Ghosts, Gods, & Gangsters – NOLA’s Dark Psychology Tour

Explore New Orleans’ Wicked Spirit World in 1.5 Hours

The Ghosts, Gods, & Gangsters – NOLA’s Dark Psychology Tour offers a unique glimpse into the city’s shadowy past over 1.5 hours of guided walking adventure. Starting at 916 N Peters St, this tour runs through Louisiana’s French Quarter, taking you back to the Quartier Macabre — a place famed for its supernatural and sinister stories. Led by Dr. Edward Simon, a knowledgeable parapsychologist and storyteller, the tour reveals the city’s most infamous hauntings, crimes, and occult legends.

This experience is operated by Spirit Empire Tours, a company owned and run by NOLA natives. It’s an adults-only outing, perfect for those who enjoy spooky tales, dark history, and a bit of the eerie side of New Orleans. With small group options and wheelchair accessibility, the tour caters to a variety of visitors seeking an engaging, fact-based journey into the city’s haunted lore.

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Key Points

• Guided by Dr. Edward Simon, a passionate parapsychologist, renowned for his storytelling skills
• 1.5-hour walking tour starts at 916 N Peters St and ends at 400 Esplanade Ave
• Visits LaLaurie haunting and learns about her atrocities
• Explores Gallatin Street’s red-light past and witch coven legends
• Features stories about Bricktop Jackson, vampire lore, and Old Ursuline Convent
• Tour is adults only and suitable for small groups or private bookings

The Tour Starts in Dutch Alley, a Hidden NOLA Classic

The adventure kicks off in Dutch Alley, a secluded spot off North Peters Street. Here, the guide greets guests 30 minutes prior to departure for check-in, providing a chance to settle in before walking through the dark corners of the city. This meeting point offers a quiet, atmospheric starting point that matches the eerie stories to come.

From this discreet beginning, the tour departs into the nighttime shadows of the French Quarter, with live narration that sets a tense, captivating mood. The tour’s short duration makes it easy to fit into any evening plans, while its small group setting enhances the intimacy of the storytelling.

Visiting the LaLaurie Haunting and Its Horrors

One of the tour’s most infamous stops is the LaLaurie mansion, known for its chilling history. The guide recounts the atrocities committed by Madame LaLaurie, one of New Orleans’ most notorious figures. The stories paint a vivid picture of the cruelty and madness that once haunted this grand house, now a well-known ghostly legend.

While the mansion itself is not always open to the public, standing nearby and hearing these tales provides a powerful sense of the city’s haunted reputation. The guide’s detailed storytelling keeps the history alive, making this stop a highlight for fans of paranormal lore.

Gallatin Street’s Red-Light Past and Bricktop Jackson

Next, the tour explores Gallatin Street, once notorious for its lively red-light district. The story of Bricktop Jackson, a fiery woman of the night, brings a mixture of danger and allure to the narrative. The tales reveal her as a figure capable of cutting throats as easily as she captured hearts, illustrating the gritty side of New Orleans’ underground history.

This segment offers a glimpse into the city’s scandalous nightlife and its influence on local legends. The stories are delivered with a mix of factual detail and engaging flair, making the past feel alive and immediate.

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The Witch Covens and Occult Mysteries

A key stop involves the first and most powerful witch coven in New Orleans. The guide whispers legends of magick rituals performed in secret, connecting the city’s dark history with occult practices. The storytelling emphasizes the mystery and mystique surrounding these legends, blending historical facts with local folklore.

Visitors learn about the importance of magick in NOLA’s cultural fabric while hearing about mystical activities that supposedly took place within the city’s secretive circles. This stop appeals to those fascinated by witchcraft and supernatural traditions.

Vampire Lore at the Old Ursuline Convent

The tour also ventures to the Old Ursuline Convent, a site associated with vampire stories in New Orleans. The guide narrates tales of vampire legends and supernatural sightings linked to this historic building. These stories contribute to the city’s reputation as a hub of paranormal activity.

The storytelling approach keeps the legends compelling and credible, adding a layer of mystery and intrigue. The convent’s historic significance combined with these vampire tales makes it a fascinating stop for fans of supernatural lore.

The Dark Side of New Orleans’ Criminal History

Throughout the tour, stories of gangsters, murders, and scandal are woven into the narrative fabric. The tour highlights New Orleans’ most grotesque crime scenes, including the site of the city’s most grotesque crime in history. These stories underscore the city’s violent and tumultuous past, adding depth to the haunted tales.

The guide’s fact-based approach ensures that each story is grounded in history, making the dark tales even more impactful. The exploration of these infamous crimes complements the supernatural stories, giving a complete picture of the city’s darker side.

Accessibility and Group Size Considerations

This tour is wheelchair accessible and offers private or small group options, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors. The check-in location is easy to find, and the tour’s short duration makes it manageable for most guests. The adults-only policy ensures a mature audience, ideal for those looking for serious ghost stories without children present.

Guests should come prepared with comfortable shoes and clothing, as the tour involves walking through outdoor areas in potentially cool evening weather.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Reservations are flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for changing plans. The tour departs at scheduled times from Dutch Alley and concludes at 400 Esplanade Ave, with the entire experience lasting 105 minutes.

A Unique, Fact-Focused Dark History Tour in New Orleans

The Ghosts, Gods, & Gangsters tour stands out for its expert storytelling and fact-based approach. Led by Dr. Edward Simon, a knowledgeable guide, the tour combines dark history, supernatural legends, and local scandals into a compelling experience. Its adults-only policy ensures mature storytelling, while the small group format fosters an intimate atmosphere for absorbing the spooky tales.

Many reviews praise the guide’s enthusiasm, honesty, and storytelling ability, making it clear that this tour offers more than just ghost stories — it provides an authentic look at NOLA’s wicked past. The tour’s focus on notable locations like LaLaurie’s mansion and the Old Ursuline Convent ensures that visitors come away with a better understanding of the city’s haunted reputation.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

Fans of dark history, supernatural legends, and true crime find this tour particularly satisfying. Those interested in local folklore, witchcraft, and vampire stories will appreciate the detailed tales woven into the route. Visitors seeking a fact-based, engaging storytelling experience will enjoy the expert narration by Dr. Simon.

It is especially suitable for adults 17 and older who enjoy a mature, spooky atmosphere. The small group format enhances the experience, making it ideal for couples, friends, or small gatherings wanting an intimate, memorable night in the French Quarter.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Ghosts, Gods, & Gangsters tour?
The tour lasts 105 minutes, or 1.5 hours.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Dutch Alley, located off North Peters Street, with check-in 30 minutes prior.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, this is an adults-only tour for guests 17 and older.

What are the main locations visited?
Highlights include the LaLaurie mansion, Gallatin Street’s red-light district, the witch coven site, and the Old Ursuline Convent with vampire lore.

Is this tour private?
Yes, private and small group options are available.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended for walking outdoors.

Is there a recommended dress code?
Comfortable clothing suited for walking in the evening is best.

How do I book?
Reservations can be made with flexible payment options, including pay later and full refund if canceled 24 hours prior.

Is this tour suitable for history buffs?
Absolutely, as it combines factual historical stories with legends and supernatural tales.

Will I learn about New Orleans’ crime history?
Yes, the guide shares stories about notorious crimes and grisly crime scenes in the city’s past.

This Ghosts, Gods, & Gangsters tour offers a gripping, fact-based exploration of New Orleans’ dark side. Perfect for those craving mature storytelling and haunted legends, it promises an unforgettable night wandering through the Quartier Macabre.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby