New Orleans: True Crime Bar Walk with Local Storyteller

Summary

Walk New Orleans at night for true crime tales & cocktails

You’ll walk through New Orleans’ French Quarter with a local guide who knows every twisted true crime story — from historic murders to modern scandals. Stop at unique bars for signature drinks (or whatever you like), hear locals chime in, and end up swapping theories under neon lights. It’s gritty, funny, sometimes chilling — but you’ll leave feeling part of the city’s wild past.

What’s the experience like?

We stepped out onto the sticky French Quarter sidewalk just as the neon started to flicker on — you know that hour when the city feels like it’s stretching awake for the real night. Our guide, Marcus, waved us over with this sly grin and right away started in about a murder from the 1800s that happened just around the corner. I could smell fried shrimp from somewhere nearby, mixing with that old wood-and-whiskey scent pouring out of the first bar. We ducked inside and, honestly, I was still thinking about how close we were to where it all went down.

I’m not really a “true crime junkie” but something about hearing these stories while sipping a Sazerac (my first — strong!) made it all feel weirdly real. Marcus had this way of pausing right before the gory details, letting us lean in. At Pour House NOLA he pointed at a faded photo behind the bar and told us about one of America’s most infamous serial killers — I tried to look casual but my skin prickled. The bartender chimed in with her own theory, which made me laugh because everyone here seems to have one.

The Dungeon bar was next — dark, loud, full of locals who didn’t seem fazed by our little group swapping murder stories over drinks. Someone spilled their cocktail and nobody cared; it felt like part of the place. By then, I’d lost track of time and maybe my sense of direction too (the Quarter does that). We ended up at Bar Tonique where we sat outside talking about which story freaked us out most. The air was thick and sweet and I kept thinking how these streets hold so many secrets under all that music and laughter.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — True Crime Pub Crawl with Drinks

• Start with a drink and crime story
• Enjoy refreshments and another crime tale
• Visit Pour House NOLA and learn about serial killer
• Explore Dungeon bar and its crime connection
• Stop for drinks and more true crime
• Finish at Bar Tonique discussing city's criminal past

Top questions

Is this New Orleans true crime pub crawl wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible and suitable for all fitness levels.

Are drinks included on the New Orleans true crime tour?

No, drinks are not included; you can buy your own at each bar stop.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol?

Yes, you can choose any drink or none at all—no judgment here.

What age do you need to be for this pub crawl?

You must be 21 or older to participate in this tour.

Does the tour include pickup or transportation?

No hotel pickup is provided; meet at the starting point in New Orleans.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are welcome during the tour.

What’s included

Your evening includes a truly local New Orleans expert guide leading you through several historic bars in the French Quarter as you hear infamous true crime stories—plus plenty of time to grab your own signature cocktails or soft drinks along the way before finishing up near Bar Tonique.