New Orleans: French Quarter Haunted Ghost Tour & Bar Stops

Summary

French Quarter ghost tales, haunted bars, and eerie legends at night

You’ll walk through New Orleans’ French Quarter after dark with a local guide sharing haunted history tales, see infamous spots like LaLaurie Mansion and Pirate’s Alley, stop by legendary bars for drinks or absinthe if you’re brave enough, and end near Jackson Square where the city feels both alive and haunted. It might leave you looking over your shoulder.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered if you’d actually feel something in those old New Orleans streets? I didn’t expect much, honestly — just some stories and maybe a cheap scare. But stepping out from Reverend Zombie’s Voodoo Shop with our guide (her name was Simone, thick local accent and all), the air felt different. Damp, like it had soaked up centuries of secrets. The French Quarter isn’t quiet at night — there’s music leaking from somewhere, always — but when Simone stopped us by LaLaurie Mansion, even the streetlights seemed to pull back a bit. She told us about Madame LaLaurie with this matter-of-fact tone that made my skin crawl more than any jump scare ever could.

We wandered past Bourbon Street — which is its own kind of wild — but it’s funny how quickly things shift once you duck into Pirate’s Alley. There was this weird sweet smell from someone’s drink (absinthe maybe?), and some guy in a feathered hat winked at us as we passed. Simone pointed out where pirates supposedly ran through the alley, vanishing into thin air. I tried to snap a photo but mostly caught my own reflection in a window; she laughed and said ghosts are shy with tourists. Li tried ordering a “Voodoo” at one bar and probably butchered the pronunciation — even the bartender grinned.

I kept waiting for something dramatic to happen, but it was more like this slow build of unease mixed with curiosity. At Jackson Square, everything felt quieter than it should’ve been for such a famous spot. The tour ended there, under these old lamps that cast long shadows over the stones. We hung back for a minute after everyone left — not sure why — just listening to distant jazz and thinking about all the stuff people don’t see in daylight here.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Evening haunted French Quarter tour

• Meet at Reverend Zombie’s Voodoo Shop
• Follow guide through French Quarter
• Visit haunted LaLaurie Mansion
• Pass by haunted bars on Bourbon Street
• Explore notorious Pirate’s Alley
• End near iconic bar in Pirate’s Alley
• See Jackson Square after dark
• Enjoy 2-for-1 hurricanes at Finnegan's

Top questions

How long is the New Orleans haunted history ghost tour?

The walking tour lasts approximately 2 hours in the evening.

Where does the ghost tour start?

The tour departs from Reverend Zombie’s Voodoo Shop in New Orleans’ French Quarter.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all fitness levels.

Are drinks included on this New Orleans ghost tour?

No drinks are included, but you can enjoy 2-for-1 hurricane specials at Finnegan's before or after your tour by checking in with your guide.

What are some highlights of this haunted history ghost tour?

You’ll visit places like LaLaurie Mansion, Bourbon Street, Pirate’s Alley, and Jackson Square while hearing local ghost stories.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is included; guests meet at Reverend Zombie’s Voodoo Shop.

Are children allowed on this walking ghost tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; strollers are welcome.

What’s included

Your evening includes a guided walking tour through New Orleans’ French Quarter led by a licensed local guide who shares true haunted history stories as you visit notorious sites like LaLaurie Mansion and Jackson Square—with time to stop at legendary bars along the way before finishing near Jackson Square.