rain jacket or umbrella, especially during summer or rainy season.
- Arrive a few minutes early at the meeting point—941 Bourbon Street—to ensure you don’t miss the start.
- Remember, alcohol isn’t included, but drinks are available for purchase at stops.
- Keep expectations realistic: no ghost or spirit can be summoned, but the stories and atmosphere make it worthwhile.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re fascinated by haunted legends and enjoy interactive experiences, you’ll find this tour a compelling way to connect with New Orleans’ spooky reputation. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate history but want a spooky twist. Those expecting a serious paranormal investigation might be disappointed, but for casual ghost enthusiasts and curious travelers, it hits the right note.
Limitations & Considerations
Some guests report that guides are sometimes absent or that the paranormal equipment isn’t always actively used—important to keep in mind if your main goal is spectral sightings. Also, the tour is weather-dependent—rain or shine, it runs, but heavy rain could impact your experience.
Final Thoughts

This New Orleans Ghost Adventure offers a lively, engaging way to explore the haunted side of the French Quarter. The opportunity to handle real paranormal tools adds a fun, interactive element that elevates it above typical ghost tours. The knowledgeable guides and iconic stops make it a solid choice for anyone curious about the city’s spooky lore, especially if you enjoy storytelling and spirited atmosphere.
While it might not guarantee ghost sightings, the combination of history, mystery, and hands-on fun makes for a memorable evening. It’s an especially good pick for small groups or those who want to learn about New Orleans’ haunted reputation in a relaxed, friendly environment.
If you’re after a light-hearted, interactive ghost tour that emphasizes authentic stories and a bit of ghost-hunting fun, this tour is worth considering. Just don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes, bring your curiosity—and maybe a sense of humor.
FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 18 are not admitted unless accompanied by a parent or guardian, and some stops may not be suitable for young children due to the spooky stories.
Are alcoholic beverages allowed on the tour?
Guests can purchase drinks along the route, but alcohol isn’t included in the tour price. The tour guide may refuse service if someone is extremely intoxicated for safety reasons.
Is the paranormal equipment included?
Yes, the tour features paranormal equipment used collectively by the group. Equipment is checked out at the beginning and returned at the end of the tour.
What happens if the guide doesn’t show up?
One review detailed a guide no-show, which was disappointing. It’s good to confirm your reservation and contact the tour provider if you have concerns before the tour begins.
How long does the tour last?
Most tours last between 1 and 2 hours, depending on group pace and stops. It’s a moderate walking tour, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
Can I take photos or record the tour?
Photos are encouraged—video or audio recording is not allowed during the tour.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour runs rain or shine. Dress accordingly and prepare for weather conditions, knowing that heavy rain might make some parts less comfortable.
Is there a refund if I cancel?
No, this experience is non-refundable. You can reschedule if the tour is canceled due to weather or other reasons, but refunds are generally not offered.
Final Word
If you’re eager to experience the haunted charm of New Orleans with a touch of modern ghost-hunting flair, this tour balances history, storytelling, and interactive fun nicely. It’s best suited for curious travelers who enjoy lively walks, engaging guides, and a bit of spooky atmosphere. While it may not guarantee spirits, the stories and setting make it a memorable part of your New Orleans adventure.
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