New Orleans: Tour. Voodoo and Vampire Lore; Delicious Food

An Unusual Mix of Voodoo, Vampires, and Local Flavors in New Orleans

This 3-hour tour in Louisiana’s New Orleans offers a fascinating combination of Voodoo and Vampire stories paired with delicious local dishes and an optional exotic cocktail. Priced competitively and operated by The Premier New Orleans Food Tour, it stands out as the only food tour in the city that blends folklore with culinary experiences. The tour is perfect for those interested in the city’s mysterious legends and culture, but it also provides enough food, drink, and storytelling to satisfy curious visitors.

The tour begins at the Voodoo Tavern and Po-Boys shop, where guests are welcomed by a guide dressed in a black shirt with red trim and a leather Coachman’s hat. The around 3-hour experience explores several historic and lively locations, including shops like Voodoo Authentica and the Vampire’s Apothecary, with its striking decor. An optional cocktail experience adds a splash of magic, making the tour both educational and entertaining.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Unique combination of Voodoo Queen Marie LaVeau‘s story, vampire legends, and local cuisine
• Visits to Voodoo-themed shops, historic sites, and an enchanting Apothecary restaurant
• Tasting of three authentic New Orleans dishes, including Duck and Andouille Gumbo
• Opportunity to try a colorful cocktail called the Alchemist’s Elixir and visit a secret speakeasy
• Three-hour tour with flexible options for reservations and cancellations
• Suitable for adults 21+ interested in folklore, food, and history

Starting at the Voodoo Tavern and Po-Boys Shop in the French Quarter

This tour kicks off at 1140 Decatur Street, right in the heart of the French Quarter. The meeting point is marked by murals of Marie LaVeau, the famous Voodoo Queen born in 1801, and Papa Legba. Your guide, dressed in distinctive attire, leads the group into an exploration of Haitian Voodoo practices like gris-gris bags and red brick dust. The shop serves a hot Roast Beef Po-Boy, offering an authentic taste of New Orleans’ culinary charm from the very first stop.

Immediate access to local culture and history makes this a compelling start. The guide’s storytelling enhances the experience, sharing tales of voodoo legends and the influence of Haitian traditions on New Orleans. The Po-Boy provides a flavorful introduction, setting a lively tone for the remainder of the tour.

Exploring the Vampire’s Apothecary and Its Haunted Decor

One of the highlights is the Vampire’s Apothecary, where the decor is designed to evoke the eerie and mysterious world of vampires. This shop showcases handmade products, such as gris-gris bags, voodoo dolls, and potion oils. Guests enjoy a brief look at these mystical items before heading to the Apothecary restaurant.

The restaurant impresses with its incredible Vampire-themed decor, where a guided tour reveals countless creative design touches. The ambiance leaves a memorable impression, making it a perfect spot for fans of vampire lore. Here, guests are served warm Brie cheese topped with seasonal fruits and nuts, along with toasted rosemary ciabatta. The dark chocolate Vampire Bat dessert caps off this culinary experience.

The Legend of Marie LaVeau and Haitian Practices

Between stops, the guide shares the story of Marie LaVeau, a legendary figure in New Orleans Voodoo. The tour also delves into Haitian Voodoo practices, including the use of gris-gris bags and red brick dust, offering insights into the spiritual traditions that have shaped local culture. This segment helps visitors understand the historical roots of Voodoo in New Orleans, making the folklore more meaningful.

The narrative about Marie LaVeau is compelling, providing context for the city’s mystical reputation. The storytelling emphasizes her role as a Voodoo Queen, inspiring awe and curiosity among participants.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting the Historic Old Ursuline Convent and Vampire Lore

The tour visits the Old Ursuline Convent, where the legend ties into the story of the first Vampires, believed to have arrived in New Orleans as the Casket Girls. The historic site offers a glimpse into the city’s French colonial past, adding depth to the vampire tales. The connection between French traditions and local legends makes this stop particularly intriguing.

Guests can admire the architecture and imagine the early days of vampire legends. This stop blends history, myth, and local storytelling, enriching the overall experience.

The Old Pharmacy and the Blood-Dripping Bloodletting History

Next, the tour takes guests to a fascinating old Pharmacy where bloodletting and leeches were once common medical practices. It is said that vampires were regular visitors due to the copious amounts of blood available. The shop’s eerie ambiance is complemented by tales of lovesick young women buying love potions from Voodoo practitioners in the same location.

This stop offers a sinister glimpse into medical history and vampire lore. The storytelling about blood rituals and their connection to vampire legends provides a fascinating insight into the city’s darker side.

The Haunted Muriel’s Restaurant and Ghost Stories

A visit to Muriel’s Restaurant introduces ghost stories, including the haunting of Monsieur Jourdan, a ghost said to inhabit the restaurant. Alongside ghost tales, guests enjoy Duck and Andouille Gumbo in the courtyard of this historic venue. The combination of delicious food and supernatural stories makes this stop both flavorful and spooky.

The ambiance of Muriel’s adds to the mystique of New Orleans, where history and ghost stories often intertwine. The gumbo provides a hearty taste of local cuisine amidst the haunting tales.

The Vampire Decor at the Apothecary Restaurant

The Vampire’s Apothecary restaurant is a sight to behold, with incredible vampire-inspired decor and numerous creative touches. The host guides visitors through the decor, highlighting the many fantastical details. Lunch here includes seasonal fruits and nuts on warm Brie, with dark chocolate Vampire Bat dessert.

This location is designed to make a lasting impression, blending culinary excellence with themed decor. It’s a visual feast for fans of vampires and Gothic aesthetics.

The Cocktail Experience – The Alchemist’s Elixir

For those who choose the cocktail option (21+), the Alchemist’s Elixir offers an unforgettable experience. This color-changing cocktail transforms colors as the Elixir is added, adding a magical visual element. The guide explains the ingredients and the story behind this exotic drink.

Guests can enjoy the drink at the Apothecary’s bar or on the balcony overlooking Bourbon Street, soaking in the lively atmosphere of New Orleans. The cocktail adds a fun, mystical twist to the tour.

Visiting the Secret Speakeasy: POTIONS

After the cocktail, the tour continues to a password-only speakeasy called POTIONS, hidden above a popular jazz bar. The exclusive nature of this hidden venue creates a sense of adventure. Here, guests enjoy a Black Cat cocktail, known for its unique flavor and mysterious aura.

The speakeasy’s balcony view of Bourbon Street provides a perfect vantage point to enjoy the vibrant city life while sipping your cocktail. This secret location elevates the tour from historical to truly immersive.

Logistics and Practical Tips

The tour begins at 1140 Decatur Street and concludes at 725 St Peter. It includes several stops in the French Quarter, with food tastings lasting about 40 minutes each at three key locations. The guided tours feature storytelling about legends, history, and local customs, with shopping opportunities at Voodoo Authentica.

Participants should plan for comfortable walking around historic sites, but the tour is suitable for most physically able adults. It is not recommended for those with bare feet or with a cold. The entire experience is English-speaking and offers full cancellation options up to 24 hours in advance.

The Value of Combining Culture, Food, and Folklore

This tour offers a distinctive experience by blending legendary stories with delicious food and drinks. The stops at historic locations like the Pharmacy and Muriel’s help contextualize the tales while satisfying culinary cravings with gumbo, cheese, and desserts.

The optional cocktail experience and secret speakeasy visit provide extra layers of fun and exclusivity. The 3-hour duration strikes a good balance between immersive storytelling and relaxed pacing. Overall, it delivers a well-rounded glimpse into New Orleans’ mystical and culinary worlds.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour appeals most to adults interested in folklore, history buffs, and food lovers eager to explore the city’s legends. The Voodoo and Vampire themes add a mysterious flair that enhances the cultural experience. It’s ideal for those who want more than just sightseeing, craving stories, flavors, and unique spots in New Orleans.

While the tour includes food tastings and drinks, it’s best suited for participants aged 21 and over if opting for the cocktail experience. It’s perfect for curious explorers who enjoy themed tours with a mix of history, myth, and culinary delights.

The Sum Up: A Distinctive Blend of Lore and Cuisine

This 3-hour New Orleans tour offers a rich mix of vampire and voodoo stories, delicious local food, and mystical cocktails in the heart of the French Quarter. Its unique focus on Voodoo Queen Marie LaVeau and vampire legends sets it apart from typical food tours, providing a deep dive into the city’s supernatural side.

The amazing decor, storytelling, and food make it an entertaining choice for adults seeking a themed experience. The inclusion of a secret speakeasy and color-changing cocktail adds an extra layer of fun. The well-paced itinerary and accessible stops ensure a memorable, immersive adventure.

Anyone curious about New Orleans’ mystical reputation, legendary figures, or gothic aesthetics will find this tour offers both entertainment and insight. It’s a creative way to enjoy the city’s culture, combining history, food, and spirits in a compact, engaging format.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the cocktail option is only available to those 21 and over, and the content is geared toward adults interested in folklore and history.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 1140 Decatur Street and finishes at 725 St Peter in the French Quarter.

Are there any physical requirements?
Participants should be comfortable walking around historic sites; no specific physical limitations are noted, but bare feet are not allowed.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What does the food include?
Guests enjoy three local dishes, including Duck and Andouille Gumbo, as well as cheese and dessert.

What is the cocktail called?
The Alchemist’s Elixir is a color-changing, exotic cocktail available to those who select the drink option.

Do guests visit any secret locations?
Yes, after the cocktails, guests go to a secret speakeasy called POTIONS, located above a jazz bar.

What makes this tour unique?
It combines legendary stories about Voodoo and Vampires with local cuisine, themed decor, and hidden spots like the speakeasy.

Is this tour focused more on stories or food?
It balances both, with a strong emphasis on storytelling complemented by delicious tastings and themed experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby