Private Ghost, Voodoo and Vampire Tour

Our review takes a close look at a popular private tour in New Orleans that promises an evening filled with ghost stories, voodoo lore, and vampire legends. Designed for those curious about the city’s darker side, this experience offers a chance to explore the French Quarter’s haunted corners with a knowledgeable guide, ending with a social stop at a local bar.

While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, the detailed itinerary, stellar reviews, and thoughtful structure suggest it’s a solid choice for travelers eager to combine history, mystery, and local flavor.

One of the things we like most about this tour is its private setting, which lets you enjoy a personalized experience without the rush of larger groups. The second highlight is the blend of storytelling and shopping, giving you both entertainment and authentic souvenirs, especially at the voodoo shops.

A potential drawback? The tour’s price point of $800 per group might be steep for some, though the tailored experience and local guides help justify the cost.

This tour works best for those interested in spooky tales, history, and unique local traditions—ideal for couples, small groups, or families with older children craving an engaging night out.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: The tour’s private setting ensures a tailored experience with your own group.
• Rich Narrative Elements: Guides share stories about ghosts, vampires, witches, and voodoo priestesses that bring New Orleans’ eerie history to life.
• Authentic Stops: Visits to storied locations like voodoo shops, haunted bars, and historic landmarks add depth and atmosphere.
• Shopping and Socializing: Time for souvenirs and a relaxed chat at a local bar make the experience both entertaining and immersive.
• Comprehensive Yet Concise: At around two hours, the tour packs plenty of history and legend without feeling rushed.
• Excellent Reviews: Consistently high ratings and glowing comments highlight knowledgeable guides and memorable storytelling.

The tour kicks off in front of the Omni Royal Orleans, a centrally located hotel that’s easily accessible and perfect as a starting point. Arriving 30 minutes early is advised, giving you a moment to settle in and meet your guide, who will lead you through the city’s ghostly secrets. The tour’s walking pace is manageable, and the group size is limited to up to 15 people, making for a cozy and engaging experience.

First Stop: The Omni Royal Orleans

While your tour begins here, this stop is mainly for gathering and orientation. It’s a convenient starting point and sets a refined tone for the evening.

The Pharmacy Museum: A Medical Haunted House

Next, your guide might lead you to the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, a building with roots dating back to 1816 when Louis Dufilho opened what’s claimed to be America’s first licensed pharmacy. Though the admission is not included, the museum’s collection of old medical equipment and artifacts can be quite atmospheric, especially when paired with stories of medicinal practices and secret remedies used in voodoo and witchcraft.

Jackson Square: A Symbol of the City with a Dark Past

Passing by Jackson Square, you’ll have a chance to view the imposing statue of General Andrew Jackson. The square’s vibrant atmosphere contrasts with the ghostly tales your guide shares, particularly stories of hauntings and spectral encounters linked to this historic hub.

Voodoo Authentica: Souvenirs from the Spirit World

A highlight for many is the visit to Voodoo Authentica, a shop that’s been crafting handmade voodoo dolls and gris-gris bags since the 1990s. Here, the craft blends tradition with tourism, but many visitors find authentic energy in these stores, making it a meaningful stop—especially if you want to purchase a keepsake or learn about voodoo practices.

Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar: A Haunted Historic Drinking Spot

Lafitte’s is the oldest bar in America, once owned by privateer Jean Lafitte. The stories of hauntings here add a mysterious vibe to your evening, and you might find it a fun, relaxed spot for a drink and some lively chatter with your group.

The LaLaurie Mansion: Ghosts of a Sordid Past

Finally, your guide will tell the unsettling tales of Delphine LaLaurie, infamous for her gruesome treatment of slaves and her mansion’s ghostly reputation. Though admission is not included, the stories of this house encapsulate the darker side of New Orleans’ history, leaving a lasting impression.

What the Tour Includes and What It Doesn’t

The tour fee of $800 covers an exclusive, private experience for up to 15 people. This means you get personalized storytelling, undivided attention from your guide, and the flexibility to ask questions or customize your experience. Food and drinks are not included—so plan to bring cash or cards if you want to grab a bite or a beverage at the stops.

The tour is designed to operate in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately. While the guides try to accommodate all guests, some terrain in the French Quarter could present challenges for those with mobility issues. Still, the experience is manageable for most travelers.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with comments like, “Jodi was wonderful, insightful, and personable,” and “Our guide was very entertaining.” The stories and the atmosphere are often highlighted as the tour’s best features, with many noting that the stunning views and atmospheric locations really bring the legends to life. One traveler remarked, “She was very entertaining,” emphasizing that an engaging guide can turn a simple walk into a memorable experience.

While $800 might seem high for a two-hour experience, the value is rooted in the private, intimate nature of the tour and its curated stops. For those intrigued by ghost stories, voodoo, and New Orleans’ haunted past, it offers a rich mix of history and legend, with guides who are both informative and engaging. The combination of storytelling, authentic locations, and a social atmosphere in a historic bar makes this experience stand out from generic ghost tours.

This tour is especially suited for history enthusiasts, mystery lovers, and small groups or couples seeking a personalized night out in the French Quarter. It’s ideal if you enjoy storytelling, exploring haunted landmarks, and engaging with local traditions. It might be less suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues, due to the walking and terrain involved.

The Private Ghost, Voodoo, and Vampire Tour offers an engaging, well-rounded look at some of New Orleans’ most intriguing legends. With knowledgeable guides, atmospheric locations, and a flexible schedule, it provides a memorable way to experience the city’s darker side. The stops at voodoo shops, haunted bars, and historic mansions weave together stories of the supernatural, history, and local culture, making it a compelling choice for curious travelers.

If you’re drawn to ghost stories, enjoy learning about local traditions, and prefer a private experience that caters to your group’s interests, this tour delivers on all fronts. While the cost is on the higher side, the personalized attention and authentic stops help justify the expense. For anyone wanting a night filled with spooky tales and New Orleans magic, this tour is a solid bet.

• How long is the tour?
  It lasts approximately two hours, walking through the French Quarter with several stops along the way.

• Where does the tour start and end?
  It begins in front of the Omni Royal Orleans on St. Louis Street and may not end at the same location, with the final stop at 604 Royal Street.

• Is the tour private?
  Yes, it’s designed exclusively for your group of up to 15 people.

• What is included in the price?
  The fee covers the private tour, storytelling, and visits to various historic and legendary sites. Food and drinks are not included.

• Are tickets for the stops included?
  Admission to some locations like the Pharmacy Museum or LaLaurie Mansion are not included, but most stops are free to view from the outside.

• Can I book this tour last minute?
  It’s typically booked about 7 days in advance but can be arranged with some flexibility depending on availability.

• Is transportation provided?
  No, the tour is walking-based, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

• Are there any accessibility considerations?
  The terrain in the French Quarter may pose challenges for some mobility issues, so please plan accordingly.

• Can children join the tour?
  Most travelers can participate, but the spooky stories and walking may be less suitable for very young children.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from the Private Ghost, Voodoo, and Vampire Tour. Whether you’re a history buff, a supernatural enthusiast, or just looking for an interesting night out, this experience offers a well-curated glimpse into New Orleans’ mysterious past.