Spirits: New Orleans Cocktail & Ghost Tour

Spirits: New Orleans Cocktail & Ghost Tour offers an intriguing blend of local bar hopping and ghost storytelling, all within approximately two hours. For just $30 per person, you’ll explore three carefully selected bars, each serving up a different area of New Orleans’ vibrant drinking scene. Guided by knowledgeable storytellers like John, who draws from well-researched local lore, this tour promises a mix of chilling tales and delicious drinks.

What we love is how seamlessly the tour combines authentic atmosphere with entertaining storytelling—a true way to experience the city’s mysterious side without the typical tourist traps. Plus, the well-curated bar stops introduce you to hidden gems you might never find on your own, making this a practical choice for those keen on discovering local favorites.

A possible consideration is that drinks are not included in the ticket price, so you’ll want to budget around $8 to $15 per drink. Also, since the tour involves walking cobbled alleys at night, comfortable footwear is recommended.

This experience is perfect for travelers who appreciate history, love a good ghost story, and want to sample New Orleans’ famed cocktails while learning about its haunted past. It’s ideal for curious minds and small groups seeking a more personal connection with the city’s dark legends.

Key Points

• Balanced blend of ghost stories and cocktail history offers an immersive experience.
• Well-researched, sourced stories make the tales both authentic and genuinely spooky.
• Small group size (max 18) ensures a more personal, engaging atmosphere.
• Guides like John are passionate, knowledgeable, and great storytellers.
• Hidden bar stops provide unique local experiences away from tourist crowds.
• Drinks are not included, so budget accordingly for a full experience.

Why This Tour Stands Out

In the world of New Orleans tours, this one manages to strike a rare balance: it’s both entertaining and educational. Instead of just wandering from bar to bar, you get a storytelling experience rooted in real history—stories drawn from the cultures that created the city’s legend. It’s clear that guides like John are passionate about sharing both the spooky tales and the city’s spirited drinking legacy.

The two-hour duration is perfect for those on a tight schedule or looking to combine a night out with some historical context. The small group size means everyone gets a chance to ask questions and interact rather than just listen passively. Plus, the mobile ticket system makes booking and participating straightforward, a real plus for last-minute planners.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point and Duration

Your evening begins promptly at 8:00 pm at 523 St Ann St. in the French Quarter, a lively hub filled with history and charm. From there, the guide leads you through cobbled alleys to three distinct bars. The entire tour wraps up back at the starting point, making it easy to plan your evening around this experience.

Bar Stops and Atmosphere

Each bar is carefully chosen—not your run-of-the-mill tourist spots but local favorites where you can enjoy quality drinks. One review mentions that the guide “had some good drink recommendations,” which means you’re likely to find delicious cocktails and perhaps discover new favorites. The atmosphere at these bars tends to be relaxed and intimate, perfect for soaking in stories and enjoying your libation.

Ghost Stories and Local Lore

The backbone of this tour is John’s storytelling, which is praised as entertaining, well-researched, and sourced from primary materials. Expect tales of hauntings, voodoo legends, and city-specific ghost stories that go beyond the usual spooky clichés. Jessica G. describes her experience as “very enjoyable and unique,” emphasizing how local lore is woven into the narrative, making the stories feel authentic and meaningful.

Drinking and Pacing

Since drinks are not included, your budget will cover around $8 to $15 per cocktail. The guide encourages pacing yourself and offers non-alcoholic options for non-drinkers or those who prefer moderation. Jessica G. notes, “the drinks were good and organized,” highlighting how the experience is well-structured. This thoughtful approach ensures everyone can enjoy at their own pace.

The Experience from the Guides’ Perspective

The guide (John) emphasizes that the best tours are crafted experiences, blending history, storytelling, and local culture. He mentions that his stories are carefully sourced and aimed to connect travelers with the city’s spooky and spirited identity. Jessica G. appreciates how John draws stories directly from local lore, which adds a layer of credibility and depth.

Reviews highlight that guides are animated, personable, and passionate. Karmel C. describes John as “animated and friendly,” while others like Bonnie R. note his theatrical storytelling style. This enthusiasm and dedication are what really elevate this tour from a basic pub crawl to a memorable night of entertainment.

Why This Tour is a Fantastic Choice

This experience is more than just a drinking tour; it’s a cultural journey. It’s well-suited for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, and cocktail lovers alike. The focus on documented stories means you’re hearing legitimate legends, not fabricated tales or stereotypes.

Travelers who enjoy small, intimate groups will appreciate the premium feel of this tour. Plus, the local bar recommendations are a bonus for anyone wanting to continue exploring on their own after the tour ends.

What Could Be Better

A potential downside is that drinks are not included, which might be a concern for those on a tight budget or expecting the price to cover beverages. You will need to budget extra for drinks, but considering the quality of the bars and stories, many find this additional expense worthwhile.

Another aspect to consider is the walking component—cobbled alleys at night can be uneven, so comfortable shoes are a must. The dark history also means some stories could be unsettling, especially for more sensitive guests.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to combine history, storytelling, and local drinking culture. If you’re interested in learning about haunted legends and sampling unique cocktails in a relaxed environment, this is a strong choice. It’s especially suited for small groups and those who enjoy interactive, storytelling-led experiences.

It’s also a good pick for solitary travelers who want to mingle with fellow adventurers while absorbing the city’s dark stories. And if you’re seeking a tour that’s well-researched and authentic, this one delivers in spades.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes. Non-drinkers are welcome, and there are non-alcoholic options available. The tour is more about storytelling and discovering local legends, so you can participate fully without drinking.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 2 hours. It begins at 8:00 pm and ends back at the starting point, making it easy to fit into your evening plans.

Are the drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are not included. You should budget around $8 to $15 for each cocktail. The guide provides suggestions, and you’re free to enjoy drinks at your own pace.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Since it covers dark history and ghost stories, it might not be suitable for young children or sensitive guests. It’s best suited for adults or older teens.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 18 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal and engaging.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at 523 St Ann St., New Orleans, at 8:00 pm. The meeting point is centrally located in the French Quarter, close to public transportation.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be strolling cobbled alleys at night. Dress in layers, as evenings can be cooler.

To sum it up, the Spirits: New Orleans Cocktail & Ghost Tour offers a lively, well-researched, and engaging way to experience the city’s haunted history and spirited culture. It’s perfect for travelers who love stories, history, and a good drink, all wrapped into a small-group experience. The combination of authentic lore, local bar recommendations, and entertaining storytelling makes this tour a standout choice for anyone wanting to see a different side of New Orleans.

Whether you’re a solo explorer, part of a small group, or a couple in search of an evening’s entertainment, this experience promises chilling tales and delicious drinks—all woven into a night of fun, learning, and a few shivers down your spine.