New Orleans Premier Ghost, Voodoo & Vampire Walking Tour

The New Orleans Premier Ghost, Voodoo & Vampire Walking Tour offers an engaging and spine-tingling exploration of the city’s haunted past. Priced at $32.99 per person and lasting approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, this tour takes place in the lively French Quarter. With over 11,800 reviews and a solid 4.5-star rating, the experience is highly rated for its storytelling, interesting stops, and overall value. The tour departs from 311 Exchange Place and is suitable for most travelers, with a caution for those with mobility issues due to the historic, uneven terrain.

This tour stands out by focusing on dark legends, voodoo lore, and ghostly tales, making it perfect for those intrigued by the supernatural or history enthusiasts interested in the city’s eerie side. It features popular spots like Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, the LaLaurie Mansion, and the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum. While the tour offers an immersive walk through the historic streets, it is important to note that the experience involves a fair amount of walking, and some stops may be more gruesome or intense than others.

Key Points

• Price: $32.99 per person, with most bookings made 15 days in advance
• Duration: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes
• Location: French Quarter, New Orleans, starting at 311 Exchange Place
• Highlights: LaLaurie Mansion, Pharmacy Museum, Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop and stories about vampires, ghosts, voodoo, and witchcraft
• Tour Type: Group walk with local knowledgeable guides
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, but terrain may pose challenges
• Weather Policy: Operates in all weather conditions; tours are not canceled for rain

Starting Point in the French Quarter

The tour begins at the Witches Brew Gallery on Exchange Place, conveniently located across from the Pelican Club Restaurant. Travelers are advised to arrive 30 minutes before departure to check in and settle in. The meeting point is easy to find, and the tour is designed to be a walkable experience through some of the most haunted and historic streets of New Orleans.

This starting location allows for a smooth beginning to the adventure, with the guide leading the group along well-visited routes that feature some of the city’s most storied sites. The tour typically ends near Bourbon Street, making it convenient to continue exploring the city afterward.

Exploring the Haunted Spots of the French Quarter

The tour takes you through the French Quarter, where your guide shares chilling stories about voodoo, witchcraft, and ghost legends. Some of the notable sites include Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, one of New Orleans’ oldest structures, known for its haunted reputation and history as Jean Lafitte’s privateer operation.

Another stop, the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, offers a glimpse into questionable 19th-century medical practices, such as bloodletting and leeching, with exhibits that add a gruesome layer to the spooky theme. Visitors learn about the legend of the Casket Girls and their supposed connection to the first North American vampires.

The tour also covers the LaLaurie Mansion, infamous for tales involving Madame LaLaurie and her grisly treatment of slaves, making it a key stop for those interested in the darker origins of New Orleans’ history.

The Haunted Bars and Nighttime Atmosphere

Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, another highlight, is recognized as one of the most haunted buildings in the French Quarter. The bar’s history as a site of illicit privateer activities adds to its spooky allure, especially at night when the shadows seem to deepen.

In addition, the tour includes a visit to Voodoo Authentica, a shop on Dumaine Street where visitors can see handmade voodoo dolls and gris-gris bags. This spot complements the tour’s themes by showcasing authentic voodoo craftwork that has been part of the city’s culture since the 1990s.

The Guide’s Role and Storytelling Style

The guides on this tour are praised for their knowledge and theatrical storytelling. Many reviews highlight guides like Scott, Chris, or Tony as being fun, engaging, and informative. They share legendary tales and local lore that captivate the group, making the experience both entertaining and educational.

Some guides add a humorous touch, including dad jokes, while others focus on delivering bloodcurdling tales that send shivers down the spine. This combination of storytelling styles keeps the group engaged and eager to hear the next story.

Pacing, Walkability, and Tour Length

While most reviews mention that the walk is easy and manageable, some note that the tour involves quite a bit of walking within the historic streets. The route is designed to include many of the most famous haunted sites, which means timing can be flexible, but guests should prepare for a moderate amount of physical activity.

The length of about 1 hour 45 minutes is generally considered just right—not too long, allowing for an immersive experience without fatigue. However, some reviews suggest that the tour could be slightly lengthy due to the walking involved.

Accessibility and Weather Conditions

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a suitable option for those with mobility challenges. It operates rain or shine, so participants should dress appropriately for weather conditions. Tours are not canceled for rain, so bringing umbrella or raincoat is recommended if the weather looks uncertain.

Since the tour takes place outdoors in historic streets, terrain may pose some challenges, especially for those with mobility issues. Travelers with concerns should inquire in advance for accommodations.

Tour Feedback: Strengths and Areas for Improvement

Many reviews consistently praise the guides’ storytelling skills and the stunning, spooky locations. Standard highlights include the LaLaurie Mansion, Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, and the Pharmacy Museum, which provide visual and narrative richness.

While generally well-received, some reviews mention the length due to walking as a potential downside, and a few note overly theatrical guides as less engaging. The majority of reviews emphasize the entertaining stories, knowledgeable guides, and atmospheric vibe.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, and fans of the supernatural. It suits those who enjoy walking tours with storytelling and are comfortable with dark, sometimes gruesome tales. Children above 12 years old can attend, but the content may be intense for younger children.

The tour’s nighttime setting and historic locations make it especially compelling for visitors wanting to see a different side of New Orleans. It’s a great option for an evening activity, especially if you’re interested in the city’s haunted legends and voodoo culture.

Final Thoughts on the Haunted Night Tour

The New Orleans Premier Ghost, Voodoo & Vampire Walking Tour offers a well-reviewed, atmospheric journey into the city’s spookiest stories. Led by knowledgeable guides known for their storytelling flair, the tour covers iconic haunted sites and shares eerie legends that bring New Orleans’ dark history to life.

While the walking can be moderate in length, the stops are prime attractions that make the effort worthwhile. The tour’s value, at just under $33, appeals to those seeking an entertaining, spooky experience in the heart of the French Quarter. Most visitors find the mix of history, legend, and lively storytelling makes for a memorable evening adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at the Witches Brew Gallery located at 311 Exchange Place, directly across from the Pelican Club Restaurant.

How early should I arrive?
Guests should arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled start time to check in and settle in.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While children are allowed, it is not recommended for those under 12 due to the gruesome content of some stories.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions; it is not canceled for rain. Participants should dress appropriately and prepare for outdoor walking.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about 1 hour 45 minutes, including stops at key haunted sites.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it accommodates wheelchair users, though terrain may be uneven.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are beverages or snacks included?
No, beverages and snacks are not included but are available for purchase during the tour.

What’s the best way to book?
Advance reservations are recommended, as the tour is limited to 10 guests per guide and most bookings are made 15 days ahead.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of legendary haunted locations and stories of voodoo, ghosts, and vampires in the French Quarter creates a uniquely atmospheric experience, led by guides praised for their storytelling skills and knowledge.

Is there anything else I should know?
Bring sunscreen if touring during late afternoon, and cash for any optional purchases, like drinks or voodoo souvenirs.

This tour provides a fun, spooky, and educational way to experience New Orleans’ haunted history and is perfect for those seeking a nighttime adventure with a storytelling twist.