Voodoo Queen of New Orleans Walking Tour

Unlock the Mysteries of New Orleans Voodoo in Just 90 Minutes

For $32 per person, the Voodoo Queen of New Orleans Walking Tour offers a fascinating look into the city’s mystical past within 90 minutes. Departing from 620 Decatur St in the French Quarter, this tour is designed for those curious about Voodoo, jazz, and local history. Led by a certified guide, the experience combines storytelling, site visits, and cultural insights, making it suitable for all ages and moderate physical fitness.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on historic landmarks like Marie Laveau’s final resting place, Congo Square, and an authentic Voodoo shop. The tour operates rain or shine, and the mobile ticket feature makes it easy to join. With an average booking window of 19 days, this tour offers ample opportunity to plan your visit, especially if you’re seeking a deep dive into New Orleans’ spiritual and musical roots.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $32, it provides a rich cultural experience for a reasonable cost.
• Short and Sweet: The 90-minute walking tour offers a compact, engaging overview.
• Historic Stops: Includes Marie Laveau’s tomb, Congo Square, and St. Louis Cathedral.
• Authentic Voodoo Shop: Visit Voodoo Authentica to browse potions and protection spells.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Gomez and Orion are praised for their knowledge and storytelling.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for guests of all ages, and accessible for wheelchair users.

Starting Point and Tour Logistics

The tour begins at 620 Decatur St in the heart of the French Quarter, a prime spot that’s easy to reach by public transportation or ride-share services. It is recommended to arrive at least 15 minutes early to check in and settle in. The group size caps at 25 travelers, ensuring the guide can give personalized attention and answer questions.

The duration is approximately 90 minutes, covering walks through historic streets and visits to key sites. Comfortable shoes and layered clothing are advised, since the tour takes place outdoors in all weather conditions. Food and drinks are not included, but nearby cafes and bakeries make it easy to grab a snack before or after.

Visiting Iconic Landmarks and Sites

The tour starts with a walk past St. Louis Cathedral, a prominent and historic landmark in the French Quarter. From there, the guide shares stories of Marie Laveau, the legendary Voodoo Queen, with photo opportunities and detailed narratives about her influence on the city’s culture.

Next, the group stops at Voodoo Authentica, an authentic Voodoo shop where guests can browse potions, charms, and protection spells. This stop lasts around five minutes and offers a tangible connection to modern Voodoo practices rooted in historical traditions.

The Congo Square stop emphasizes the cultural importance of Voodoo and jazz music, highlighting the historical significance of this public space for both musical development and spiritual practices. It’s a lively area where African and Haitian roots are visibly woven into the city’s fabric.

Marie Laveau: The Voodoo Legend and Tomb

A key highlight of this tour is the story of Marie Laveau, the notorious Voodoo Queen who shaped much of the local mystique. The guide discusses her childhood homestead and her final resting place, located in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1. While the tour points out her tomb and its significance, entry into the cemetery is not included.

Guests learn how the Laveau family’s influence helped shape the practice of Voodoo in New Orleans, and how her legend continues to inspire. The storytelling blends history, folklore, and cultural impact, giving an authentic perspective that avoids sensationalism.

Exploring the Roots of New Orleans Voodoo and Jazz

The connection between Voodoo and jazz is a central theme during this tour. The guide explains how Congo Square, once a gathering place for enslaved West Africans and Haitian immigrants, played a crucial role in both musical evolution and the spiritual practices of Voodoo.

While the tour touches on other local cemeteries, it does not include visits inside them. Instead, it offers a rundown of their history and architecture with insider stories that deepen understanding. The emphasis remains on storytelling, making the experience engaging and informative rather than overly spiritual or spooky.

The Guide’s Style and Expertise

From Gomez to Orion, guides like Carlos and Wes receive high praise for their knowledge, storytelling, and personable approach. Reviewers highlight their passion, ability to answer questions, and entertaining manner. Some guides integrate music into the tour, adding a lively tone that reflects the city’s musical heritage.

A few reviews mention guides going above and beyond—such as helping guests with accessibility needs or providing insider tips for local dining. The small group size encourages interaction and makes it easier to ask questions or explore particular points of interest.

Accessibility, Weather, and Practical Tips

The tour is wheelchair accessible and takes place on mostly flat, paved streets. Guests should wear comfortable shoes for walking and dress appropriately for weather conditions, since the tour operates in all weather. Bringing water is recommended, especially on hot days.

Since parking is limited near the meeting point, public transportation or ride-share options are preferred. The meeting point is near the St. Charles & Sixth St tram stop, making it convenient for visitors staying in or near the French Quarter.

Cancellation Policy and Booking Confidence

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travel plans. Full refunds are available if canceled more than 24 hours prior. Bad weather is also accounted for, with options to reschedule or receive a full refund if the tour is canceled.

Advance booking is recommended, with most reservations made about 19 days ahead. This ensures availability during busy seasons and allows for planning around other activities in New Orleans.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

The Voodoo Queen of New Orleans Walking Tour appeals to history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and curious travelers interested in authentic stories rather than sensationalized ghost tales. It’s ideal for those looking for a respectful overview of Voodoo’s role in the city’s development. The tour is family friendly and accessible, making it suitable for all ages.

While it offers a lot of storytelling and site visits, it involves some walking, so guests should prepare accordingly. The insider insights provided by knowledgeable guides elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing, sharing the cultural significance that continues to influence New Orleans today.

Exploring the spiritual and musical history of New Orleans in just 90 minutes makes this tour a compact yet insightful way to understand the city’s unique identity. The combination of historic landmarks, authentic Voodoo shops, and stories about Marie Laveau offers a well-rounded experience that balances learning and entertainment.

The small group size and expert guides like Gomez, Orion, and Wes ensure a personalized experience, with many guests praising the depth of knowledge and engaging storytelling. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour provides a meaningful introduction to one of New Orleans’ most intriguing cultural facets.

Is parking available near the meeting point for the Voodoo Queen of New Orleans Tour?
Limited parking is available, with rates varying. The location in the French Quarter makes public transportation or ride-share options like Uber or Lyft better choices for most guests.

Can I use public transportation to get to the start of the tour?
Yes, the tour starts near the St. Charles & Sixth St tram stop, making it easy to reach using local transit.

How early should I arrive?
Guests should plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled 11:00am start time to check in comfortably.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Absolutely! The tour is family friendly and appropriate for guests of all ages.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but guests can explore nearby cafes or bakeries before or after the tour.

How strenuous is the walking?
The tour involves moderate walking on flat, paved streets, suitable for most guests with average fitness levels.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the route is mostly flat and paved, making it accessible for wheelchairs.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, and layers are advised based on the weather forecast.

Does the tour include a visit to Marie Laveau’s tomb?
The guide discusses her tomb and history, but entry into the cemetery is not included.

Are there any additional costs during the tour?
No, admission to sites like the Voodoo shop and Congo Square are free, but purchases at the shop are extra.

How can I book this tour?
Reservations can be made in advance through the booking platform, with most guests booking about 19 days ahead for availability.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.