New Orleans: True Crime Pub Crawl

A tour that mixes history, crime stories, and local nightlife — that’s what the New Orleans: True Crime Pub Crawl promises. It’s designed for travelers who love a good story as much as they like a cold drink.

This guided experience through the French Quarter offers a chance to explore the city’s darker tales, from notorious murders to connections with the JFK assassination, all while hopping between some of the neighborhood’s best bars.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines entertaining storytelling with genuine local flavor. The guides are highly praised for their knowledge and engaging personalities, making the two hours fly by. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to see a less-glamorous side of New Orleans’ history that’s often overshadowed by jazz, food, and festivals.

On the flip side, the tour involves walking around the busy French Quarter, so it may not suit those with mobility issues or those who prefer a more relaxed, seated experience. Also, drinks are not included, so keep in mind that additional costs for beverages are on you. This tour is perfect for true crime aficionados, history buffs, or anyone curious to mix a little education with fun nightlife.

This experience made our article of The 15 Most Popular Drinking Tours In New Orleans.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling brings New Orleans’ infamous crimes to life.
• Highly rated guides make the experience engaging and memorable.
• Visit historic bars with intriguing pasts, perfect for a casual evening.
• Focus on local history includes connections to JFK and notorious murders.
• Two-hour duration makes it a manageable evening activity.
• Not suitable for under 21 and involves walking in all weather conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An engaging look at New Orleans’ dark side

This tour offers a distinctive glimpse into the city’s darker stories, going beyond the usual tourist fare. If you’re drawn to true crime, murder mysteries, or simply love hearing the stories behind famous crimes and local legends, this pub crawl hits the mark. It’s a chance to learn about the infamous criminals who once roamed the streets, all while enjoying a relaxed, social atmosphere.

The experience starts in the lively French Quarter outside Bon’s New Orleans Street Food, where your guide awaits. From there, you’ll walk to several bars with their own unique histories and stories — some with links to notorious murders, others tied to the city’s mysterious past. The guides, praised for their knowledge and charisma, narrate tales ranging from the Ax Man’s reign of terror to the city’s alleged involvement in JFK’s assassination.

The route and its highlights

While routes can shift due to parades or construction, the core of the experience revolves around visiting local watering holes that are more than just places to drink; they are living pieces of history. Several reviews remark on how well the guides weave stories into the bar visits, making each stop more than just a drink break.

You’ll learn about famous murders that shook the city, stories of residents allegedly involved in the JFK plot, and chilling accounts of the Ax Man, a serial killer who haunted New Orleans. These tales are brought vividly to life through storytelling that’s often described as funny, charismatic, and deeply knowledgeable.

Many participants comment on how the guides’ enthusiasm makes the stories stick. Heather from the UK praised Jamie for her “great knowledge, fascinating stories, and perfect ending to her first trip to New Orleans.” Several reviews also mention the delicious drinks recommended by guides, adding a tasty layer to the experience, even though drinks are paid for separately.

The value of the experience

At $37 per person, the tour is remarkably affordable for a two-hour guided outing. Considering it includes a knowledgeable guide, entertaining stories, and visits to historic bars, many find it offers excellent value. The added benefit is that you get an authentic insider view of the city’s less-polished, more intriguing side — a kind of social history lesson infused with local legends.

Some reviews mention how the tour’s pacing is just right — not too rushed, with enough time at each stop to soak in the atmosphere and ask questions. The group size tends to be small and intimate, making it easier to connect and chat with the guide and fellow travelers.

The guide makes all the difference

The experience’s standout feature is undoubtedly the guides’ storytelling skills. Multiple reviewers praise guides like Wes, Gomez, and Jamie for their fun, personable, and well-informed approach. Their ability to balance humor with respect for sensitive topics keeps the tour lively and engaging.

For example, Heather said, “Jamie was brilliant, with great knowledge and fascinating stories. The tour was the perfect end to my trip.” Likewise, Sarah from the UK noted, “Wes was very knowledgeable and an absolute star,” emphasizing how crucial a good guide is to making the experience memorable.

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Practical details

This tour lasts about two hours and takes place mainly in the evening, making it a great way to wind down after a day of sightseeing. Starting outside Bon’s New Orleans Street Food in the French Quarter, it’s easy to find and conveniently located. The tour is rain or shine, so dress appropriately and be prepared for the weather.

While drinks are not included, the guides tend to recommend some excellent options at each bar, which can enhance the experience. Be prepared to pay separately for your beverages. Since the tour involves walking, it might not be ideal for those with mobility issues, or you might consider asking about transportation options if needed.

The group size is kept small enough for personal interaction, and the tour is in English only. Cancellation is flexible, with full refunds available if canceled 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind for planning your trip.

Who will love this tour?

This experience is best suited for adults interested in crime stories, local history, or nightlife. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate storytelling and enjoy a casual social atmosphere. If you’re looking for a fun, educational, and slightly spooky evening, this tour hits all those marks.

It’s particularly appealing if you’ve already explored some of New Orleans’ more typical sights and want to see a different side of the city. Also, those with a curiosity for the mysterious and macabre will find plenty to fascinate them here.

The Sum Up

The New Orleans: True Crime Pub Crawl offers a unique blend of entertainment, education, and local flavor. It’s a well-reviewed experience that turns an ordinary night into an engaging adventure through the city’s darker stories. With lively guides, interesting stops, and a chance to learn about notorious crimes, it’s a memorable way to spend an evening.

For anyone with a taste for true crime or dark history, this tour provides a great value for its price. The small-group setting and charismatic guides make it a personal and immersive experience. Given its popularity, it’s best to book in advance, especially during busy travel seasons.

If you’re looking for a fun, slightly spooky, and thoroughly engaging night out, this tour will definitely satisfy your curiosity and deepen your appreciation for New Orleans’ mysterious side.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for under 21? No, it’s designed for adults only, as it involves visiting bars and consuming alcohol.

How long does the tour last? The tour is approximately two hours, usually held in the evening.

Are drinks included? No, drinks are not included. You’ll need to pay separately at each bar, but guides often recommend great options.

Where does the tour start? It begins outside Bon’s New Orleans Street Food in the French Quarter.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour weather-dependent? No, it runs rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

Will I learn about JFK’s assassination? Yes, the tour covers how New Orleans was important to the JFK case, along with other notorious crimes.

In all, this tour is a fantastic way to combine learning, socializing, and sightseeing in New Orleans. Whether you’re a true crime fanatic or just seeking a memorable night out, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of the city’s dark corners and lively bar scene.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby