Private Ghost, Voodoo and Vampire Tour - What’s Included and What’s Not

Private Ghost, Voodoo and Vampire Tour

Experience the Dark Side of New Orleans with the Private Ghost, Voodoo, and Vampire Tour

If you’re drawn to the mysterious and the macabre, this private Ghost, Voodoo, and Vampire Tour in New Orleans offers a captivating peek into the city’s haunted streets. Priced at $800 per group (up to 15 people), the 2-hour walking adventure takes you through the French Quarter, visiting legendary haunted sites, voodoo shops, and historic landmarks with a knowledgeable local guide, often Jodi or a similarly engaging storyteller. It’s designed to be intimate, fun, and enlightening, giving you a taste of the city’s darker tales without the crowds.

What we especially like about this tour are two key features: first, the personalized experience that comes from having a private guide who can tailor the stories to your interests, and second, the blend of historical facts with local legends—making the experience not just spooky but genuinely educational. Plus, the inclusion of a stop at a traditional bar for conversation adds a relaxed, social element that’s perfect after a dose of ghostly stories.

A potential consideration is the cost — at $800, it’s an investment, especially for smaller groups. It’s best suited for travelers who value a personalized, in-depth exploration of New Orleans’ ghostly side and are eager to hear local stories directly from a guide. If you’re traveling with a bigger party or love dark history, this tour might be just your thing.

Key Points

Private Ghost, Voodoo and Vampire Tour - Key Points

  • Private and Personalized: Up to 15 people, with a guide tailored to your group’s interests.
  • Well-Rounded Experience: Combines haunted sites, voodoo shops, history, and social time.
  • Historical and Folklore Insights: Learn about witches, voodoo priestesses, and ghostly legends of New Orleans.
  • Accessible Location: Starts in front of the Omni Royal Orleans, a central spot in the French Quarter.
  • Authentic Voodoo Shops: Stops at Voodoo Authentica and other legendary locations.
  • Flexible and Weatherproof: Operates in all weather, with an easy mobile ticket process.

A Detailed Look at the Tour: What to Expect at Each Stop

Private Ghost, Voodoo and Vampire Tour - A Detailed Look at the Tour: What to Expect at Each Stop

Starting Point: Omni Royal Orleans

The tour kicks off in front of the Omni Royal Orleans, a classic hotel right on St. Louis Street, a prime location in the heart of the French Quarter. Meeting there about thirty minutes early ensures you’re ready to hit the streets and start soaking in the atmosphere. This spot is a great anchor point — easy to find and close to many other attractions.

First Stop: New Orleans Pharmacy Museum

Your journey into the city’s eerie side begins at the Pharmacy Museum, established in 1816 by Louis Dufilho, America’s first licensed pharmacist. The building, formerly an apothecary, now hosts exhibits that showcase medical practices from the past — some of which tie into voodoo and occult traditions. The museum’s collection includes strange potions, medical tools, and stories that set the stage for the darker tales to come. While admission isn’t included, the museum’s history enriches your understanding of how medicine and mysticism intersected in 19th-century New Orleans.

Second Stop: Jackson Square

Next, you’ll pass Jackson Square, one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Named after General Andrew Jackson, the square boasts the famous Jackson statue and vibrant street artists. Here, your guide shares stories of ghostly sightings and legendary figures associated with this historic location. It’s a lively contrast to the haunted tales, but the stories about ghosts and lingering spirits make Jackson Square a must-see for any supernatural enthusiast.

Third Stop: Voodoo Authentica

A highlight for many, this stop at Voodoo Authentica on Dumaine Street offers a chance to see authentic voodoo dolls, gris-gris bags, and other spiritual items crafted by local artisans. Founded in the 1990s, this shop provides insight into voodoo’s role in New Orleans culture — far from the Hollywood stereotypes. Your guide may explain the difference between folklore and actual practices, helping you understand the spiritual traditions that still influence the city today. Many visitors appreciate this authentic stop, and it’s often a favorite for those interested in the mystical side of New Orleans.

Fourth Stop: Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar

No ghost tour of New Orleans would be complete without a visit to Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, the oldest bar in America. Once owned by the privateer Jean Lafitte, this historic pub is renowned for its haunting reputation. The building’s dark, wood-paneled interior and centuries-old stone walls create an atmospheric setting perfect for ghost stories. As the tour pauses here for about fifteen minutes, many guests enjoy a drink or just soak in the spooky ambiance. Guides often share tales of ghostly apparitions and strange noises reported by staff and visitors alike.

Fifth Stop: Lalaurie Mansion

Finally, your tour ventures to the Lalaurie Mansion, infamous for its gruesome history involving the Madame Lalaurie, who was accused of torturing slaves within her home. The tales surrounding this house are among the most sordid in New Orleans’ history, with reports of ghostly whispers and apparitions. While the tour stops outside and doesn’t include interior access, learning about the mansion’s dark past gives you a haunting, visceral sense of the city’s more ghastly stories. The guide’s storytelling here is often animated, making the history come alive in a chilling way.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Private Ghost, Voodoo and Vampire Tour - What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour is designed for an intimate experience, with only your group participating, ensuring personalized attention from your guide. The cost covers the entire two-hour walk, starting in the French Quarter’s heart. However, keep in mind that food and drinks are not included, so if you want to enjoy a beverage at Lafitte’s or the bar afterward, you’ll need to budget accordingly.

The meeting point at the Omni Royal Orleans makes logistics simple, though the tour might end at a different location in the French Quarter. The tour is accessible via public transportation and operates in all weather, so dress appropriately for rain or shine.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Guides

Based on reviews, guides like Jodi are praised for their insightfulness and personable approach. One guest said, “Jodi was wonderful, insightful and personable,” highlighting how important a knowledgeable, engaging guide is to this experience. Guests also mention the tour’s entertaining storytelling style, making historical facts lively and memorable.

The small group size (up to 15) makes it easy to ask questions, take photos, and absorb the stories without feeling rushed. The private aspect ensures that your group’s interests are prioritized, whether you’re more fascinated by the history, the voodoo traditions, or the haunted legends.

How Does the Price Reflect the Value?

Private Ghost, Voodoo and Vampire Tour - How Does the Price Reflect the Value?

At $800 for a group, this tour might seem steep compared to larger, public options. However, the personalized attention and customized storytelling often make it worth the price. For small groups, it’s a chance to enjoy a tailored experience, ask all your questions, and walk at your own pace through some of the city’s most haunted and mystical sites. Considering the private guide, the stops, and the insights provided, many guests find the cost justified — especially if they’re eager to delve deeper into the city’s darker stories without the distraction of crowds.

Who Would Love This Tour?

Private Ghost, Voodoo and Vampire Tour - Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who prefer a more intimate, in-depth exploration of New Orleans’ spooky side. History buffs, folklore enthusiasts, or anyone curious about the city’s connection to voodoo and ghost stories will find this tour engaging. It’s also perfect for groups wanting a flexible, private experience that can be tailored to their interests. If you’re traveling with a loved one or small family and want to avoid large, commercialized tours, this is a great choice.

The Sum Up

Private Ghost, Voodoo and Vampire Tour - The Sum Up

The Private Ghost, Voodoo, and Vampire Tour offers a genuinely engaging way to experience New Orleans’ haunted and mystical side. With knowledgeable guides, carefully curated stops, and the flexibility of a private tour, it provides a personalized and memorable journey into the city’s darker history. While it requires a notable investment, many guests feel the combination of storytelling, authentic locations, and the intimate setting makes it well worth the cost.

If you’re fascinated by ghost stories, voodoo traditions, or simply love exploring historic, haunted places in a relaxed, social environment, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s particularly suited for those who want a deeper understanding of the city’s supernatural legends, away from the larger crowds and commercialized experiences.

FAQ

Private Ghost, Voodoo and Vampire Tour - FAQ

How many people can participate in this tour?
Up to 15 people, making it ideal for small groups seeking a personalized experience.

What is the duration of the tour?
Approximately 2 hours, providing a compact but thorough exploration of key haunted and mystical sites.

Where does the tour start?
It begins in front of the Omni Royal Orleans at 621 St. Louis St, with meeting half an hour early recommended.

Are food or drinks included in the price?
No, food and drinks are not included, but stops at historic bars like Lafitte’s are part of the tour.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, it operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted.

Will the tour accommodate mobility issues?
The French Quarter’s terrain presents challenges, so please discuss special needs in advance.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about a week in advance, but availability can vary.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, consider your children’s interest in ghost stories and history.

Whether you’re a seasoned ghost hunter or a curious traveler, this private tour offers a thoughtful, fun, and slightly spooky way to experience New Orleans. Prepare for stories that will send shivers down your spine and leave you with a new appreciation for the city’s mysterious past.