New Orleans: Voodoo, Mystery and Paranormal Tour

Engaging Summary: Voodoo, Mystery, and Paranormal Tour in New Orleans

If you’re curious about the darker side of New Orleans, this Voodoo, Mystery, and Paranormal Tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s haunted past, voodoo lore, and supernatural stories. Priced at just $27 per person and lasting around 2 hours, it’s a walk through the French Quarter with a twist—using real paranormal equipment, like EMF meters, to “detect” spirits and hauntings. Led by guides who are both knowledgeable and entertaining, this tour is ideal for those interested in ghost stories, history, and the city’s mysterious mythology.

Two things we particularly appreciate are the hands-on paranormal experience—with guides handing out ghost detectors—and the chance to visit famous haunted sites, such as the Lalaurie Mansion and Jackson Square. These are stories that truly stick with you, especially when they’re supported by historical context and local legends. The only caveat? If you’re expecting a deep dive into paranormal activity, remember this is more storytelling than an actual ghost hunt, so don’t expect full access to haunted interiors.

This tour is best suited for history lovers, ghost enthusiasts, and curious travelers who enjoy a mix of storytelling and sightseeing. Families with kids, or those seeking a quieter, more traditional historical walk, might find the focus on paranormal fun a bit too lively. But for anyone eager to experience the “most haunted city in America” from a lively, engaging perspective, this experience hits the right notes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable for the Experience: At $27, it offers good value for a guided, paranormal-themed walk with interactive elements.
• Hands-on Paranormal Equipment: Participants receive EMF meters or ghost detectors, adding a fun, investigative touch.
• Focus on Iconic Sites: Stops include St. Louis Cathedral, The Cabildo, and the famed Lalaurie Mansion—each with a spooky story.
• Entertaining Guides: Guides like Coty and Ashli are praised for their humor, knowledge, and storytelling ability.
• Flexible Stops & Breaks: Drink stops are optional, allowing for a casual, personalized experience.
• Accessible & Short: Lasts about 2 hours, making it a manageable and intriguing quick tour.

Deep Dive: What You Can Expect on the Tour

When you sign up for the Voodoo, Mystery and Paranormal Tour, expect an engaging, two-hour walk that explores the mysterious side of the French Quarter. The tour starts near Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, where guides will meet you on the sidewalk—please note, you won’t go inside Lafitte’s; just gather at the gate of the attached courtyard.

As the group moves through some of the most historic and reputedly haunted streets, your guide will use paranormal equipment—like EMF meters—to add an investigative element that makes the stories more tangible. This part of the experience turns passive sightseeing into a kind of ghostly game. One reviewer highlights this by noting, “We loved the way real paranormal equipment was used, making the stories come alive.”

The tour covers 15+ locations, including iconic landmarks such as St. Louis Cathedral, St. Anthony’s Garden, and the Old Ursuline Convent. Each site is tied to a ghost or mystery, with guides sharing documented reports of hauntings, unsolved murders, and legends like vampires and mass murders. For example, the Lalaurie Mansion is spotlighted as the “most haunted house” in New Orleans, with tales of a notorious mistress of death.

The stops also include Jackson Square, the Cabildo, and the Presbytere, an example of colonial Spanish architecture. These sites, besides their architectural beauty, are woven into stories of spirits, historical tragedies, and local legends. One reviewer quotes, “Our guide was very knowledgeable and told stories that kept everyone intrigued,” emphasizing that storytelling quality enhances the experience.

Throughout the tour, there’s a relaxed vibe that allows for question time and optional drink breaks, which help keep the atmosphere fun and informal. The guide’s personable approach is repeatedly praised, with reviews calling guides like Coty “funny, knowledgeable, and very entertaining,” making the storytelling both educational and engaging.

While the tour is centered around ghost stories and supernatural legends, it’s also rooted in real history, including details about unsolved murders, traditional burial practices, and notorious local legends like vampires—adding depth to the spooky stories.

Some participants remark on the walking pace—it’s manageable, but do wear comfortable shoes because the streets are uneven, and you’ll be walking through historic, sometimes cobblestone, areas. The tour’s duration is about 2 hours, which makes it a great evening activity or a fun midday break from more conventional sightseeing.

What the Reviews Say

The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with 178 reviews averaging 4.3 out of 5. Many praise the guides’ storytelling skills—calling them “funny,” “knowledgable,” and “personable.” Commentators like Andy from the UK enjoyed the entertaining narrative and the lively atmosphere Coty created. Brittany appreciated how Coty could engage even a shy 8-year-old, making it family-friendly.

Value for money is another frequent theme. Ron felt it was “well worth the price,” especially considering the informative content and the interactive paranormal element. Multiple reviews emphasize the personalized experience, often noting that the tour felt intimate, especially when only a few people booked.

Some critics mention the lack of full interior access at haunted sites or that the paranormal equipment is more for fun than serious detection, but these are minor considering the overall enjoyment. One reviewer described it as “more of a fact-telling than a ghost-hunting experience,” which is fair—this is more storytelling and atmosphere than a full-blown paranormal investigation.

The drink stops are appreciated for adding a social element, and guides are flexible about these breaks, enhancing the relaxed vibe. The tour’s accessibility and the option for private groups are added bonuses, making it suitable for families, couples, or small groups.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop courtyard, your guide will introduce the tour and hand out paranormal detectors. This initial part is perfect for setting the mood and getting everyone excited about the stories ahead.

From there, the tour takes you along the haunted streets of the French Quarter, where each stop reveals a piece of local legend or documented ghost story. You’ll visit St. Louis Cathedral, where some say spirits linger within its historic walls. At St. Anthony’s Garden, stories of death and tragedy come alive. The Cabildo and Presbytere are not only architectural gems but also sites tied to ghostly tales and historical mysteries.

A highlight, according to reviews, is the visit to Lalaurie Mansion, with its dark history of torture and murder. Guides share stories of the Mistress of Death, and some say you can still feel her presence. The stories are backed by historical facts, making the legends more convincing.

Throughout, the guides keep the tone lively, mixing history with ghost stories. As one reviewer notes, “The stories about the fires, the voodoo, and the legends kept us all captivated.” There’s also mention of unsolved murders and vampire legends, adding a supernatural flavor that makes the tour both educational and exciting.

The tour ends near Jackson Square or the original meeting point, giving you ample opportunity to continue exploring or grab a drink at one of the nearby bars. The optional drink stops are a nice touch, making the tour feel more like a social outing rather than just a walk.

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Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For the price, this tour offers more than just a walk—it combines history, legend, and a bit of paranormal fun. Guides like Coty and Ashli consistently receive praise for their knowledge and lively storytelling, which makes the stories memorable. The use of paranormal equipment elevates the experience, turning it into a playful, investigative adventure.

The tour’s focus on iconic landmarks and haunted sites means you’ll come away with a greater understanding of New Orleans’ mysterious reputation and dark mythology. It’s a fantastic option if you enjoy ghost stories, local legends, or simply want a different way to see the French Quarter.

While it might not satisfy paranormal investigators seeking full ghost-hunting, it offers a fun, engaging introduction to the city’s haunted reputation. The 2-hour duration makes it perfect for a quick evening activity, and at just $27, it’s an accessible way to add some spooky excitement to your trip.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or on your own and want stories that blend history with a supernatural twist, this tour will deliver. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and keep an open mind—ghosts or not, the stories and sights will leave an impression.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 2 hours long, making it a manageable and engaging experience without taking up your whole day.

Where does the tour start?
It begins on the sidewalk in front of Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar at 941 Bourbon Street. Remember, you meet outside, not inside the bar.

Is the tour suitable for kids?
Many reviews mention that guides can engage children, and some families have enjoyed the storytelling. However, it is focused on haunted legends and may be more appealing to older children or teens.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included. There are stops where you can buy beverages if you wish, and the stops are optional.

Can I book a private group?
Yes, private group options are available, making it ideal for special occasions or family outings.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, allowing more visitors to enjoy the experience.

What if it rains?
The tour is held outdoors and may be canceled if weather conditions are severe. Check the weather forecast and contact the provider if you have concerns.

What equipment do we get?
Guides provide paranormal-themed equipment like EMF meters or ghost detectors, which adds an investigative element to the storytelling.

Can I record during the tour?
Video and audio recording are not allowed during the tour to respect the experience and other participants.

Final Words

This Voodoo, Mystery, and Paranormal Tour in New Orleans offers an entertaining, affordable way to explore the city’s haunted reputation while learning about its legends and history. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy stories, history, and a touch of supernatural fun, all delivered by guides who know how to entertain and inform. With its lively storytelling, interactive paranormal elements, and visits to iconic sites, it promises an experience that’s both fun and memorable.

If you’re after an activity that combines local lore with the thrill of ghost stories—and don’t mind a bit of walking and optional drinks—then this tour is a perfect choice. It’s one of those small experiences that can turn a regular visit into a story you’ll be telling for years afterward.

You can check availability for your dates here: