Shared 2 Hours Saints and Sinners Walking Tour in New Orleans

The Shared 2 Hours Saints and Sinners Walking Tour in New Orleans offers an engaging glimpse into the city’s darker side. Priced at $21, it provides an approximate 2-hour exploration of the French Quarter’s most infamous spots, led by a professional guide known for their knowledge and storytelling flair. With a recommendation rate of 92% from 117 reviews and a solid average rating of 4.5, this tour promises a lively, adult-only experience that appeals to those interested in the city’s lurid past and notorious characters.

The tour departs from the Voodoo Lounge at 718 N Rampart Street at 1:30 pm, with a mobile ticket that makes booking straightforward. A notable perk is the buy one, get one free Hurricane drinks in a souvenir cup at the start—an adult treat that adds to the fun. The group size is limited to 14 travelers, ensuring an intimate atmosphere, and the tour is best suited for those 17 years and older, with a minimum drinking age of 21. While the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, its proximity to public transportation makes it accessible for most visitors.

This tour is perfect for adults eager to explore New Orleans’ underground tales, legendary locations, and colorful characters. It emphasizes entertaining storytelling and local history with stops that include famous landmarks and notorious sites. Be prepared to walk comfortably for around 2 hours, and consider that alcoholic drinks are available for purchase afterward if you want to extend the fun.

Key Points

• Adults-only experience exploring New Orleans’ darker history
• 2-hour walking tour starting at Voodoo Lounge
• $21 per person with buy one, get one free Hurricane drinks
• Led by friendly, professional guides with a focus on storytelling
• Stops include historic sites like the French Market and St. Louis Cathedral
• Tour is booked on average 18 days in advance and has a maximum group size of 14

The Starting Point: French Quarter Voodoo Lounge

The tour begins inside the Voodoo Lounge at 718 N Rampart Street, where travelers are greeted with buy one, get one free Hurricane drinks in souvenir cups. This adult-only treat helps set a lively tone for the two-hour exploration ahead. The mobility-friendly location and easy access to public transit make this meeting spot convenient for most visitors. The guide welcomes guests with a friendly demeanor and dives straight into stories that reveal New Orleans’ secrets, scandals, and spirits.

Exploring the Heart of Darkness at French Quarter Phantoms

The tour’s initial stop is French Quarter Phantoms, a site that fuels curiosity about local legends. Visitors hear about the city’s ghostly tales and dark legends, setting the tone for an adventure into New Orleans’ nocturnal side. The guide shares stories that are informative, lively, and entertaining, ensuring guests remain engaged throughout. The short 10-minute stop allows for photos and questions, making it a perfect opener for the tour.

Inside the St. Louis Cathedral’s Hidden Stories

Next, the tour visits the St. Louis Cathedral, one of the most iconic landmarks in the French Quarter. Inside, travelers discover a prayer chapel dedicated to Henriette Dellile, who founded the Sisters of the Holy Family, recognized as the first female-led Black convent in the United States. The guide highlights these historical nuances while showcasing the cathedral’s gothic architecture and spiritual significance. This stop offers a mix of beauty and history, adding depth to the tour’s narrative.

The Enigmatic Hotel Villa Convento and the House of the Rising Sun

A highlight for many is the visit to Hotel Villa Convento, reputed to be the inspiration for the famous song “House of the Rising Sun”. The 10-minute stop provides an opportunity to hear stories about its colorful past, including its former use as a brothel. The guide’s storytelling makes the location come alive, revealing the seedy side of New Orleans’ nightlife. Though the site’s history is debated, its notoriety makes it a memorable part of the tour.

The French Market and the City’s Infamous Characters

The French Market, formerly known as Galliten Street, is a 12-minute stop filled with stories of pirates, gamblers, street gangs, sex workers, and the notorious female serial killer “Bricktop”. Guests learn about the city’s lawless past and the rebellious spirit that still lingers in the streets. The guide vividly recounts stories that highlight the city’s gritty history, making this stop both informative and evocative.

The Unique Atmosphere of the French Quarter Streets

Throughout the tour, the local streets are soaked in atmosphere, with the guide leading the way through narrow alleys, historic landmarks, and hidden corners. The walking pace allows for plenty of photo opportunities and question-asking, with the guide providing entertaining commentary. The group’s small size ensures an intimate experience, perfect for those who appreciate personalized storytelling.

The Guides: Knowledgeable, Engaging, and Authentic

The tour is led by friendly guides who bring a wealth of knowledge about New Orleans’ history, legends, and dark secrets. Reviews consistently praise guides such as Wolfy, Hope, and Andrea for their entertaining storytelling, authentic enthusiasm, and ability to keep the group engaged. Many visitors note that the guides deliver stories with a mix of humor and gravitas, making the experience both fun and informative.

Pacing, Group Size, and Physical Requirements

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, walking through the French Quarter at a relaxed pace suitable for most physical fitness levels. The small group size (up to 14) fosters a more personal experience and ensures that questions are well accommodated. Since the tour involves walking through historic streets, comfortable footwear is advised. It is accessible for most, but travelers should be comfortable with moderate physical activity.

Tickets, Booking, and Cancellation Policies

Tickets are $21 per person and are typically booked about 18 days in advance. The tour features a flexible cancellation policy, allowing full refunds if canceled more than 24 hours before the start. Cancellations made within 24 hours are not eligible for refunds. The mobile ticket system simplifies the booking process, making the experience straightforward and stress-free.

What Sets This Tour Apart

What makes this Saints and Sinners Walk stand out is its adults-only focus combined with themed storytelling that dives into the city’s best-known sins and scandals. The inclusion of a free Hurricane drink at the start adds a playful, adult vibe. The knowledgeable guides and small group size enhance the overall experience, making it feel more like a personal adventure than a generic tour.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Tour

This tour is ideal for adults who are interested in local legends, dark history, and colorful characters from New Orleans’ past. The 18+ age restriction and adult beverages ensure a mature audience. It appeals especially to those looking for an engaging, storytelling-heavy experience that combines history with a splash of fun. It’s not suited for children or those expecting a family-friendly tour.

Saints and Sinners Walking Tour in New Orleans: Final Thoughts

The Saints and Sinners Walking Tour offers a distinct look into New Orleans’ more infamous side, with lively guides and rich stories that captivate. Its affordable price point, small-group intimacy, and adult-themed focus make it a popular choice for visitors wanting to experience the city’s dark allure. While it doesn’t include stops at every historic site, its entertaining narration and unique stops make it a memorable adventure.

This tour shines brightest for adults seeking a fun, informative, and slightly mischievous exploration of the French Quarter. The two-hour format keeps the experience concise yet packed with stories, history, and local color. For those comfortable with moderate walking and lively storytelling, this Saints and Sinners Tour promises an engaging afternoon in the Big Easy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, this tour is adults-only with a minimum age of 17 and a minimum drinking age of 21.

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from the Voodoo Lounge at 718 N Rampart Street.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours with walking through the French Quarter.

Are drinks included in the tour?
No, alcoholic drinks are available for purchase at the start and after the tour, but are not included.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled more than 24 hours before the start.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves moderate walking and is near public transportation, but specific accessibility features are not detailed.

What guides lead this tour?
The guides are friendly, knowledgeable professionals praised for their storytelling and engaging personalities.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 14 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

What is the main focus of this tour?
The tour focuses on New Orleans’ dark history, notorious characters, and legends, with an entertaining, adult-oriented tone.