Haunted French Quarter Walking Tour in New Orleans

Discover the Haunted Side of New Orleans’ French Quarter for $25

The Haunted French Quarter Walking Tour in New Orleans offers a captivating journey into the city’s most sinister stories and spooky locations. Priced at $25.00 per person, this 2-hour tour departs from 823 Decatur Street at 7:30 pm, taking you through the evening shadows of one of America’s most haunted cities. With an average booking time of 13 days in advance, it’s a popular choice for those eager to explore New Orleans’ dark past.

Led by some of the most informed storytellers, this tour stays rooted in accurate stories of ghostly legends, sinister characters, and historic sites. While it emphasizes storytelling, it also offers plenty of opportunities to snap great pictures and perhaps even catch a fleeting apparition on camera. The tour is ideal for those interested in history and ghost stories alike, although it does require walking through the dimly lit French Quarter streets.

Key Points

• Price: $25.00 per person
• Duration: approximately 2 hours
• Start point: 823 Decatur St
• Time: 7:30 pm
• Highlights: haunted sites like LaLaurie Mansion, Bourbon Orleans Hotel, and Pirates Alley
• Includes: local guide; food, drinks, and transportation are not included
• Small group size: maximum 20 travelers
• Booking: average 13 days in advance; free cancellation possible
• Focus: storytelling based on accurate historical facts and legendary hauntings

The Spooky Locations of the French Quarter

This tour takes you to some of New Orleans’ most famous haunted sites, including the LaLaurie Mansion, known for its dark history involving Madame LaLaurie, and the Bourbon Orleans Hotel, famous for ghostly sightings. Visitors gain insight into these historic buildings, learning about the sinister characters and specters attached to each.

The beating heart of the tour is the visit to locations such as the Beauregard-Keyes House and LaLaurie Mansion, where stories of ghosts, apparitions, and supernatural activity are told. The Ghost of Pirates Alley and the specter of General P.G.T. Beauregard add extra intrigue, giving a sense of how history and legend intertwine in this city.

The Guides and Their Storytelling Style

Known for highly knowledgeable guides, the tour offers engaging storytelling that remains rooted in factual history. The guides effectively blend educational content with chilling tales, making the experience both informative and entertaining. One guide, Moira, is highlighted as excellent and full of fascinating information, with a funny approach that keeps participants interested.

The guides manage the pacing well, ensuring the tour is not rushed but maintains a steady flow through each haunted site. This approach helps visitors absorb the stories and feel immersed in the atmosphere of the French Quarter after dark.

The Walk Through the French Quarter After Dark

The tour begins at 7:30 pm and takes place entirely on foot, exploring the historic streets and alleys of the French Quarter. The walking pace is comfortable, suitable for most fitness levels, but it involves navigating dimly lit streets and uneven surfaces.

The tour’s pacing is designed to balance storytelling with enough time to appreciate each location. The length of approximately 2 hours makes it manageable for most visitors, although the evening timing adds to the spooky atmosphere.

Visiting the Most Notorious Haunted Sites

Key locations include the LaLaurie Mansion, infamous for its haunted reputation and dark history; the Bourbon Orleans Hotel, where ghost sightings are common; and Pirates Alley, rumored to be haunted by a ghostly figure. The Pere Dagobert of the St. Louis Cathedral and the specter of General P.G.T. Beauregard also feature prominently in the storytelling.

Visitors might expect to see specters and apparitions during the tour, with some snapshots possibly capturing fleeting ghostly images. The tour’s focus on legendary hauntings gives it an authentic spooky edge, making it a favorite for those curious about supernatural tales.

Practical Details and What’s Not Included

This tour is a mobile ticket experience, meaning no physical tickets are necessary. It excludes food, drinks, and transportation, so travelers should plan accordingly. The meeting point is close to public transportation, making access straightforward.

The small group size of up to 20 travelers ensures a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions and interaction. The free cancellation policy allows for peace of mind, providing full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Accessibility and Suitability

Most travelers can participate in this tour, as it involves walking through the historic streets of the French Quarter. Service animals are allowed, and the timing ensures the tour remains atmospheric while still being practical for a broad audience.

However, those with mobility challenges should consider the walking distance and dimly lit streets. The tour duration of 2 hours makes it manageable for most, but comfort in walking and standing is recommended.

Comparing This Tour to Other Haunted Experiences

While some reviews note that the tour is similar to other haunted tours in different cities, the expert storytelling and focus on well-known New Orleans sites set this experience apart. The small group format and engaging guides are often highlighted as positive features.

It’s worth noting that, although some may find the stories typical of haunted tours elsewhere, the authenticity of the sites and the depth of legends make it a worthwhile choice, especially for fans of ghost stories and history.

Final Thoughts on the Haunted French Quarter Walking Tour

This tour offers an affordable, engaging look into New Orleans’ haunted past, with a focus on legendary sites and accurate storytelling. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy history mixed with supernatural legends, and for travelers who appreciate a small group experience.

While it may not provide groundbreaking new stories for seasoned ghost tour enthusiasts, its expert guides, atmospheric locations, and well-paced route make it a solid choice for visitors eager to explore the spooky side of the French Quarter.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours.

What is the starting point?
The tour begins at 823 Decatur Street in the French Quarter.

What is the price?
The cost is $25.00 per person.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the walking involved and dimly lit streets may not suit everyone. Check personal comfort with walking and darkness.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is transportation provided?
No, hotel pickup or drop-off is not included, and the tour is on foot.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted.

What makes this tour different from others?
The small group size and knowledgeable guides, especially Moira, are frequently praised for making the experience engaging and personalized.

What sites are visited during the tour?
Major stops include LaLaurie Mansion, Bourbon Orleans Hotel, Pirates Alley, and other historic haunted sites in the French Quarter.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, the tour encourages snapping souvenir pictures, and some may even capture fleeting ghostly images.

Is this tour suitable for those interested in history as well as ghost stories?
Absolutely, as the tour emphasizes accurate historical facts alongside haunted legends.