New Orleans: Vampires, Voodoo, and Ghosts Tour

Exploring New Orleans’ Haunted Secrets: Vampires, Voodoo, and Ghosts Tour

If you’re looking to peek behind the Mardi Gras masks and into the eerie, mysterious corners of New Orleans, this Vampires, Voodoo, and Ghosts Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the city’s darker, fascinating history. Priced at just $31 per person for about 90 minutes, it’s a leisurely walk through the French Quarter, led by a knowledgeable local guide—usually a historian, teacher, or history student—who keeps things lively and engaging.

What we love about this tour is how it combines authentic stories with historical accuracy. Instead of just spooky legends, you’ll learn about real events and places, such as the infamous Lalaurie Mansion, featured on “American Horror Story,” and the first vampire sighting in the city. Plus, the tour is alcohol-friendly, making it perfect for a relaxed, post-dinner adventure. Just keep in mind that some streets are uneven, and those with limited mobility might find it less comfortable.

A possible consideration is the rough terrain—while the tour is wheelchair accessible, uneven streets could be a challenge. It’s best for those who enjoy walking at a gentle pace and are eager for stories that blend history with supernatural lore. This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic tales, detailed storytelling, and a dash of creepy intrigue, especially those with a curiosity for New Orleans’ unique cultural tapestry.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling from a licensed historian guide who shares well-researched histories.
• Iconic sites such as the Lalaurie Mansion, Pirates Alley, and voodoo temples, offering a glimpse into the city’s dark past.
• Leisurely pace suitable for an evening stroll with frequent stops and restroom breaks.
• Special focus on vampires, voodoo, pirates, murder, and witchcraft, providing a comprehensive haunted tour.
• Accessible for most mobility levels, with some caveats about uneven streets.
• Highly rated by previous guests for informative guides and engaging stories.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Darkness of New Orleans

Walking through the historic streets of the French Quarter, you’d think you’re stepping into a film set. The tour begins at 620 Decatur Street, where you’ll find the Red Door ticket booth. From there, the guide—often a local historian known for storytelling—takes you on a leisurely 90-minute stroll covering under a mile, with plenty of stops to soak in the tales.

The Lalaurie Mansion: A Haunted Icon

One of the biggest highlights is the Lalaurie Mansion, famous not only for its stunning architecture but also for its dark history, as depicted on “American Horror Story.” This mansion was once home to Madame Lalaurie, notorious for her cruelty, and the stories of its haunted past still draw curious visitors. The guide shares insights about the gruesome events and the mansion’s place in New Orleans’ haunted lore, giving a vivid picture of the city’s more sinister side.

The Old Ursuline Convent and May Bailey’s Brothel

Next, you’ll stumble upon the Old Ursuline Convent, the oldest building in the Mississippi Valley, renowned for its connection to early New Orleans history and ghost stories. Moving along, May Bailey’s Brothel, featured on “Ghost Adventures,” offers a glimpse into the city’s more colorful, and sometimes sinister, past. Our guide, Gomez, was praised for making history entertaining, often peppering stories with lively anecdotes that make the past feel immediate.

Voodoo and Pirate Tales

The tour doesn’t shy away from the city’s spiritual and pirate histories. You’ll visit voodoo temples, learning about the real practices behind the legends, and see the Lafitte Blacksmith Shop, associated with the infamous pirate Jean Lafitte. These stops shed light on how these elements influenced the city’s culture and myths.

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Ghost Stories and Occult Lore

Throughout the walk, ghost stories are woven seamlessly into the historical context. Guests have noted guides like Wesley and Orion as particularly engaging, with one saying, “Walking the streets at night listening to Orion’s stories was so much fun and insightful.” The stories aren’t just spooky—they’re rooted in historical fact, making them both entertaining and educational.

Tour Experience and Atmosphere

The tour’s leisurely pace allows for plenty of photo opportunities, questions, and restroom breaks. It’s a relaxed walk, not a marathon, making it accessible for most. Being alcohol-friendly means you could easily combine this with an evening of bar hopping or a ghost-themed drink afterward. The tour is also wheelchair accessible, though uneven streets could pose a slight challenge for some.

Authentic and Engaging Guides

Guests consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and storytelling skills. Quotes like “Jamie was hands down the best guide—knowledgeable, kind, and a great storyteller”—highlight how much this adds to the experience. It’s clear that the guides aren’t just reading scripts—they’re passionate about sharing the city’s hidden stories.

Value for Money

At $31, you’re paying for a meaty 90-minute experience that mixes history, legend, and local color. Given the detailed storytelling and the number of iconic sites covered, the cost feels reasonable, especially for those interested in authentic, historically grounded tales rather than just touristy ghost stories.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who love history with a spooky twist, and who want more than just superficial ghost stories. If you appreciate authentic tales from knowledgeable guides, this experience will satisfy your curiosity about New Orleans’ haunted reputation. It’s ideal for a relaxed evening activity—not an intense scare, but a fascinating walk through the city’s darker history. Those who enjoy local legends, historic architecture, and lively storytelling will find this tour a highlight.

The Sum Up

This Vampires, Voodoo, and Ghosts Tour provides a compelling look at New Orleans’ haunted reputation through well-researched stories and iconic locations. The guides’ expertise and engaging manner bring history to life, creating a memorable experience for those curious about the city’s shadowy past. Its reasonable price and accessible format make it a smart choice for travelers wanting a mix of history, legend, and local color.

For history buffs, ghost enthusiasts, or anyone seeking an atmospheric evening in the French Quarter, this tour offers a well-balanced and authentic experience. It’s especially suited for those who prefer stories rooted in fact, combined with the fun of exploring a historic city after dark. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, this tour promises a taste of the mysterious side of New Orleans that’s both entertaining and educational.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 90 minutes, covering just under a mile of walking with frequent stops.

Where does the tour meet?
You meet at the Red Door ticket booth located at 620 Decatur Street.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but some streets are uneven, so it might not be the smoothest terrain.

Can I bring alcohol?
Yes, the tour is alcohol-friendly, making it a fun option for an evening out.

What sites will we see?
Highlights include the Lalaurie Mansion, Old Ursuline Convent, Pirates Alley, voodoo temples, and Lafitte Blacksmith Shop.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Guests rave about the guides’ expertise and storytelling skills, often praising them as engaging and passionate about New Orleans’ history.

This tour stands out as a solid choice for those eager to combine historical insights with a touch of the supernatural. If you’re curious about the city’s darker legends, want to learn from passionate guides, and enjoy a relaxed stroll through haunted streets, it’s well worth the price.

You can check availability for your dates here: