Ghost and Vampire Walking Tour Of The French Quarter

The Ghost and Vampire Walking Tour of the French Quarter offers a 2-hour journey through one of New Orleans’ most atmospheric neighborhoods. Priced at $21 per person, this tour is available via mobile ticket and is recommended to be booked about 12 days in advance. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on over 2,197 reviews, it attracts a wide array of visitors eager to explore the haunted side of the city. The tour departs from 718 N Rampart Street and concludes at Jackson Square, making it easy to access from most downtown hotels and public transportation.

This tour is particularly popular because of its combination of historical facts, ghost stories, and tales of self-proclaimed vampires. It provides insightful commentary from a local guide, and the entire experience is designed to be engaging, spooky, and fun for a wide range of travelers. While the tour features some stops at renowned haunted locations, it is primarily a storytelling walk that emphasizes legends and local lore.

Key Points

• Price: $21 per person, offering good value compared to similar experiences.
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours, with the tour starting at 718 N Rampart Street.
• Highlights: Stories of Madame LaLaurie, local haunted sites, and a community of “real-life” vampires.
• Group size: Limited to 28 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.
• Booking: Recommended 12 days in advance, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours prior.
• Guide quality: Many guides are praised for their knowledgeable storytelling and ability to engage guests, although some reviews mention variability.

Starting Point and Meeting Details

The tour begins at 718 N Rampart Street, a convenient location close to most downtown hotels. Travelers are encouraged to walk to the meeting point to help reduce vehicle traffic in the French Quarter. The tour ends at Jackson Square, a lively area ideal for exploring further or returning to accommodations. The entire route involves walking through the historic streets of the French Quarter, which is well suited to those comfortable with some walking.

Exploring the French Quarter’s Haunted Streets

The French Quarter serves as the perfect backdrop for this spooky experience. Its darkened streets and historic buildings lend an authentic atmosphere to the stories told during the tour. Travelers get to wander through these streets while listening to tales of ghostly encounters, spectral hauntings, and mysterious legends that have persisted for generations.

While the tour primarily involves walking and storytelling, it includes a 15-minute check-in at French Quarter Phantoms and a 12-minute stop outside the Lalaurie Mansion. The latter features the chilling story of Madame LaLaurie, a notorious figure associated with horror, though no entry inside the mansion is permitted since it remains a private residence.

Stories of Madame LaLaurie and Haunted Locations

The Lalaurie Mansion is a key highlight, famous for its connection to one of New Orleans’ most infamous figures. The guide recounts the horrific history of Madame LaLaurie, who is linked to stories of cruelty and ghostly activity. This stop is narrated from the sidewalk, respecting the private property, but offers a chilling glimpse into the dark past of the city.

Throughout the tour, tales of haunted locations in the French Quarter are shared, giving insight into the city’s long-standing reputation for paranormal activity. These stories blend local history with ghost lore, creating a captivating experience for those interested in the supernatural.

Community of “Real-Life” Vampires and Legends

One of the unique aspects of this tour is its coverage of self-proclaimed vampire communities in New Orleans. The guide explains who these individuals are and how they fit into the city’s folklore. This segment adds a modern twist to the traditional ghost stories, appealing to those curious about contemporary legends and alternative subcultures.

This feature distinguishes the tour from typical ghost walks, offering a deeper look into local subcultures and their connection with the city’s mysterious reputation.

The Guide: Knowledgeable Storytellers with Varying Reviews

The guides are a key part of this experience. Many reviews praise guides like Kathrine, Eve, Crystal, and Bobby for their engagement, knowledge, and storytelling skills. Guides like Kathrine and Crystal are highlighted for their ability to provide detailed, compelling narratives that enhance the experience.

However, not all guides receive perfect reviews. Some mention guides who may speak too quickly or lack engagement, which can detract from the storytelling. Nevertheless, the majority of guests seem to enjoy the passion and local expertise of the guides, making it a worthwhile experience overall.

Pacing, Duration, and Crowd Levels

The tour is advertised as 2 hours, but some reviews mention it may last around an hour and 15 minutes in practice. The overall pacing depends on group size and guide delivery. The maximum group size of 28 helps keep the experience personalized, although multiple groups often operate simultaneously, which can make hearing the guide challenging at times.

Most travelers find the walking pace manageable, but individuals should be prepared for some standing and walking. The tour is suitable for most fitness levels and is stroller-friendly, though it involves outdoor walking in the evening.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

Since the tour involves walking through the streets of the French Quarter, it is best suited for those comfortable with some physical activity. Children are welcome when accompanied by an adult, and service animals are permitted.

Given the dark, outdoor nature of the experience, travelers should wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket, especially in cooler evenings. Drinks are available for purchase, but alcoholic beverages are not included in the tour price.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Booking is straightforward and highly recommended 12 days in advance to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons. The tour offers free cancellation if canceled more than 24 hours before the start time, providing flexibility for travelers’ plans. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded, so planning ahead is advised.

The tour is weather-dependent, and if canceled due to poor weather, travelers are offered a different date or a full refund.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Other Ghost Walks

This walking tour emphasizes a blend of spooky stories and historical facts, with a special focus on Madame LaLaurie and local vampire communities. Unlike some ghost tours that only tell legends, the guides here are praised for their detailed storytelling and ability to answer questions.

The inclusion of stories about real-life vampires and the haunted history of the French Quarter makes it a distinctive experience. Its moderate duration and manageable group size foster an engaging atmosphere, although some reviews note that the tour can feel hurried or that guides don’t always deliver stories with equal enthusiasm.

The Sum Up: An Entertaining and Informative Night Walk

The Ghost and Vampire Walking Tour of the French Quarter offers a compelling mix of history, legend, and local lore suitable for a broad audience. Its affordable price, combined with engaging guides and interesting stories, makes it a popular choice for first-time visitors and seasoned ghost enthusiasts alike.

While the experience can vary depending on the guide and group, most guests appreciate the insights into New Orleans’ haunted reputation and the chance to explore the city after dark. Ideal for those who enjoy stories of ghosts, vampires, and the mysterious, this tour provides a fun, spooky evening with plenty of authentic local character.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 2 hours, though some reviews mention it may last around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 718 N Rampart Street, a conveniently located meeting point in the French Quarter.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is generally suitable for most ages, with some reviews noting kids enjoyed the experience.

Are drinks included?
No, alcoholic drinks are available to purchase, but are not included in the tour price.

What is the group size limit?
The maximum group size is 28 travelers, which helps maintain an intimate atmosphere.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

Are there any stops inside haunted locations?
No, the story of Madame LaLaurie is told from outside the mansion, which remains a private residence.

Is the tour accessible?
The tour involves walking outdoors, making it suitable for most people, though individuals should be prepared for some physical activity.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Most guides are praised for their storytelling skills and local knowledge, though reviews indicate some variability.

Can I book in advance?
Yes, booking about 12 days ahead is recommended to secure a spot, especially during busy times.

What makes this tour different from others?
Its focus on real-life vampire communities and specific haunted sites like the LaLaurie Mansion give it a distinctive edge among ghost tours in New Orleans.