Audio Guided Historical Ghost Bus Tour of New Orleans

A $54.75 per person audio-guided ghost bus tour offers a unique way to explore New Orleans over approximately 2 hours. Departing from 941 Decatur St, this mobile ticket experience takes you past notable landmarks like the Buckner Mansion and City Park, blending fascinating history with spooky tales. The tour’s standout feature is its audio narration, which is GPS-triggered and complemented by video clips, special effects, and custom lighting on the bus. This makes for an engaging, multimedia experience designed to highlight the city’s haunted reputation while avoiding walking.

While the tour impresses with its visual effects and the opportunity to see several landmarks without strenuous walking, it faces some mixed reviews. Some guests appreciate the knowledgeable guides and entertaining stories, especially highlighting a guide named Mr. Cornel. However, others find the audio narration less engaging than a live guide, and some feel the video elements are corny or loud. The tour is best suited for visitors seeking a light, relaxed introduction to New Orleans’ ghost lore rather than a deeply enlightening experience.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Costs $54.75 per person for a 2-hour bus tour.
• Stops and Landmarks: Stops include City Park and passing by the Buckner Mansion and a famous city cemetery.
• Experience Style: Combines audio narration with video clips, special effects, and lighting for a multimedia ghost story experience.
• Guides and Commentary: Includes voice narration that is GPS-triggered, with some reviews praising knowledgeable guides like Mr. Cornel.
• Customer Feedback: Mixed reviews highlight uneven entertainment value; some find it boring or corny, others enjoy the informative storytelling.
• Additional Info: No alcohol allowed; most travelers can participate; service animals permitted.

Starting Point and Tour Logistics in New Orleans

This ghost bus tour begins at 941 Decatur Street, a central location in New Orleans. The tour ends back at this same spot, making it convenient for travelers staying nearby or planning to walk afterward. The group size is capped at 34 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience without being overly crowded. The tour features a bus equipped with video screens, special effects, and lighting designed to enhance the spooky atmosphere.

The meeting point is in an area that some reviews describe as scary or deserted, so travelers should plan accordingly for safety and ease of access. The bus driver provides the initial commentary as the vehicle travels through the city, with stops allowing short breaks for photos and stretching.

Highlights: Landmarks and Scenic Drives

A key highlight of this tour is the chance to see famous spots around New Orleans without walking. The Buckner Mansion is featured in the tour’s narration, with guests able to get off for photos and a quick break. The City Park stop focuses on the Duelling Oaks, offering a glimpse into the historic City Park‘s past. This stop lasts around 15 minutes and is free of charge.

Throughout the journey, guests enjoy video segments and special lighting effects that aim to heighten the ghostly theme. The tour’s audio narration shares history-based ghost stories, vampire tales, and local legends, making it ideal for those interested in New Orleans’ haunted reputation.

The Audio Guide: Stories and Special Effects

The core of this tour is its audio narration, which is GPS-triggered to play at specific locations. The stories focus on haunted sites and vampire lore, with some reviews mentioning that stories are engaging and well told. The video clips and special effects are integrated into the bus environment, providing visual cues that complement the narrative.

However, some reviews express a desire for a more personal storytelling approach, preferring live guides over automated narration. The video elements are sometimes described as corny or loud, which may detract from the overall experience for some.

The Guide’s Role and Guest Interactions

While the audio narration is the main storyteller, the bus driver occasionally offers commentary about the landmarks, providing additional context. Some guests report that guides like Mr. Cornel deliver informative and entertaining commentary, which enhances the tour’s appeal. Other reviews indicate that the driver may lack detailed knowledge, leading to a less engaging experience.

The stop at City Park allows guests to stretch their legs and take photos, adding a personal touch to the otherwise automated narration-based tour.

Customer Feedback: What Works and What Doesn’t

Reviews reveal a wide range of experiences. Some guests praise the guide and entertaining stories, particularly highlighting Mr. Cornel’s contributions as very informative. Others feel the video elements are corny or distracting, and the audio volume can be overwhelming or loud.

A common criticism is that the tour lacks the personal touch of a live guide and relies heavily on automated narration. Several guests mention that they would prefer a guided walking tour or a live storyteller rather than the video-based experience.

Despite these mixed reviews, some positive comments highlight the knowledgeable commentary and fun stories about haunted houses and cemeteries, especially when delivered by guides like Mr. Cornel.

Accessibility and Practical Considerations

The tour is designed to be accessible to most travelers; service animals are allowed, and the bus accommodates up to 34 guests comfortably. The short stops and easy walking distance at key locations make it suitable for travelers with varying physical abilities. The 2-hour duration makes it a manageable activity amid a busy schedule.

Guests should be aware that the bus environment can become hot and stuffy, as noted by some reviews, so dressing comfortably and staying hydrated is advisable.

Comparing This Tour to Other New Orleans Ghost Experiences

This audio-guided ghost bus tour offers a relaxed alternative to walking ghost tours or more immersive haunted house visits. It suits those who enjoy multimedia presentations and want to see several landmarks in a short time without much walking.

However, it may fall short for visitors seeking more personal storytelling or more detailed historical insights. For those willing to accept some negatives—like the video effects and automated narration—the tour provides a fun, lighthearted exploration of New Orleans’ haunted reputation.

Final Thoughts on the Ghost Bus Tour

The Audio Guided Historical Ghost Bus Tour in New Orleans combines visual effects, ghost stories, and landmark views into a short, easy-to-join experience. It appeals most to visitors interested in ghost lore but not necessarily looking for deep historical explanations or live storytelling.

While some reviews criticize the automated narration and video elements, others appreciate the entertaining stories and guided commentary. The stop at City Park and passing by famous landmarks make it a worthwhile option for those wanting a light, fun tour with some spooky flair.

This tour offers a cost-effective way to explore New Orleans’ haunted side—but potential guests should manage expectations regarding engagement and personal interaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or families?

Yes, the 2-hour bus tour is generally suitable for most travelers, including families, with service animals allowed. However, parents should consider the spooky themes and video effects which may not appeal to very young children.

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes, this tour operates with mobile tickets and requires booking ahead to secure a spot, especially since groups are limited to 34 travelers.

Can I get off the bus during the tour?

Yes, the stop at City Park allows guests to disembark for photos or quick breaks. The bus driver will pause for about 15 minutes at this location.

What is included in the tour?

The audio narrated tour with customized, GPS-triggered content is included, along with video clips and special effects on the bus. The tour ends at the original starting point.

Are there any age restrictions?

Most travelers can participate, and service animals are permitted. Specific age restrictions are not mentioned, but the spooky themes suggest parental discretion for young children.

What is the cancellation policy?

Guests can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour start are not refunded.