Cheers New Orleans! Cocktails, History, Voodoo & Paranormal Tour

Introduction
Our review focuses on the Cheers New Orleans! Cocktails, History, Voodoo & Paranormal Tour, a storytelling experience that promises to blend history, hauntings, and happy hour into one easygoing package. Designed for those who love a little spooky fun with their drinks, this tour offers a lively look into the city’s shadowy past and vibrant nightlife.

Two things we genuinely appreciate about this experience: first, the tour is led by Ashli Stratman, a highly awarded guide whose passion for New Orleans truly shines through. Second, the combination of historic bar visits and paranormal equipment creates an engaging atmosphere that appeals both to history buffs and ghost enthusiasts.

A potential consideration, however, is the lasting focus on drinking, which might not suit everyone’s pace or preferences—especially if you’re more interested in the history or supernatural stories than the cocktails. Still, this tour is best suited for travelers looking for a casual, entertaining way to explore the French Quarter’s darker secrets while enjoying some local drinks.

Key Points

• Expert Guidance: Led by Ashli Stratman, a highly awarded tour guide passionate about New Orleans.
• Unique Blend: Combines history, voodoo, ghost stories, and nightlife in one tour.
• Bars & Hidden Gems: Includes visits to famous and lesser-known historic bars.
• Paranormal Equipment: Offers ghost-hunting gadgets for paranormal enthusiasts.
• Affordable Price: At $15 per person, it offers good value considering the entertainment and insights.
• Flexible Duration: Lasts approximately 1 to 2 hours, depending on stops and wait times.

What to Expect from the Tour

Overview and Booking

For just $15, you gain access to a 1 to 2-hour guided tour in the heart of the French Quarter. The tour is designed as a lively, walking experience with a mobile ticket—meaning you can easily join in from your smartphone. Bookings tend to be made about 43 days in advance, which indicates a decent demand among visitors who want to secure their spot.

Starting Point & Logistics

Meeting at 941 Bourbon Street, just outside Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, sets the tone for a night of fun and history. The tour concludes at Jackson Square, giving you a prime spot to continue exploring afterward. It’s a moderate-paced walk, so comfortable shoes are a must, especially since the tour involves some strolling through the lively streets of the French Quarter.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar
The tour kicks off with a visit to this iconic, historic bar. Here, your guide—an energetic storyteller—begins weaving tales that include the general history of the French Quarter, peppered with stories of voodoo, ghosts, and vampires. Guests have noted the guide’s enthusiasm and ability to entertain, with one reviewer stating, “Coty was very friendly and informative! It’s a fun way to get some steps in while having a drink and learning about the city.”

You’ll also get a taste of New Orleans’ haunted nightlife, with paranormal equipment provided for those eager to hunt spirits or just enjoy some spooky stories firsthand. The bar itself exudes history, with its dark wood and intriguing ambiance adding to the ghostly allure.

Stop 2: French Quarter
This next section dives deeper into NOLA’s nefarious past. Expect to hear tales of pirates, felons, and women of the night—stories that reveal the city’s grittier side. The guide’s storytelling here aims to entertain and educate, ensuring you’ll leave with a more nuanced understanding of New Orleans’ darker legends.

Guests have raved about the balance of booze and history, with one reviewer noting it was “the perfect way to let your hair down and learn about the city’s legendary past.” The mix of famous bars and hidden gems makes this part of the tour especially rewarding. Many of these bars are not publicly known unless guided there, making the experience feel exclusive and personal.

Paranormal & Voodoo Elements

For paranormal fans, the tour’s inclusion of paranormal equipment is a highlight. Paranormal investigations add a playful, immersive element—guests can check out gadgets that might capture spirits or strange phenomena. However, it’s worth noting that the tour emphasizes entertainment, and no supernatural guarantee exists. Guests have captured paranormal photos, but the guide clearly states that ghosts or spirits cannot be guaranteed—a responsible approach for a supernatural-themed tour.

The Experience’s Value

At $15 per person, this tour offers remarkable value. For the price, guests receive not just a guided walk but also access to stories, historical insights, and the chance to see some of New Orleans’ most storied bars and neighborhoods. The tour’s informal, fun atmosphere makes it popular among solo travelers, couples, and groups looking for an engaging, social experience.

The Practicalities

Group Size & Duration

While the maximum number of participants can be up to 999, actual group sizes tend to be manageable, ensuring personalized attention. The tour lasts roughly an hour, but with stops, questions, and possible wait times at busy bars, it can extend to around two hours.

Accessibility & Meeting Points

Guests should arrive a few minutes early at the meeting point—outside Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar—since late arrivals cannot be accommodated once the tour departs. It’s near public transportation, making it easy for most travelers to access. Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate unless mobility issues prevent walking moderate distances.

Booking & Cancellation Policies

Tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis, and reservations should be made about a month ahead to secure a spot. The tours are rain or shine, so come prepared for weather conditions. Weather-related cancellations are rare but possible, with prepaid tickets valid for future tours. No refunds are issued for cancellations or weather, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead.

Additional Charges & Equipment

While the tour itself is affordable, drinks are purchased separately at the bars along the route. Paranormal equipment has a $250 fee for lost or damaged gear, which guests should keep in mind. Also, audio/video recording is not permitted, but photos are encouraged.

What Past Guests Say

One reviewer called it “a fun NOLA experience,” praising guide Cody for his knowledge and enthusiasm. Another appreciated the entertaining storytelling style and the chance to learn about New Orleans while having fun.

However, not all experiences are perfect; a less favorable review mentioned a guide not showing up, reminding us that reserving in advance and arriving on time is crucial.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits adventurous, social travelers who enjoy storytelling, history, and a lively atmosphere. It’s especially good for those who want to combine drinks with learning and don’t mind moderate walking. Fans of paranormal stories will appreciate the ghost-hunting gadgets, but the tour is also suitable for history buffs curious about the city’s darker side.

It’s not ideal for those seeking a quiet, in-depth historical tour or families with very young children, given the focus on bars and alcohol.

Final Thoughts

The Cheers New Orleans tour offers a great blend of entertainment, history, and local flavor at an unbeatable price. The guiding expertise, combined with the chance to visit iconic and hidden bars, makes it a memorable way to kick off an evening in the French Quarter.

While the focus is on drinks and stories, the inclusion of paranormal equipment and ghost tales adds an extra layer of intrigue for enthusiasts. It’s a fun, relaxed experience that captures the spirit of New Orleans’s lively, spooky nightlife.

In summary, this tour is perfect for those wanting a lighthearted but authentic peek into the city’s shadowy past—with plenty of chances to enjoy a drink, learn a little history, and maybe even spot a spirit or two. Just arrive early, keep your expectations realistic, and prepare for a spirited evening.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most stops include bars that may not allow children, and the focus on alcohol makes it less suitable for kids.

Can I bring my paranormal equipment?
Yes, paranormal equipment can be checked out at the start of the tour and returned before you leave.

What happens if it rains?
Tours are rain or shine. Dress accordingly and be prepared for weather. Cancellations are rare but may occur.

Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, drinks are purchased separately at the bars visited along the route.

How long does the tour last?
The tour generally lasts about an hour but can extend to 2 hours depending on stops and wait times.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Most participants can join, but since it involves walking moderate distances, accessibility may depend on individual needs.

What is the meeting point?
Outside Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar at 941 Bourbon Street.

Can I book last minute?
Reservations should be made about 43 days in advance; last-minute bookings might be challenging.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 999 travelers, but typical groups are manageable for a guided experience.

To sum it up, if you’re seeking a fun, budget-friendly way to enjoy New Orleans’ haunted history and vibrant nightlife, this tour offers a lively, memorable experience. Perfect for social, curious, and spirited travelers, it blends storytelling with a dash of paranormal fun—what’s not to love?