French Quarter Ghost Tour

Discover the French Quarter Ghost Tour in New Orleans

The French Quarter Ghost Tour offers a captivating 2-hour journey through one of New Orleans’ most atmospheric neighborhoods, priced at $30 per person. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour explores the city’s haunted history, notorious locations, and paranormal tales. With an average booking window of 16 days in advance, it’s a popular choice for those eager to uncover New Orleans’ spooky secrets. The tour departs at 7:15 pm from Pirate’s Alley Cafe, and features a mobile ticket for easy access.

This experience stands out by focusing exclusively on the haunted spots of the French Quarter, including historic taverns and landmarks. The small group size of up to 28 travelers ensures a personalized experience, while the free cancellation policy provides flexibility. It’s ideal for visitors interested in ghost stories, history, and the mystique that surrounds New Orleans’ most haunted locations, with reviews praising guide expertise and engaging storytelling.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: $30 per person for a 2-hour guided tour.
• Exclusive Stops: Visits to Pirates Alley, Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, Madame John’s Legacy, Bourbon Street, and the Provincial Hotel’s Ice House Bar.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Thomas and Jonathan bring stories to life with humor and deep knowledge.
• Haunted Locations: Tour highlights include the oldest tavern in the city and buildings filled with centuries of ghostly energy.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Starting Point and Meeting Logistics

The tour begins at Pirate’s Alley Cafe, located at 622 Pirates Alley, New Orleans. The meeting time is 7:15 pm, and the walkable start point is near public transportation options. The end point is at MRB Bar & Kitchen on 515 St Philip St, making it convenient for guests to plan subsequent activities or dinner afterward.

Exploring Pirate’s Alley and Its Haunted Significance

Pirates Alley gets its name from its pirate lore, but the tour reveals the real story behind the name. This alley, steeped in history, sets an atmospheric tone for the ghostly tales to come. The guide shares stories of pirate legends and spooky incidents that add to the dark charm of the area. The 10-minute stop is a great introduction to the tour’s overall mysterious vibe.

Visiting Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar: The Oldest Tavern

A highlight of the tour is a visit to Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, the oldest tavern in New Orleans. It’s a place shrouded in tales of murder, ghosts, and sin. Guests get to enjoy a mid-tour break while soaking in the historic ambiance, with the walls and cellar whispering stories of centuries past. The bar’s reputation for paranormal activity makes it a favorite stop, and the atmosphere lends itself perfectly to ghostly storytelling.

Madame John’s Legacy: A French Heritage Treasure

The tour then moves to Madame John’s Legacy, one of the few remaining French buildings from the colonial period. Its centuries-old architecture and lingering spirits make it a must-see. The guide discusses the centuries of history and ghostly energy associated with this residence, which is the only surviving house from the French era in the area. The 10-minute stop allows visitors to imagine the lives once lived here and the spirits that may still linger.

Bourbon Street’s Dark Side

Bourbon Street stands as the heart of nightlife, but the tour reveals its nefarious past. The guide shares stories of crimes, ghost sightings, and the eerie atmosphere that persists behind the lively facade. The 10-minute stop offers a glimpse into the darker side of this iconic street, where history and hauntings intertwine.

The Provincial Hotel’s Ice House Bar: Bloodshed and Spirits

The final stop is The Ice House Bar at the Provincial Hotel, a site soaked in centuries of despair and bloodshed. This bar is not only a place to relax but also steeped in ghostly legends. The guide recounts tales of tragic events and spectral visits associated with the location, making it a fitting conclusion to the haunted tour.

The Guides: Knowledgeable and Engaging Storytellers

Reviews highlight guides like Thomas and Jonathan as the tour’s strengths. They are praised for their vast knowledge, engaging storytelling style, and ability to bring ghost stories to life. One guide is described as a “great historian”, while another is commended for painting vivid pictures of the area’s history. Their humor and professionalism enhance the experience, making it both informative and entertaining.

Group Size and Accessibility

With a maximum of 28 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere conducive to storytelling. The tour is suitable for most travelers and allows service animals. It’s a walking experience, so comfortable footwear is recommended, but no strenuous activity is involved. Most participants find it accessible and engaging.

Weather Considerations and Cancellation Policy

The tour requires good weather to operate smoothly. In case of poor weather, the experience may be canceled, with an option to reschedule or receive a full refund. Cancellations more than 24 hours in advance are fully refundable, offering peace of mind for planners. Any last-minute cancellations or changes are not accepted, so timely planning is advised.

Cost-Effective Ghostly Entertainment

At $30, the French Quarter Ghost Tour offers excellent value, considering the expert guides, historic stops, and paranormal focus. The tour provides a balance of history, mystery, and entertainment, capturing the essence of New Orleans’ haunted reputation without feeling rushed. The two-hour duration allows enough time to absorb the stories without fatigue.

Suitable Audience and Final Thoughts

This tour is perfect for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, and anyone interested in New Orleans’ supernatural side. Its engaging guides, carefully selected stops, and atmospheric locations make it a compelling evening activity. The small group size ensures a personable experience, while the free cancellation policy adds flexibility.

While it doesn’t include a visit inside locations (most stops are brief outdoor encounters), the tour’s strength lies in the storytelling and ambiance. It’s an ideal way to spend a spooky evening, especially when seeking an authentic ghostly experience in the French Quarter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the content might be scarier for very young children. Parents should gauge their children’s comfort with ghost stories and potentially frightening tales.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time. This offers some flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

Are there food or drink options included?
No, the tour does not include food or drinks, but stops at historic taverns like Lafitte’s and the Provincial Hotel’s bar provide opportunities to purchase beverages during the tour.

How accessible is the tour for mobility-impaired guests?
The tour involves walking outdoor locations, so those with mobility concerns should consider the walking distances and terrain.

What makes this ghost tour stand out from others?
Its focus on the haunted spots of the French Quarter, combined with expert guides and a concise 2-hour itinerary, provides an engaging, well-paced experience for ghost enthusiasts.