Ghosts, Gods, & Gangsters of New Orleans

This adults-only walking tour of New Orleans offers an engaging journey through its most notorious figures and haunted spots, all for $32 per person. Lasting approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, the tour is led by a certified guide who expertly combines history, true crime, and paranormal stories. With a small group size capped at 20, this tour provides an intimate atmosphere, making it ideal for those interested in dark legends and the city’s mysterious past.

The tour departs from 916 Dutch Alley at 8:00 pm, allowing participants to explore key locations such as the Old Ursuline Convent, the Lalaurie Mansion, and Jackson Square, all with plenty of stories woven into each stop. While the tour does not include interior visits or food and drinks, it offers a wealth of factual stories and some spine-tingling legends that truly bring New Orleans’ shadier side to life.

Key Points

• Adults-only ghost and dark history tour in New Orleans lasting 1 hour 45 minutes
• Led by a licensed, certified guide with a reputation for engaging storytelling
• Stops at historic sites such as the Old Ursuline Convent, Lalaurie Mansion, and Jackson Square
• Includes legends of vampires, mafia hits, witchcraft, and executions
• Small group size for a more personal experience, limited to 20 travelers
• Affordable price of $32, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

The Dark History Begins at the Old Ursuline Convent

The tour kicks off outside the Old Ursuline Convent Museum, a building that has stood since the city’s early days. The guide shares the legend of the casket girls, young women who allegedly brought vampiric entities into New Orleans long ago. As you gaze up at the decaying walls, the story hints at a possible curse lingering within, and the possibility that vampires still haunt the streets nearby. Listening closely, you might catch whispers in the wind — a detail that adds to the eerie atmosphere of this haunted site.

While admission to the convent is not included, the exterior and the stories told here set a haunting tone for the rest of the tour. This stop offers a chance to ponder whether the city’s dark legends are rooted in fact or myth, making it perfect for those intrigued by supernatural lore.

Exploring the BK Historic House and the Mafia Past

Next, the guide leads visitors to the BK Historic House and Gardens, a grand mansion that once belonged to Civil War general P.T. Beauregard and later housed Frances Parkinson Keyes. Over a century ago, this location was the site of one of the city’s most infamous mafia hits. The guide recounts stories of phantom conflicts and ghostly shadows flickering in the windows, suggesting spirits may still linger in this haunted landmark.

While there is no entry fee, this stop underscores the brutal violence and underworld dealings that have shaped New Orleans’ history. It’s a fascinating look at the city’s more sinister side, blending history with ghost stories in a way that keeps the atmosphere tense.

The Eerie Secrets of the Lalaurie Mansion

The tour’s next stop is the Lalaurie Mansion, infamous for Madame Delphine Lalaurie’s horrific secrets. Standing before the intricately wrought iron balcony, the guide recounts tales of diabolical experiments and unspeakable suffering within the walls of this haunted estate. There are persistent reports of sightings of Madame herself and disturbing echoes of those who suffered there, making it a must-see for paranormal enthusiasts.

The ironwork and architecture add a layer of gothic charm, but the stories behind the mansion reveal a brutal history that continues to intrigue and terrify visitors. The tour does not include interior access, but the stories told outside create a vivid picture of dark deeds.

Gallatin Street’s Red-Light Past and Present

A brief stop at the French Market area explores the seedy history of Gallatin Street, once a notorious red-light district. Historically, sailors and locals flocked here for illicit pleasures, but danger lurked in every alley. Tales of men lured into deadly traps and gangster activity make this street a ghostly reminder of vice and violence.

Today, the street appears more subdued, but the guide hints at murderous histories that still echo through its cracked sidewalks. This stop illustrates how dark history and urban legend intertwine in New Orleans.

The Grim Past of Jackson Square

Before becoming a bustling park, Jackson Square was the site of public executions during the city’s darker era. The guide describes barbaric hangings and public spectacles where crowds watched prisoners meet their fate. Although modern visitors see only a lively scene with performers and artists, the shadowy past of justice and violence remains part of the square’s history.

This stop emphasizes the stark contrast between today’s lively atmosphere and the brutal realities of the past. It’s a sobering reminder of how history can be hidden beneath the surface of an iconic location.

The Shadowy Role of the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum

The New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, housed in an unassuming building, carries stories of plague years and fringe medical experiments. Rumors speak of shadowy doctors conducting lethal experiments to combat epidemics, with whispers of lost souls seen peering from the windows. The guide shares these legends without confirming their truth, but the eerie tales add a layer of paranormal intrigue to this historic site.

Admission to the museum is not included, but the stories told outside elevate its reputation as a haunted location with a dark medical past.

The Omni Royal Orleans: A Hotel of Sorrow and Secrets

By the end of the tour, visitors gather outside the Omni Royal Orleans, a hotel with a troubled history. Tales of fires, mafia dealings, and tragic suicides paint a picture of a place haunted by pain and sorrow. The guide recounts the story of a recent suicide from the rooftop, highlighting the hotel’s emotional ghosts.

Though today it bustles with travelers, the hotel’s haunted reputation persists, and some guides share personal disquieting experiences from nights spent within its walls. This stop solidifies the tour’s theme of dark histories lurking beneath surface glamour.

Practical Details and Booking Tips

This tour departs daily at 8:00 pm from 916 Dutch Alley and operates most nights of the week. It is suitable for adults aged 17 and over and is limited to 20 guests, ensuring an up-close and engaging experience. The tour does not include inside visits or alcoholic beverages, but responsible drinking is permitted outside of the tour.

Travelers are advised to arrive 30 minutes early for check-in, especially during busy periods. The tour is weather-dependent, and cancellations are possible in case of poor weather, with a full refund or rescheduling offered.

The Guide’s Storytelling Style and Experience

Multiple reviews praise the guide, often named Dr. Edward Simmons, for his knowledge, engaging narration, and passion for New Orleans’ stories. His commanding voice and ability to balance history with entertainment create a captivating atmosphere. The tour’s small group size fosters a personal connection, allowing the guide to adjust pacing and share detailed stories.

Travelers mention that his animated storytelling style and sense of humor enhance the experience, making even the dark tales accessible and compelling. Many reviewers note that his factual approach and enthusiasm stand out compared to other tours in the city.

The Overall Experience and Who Will Appreciate It

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, true crime, and paranormal tales. It excels for adults interested in Gothic architecture, haunted legends, and the darker side of New Orleans. The stories are based on factual accounts rather than embellishments, appealing to those seeking authentic history with an eerie twist.

While not suitable for children, the adults-only focus and mild outdoor conditions mean that participants should dress warmly during cooler months. The small group size and high guide quality create an experience that feels personal and immersive, making it a highlight for dark history enthusiasts visiting the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, this tour is adults-only and recommended for those 17 years and older.

Are inside visits included in the tour?
No, the tour does not include entry into private buildings. It focuses on storytelling outside the historic sites.

What should I wear?
It’s wise to dress warmly, especially in the winter months, as the tour is conducted entirely outdoors.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How long does the tour last?
The approximate duration is 1 hour 45 minutes, making it a manageable evening activity.

This Ghosts, Gods, & Gangsters of New Orleans tour offers an engaging, fact-based exploration of the city’s dark history. Its combination of compelling stories, historic sites, and expert narration makes it a top choice for anyone curious about the haunted and criminal past of New Orleans.