If you’re curious about the supernatural side of New Orleans, this tour offers a unique blend of Victorian séance and hands-on ghost hunting in a historic, haunted building. It’s a chance to connect with spirits in a setting that’s rich with local lore and history. As someone who has reviewed many ghostly encounters, I find this experience compelling for its authentic approach, professional equipment, and respectful atmosphere.
What I particularly like is the focus on learning and doing—not just watching a show but actively participating in spirit communication. Plus, the use of paranormal tools in a controlled lockdown environment boosts the authenticity. On the flip side, this tour is not for the faint of heart or those seeking a lively party vibe—it’s sober, serious, and quite serious about safety and respect.
It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a mixture of history, mysticism, and genuine supernatural exploration, whether you’re a skeptic, a believer, or just plain curious.
Key Points
- Authentic Experience: Unlike staged shows, this is a real séance and ghost hunt with a focus on genuine spirit communication.
- Expert Guidance: Led by Bloody Mary, a seasoned psychic medium, whose storytelling and guidance are highly praised.
- Hands-On Approach: Use professional paranormal equipment and participate actively in the investigations.
- Controlled Environment: The entire ghost hunt takes place in a locked-down, 200-year-old haunted building after hours.
- Cultural Connection: The séance is rooted in French Spiritism, contrasting with typical spiritualist styles, adding an authentic local flavor.
- Respectful & Sober: Designed to be a safe, sober event—no alcohol, drugs, or intoxication allowed.
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An In-Depth Look at the Tour
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in New Orleans.
What the Tour Entails
This 2.5-hour experience kicks off at the Haunted Museum on North Rampart Street, a neighborhood brimming with stories of spirits and voodoo. Since it’s an after-hours event, you’ll meet your guide, Bloody Mary, who is both a storyteller and a medium. She sets the tone, sharing grounding protections and techniques rooted in French Spiritism—a style that emphasizes spiritual connections, unlike the more familiar spiritualist methods.
Once everyone is settled, the first part of the evening involves a Victorian séance. This isn’t a staged show but an interactive session where participants are encouraged to engage with their spirits, guides, loved ones, or even past lives. You might be invited to bring personal items—photos or mementos—to help facilitate connections. The guide will help you enter a relaxed, alpha state through breathing exercises, which is essential for spirit communication.
The guide is known for her entertaining storytelling—Lara’s review mentions that Mary is “a great storyteller who really knows her stuff,” which helps keep the atmosphere lively yet respectful. The séance itself can evoke laughter, tears, or intrigue, depending on what spirits choose to manifest.
The Ghost Hunt
After the séance, the group moves into the haunted building for the ghost hunt. Here, you’ll use professional equipment—ITC devices, EMF meters, ghost boxes—rather than just relying on intuition. The entire investigation takes place in a locked-down environment with only your group inside, creating an intimate and safe setting.
While exploring the historic building, you’ll see haunted collections, occult items, and altars, which are believed to be connected to the spirits that inhabit the space. The goal is to make contact with the resident ghosts, who are said to number around 18. The tour emphasizes the authenticity of the experience—this isn’t a staged or theatrical event, but a genuine attempt to connect using real tools and respectful intention.
The Value of the Experience
For $99, this might seem straightforward, but considering the depth of engagement and the quality of guidance, it’s quite a good deal. You’re not just paying for a touristy photo op but an educational, participatory experience that can deepen your understanding of spirit communication techniques and local lore.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Authenticity and Setting
One of the real strengths of this tour is its setting. A 200-year-old haunted house with a documented history of hauntings makes the experience palpable. Plus, the French Spiritism style used here offers a connection to New Orleans traditions that’s often overlooked in more commercial ghost tours.
Because the tour is sober and respectful, it’s suitable for those who want a meaningful experience without alcohol or frivolity involved. The environment is intended to be safe for everyone, regardless of belief level, and the guide’s professionalism shines through.
Who Will Love This?
This experience is perfect for travelers interested in spirituality, history, or paranormal investigation. It’s also great for those who want a respectful, authentic encounter rather than a cheesy or theatrical show. If you’re traveling with someone who is curious about spirits or wants to try mediumship, this is a wonderful, one-of-a-kind opportunity.
Final Thoughts on Value
While $99 might seem like a lot for a short event, the depth of participation, expert guidance, and historic setting make it worthwhile. You’re getting more than just a ghost story—you’re engaging with the spirits and learning techniques that could serve you well in future explorations. It’s a memorable way to spend an evening in New Orleans, especially if you’re keen on something meaningful and different.
Who This Tour Is Best For
If you’re open-minded and respectful of the supernatural, you’ll find this experience rewarding. It’s ideal for those wanting an authentic spiritual encounter in a historic setting, whether you’re a skeptic or a believer. The limited group size and focus on safety make it perfect for anyone looking for a serious, sober paranormal adventure.
It’s also well-suited for history buffs and cultural explorers interested in the French Spiritism traditions that influence New Orleans’ spirit world. However, if you’re after a lively, party-style ghost tour, you might find this a bit too serious.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children or minors?
This tour is designed for adults 18 and up due to its serious tone and the sober nature of the event. Minors would need parental approval and should be prepared for a quiet, respectful environment.
What should I bring?
You’re encouraged to bring an item of a loved one, such as a picture or memento, to facilitate spirits’ presence. Comfortable clothing suitable for the historic building is recommended.
Can I record the séance or ghost hunt?
Video recording is not allowed during the event, likely for respect and safety reasons. Audio recording is also prohibited.
What’s the group size?
The exact group size isn’t specified, but the experience emphasizes an intimate setting, likely small enough to allow participation from everyone.
Is there an age restriction?
Yes, unaccompanied minors are not permitted. It’s strictly an adult event.
Will I see spirits during the séance?
While spirits may or may not come through, the guide facilitates connections and channels messages. Outcomes are unpredictable but engaging.
What’s the setting like?
The haunted building is a 200-year-old house with haunted collections, occult items, and an air of authenticity. It’s closed and cleansed at the end of the event.
Is the event accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the event is wheelchair accessible. Make sure to notify the provider in advance for arrangements.
What if I arrive late?
Late arrivals cannot be admitted, so plan to arrive five minutes early to ensure participation.
The Sum Up
The New Orleans: Seance & Paranormal Experience offers a well-rounded, respectful chance to explore the city’s haunted heritage directly. It’s a meaningful, participatory event led by a knowledgeable guide, with a focus on genuine spirit communication rather than theatrics. Whether you’re a skeptic curious to see what’s possible, or a believer eager for a deep connection, this tour provides an authentic glimpse into the supernatural side of New Orleans.
The combination of historic setting, expert guidance, and hands-on investigation makes this experience stand out. It’s best for those who want an honest encounter—serious about safety, respect, and the mystery of spirits. For travelers looking for something different and genuinely intriguing, this tour is a memorable highlight.
New Orleans: Seance & Paranormal Experience
Additional Notes
Planning to visit? Remember, this is a sober event—no alcohol or drugs allowed—and you’ll need reservations, as late arrivals are not permitted. The event runs primarily in the evening, making it a perfect capstone to your day in the city. As a final tip, bring an open mind and a sense of wonder—this experience aims to connect you with something beyond the ordinary.
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