Unsolved Mysteries of New Orleans

Discover the Haunted Secrets of New Orleans with an Affordable Walking Tour

For $35 per person, the Unsolved Mysteries of New Orleans tour offers an engaging 1 to 2-hour walk through the city’s shadowy streets. Based in the French Quarter, this guided experience takes visitors to iconic and eerie locations such as the LaLaurie Mansion and St Louis Cathedral, revealing stories of voodoo, murder, and hauntings. The tour is perfect for fans of mystery, legends, and colorful characters looking for a dose of the city’s darker side.

While the tour’s content promises a spooky experience, it’s worth noting that reviews are mixed, with some noting logistical issues. The tour features use of paranormal detection equipment, which adds an interactive twist. It’s a compelling option for anyone interested in New Orleans’ supernatural tales, but potential participants should be aware of some past organizational challenges.

Key Points

• Price: $35 per person for a 1-2 hour guided walk
• Location: Starts at 941 Bourbon Street, ends in the French Quarter
• Highlights: Visits to famous haunted sites like the LaLaurie Mansion and Beauregard-Keyes House
• Features: Use of paranormal detection equipment, stops at spooky locations
• Guides: Led by professional storytellers with knowledge of dark local legends
• Additional: Can stop at bars for to-go drinks during the tour

Starting Point and Tour Logistics in the French Quarter

This tour departs from 941 Bourbon Street, specifically at the courtyard gate attached to Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar. Travelers are advised to arrive a few minutes early to check in and meet the guide. The tour finishes in the heart of the French Quarter, making it easy to explore the area afterward or continue with other activities.

The group size can be quite large, with capacity up to 999 travelers, but the focus remains on a moderate-paced walk. The meeting point is outside the bar, not inside, and the tour does not meet inside Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop. Public transportation options nearby make it accessible for most visitors.

Exploring the Dark Streets of the French Quarter at Night

This tour is designed to be a nighttime walk through New Orleans’ most haunted streets, offering a spooky ambiance that enhances the storytelling. The guide shares stories about Marie Laveau, the famous Voodoo Queen, and potentially glimpses an apparition at St Louis Cathedral.

As the group moves through shadowed alleyways, the atmosphere becomes tense, and the tales of murder, torture, and hauntings grow more vivid. The bone-chilling stories are complemented by the use of paranormal equipment, which guests can check out at the start and use during the stops.

Visits to Spooky Historic Locations Along the Route

Among the most notable sites on the tour is the Madame LaLaurie Mansion, long regarded as one of the most haunted houses in the city. The guide recounts its horrific history of murder and massacre, adding to its reputation as a spooky hotspot.

Another key stop is the Beauregard-Keyes House, where the spirits of the Civil War are said to linger. Visitors learn about the house’s legendary hauntings and its links to Confederate history. The tour also explores the Sultan’s Palace, a mansion with a dark story of murder, which adds to the overall sense of mystery.

Use of Paranormal Equipment and Interactive Elements

A real EMF Meter, described as a Ghost/Paranormal Detector, is provided for the tour. This device allows guests to participate actively in the experience, attempting to detect paranormal activity during the visits. The equipment must be checked out at the start and returned before leaving the group.

This interactive feature enhances the entertainment value of the tour, especially for those curious about supernatural phenomena. However, it comes with a $250 fee for lost or damaged equipment, emphasizing the importance of careful handling.

Bar Stops and Flexibility for Drinks

Guests have the opportunity to stop at bars along the route and purchase to-go drinks before moving to the next location. This flexibility allows for a more relaxed experience and socializing during the tour, adding a casual element to the spooky experience.

Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase, but not included in the ticket price. The tour’s informal bar stops are a popular feature, giving guests a chance to discuss stories or take a break.

The Guide’s Storytelling Style and Knowledge

While specific guide personalities are not detailed, the tour promises professional storytelling focused on legend and local lore. The guide shares bone-chilling tales and historic anecdotes about notable sites, aiming to create an immersive and eerie atmosphere.

However, a notable review mentions an issue where the guide was not present, leading to guest frustration. This highlights that organizational reliability may vary and is a point to consider for potential attendees.

Timing, Pacing, and Tour Duration

The tour typically lasts between 1 and 2 hours, with most of the content concentrated in two main stops: French Quarter and Jackson Square. The pace is moderate, making it suitable for most travelers, but late arrivals cannot be accommodated once the tour departs.

The duration flexibility depends on wait times at bars and group size, with some reviews indicating that delays can occur, especially during busy times. Guests should plan accordingly to avoid missing the experience.

Pricing, Cancellations, and Weather Policy

The $35 ticket is a reasonable price for an experience that combines history, legend, and paranormal equipment use. The tour is rain-or-shine, so guests should prepare for different weather conditions, whether hot or cold.

Cancellation is available free up to 24 hours in advance, with full refunds offered if canceled early. The tour may be canceled or rescheduled in case of poor weather or low registration, with notifications sent via text or email.

Limitations and Past Criticisms

One prominent issue in reviews is the absence of the tour guide, which left some guests waiting for 45 minutes without guidance. This type of logistical problem suggests that organizational reliability may fluctuate.

Plus, the $250 fee for lost paranormal equipment could be a concern for careless handling. The duration and group size might also be limiting factors for travelers seeking a more intimate experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour appeals primarily to fans of supernatural stories, ghost lore, and haunted locations. Visitors interested in paranormal detection as an interactive element will appreciate the use of ghost detectors.

Those who enjoy dark history and legends of New Orleans will find the storytelling engaging, especially at sites like the LaLaurie Mansion. However, travelers seeking a highly organized or intimate experience should be aware of potential organizational inconsistencies.

Final Thoughts on the Unsolved Mysteries of New Orleans

The $35 price point offers an accessible way to experience New Orleans’ haunted side, with stops at some of the city’s most notorious sites. The paranormal equipment adds a fun, interactive element, and the guide’s storytelling aims to create a spooky ambiance.

However, reviews indicate that logistical issues can happen, and the availability of the guide is not guaranteed. The tour is best suited for adventurous visitors who are open to unexpected surprises and enjoy a good ghost story.

This tour provides a mildly spooky introduction to the city’s dark legends, but potential participants should be prepared for possible delays and organizational hiccups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but not all bars allow children inside, so plan accordingly.

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts between 1 and 2 hours depending on stops and group pace.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 941 Bourbon Street outside Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar and ends in the French Quarter.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are available for purchase at bar stops but not included in the ticket price.

Can paranormal equipment be used during the tour?
Yes, guests can check out paranormal detection devices, but must return them before leaving.

What if I arrive late?
Late arrivals cannot be accommodated once the tour departs, and no refunds are issued for missed tours.

Is the tour rain or shine?
Yes, the tour proceeds regardless of weather, so guests should dress accordingly.

What if the guide isn’t there?
Past reviews mention issues with guide presence, which can lead to waiting times or missing parts of the experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any hidden costs?
Apart from the $250 fee for lost equipment, no additional costs are required unless you purchase drinks or tips.

This tour offers a unique glimpse into New Orleans’ haunted history but be aware of potential organizational issues to ensure a smooth experience.