New Orleans Original True Crime Pub Crawl

A Unique Blend of Crime and Cocktails in New Orleans

If you’re looking to combine your love of mystery with a taste of New Orleans nightlife, the New Orleans Original True Crime Pub Crawl offers a compelling mix of both. For just under $30, you’ll spend around two to two and a half hours walking through some of the French Quarter’s most iconic watering holes, listening to stories of infamous crimes that have left a mark on the city’s dark history. Guided by knowledgeable, personable hosts, this tour is tailored for those eager to hear about serial killers, scandalous murders, and mysterious events—often with a few drinks in hand.

Two things stand out immediately. First, the storytelling is highly praised—hosts like Donna keep the tales engaging and lively, making the crime stories both fascinating and memorable. Second, the selection of bars is well curated, offering a glimpse into local watering holes with storied pasts, from the lively Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop to the atmospheric Dungeon bar.

A possible consideration is that some stories are quite graphic and blood-drenched, so if you’re sensitive to such content, this might not be the tour for you. Also, since drinks are not included in the price, you’ll want to budget extra for your own beverages—though that allows you to pick what you prefer, whether it’s a cocktail, beer, or just water.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy history, true crime, and socializing in a spirited setting. It appeals especially to those interested in local legends and offbeat experiences, and who don’t mind a bit of alcohol to loosen up the storytelling.

Key Points

• Authentic stories of serial killers and notorious crimes in New Orleans
• Guided by personable, knowledgeable hosts who keep the tour lively and engaging
• Multiple historic bars with unique atmospheres and tales of their own
• Cost-effective at $29.99, offering a blend of storytelling and local nightlife
• No drinks provided, so you can choose your preferred beverages
• Free cancellation, with the option to plan confidently

In-Depth Review of the True Crime Pub Crawl Experience

Starting Point and Tour Duration

The tour begins at Golden Lantern, located at 1239 Royal Street, promptly at 8:00 pm. It lasts approximately two to two and a half hours, making it an ideal evening activity that doesn’t run too late into the night. This timing means you can easily pair it with dinner beforehand or explore other attractions afterward. The group size is capped at 20 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and engaging experience—especially when listening to the stories.

The Itinerary and Its Highlights

The tour visits six bars, each with its own character and tale. Here’s a closer look at what you can expect at each stop:

Stop 1: Harry’s Corner Bar
This is where the journey kicks off with a tasty drink and a headline crime story. The focus here is on setting a compelling tone, introducing you to one of New Orleans’ most outrageous true crime cases. The tour guide’s storytelling skills shine early here, making us eager for more.

Stop 2: Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar
Known as one of the oldest bars in New Orleans, Lafitte’s exudes history and character. The story connected to this spot is as captivating as its dark, wooden interior. Many reviews highlight how the guide’s personable nature makes these tales come alive, and the bar’s ambiance amplifies the experience.

Stop 3: French Quarter (Pour House NOLA)
Here, you’ll learn about one of America’s most horrific serial killers—a story that’s both chilling and fascinating. The guide’s depth of knowledge is apparent, and the storied walls of the bar help bring the story into focus. This stop offers a perfect balance of history and atmosphere.

Stop 4: The Dungeon
True to its name, this bar has a gothic, mysterious vibe, connecting to one of NOLA’s most horrific crimes. The setting naturally lends itself to darker tales, and many travelers comment on how the atmosphere makes the stories even more compelling.

Stop 5: Fahy’s Irish Pub
A lively spot with a friendly vibe, Fahy’s offers a final chance to enjoy a drink while hearing about another infamous true crime case. The guide’s storytelling continues to impress, with many reviews noting Donna’s personable approach and deep knowledge.

Stop 6: Bar Tonique
The tour wraps up here, where we can reflect on the evening, chat about New Orleans’ shadowy criminal past, and soak in the lively surroundings. This is a relaxed ending, perfect for sharing impressions and perhaps planning your next adventure in the city.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Stories & Engaging Guides
Most reviews mention Donna’s personable and knowledgeable style. She keeps the stories interesting with a perfect mix of humor and seriousness, making complex or gruesome tales accessible. We loved the way she personalized the experience, making us feel like we were sharing secrets with a friend.

Atmospheric Bars with History
Each stop is a celebrated local institution, with some, like Lafitte’s, dating back centuries. The combination of historic venues and dark crime stories creates a compelling narrative thread, revealing a side of New Orleans most visitors never encounter.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is relatively inexpensive at $29.99, remember that drinks are not included. You’ll want to budget extra if you plan to indulge at each stop. Also, since the tour involves a fair amount of walking, comfortable shoes are advisable. The timing is perfect for an evening activity, and the small group size fosters a cozy, engaging atmosphere.

Authenticity and Entertainment

From the reviews, it’s clear that the tour strikes a good balance between entertaining storytelling and factual history. The stories vary from graphic to occasionally humorous, giving a rounded view of the dark side of New Orleans. Many travelers found the stories “interesting” and “fascinating,” with the guides making the past feel alive.

The Value for Travelers

Considering the cost and the quality of storytelling, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy true crime, local historic bars, and lively social experiences. The guided aspect ensures you won’t miss key details, and the small group size helps keep the atmosphere intimate.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure-loving travelers seeking something different in New Orleans. If you enjoy history, stories of infamous crimes, or crafting memorable evenings with new friends over drinks, you’ll find this tour highly satisfying. It’s also a good option for those who want to see some of the city’s historic bars in a fun, social setting.

However, if graphic content or blood and gore bother you, review the stories beforehand or consider alternative ghost or haunted tours. Since the tour doesn’t provide drinks, those who prefer all-inclusive experiences may prefer other options but should budget accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
This tour is designed for travelers 21 and older, since it involves visiting bars and potentially consuming alcohol.

Are drinks included in the ticket price?
No, drinks are not included. You are free to purchase any beverage at each stop, which allows you to choose your preferred drink—be it a cocktail, beer, or water.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, making it a perfect evening activity without feeling rushed or overly long.

What’s the group size?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, which helps ensure a more personal and engaging experience.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start. You’ll get a full refund if canceled within this window.

Where does the tour begin and end?
It starts at Golden Lantern, 1239 Royal Street, and concludes at Bar Tonique, 820 North Rampart Street.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the tour location is near public transportation, making it easy to access without a car.

Final Thoughts

For those eager to explore a different side of New Orleans, blending dark history with local nightlife, this True Crime Pub Crawl hits the mark. It’s a lively, well-curated experience led by guides who know how to tell a story and keep the atmosphere fun. The mix of historic bars, intriguing tales, and social interaction makes it a standout activity for curious travelers.

The tour’s affordability combined with its engaging storytelling makes it a great value, especially if you’re interested in stories of infamous crimes that have shaped the city’s reputation. It’s a unique way to see the French Quarter, learn some local legends, and enjoy an evening out in the Big Easy.

Whether you’re a true crime fanatic, history buff, or just looking for a memorable night with a bit of a dark twist, this tour is likely to satisfy. Just remember to come with an open mind, a sense of humor, and a thirst for both drinks and stories.

Note: Be sure to book in advance—this popular tour is often booked 27 days ahead—and arrive prepared for some walking and storytelling that’s as lively as the city’s nightlife.