New Orleans: Voodoo Queen Walking Tour & Marie Laveau Sites

Summary

French Quarter voodoo stories Marie Laveau’s legacy Congo Square

You’ll walk through New Orleans’ French Quarter with a local guide who knows all the stories — from secret offerings at St. Louis Cathedral to incense-filled shops and Congo Square’s history. Feel the city’s living spirit as you trace Marie Laveau’s footsteps and learn why voodoo is more than legend here.

What’s the experience like?

“You see that?” our guide, Tasha, nodded at a little bundle tucked behind a gate near St. Louis Cathedral. I wouldn’t have noticed it — just some string and feathers, but she grinned and said, “Offerings for Marie.” The way she said her name — not ‘Mary,’ but ‘Mah-ree’ — made me realize how much people here still talk about the Voodoo Queen like she’s just out running errands. There was music somewhere down the street, kind of drifting over the uneven stones. I kept thinking my feet would twist on those old bricks if I didn’t watch it.

We stopped at Voodoo Authentica and honestly, I expected something touristy, but inside it smelled sharp and earthy — incense or herbs? The woman behind the counter was chatting in a mix of English and Creole with another customer. Tasha explained what gris-gris bags were for (I tried to pronounce it and definitely got it wrong; she laughed). She told us how Marie Laveau grew up nearby, and pointed out which buildings had been here since then. It felt strange to stand so close to her world, like time folds in on itself in the French Quarter.

Congo Square was our last stop. It’s quieter there than I thought it’d be — just some kids playing soccer and an older guy sketching trees in a battered notebook. Tasha talked about how enslaved people gathered here for music and rituals, even when everything else was forbidden. The air felt heavy but not sad exactly… more like charged. I still think about that moment when the wind picked up and carried someone’s laughter across the square. So yeah, this voodoo walking tour wasn’t what I pictured — more real somehow.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore New Orleans Voodoo history

• Walk within the French Quarter
• Pass St. Louis Cathedral
• Stop for Marie Laveau stories
• Visit an authentic Voodoo shop
• Learn about Voodoo and jazz history

Top questions

How long is the Voodoo Queen walking tour?

The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes.

Is this voodoo walking tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, but historic French Quarter streets can be challenging for mobility devices.

Does the tour include visiting a real voodoo shop?

Yes, you’ll stop at Voodoo Authentica during the tour.

Where does the tour take place?

The walking tour takes place within New Orleans’ French Quarter.

Will we learn about Marie Laveau on this tour?

Yes, you’ll hear stories about Marie Laveau and see places connected to her life.

Are service animals allowed on this walking tour?

Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

Is public transportation available near the starting point?

Yes, there are public transportation options nearby.

What’s included

Your 90-minute day includes a guided walk through New Orleans’ French Quarter with stops at St. Louis Cathedral, Voodoo Authentica shop, Congo Square, plus stories of Marie Laveau — all led by a licensed local guide.