New Orleans Voodoo, Ghost, Murder, True Crime and Vampire Tour

When you think of New Orleans, images of lively jazz, vibrant street life, and mysterious legends often come to mind. But tucked behind the lively facade is a dark, fascinating world of haunted sites, unsolved crimes, and occult lore. For travelers seeking an engaging way to explore this side of NOLA, the Voodoo, Ghost, Murder, True Crime, and Vampire Tour offers a compelling blend of history, mystery, and authentic storytelling. Priced at $32 per person and lasting approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, this tour is a wallet-friendly way to dive into the city’s spooky side.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the focus on verified stories rather than overly theatrical ghost tales appeals to those craving genuine history. Second, the knowledgeable guides—like Gomez or Wes—are praised for their storytelling prowess and ability to tailor the tour to your interests.

A potential consideration? The tour involves walking through the French Quarter, which means a fair amount of gentle strolling—good for most but perhaps less ideal for those with mobility issues. Also, since some stops are brief photo ops or quick visits, it’s more about storytelling than exploring extensive sites.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, true crime enthusiasts, or anyone interested in the occult and local legends. Families with older children, curious about the city’s darker tales, will find it both fun and educational. And if you enjoy a lively, authentic vibe without cheesy theatrics, this tour hits the right note.

Key Points

• Authentic stories from knowledgeable guides make the history come alive.
• The French Quarter location provides a scenic backdrop for exploring New Orleans’ haunted past.
• The tour’s small group size (max 28) fosters an intimate experience.
• It’s a cost-effective way to get a mix of spooky stories and local history.
• It’s accessible and family-friendly, though some content may be spooky for younger children.
• The combination of history, folklore, and true crime appeals to a broad audience.

A Closer Look at the Haunted Side of New Orleans

Walking into the French Quarter, you immediately feel the city’s unique blend of charm and mystery. This tour, organized by New Orleans Ghost Adventures, takes you through some of the most storied locations, each with tales that have fascinated residents and visitors alike for generations.

The itinerary includes five key stops, each offering a different window into the city’s enigmatic past. The stops are designed to maximize storytelling and historical context, making it more than just a series of photo ops—these are stories that stick with you.

The Lalaurie Mansion: A House of Horror and Haunting

The tour kicks off at the infamous Lalaurie Mansion, a site shrouded in legends of cruelty and ghostly sightings. Known for its chilling past, this mansion has become a symbol of paranormal activity in New Orleans. Tour guides often encourage participants to try and “capture something paranormal” in photos—though don’t expect ghostly apparitions on command, but rather an eerie atmosphere reinforced by the mansion’s dark history.

Many reviews highlight this stop as a favorite. One traveler noted, “It’s a quick stop, but you can’t help feeling the weight of the stories about the house.” The outdoor photo opportunity allows for some fun, spine-tingling memories, especially when the guides share verified accounts of the mansion’s haunted reputation.

The Oldest Cathedral in the U.S.: A Historic Landmark

Next, the tour visits St. Louis Cathedral, the heart of New Orleans’ religious history. While not explicitly haunted, this cathedral’s iconic status and centuries-old architecture add a layer of depth to the spooky narrative. The guide will share stories of mysterious happenings, unexplained noises, and historical events connected to this revered site.

This stop offers a quiet contrast to the haunted tales, grounding the tour in the city’s layered past. It’s a reminder that NOLA’s spiritual history is woven into every corner, often blending the sacred with the supernatural.

Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar: Sip and Hear About Vampires

The third stop is at Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, a bar rumored to be the oldest in America—an atmospheric place steeped in pirate lore. Here, you’ll learn about vampire folklore and the Casket Girls, both integral to New Orleans’ mysterious identity.

Travelers have praised this stop for the chance to purchase a drink and soak in the ambiance. “It’s a lively spot with a real sense of history,” one reviewer said. The stories of vampires and pirates are woven into the fabric of the city, and the guides do a good job of separating fact from legend.

Pirates Alley: A Name with a Story

The tour’s final stops include Pirates Alley, a narrow street once known as a haven for pirates and privateers. Here, you’ll learn why this alley earned its notorious name and how it fits into the city’s pirate history. It’s a simple stop, but one packed with stories of buccaneers and seafarers who helped shape New Orleans’ early days.

Some reviews point out that it’s a quick pause, mainly for photo opportunities and storytelling, but it’s an essential part of the tour’s narrative arc.

The Bonus: Unsolved Murders and Occult Lore

Throughout the tour, your guide will weave in tales of unsolved murders, ghostly sightings, and witchcraft practices. These stories are rooted in verified accounts, making them more compelling than theatrical tales. Several travelers appreciated the balanced approach—not overly sensational, but genuinely intriguing.

What You Can Expect During the Tour

Duration and Group Size: At about 90 minutes, the tour offers a comfortable pace for walking and listening. The max group size of 28 travelers ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, fostering engagement and opportunity to ask questions.

Walking and Accessibility: The route mostly covers flat, paved streets, making it accessible for most travelers, including those in wheelchairs. The walking is gentle, but do wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be covering a fair bit of ground.

Guides and Storytelling: Reviewers consistently mention guides like Gomez, Wes, Jenna, or Orien—each praised for their enthusiasm, storytelling skills, and knowledge. Their ability to adapt stories based on group interests enhances the experience. As one traveler said, “Gomez was a rockstar storyteller,” and “Wes was very friendly, informative & interesting!”

Price and Value: For just $32, this tour offers a good balance of entertainment and education. Many reviews highlight the value for money, especially given the passionate storytelling and authentic locations.

Drinks and Extra Costs: The only added expense might be drinks purchased at Lafitte’s or other stops, as beverages aren’t included but are available for purchase.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for anyone curious about New Orleans’ darker side—be it the haunted mansions, vampire legends, or true crime stories. It appeals to history enthusiasts, families with older children, and adventure seekers who want a spirited walk through the city’s shadowy past. If you enjoy authentic storytelling over cheesy theatrics, you’ll find this tour both satisfying and engaging.

It’s especially fitting for those who appreciate verified accounts rather than exaggerated ghost stories, and for travelers wanting to learn about the city’s occult connections in a fun, relaxed atmosphere.

Practical Tips for Your Tour

• Arrive early at the meeting point (620 Decatur St.) at least 15 minutes before departure.
• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on flat surfaces.
• Consider bringing a small camera or smartphone for photos, especially at the mansion stop.
• Since the tour is alcohol-friendly, feel free to purchase drinks at Lafitte’s but remember drinks are not included.
• The tour is generally suitable for most ages, but younger children might find some stories a bit spooky.
• If mobility is a concern, note that the route is wheelchair accessible and mostly flat.

FAQ

Is parking available near the meeting point for the tour?
Parking options are limited in the French Quarter, and rates vary. It’s often easiest to walk or use public transportation. Many travelers opt for ride-shares like Uber or Lyft for convenience.

Can I use public transportation to get to the tour?
Yes, public transit stops near the meeting point make it easy to reach without a car.

How early should I arrive?
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time to check in and settle in.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, but some stories may be a little spooky for small children. Use your discretion based on your kids’ sensitivities.

How strenuous is the walking?
The route involves gentle walking on flat, paved streets—generally not strenuous. However, if you have mobility issues, it’s good to know the route is wheelchair accessible.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included but are available for purchase at stops like Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop.

Final Thoughts

The New Orleans Voodoo, Ghost, Murder, True Crime, and Vampire Tour offers a well-balanced dose of history, legends, and spooky tales all delivered by passionate guides in the city’s iconic French Quarter. Its strength lies in authentic stories and a friendly, intimate atmosphere, making it perfect for those who want more than just a superficial ghost tour.

If you’re after insightful storytelling, affordable price, and a genuine taste of NOLA’s haunted side, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially suited for curious travelers who appreciate verified accounts and a relaxed pace, making it a memorable addition to your New Orleans itinerary.

In essence, this tour provides a fascinating glimpse into the city’s darker stories, told with passion and authenticity. Whether you’re a history buff, a true crime fanatic, or just looking for a fun night out, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here—and maybe even see or feel something unexplainable.