New Orleans Ghost Tours: Exploring the City’s Supernatural Side
New Orleans, with its rich history and vibrant culture, is a city like no other. Known for its music, cuisine, and unique blend of French, Spanish, and Creole influences, New Orleans is also famed for its haunted past. Ghost tours are a popular attraction, offering a spine-tingling way to explore the city’s darker side. In this blog post, we’ll delve into some of the best ghost tours in New Orleans, share practical tips for booking and experiencing these tours, and provide useful information for planning your trip, including how to book your flights and accommodation.
The Allure of New Orleans’ Haunted History
New Orleans’ history is filled with tales of voodoo, pirates, and spectral apparitions. The city’s historic buildings, cemeteries, and streets are said to be haunted by the spirits of its past residents. Here are some reasons why ghost tours are a must-do:
- Rich Storytelling: Professional guides share chilling tales and historical facts, making the experience both educational and entertaining.
- Historic Locations: Tours often include visits to some of the city’s most famous landmarks and hidden gems.
- Unique Experience: Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, the eerie ambiance of New Orleans at night is unforgettable.
Top Ghost Tours in New Orleans
1. The Original Ghost, Voodoo, and Vampire Tour
Overview: This tour is one of the most popular in New Orleans, offering a comprehensive look at the city’s haunted history. It covers ghost stories, voodoo legends, and vampire lore, providing a well-rounded supernatural experience.
Highlights:
- Visit to St. Louis Cathedral, one of the most haunted places in New Orleans.
- Stories of Marie Laveau, the famous Voodoo Queen of New Orleans.
- Exploration of the French Quarter’s haunted locations, including the infamous LaLaurie Mansion.
Experience: The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who are skilled storytellers, bringing the eerie tales to life. The nighttime setting adds to the spooky atmosphere, making it an immersive experience.
Booking Information: Tickets can be purchased online through platforms like Viator or GetYourGuide.
Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves a lot of walking.
- Bring a camera to capture any potential ghostly sightings.
2. Cemetery and Ghost BYOB Bus Tour
Overview: This tour combines a visit to some of New Orleans’ most haunted cemeteries with ghost stories told on a comfortable bus ride. It’s a great option for those who prefer not to walk long distances.
Highlights:
- Tour of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, where the tomb of Marie Laveau is located.
- Visit to the Hurricane Katrina Memorial and other haunted sites.
- BYOB policy, allowing you to enjoy drinks while listening to ghost stories.
Experience: The bus is air-conditioned and comfortable, and the guides are engaging and knowledgeable. The combination of ghost stories and visits to real haunted sites makes for an exciting and eerie experience.
Booking Information: Tickets are available on websites like TripAdvisor and Expedia.
Tips:
- Bring your own beverages if you wish to take advantage of the BYOB policy.
- Respect the cemeteries and sites you visit; many are historical and sacred places.
3. French Quarter Phantoms Ghost Tour
Overview: This award-winning tour company offers a variety of ghost tours, including a popular nighttime ghost and vampire tour through the French Quarter.
Highlights:
- Hear tales of the Axeman of New Orleans, a notorious serial killer.
- Explore the dark history of the French Quarter, including haunted hotels and buildings.
- Small group sizes ensure a more personalized experience.
Experience: French Quarter Phantoms is known for its enthusiastic and entertaining guides. The small group sizes allow for a more intimate and engaging tour.
Booking Information: Tickets can be booked directly on the French Quarter Phantoms website or through ticketing platforms like Eventbrite.
Tips:
- Tours often sell out, so booking in advance is recommended.
- Check the weather and dress accordingly, as the tour is mostly outdoors.
4. Haunted History Tours
Overview: Haunted History Tours offers a range of ghost tours, including haunted pub crawls and ghost hunts, for those looking for a more interactive experience.
Highlights:
- Haunted pub crawl that combines ghost stories with visits to historic bars.
- Ghost hunts with paranormal investigation equipment.
- Daytime and nighttime tours available.
Experience: The tours are entertaining and informative, with guides who are passionate about New Orleans’ haunted history. The pub crawl is a unique way to explore the city’s nightlife while hearing ghost stories.
Booking Information: Tickets are available on the Haunted History Tours website and on travel sites like Groupon.
Tips:
- If you choose the pub crawl, bring a valid ID as proof of age.
- The ghost hunt tours often require more walking, so wear comfortable shoes.
5. Voodoo Bone Lady Haunted Tours
Overview: Known for their engaging and theatrical guides, Voodoo Bone Lady Haunted Tours offers ghost, voodoo, and vampire tours with a focus on storytelling and theatrics.
Highlights:
- Voodoo tour led by guides with extensive knowledge of voodoo practices and history.
- Vampire tour exploring the myths and legends of New Orleans’ vampire lore.
- Private tours available for a more personalized experience.
Experience: The guides are charismatic and theatrical, making the tours entertaining and memorable. The focus on voodoo and vampire lore adds a unique twist to the traditional ghost tour.
Booking Information: Tickets can be purchased on the Voodoo Bone Lady website or through platforms like Yelp.
Tips:
- Bring cash for tips, as the guides often rely on gratuities.
- Private tours are ideal for groups looking for a more customized experience.
Practical Tips for Booking Your Ghost Tour
When to Book
- Peak Seasons: New Orleans is busiest during Mardi Gras (February/March) and Jazz Fest (April/May). If you’re visiting during these times, book your tour well in advance.
- Off-Peak Seasons: For fewer crowds and potentially better prices, consider visiting during the summer or early fall. However, be aware of the weather, as New Orleans can be hot and humid.
What to Bring
- Comfortable Shoes: Ghost tours typically involve a lot of walking, especially in the French Quarter.
- Water Bottle: Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
- Camera: Capture the spooky ambiance and any potential paranormal activity.
- Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. An umbrella or raincoat may be necessary during the rainy season.
Booking Platforms
- Viator: Offers a wide range of tours and activities with user reviews and ratings.
- GetYourGuide: Features detailed tour descriptions and user feedback.
- TripAdvisor: Provides comprehensive reviews and often lists the most popular and highly rated tours.
- Expedia: Convenient for booking flights, accommodation, and tours in one place.
- Eventbrite: Lists unique and local events, including ghost tours.
Planning Your Trip to New Orleans
Booking Flights
Major Airlines: Several major airlines offer flights to New Orleans from various Asian cities, including:
- United Airlines: Connects through major hubs like San Francisco (SFO) and Los Angeles (LAX).
- Delta Airlines: Connects through hubs like Atlanta (ATL) and Seattle (SEA).
- American Airlines: Connects through hubs like Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) and Chicago (ORD).
Booking Platforms:
- Google Flights: Useful for comparing fares and tracking price changes.
- Skyscanner: Comprehensive search engine for finding the best deals.
- Kayak: Offers fare comparisons and price alerts.
- Momondo: Known for finding the lowest fares and unique flight options.
- Expedia: Allows you to book flights, hotels, and tours together.
Accommodation
New Orleans offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences:
Luxury Hotels:
- The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans: Located in the French Quarter, offering luxury amenities and services.
- The Roosevelt New Orleans: A historic hotel with elegant rooms and top-notch dining options.
Boutique Hotels:
- Hotel Monteleone: A historic hotel in the French Quarter, known for its Carousel Bar.
- The Ace Hotel New Orleans: Stylish and modern, located in the Warehouse District.
Budget-Friendly Options:
- HI New Orleans Hostel: Affordable and centrally located, perfect for budget travelers.
- Maison de la Luz: Offers a boutique experience at a reasonable price.
Getting Around
Public Transportation:
- Streetcars: The iconic streetcars are a convenient and scenic way to travel around the city. Lines include the St. Charles Line, Canal Street Line, and Riverfront Line.
- Buses: The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) operates an extensive bus network.
Taxis and Rideshares:
- Uber and Lyft: Both services are widely available in New Orleans and are convenient for getting around the city.
Car Rentals:
- Rental Agencies: Available at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport and throughout the city.
Exploring New Orleans’ supernatural side through ghost tours is an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re intrigued by the city’s haunted history, fascinated by voodoo legends, or simply looking for a thrilling adventure, these tours offer something for everyone. By following the practical tips and recommendations provided in this guide, you can ensure a memorable and well-planned trip. From booking your flights and accommodation to selecting the perfect ghost tour, every detail can contribute to an extraordinary visit to the haunted heart of New Orleans. Safe travels and happy ghost hunting!
New Orleans, with its rich history and vibrant culture, is a city like no other. Known for its music, cuisine, and unique blend of French, Spanish, and Creole influences, New Orleans is also famed for its haunted past. Ghost tours are a popular attraction, offering a spine-tingling way to explore the city’s darker side. In…
