New Orleans’ Historic Haunted Bar Crawl

New Orleans’ Historic Haunted Bar Crawl: An Adventure in Ghostly Tales and Classic Bars

For $40 per person, this 2-hour tour offers an engaging way to explore the French Quarter’s lively bar scene while uncovering the spooky stories behind some of its most famous spots. Starting at the Witches Brew Gallery, the tour takes you on a small-group journey limited to 15 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed pace. With a high recommendation rate of 92%, this experience suits those interested in ghostly legends, historic bars, and fun storytelling—though it’s important to note that alcoholic drinks are not included in the price.

The tour begins at 7:00 pm, meeting at the Witches Brew Gallery & Haunted Sanctuary, and ends at the Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, the city’s oldest bar building. Visitors should plan to make reservations in advance, as the average booking window is about 29 days, and the small size makes last-minute spots unlikely. Expect an evening filled with dark tales, atmospheric venues, and a chance to try some unique cocktails, making it a compelling choice for those curious about New Orleans’ haunted reputation.

Key Points

• Cost: $40.00 per person, excluding drinks
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours, starting at 7:00 pm
• Limited Group: Small tours capped at 15 people for a more personal experience
• Start Point: Witches Brew Gallery & Haunted Sanctuary on Exchange Place
• End Location: Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar on Bourbon Street
• Highlights: Stories of ghostly characters, visits to atmospheric historic bars, and absinthe at Pirate’s Alley

Starting at Witches Brew Gallery & Haunted Sanctuary

The tour kicks off at Witches Brew Gallery, a spot that sets the mood with its eerie ambiance and historical significance. Here, participants can try absinthe, a drink with roots in the city’s underground scene, and hear about the dark stories woven into New Orleans’ past. This initial stop lasts about 10 minutes, making it a brief but impactful introduction to the haunted theme.

Visiting Harry’s Corner Bar: A Classic Dive with a Ghostly Name

Next, the guide leads visitors to Harry’s Corner Bar, a well-loved local dive known for its unpretentious vibe. The tour includes a taste of the Ghostbuster cocktail, a fun nod to the supernatural theme. With 15 minutes allocated, this stop offers a relaxed atmosphere to chat about the city’s notorious hauntings and ghost stories associated with the bar.

MRB Bar & Kitchen: The Green Drink and Oyster Delights

At MRB Bar & Kitchen, the focus is on trying the Green Drink, a signature cocktail that adds a splash of color and flavor. The hotel is also famed for its oysters—guests are encouraged to come back for a taste if time permits. In this 15-minute stop, the guide shares tales of local legends, making it a lively spot to combine drinks and ghost stories.

Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar: The Historic Finale

The tour concludes at Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, widely recognized as New Orleans’ oldest bar building. The historical significance of Lafitte’s, coupled with its famous purple drink, adds a sense of authenticity and mystery to the experience. Visitors are cautioned to drink responsibly and enjoy the dark ambiance that makes Lafitte’s a true landmark.

The Guide’s Role and Storytelling Style

Throughout the tour, Taylor and Christie have been noted as knowledgeable guides who skillfully blend storytelling with safety. Their friendly approach and ability to share fascinating tales ensure guests stay engaged. Guests mention Taylor’s humor and expertise as particular highlights, and the tour’s small size allows for personalized interactions and questions.

Logistics and Accessibility

The tour departs from Exchange Place at 7:00 pm and is designed for those with moderate physical fitness. While efforts are made to accommodate guests with mobility issues, the historic terrain of the French Quarter can pose challenges. The tour is near public transportation, making access straightforward, and service animals are permitted.

Cancellation and Weather Policy

Booking includes free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. Weather conditions like flooding or storms may lead to cancellations, which are fully refunded or rescheduled. The tour is never canceled due to rain or cold, ensuring reliable planning for visitors.

Practical Tips for Participants

Guests should arrive 30 minutes early to check in, especially during busy seasons. As drinks are not included, bringing cash or cards for additional beverages at the stops is recommended. The tour’s small-group setting provides an intimate experience, but it also means making reservations well in advance is highly advisable.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The combination of ghost stories, historic bars, and the spooky atmosphere of the French Quarter makes this tour stand out. Its focus on personalized storytelling and small groups ensures an engaging and memorable experience. Visiting Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, the oldest bar building in New Orleans, adds historical depth that many other tours do not offer.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour highlights several notable spots, some guests have noted that not all the listed bars are visited—for example, some expressed disappointment if certain locations like Old Absinthe or Potions were skipped. Also, since drinks are not included in the price, additional costs should be budgeted for those wanting to sample more cocktails.

Final Thoughts: An Atmospheric and Informative Night

The New Orleans’ Historic Haunted Bar Crawl offers a cost-effective and entertaining way to explore the city’s haunted lore and bar scene. Its small group size and knowledgeable guides make it ideal for those who enjoy storytelling, history, and a bit of ghostly thrill. With a good mix of atmosphere, history, and local legend, this tour is perfect for night owls and history buffs alike.

While it isn’t designed as a drinking tour (drinks are at your own expense), the combination of historic venues and spooky tales creates a memorable evening that captures the essence of New Orleans’ mysterious charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from Witches Brew Gallery & Haunted Sanctuary at 311 Exchange Place.

What time should I arrive?
Guests should arrive 30 minutes early for check-in and to ensure timely departure at 7:00 pm.

Are drinks included?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included in the $40 ticket price. Participants can purchase drinks at each stop.

Is the tour accessible for guests with mobility issues?
While efforts are made to accommodate, the terrain of the French Quarter can present challenges, so guests should consider their mobility.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there is free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour start time.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours are canceled only due to flooding, storms, or hurricanes. In such cases, full refunds or rescheduling are offered.

How long is each stop?
Each venue is visited for about 10-15 minutes, balancing storytelling with time to enjoy the atmosphere.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The focus on ghost stories and the late evening schedule suggest it’s best suited for adults or older teens.

Can I bring a service animal?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

Are reservations necessary?
Yes, to secure a spot, advance booking is recommended due to limited group size.