Our review of the New Orleans Haunted Pub Crawl offers an honest look at what promises to be a lively and spooky way to explore the French Quarter’s dark corners. Designed for those who enjoy a mix of nightlife, history, and a bit of ghostly lore, this tour combines the fun of a typical pub crawl with tales of brothels, spirits, and legendary figures like Marie Laveau and Jean Lafitte.
Whether you’re a history buff, a ghost story enthusiast, or simply seeking a fun night out, this experience carries a lot of promise.
Two things we particularly like about this tour are its small group size—which fosters a more intimate and engaging experience—and the knowledgeable guides who bring stories alive with personality and research. On the flip side, a possible consideration for travelers is that alcoholic beverages are not included, so you’ll need to budget for drinks on your own.
This tour is best suited for night owls, history lovers, ghost story fans, and those looking for a social, fun way to explore the French Quarter after dark. And with a very reasonable price point of just under $30, it offers good value for a memorable evening of storytelling, drinks, and exploration.
Key Points
- Authentic stories: Guides share tales about haunted bars, infamous brothels, and legendary figures.
- Small groups: Limited to nine travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.
- Historic stops: Visit landmark locations like Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop and Pirates Alley.
- Flexible timing: Approximate 2-hour tour that fits easily into an evening.
- Cost-effective: At $29.99, it offers a budget-friendly way to experience nightlife with a spooky twist.
- No drinks included: Be prepared to purchase your own beverages at the stops.
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The Experience in Detail
The tour kicks off at 809 Royal Street, placing you right in the heart of the French Quarter’s historic district. The first stop is Rampart Treehouse, where you can grab a drink and hear stories of Marie Laveau, the famed voodoo queen. The guide’s storytelling is lively, and many reviewers appreciated the way stories are woven into the atmosphere, giving you a sense of the city’s mystical past.
Next, you’ll head to Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, one of the city’s oldest buildings, dating back to the late 1700s. Here, you’ll have another chance to enjoy a drink and listen to tales about Jean Lafitte, the infamous pirate who’s become part of New Orleans folklore. This spot’s authentic, time-worn ambiance makes it a favorite among guests, with some reviewers commenting on how the historic setting adds a special flavor to the stories.
The third stop is 622 Pirates Alley, a narrow, historic street that has seen centuries of New Orleans’ stories unfold. At the Pirate’s Alley Cafe, you can sip your drink while listening to the tales of the city’s first prison, the Cabildo, and the pirates who once roamed these waters.
The final stop is 515 St Philip Street, home to MRB, one of the most haunted bars in the city. Here, the guide shares stories about Gallatin Street’s Live Oak Gang and women who supposedly ruled the streets. Reviewers have noted that this bar’s haunting reputation and dark, intimate atmosphere make it a highlight of the tour.
You can also read our reviews of more nightlife experiences in New Orleans
What the Tour Feels Like
Expect a fairly relaxed pace that allows enough time to soak in the ambiance and stories at each stop. The group size is intentionally kept small, making conversations easier and stories more personal. Some reviews praise guides like Payton, Lisa, and Rhody for their entertaining and knowledgeable narration, which turns the tour into more than just a pub crawl — it becomes a storytelling experience.
While the tour is advertised as a pub crawl, it leans more towards a storytelling journey with a few drinks along the way. Several guests mention that it’s more about the tales and history than just drinking, but keep in mind that alcoholic beverages are not included, and you might want to budget around $10-$15 for drinks.
Navigating the Crowds and the Atmosphere
One common theme in reviews is the busy nature of New Orleans’ nightlife, especially during peak times such as Halloween or weekends. Some complain about the large crowds and difficulties getting drinks at the bars. One reviewer noted, “the bar didn’t appear to know we were coming,” which is understandable given the busy ambiance. Guides do their best to coordinate logistics, but the lively environment can sometimes make it harder to hear stories or get drinks quickly.
The atmosphere is generally lively and fun, with the historic bars adding a touch of authenticity. Many guests appreciate the combination of nightlife and storytelling, which makes the evening both entertaining and atmospheric.
Value for Money
At $29.99 per person, this tour is quite affordable for what it offers. The main value lies in the expert storytelling, the historic stops, and the small group setting. It’s a great way to combine a night out with a bit of educational fun, especially if you’re not interested in large, commercialized tours. However, since drinks aren’t included, it’s wise to factor in extra costs for beverages.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience works best for adults who enjoy storytelling, history, and a bit of spooky atmosphere. It’s ideal for small groups, couples, or solo travelers looking for a fun, social night. If you’re a ghost story enthusiast, or curious about the legends behind New Orleans’ haunted reputation, this tour will satisfy your curiosity.
Those who prefer structured, formal tours or aren’t comfortable with large crowds may find the lively environment a bit overwhelming, but the small group size makes it manageable. It’s also a fine choice for post-sunset explorers who want to add a mysterious twist to their evening.
You can also read our reviews of more drinking tours in New Orleans
The Sum Up
The New Orleans Haunted Pub Crawl offers a lively mix of history, ghost stories, and socializing — all wrapped in the charming, sometimes spooky ambiance of the French Quarter. With knowledgeable guides, authentic historic stops, and a reasonable price, it provides a memorable way to see the city’s darker side. While it’s not a comprehensive history tour, it offers enough intriguing tales to keep you entertained and engaged.
If you’re looking for a fun, social experience that combines nightlife with storytelling, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially perfect for those who want a small, intimate group, or night owls eager for a ghostly adventure. Just remember to budget extra for drinks and be prepared for lively, sometimes crowded atmospheres.
For travelers craving a mix of history, local legends, and a good time, this pub crawl offers a spirited way to spend an evening in New Orleans. It’s a memorable experience that leaves you with stories to tell long after the last ghostly tale.
New Orleans Haunted Pub Crawl
FAQ
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable evening activity that fits well into a night out.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 809 Royal Street and concludes at 941 Bourbon Street, both centrally located in the French Quarter.
Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included. You’ll have the chance to purchase drinks at each stop.
What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 9 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and easier interaction with your guide.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but since it involves alcohol and late-night activities, it’s best suited for adults.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll be walking and standing at each stop. Dress appropriately for the weather and nightlife.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.
In essence, this tour offers a fun, engaging way to discover the spooky side of New Orleans, perfect for those who appreciate history, ghost stories, and a bit of spirited camaraderie. It’s a great choice to add a memorable twist to your French Quarter visit, especially if you enjoy stories told with flair and enthusiasm.
