New Orleans Original True Crime Pub Crawl - Starting Point at Golden Lantern on Royal Street

New Orleans Original True Crime Pub Crawl

Explore New Orleans' dark side on the True Crime Pub Crawl for $29.99. Visit iconic bars, hear chilling stories, and enjoy local cocktails in 2-2.5 hours.

Discover the Twisted True Crime Stories of New Orleans at an Affordable Price

New Orleans Original True Crime Pub Crawl - Discover the Twisted True Crime Stories of New Orleans at an Affordable Price

The New Orleans Original True Crime Pub Crawl offers an engaging blend of history, crime stories, and lively pub atmosphere all for $29.99 per person. This tour lasts approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, making it a perfect evening activity for those interested in the city’s darker past. The tour departs from Golden Lantern at 8:00 pm and visits five historic bars, each with its own connection to notorious crimes and local legends.

What sets this experience apart is its focus on true crime stories spanning from historic mysteries to modern murders, including tales of serial killers, scandals, and bloody crimes. The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who share graphic, sometimes humorous crime anecdotes, all while you enjoy delicious New Orleans cocktails. It’s ideal for fans of true crime, history buffs, or anyone curious about the city’s criminal past—just remember, you’re responsible for your own drinks, as they are purchased separately.

While the tour offers a lively, storytelling-focused experience, it also shines because of its small group size—a maximum of 20 travelers—which helps maintain an intimate and engaging atmosphere. The walkable route through the historic French Quarter makes it easy to follow, and the tour’s free cancellation policy provides flexibility if plans change.

Key Points

New Orleans Original True Crime Pub Crawl - Key Points

  • Affordable and accessible: Only $29.99 per person for an evening of crime stories and pub hopping.
  • Duration and pace: Lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours, with six stops at iconic bars.
  • Unique storytelling: Guides share graphic and sometimes humorous true crime stories connected to each location.
  • Signature drinks: Visitors can purchase their own drinks at each pub, experiencing local favorites.
  • Small group experience: Limited to 20 participants, ensuring a personalized and lively tour.
  • Start and end points: Begins at Golden Lantern and concludes at Bar Tonique for easy access and transportation.

Starting Point at Golden Lantern on Royal Street

New Orleans Original True Crime Pub Crawl - Starting Point at Golden Lantern on Royal Street

The tour kicks off at Golden Lantern, located at 1239 Royal St. This historic spot sets the tone for an evening of dark tales and lively pub visits. Guides welcome guests here at 8:00 pm, setting a relaxed but engaging mood as the group prepares to explore the city’s criminal past.

From this central location, the tour proceeds through the French Quarter, a vibrant neighborhood filled with history and atmosphere. The meeting point is convenient for those arriving via public transportation or walking, and the entire route is designed for easy navigation on foot.

Walking Route Through the French Quarter’s Crime History

New Orleans Original True Crime Pub Crawl - Walking Route Through the French Quarter’s Crime History

The walk from the starting point takes you through several notable bars, each with its own connection to New Orleans’ notorious crimes. The route includes:

  • Harry’s Corner Bar: The first stop features an outrageous true crime case and a chance to enjoy a tasty drink.
  • Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar: Known for its delicious refreshments and a notorious crime story, this historic tavern is a favorite for its atmosphere and tales.
  • The Pour House NOLA: Located in the French Quarter, where you’ll discover the story of one of America’s most horrific serial killers.
  • The Dungeon: A unique dungeon-themed bar with ties to some of the city’s most horrific crimes.
  • Fahy’s Irish Pub: Offers more tasty drinks alongside another captivating true crime story, deepening the dark history of New Orleans.
  • Bar Tonique: The tour concludes here, with a casual discussion of the city’s criminal past and the chance for guests to reflect on the stories shared.

Each stop lasts approximately 25 minutes, giving enough time for stories, drinks, and soaking in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

The Bars and Their Crime Connections

New Orleans Original True Crime Pub Crawl - The Bars and Their Crime Connections

Harry’s Corner Bar kicks off the tour with a story that captures the city’s dark side at a lively local pub. The Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, one of the oldest bars in New Orleans, offers a perfect setting for tales of pirates and scandals. The guide shares a notorious true crime story tied to this historic site.

At The Pour House NOLA, the focus shifts to a serial killer story that has shocked the nation, adding a chilling element to the experience. Visitors learn the details of this horrific crime, all while enjoying drinks in a cozy setting.

The Dungeon stands out with its distinctive theme and direct links to significant crimes in the city’s past. This bar’s unique ambiance and stories make it a highlight of the crawl.

Fahy’s Irish Pub continues the trend of combining great drinks with fascinating tales, wrapping up the stops before walking to the final destination, Bar Tonique. Here, guests can chat about the evening’s stories, share impressions, and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

Practical Details: Booking, Group Size, and Cancellation

New Orleans Original True Crime Pub Crawl - Practical Details: Booking, Group Size, and Cancellation

This tour is booked on a mobile ticket platform, with an average booking window of 27 days in advance. It is suitable for anyone aged 21 or older, with service animals allowed. The maximum group size is 20 travelers, ensuring a friendly and engaging experience.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility for last-minute plans changes. No refunds are issued if canceled within 24 hours of the start time.

Guide Expertise and Guest Experience

New Orleans Original True Crime Pub Crawl - Guide Expertise and Guest Experience

The tour is led by guides described as personable and knowledgeable. They share detailed stories about each crime, making the experience both informative and entertaining. Reviews highlight guides like Donna, who are praised for their talent and ability to keep the group interested.

Guests appreciate the storytelling style, the interesting bar choices, and the atmosphere of the tour. The inclusion of local cocktails and the chance to buy your own drinks adds a relaxed, social vibe, avoiding any sense of pretension.

Comparing Similar Experiences

New Orleans Original True Crime Pub Crawl - Comparing Similar Experiences

While this tour focuses on true crime stories and pub visits, similar options include haunted walks, dinner cruises, and dark history tours in New Orleans. However, the combination of storytelling, bar hopping, and the city’s criminal past makes this experience stand out.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

New Orleans Original True Crime Pub Crawl - Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

The New Orleans Original True Crime Pub Crawl offers a unique way to experience the city’s shadowy history while enjoying its vibrant bar scene. It’s perfect for adults interested in true crime, history buffs, or anyone seeking a lively, story-rich evening. The affordable price point, small group size, and entertaining guides make it a compelling option.

However, those looking for a formal ghost tour or extensive historical exploration may find this more casual and entertainment-focused. It is an excellent introductory experience for newcomers to New Orleans’ darker stories and a fun, social way to spend an evening.

✨ Book This Experience

New Orleans Original True Crime Pub Crawl



5.0

(7 reviews)

100% 5-star

“Freaking excellent time! Donna was personable and knowledgeable. Knew all the good spots to grab an adult beverage.”

— Daniel G, Jan 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes, you are not required to drink—you can participate without purchasing drinks, and the tour still offers fascinating stories.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, with six stops included.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Golden Lantern (1239 Royal St) and ends at Bar Tonique (820 N Rampart St).

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not provided; guests purchase their own at each pub.

Is the tour accessible for mobility-impaired guests?
The tour is walkable through the French Quarter, but specific accessibility accommodations are not detailed, so guests should consider walking distances.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

Do guides share graphic details?
Yes, the stories can be graphic and blood-drenched, but they are also sometimes inadvertently funny.

What makes this tour stand out?
It combines entertaining storytelling with a pub crawl through historic bars, all focused on New Orleans’ criminal history—a perfect blend for true crime enthusiasts.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It is designed for adults 21 and over due to alcohol consumption and mature content, so it is not suitable for children.

How many stops are included?
There are six stops, each lasting about 25 minutes, including the start and end points.

This tour offers a unique glimpse into New Orleans’ darker past while enjoying the vibrant local bar scene—a memorable evening for fans of true crime and city history alike.