New Orleans Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl

If you’re looking to combine history, ghost stories, and a bit of a spirited atmosphere in New Orleans, the New Orleans Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl offers a lively way to experience the city’s darker side.

This tour promises to take you through some of the city’s most iconic bars and haunted sites, blending storytelling with a taste of local culture. While not a full-fledged ghost hunt, it offers a fun, beer-friendly way to get a sense of the city’s spectral legends.

What we really like about this experience is the knowledgeable guides who bring stories to life with passion and detail—and the fact that it includes visits to historic bars like Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, one of America’s oldest, and the famously haunted LaLaurie Mansion. The tour’s small group size (capped at 50) makes it manageable and intimate enough for everyone to feel involved.

A potential consideration is the variable quality of guides—as experienced by some past guests—so your overall experience could depend heavily on who leads your group. Also, with no drinks included, you’ll want to budget additionally for your favorite cocktails or beers, which allows for more personal choice.

This tour is perfect for history buffs with a sense of humor, casual ghost enthusiasts, and social travelers who enjoy a little storytelling over a drink. It’s especially suited for those looking for a flexible, walkable experience that combines New Orleans’ history and folklore with lively tavern stops.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of history and ghost stories make this tour engaging and educational.
• Visit iconic historic bars like Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop and LaLaurie Mansion, adding authenticity.
• Guides’ storytelling skills are a highlight, often praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge.
• Each stop offers about 15-20 minutes to explore, giving a good taste of each location.
• Cost effectiveness at $36 per person, considering the storytelling, historic sites, and bar visits.
• No drinks included, but the choice of venues and local drinks enhances the experience.

Overview of the Haunted Pub Crawl Experience

This walking tour, operated by US Ghost Adventures, weaves together history, local legends, and a splash of the supernatural through four carefully chosen stops in the French Quarter and nearby landmarks. The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, a brisk but substantial journey into NOLA’s haunted reputation. Starting at Jackson Square and winding through historic sites and taverns, it offers insights into the city’s ghostly tales that you can enjoy alongside a cocktail or two.

You’ll meet your guide at Jackson Square 15 minutes before the tour begins, giving you a chance to soak in the lively atmosphere of the city’s cultural heart. The tour ends back at the starting point, making it convenient for those who want to continue exploring or enjoy a nightcap at one of the stops.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Jackson Square

As the tour kicks off, Jackson Square itself is described as a haunted hotspot. The park is the heart of the French Quarter, and some guests report feeling spirits even before the tour starts. It’s an ideal staging area—not just for the scenery but also for a little ghostly anticipation. Expect your guide to set the scene with tales of the square’s ghostly residents, which makes it a compelling start.

Stop 2: Omni Royal Orleans Hotel

This historic hotel, which inspired a famous song by Lez Zeppelin, is more than just an elegant place to stay. It’s reputedly haunted by ghosts attached to its 19th-century past. The guide shares stories of unexplained happenings and first-hand accounts from patrons, giving you a peek into the paranormal activity that supposedly persists in this luxurious setting. The hotel’s architecture and history add a tangible sense of place to the experience.

Stop 3: Haunted Bookstore and Voodoo Shop

Dating back to 1834, the old bookstore is said to host numerous spirits felt by those who’ve visited. The guide recounts firsthand ghost stories from visitors who have experienced unexplained noises or sensations. Nearby, a Voodoo shop opened in 1996 and is a cornerstone of the city’s spiritual culture. The guide explains Voodoo’s role in New Orleans and how it’s intertwined with local ghost stories—adding a layer of cultural context that enriches the experience.

Stop 4: Pirate’s Alley Cafe & The Ice House Bar at Provincial Hotel

Pirate’s Alley is steeped in lore, with tales linking it to New Orleans’ swashbuckling past. Your guide shares pirate stories while you enjoy a drink. The nearby Ice House Bar in the Provincial Hotel is notorious for paranormal activity, especially after hours. Reports from bartenders and guests alike suggest this is one of the most active haunted spots in the city—even if you don’t experience anything yourself, the stories are enough to give you chills.

Stop 5: LaLaurie Mansion and The Old Hotel (1829)

The LaLaurie Mansion, often called one of the most beautiful yet sinister houses in New Orleans, sports a dark past filled with cruelty and revenge. The guide recounts the house’s gruesome history with vivid detail. Next, the Old Hotel (from 1829), once owned by an infamous ax murderer, is said to trap spirits of his victims. These stops turn the tour into a journey through the city’s more macabre stories and spirits that supposedly linger.

Final Stop: Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar

As the oldest bar in America, Lafitte’s is a must-see for any visitor interested in pirate history and spirits—both liquid and spectral. The guide talks about pirates and the bar’s ghostly legends, ending the tour on a lively yet spooky note. The atmosphere here is authentic, with a sense of history and mystery blending seamlessly to cap off your haunted adventure.

Authenticity and Storytelling

From firsthand ghost stories to historic anecdotes, guides play a crucial role in making this tour memorable. Several reviews emphasize the guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge, which helps bring the stories to life. As one guest put it, “Royale was an amazing guide. Learned a lot about the area and had lots of fun.” However, some reviews note inconsistency, like a guide who was absent or left early, which reminds us that quality can vary.

Despite that, the stops are carefully curated for their historical and haunted significance. The inclusion of famous sites like Lafitte’s and LaLaurie Mansion ensures you’re not just hearing spooky tales but also understanding their cultural context. Plus, the short durations at each stop allow for a lively pace without feeling rushed.

Value and Practical Considerations

At $36 per person, this tour offers a lot of value—especially considering the knowledgeable storytelling, historic venues, and the lively atmosphere. Since drinks are not included, you can pick what suits your taste, whether that’s a local craft beer, a classic cocktail, or a soft drink. This flexibility lets you control your budget and experience.

An important detail is that the tour is on a mobile ticket, making it convenient and contactless. The meeting point at Jackson Square is central and easy to access via public transportation, which is an advantage for travelers staying in or near the French Quarter.

One thing to keep in mind is the duration—less than two hours—so it’s a quick but intense introduction to NOLA’s haunted lore. It’s ideal for those with limited time or who want a sampling of ghostly stories without committing to a full night tour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This haunt-themed crawl is best suited for history lovers and those interested in local legends. It also appeals to social travelers eager to meet others while enjoying some drinks and storytelling. Family groups with older children or teenagers might find it entertaining, but young children may not be as engaged by the ghost stories.

It’s particularly attractive for first-time visitors wanting a lively, guided overview of the city’s haunted reputation, especially if they enjoy a casual, pub-crawl atmosphere. Keep in mind that the experience can vary depending on the guide, so checking recent reviews before booking is advisable.

The Sum Up

The New Orleans Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl is a lively, informal way to explore the city’s haunted side while soaking up some local culture. With knowledgeable guides, a variety of historic and haunted stops, and a friendly, social vibe, it offers a memorable experience—especially if you appreciate storytelling paired with a drink.

While not perfect—some guides may be more engaged than others—the overall value, authenticity, and fun factor make it a good choice for those curious about NOLA’s spooky legends. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace, historical tales, and a touch of the supernatural, all wrapped up in the entertainment of a pub crawl.

If you want to combine a sense of place with a bit of spooky entertainment, this tour provides a great introduction to the dark and mysterious side of New Orleans—without breaking the bank or overdoing it.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s geared more toward adults and older teens, given the ghost stories and bar visits. Young children might find the content too spooky or not engaging enough.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, making it a manageable evening activity without a huge time commitment.

Are drinks included in the ticket price?
No, drinks are not included. This allows you to choose what you want to drink at each stop, and helps keep the price affordable.

Can I bring my own EMF detector?
You can rent or purchase an EMF detector for $6, but the tour does not include this or other equipment.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves walking between sites. Dress appropriately for the weather.

Is the tour accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point at Jackson Square is near public transportation options.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, for a full refund.

Is gratuity included?
No, gratuity is optional and at your discretion.

Will I see actual spirits?
The tour shares stories and reports from witnesses but does not guarantee paranormal encounters.

What if the guide isn’t engaging?
Guides vary, but the stops and stories are consistent. You might find that your experience depends heavily on the guide’s style.

Whether you’re a seasoned ghost hunter or just looking for a fun night out with stories, this tour offers a spirited glimpse into New Orleans’ haunted history with a good dose of local flavor.