Shared 2 Hours Saints and Sinners Walking Tour in New Orleans

When it comes to experiencing New Orleans, most travelers think of jazz, Mardi Gras, and Creole cuisine. But for those curious about the city’s shadowy past and rebellious spirit, the Shared 2 Hours Saints and Sinners Walking Tour offers a peek behind the curtain.

This adults-only adventure promises a lively, story-filled exploration of the French Quarter’s darker history, blending fun facts with local lore—plus a few adult beverages to set the mood.

What really makes this tour stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides who bring stories to life with humor and insight, and second, the chance to see stunning views and historic sites while learning about the city’s notorious side.

A potential downside? The tour is only two hours, which means it’s a quick snapshot rather than an exhaustive history lesson. This makes it ideal for travelers who want a spirited, authentic experience without committing a whole day.

This tour suits adults with a taste for the edgy, curious about local legends, and looking for a fun, social way to explore. If you’re into lively storytelling, historic intrigue, and a bit of adult flavor, you’ll likely find this tour a great choice.

This experience made our article of New Orleans’s 11 Top 2-Hour Tours (With Prices).

Key Points

• Adults-only experience offers a more candid and lively storytelling environment.
• Highly praised guides like Wolfy, Hope, and Andrea are consistently noted for their knowledge and personality.
• The $21 price point provides good value, especially considering the included drinks and engaging stories.
• The two-hour duration makes it a compact, energetic way to get a taste of New Orleans’ darker history.
• Tour stops include iconic sites like the St. Louis Cathedral and the French Market, with intriguing backstories.
• The small group size (limited to 14 travelers) ensures an intimate experience.

A Deep Dive into the Saints and Sinners Experience

The Overall Vibe and What to Expect

This tour is designed for adults who want more than just the typical sightseeing. It’s an adults-only journey through the city’s more scandalous and mysterious side, with a focus on the stories that might make you blush or gasp. You meet at the Voodoo Lounge inside the French Quarter, where you’re offered a buy-one-get-one-free Hurricane in a souvenir cup. As you sip, you’ll start to feel the relaxed, mischievous tone of the tour.

The group is relatively small—capped at 14 travelers—which keeps the atmosphere cozy and interactive. The tour lasts around two hours, making it perfect for an afternoon activity or a quick way to add flavor to your day.

The Itinerary — A Walk Through the City’s Shadowy Past

Stop 1: French Quarter Phantoms

The tour kicks off inside the Voodoo Lounge, setting a fun, slightly spooky mood. The included Hurricane drinks are a nice touch, letting you loosen up right from the start. These drinks come in a souvenir cup, and you’re welcome to bring them along as you walk—adding to the laid-back, adult vibe.

Stop 2: St. Louis Cathedral

Next, you’ll visit the iconic St. Louis Cathedral, the heart of the French Quarter. Inside, your guide might highlight the prayer chapel dedicated to Henriette Dellile, a founder of the Sisters of the Holy Family—the first Black female-led convent in the U.S. This spot offers a moment of reflection amidst the more raucous tales and is a reminder of the city’s complex history.

Stop 3: Hotel Villa Convento

One of the tour’s more colorful stops is Hotel Villa Convento, reputedly the inspiration for “House of the Rising Sun.” It’s a site that hints at New Orleans’ red-light past, once a brothel and now a charming hotel. The stories around this place are compelling, if a bit suggestive, and give an authentic flavor of the city’s scandalous side.

Stop 4: French Market

Your final stop is the historic French Market, famously known as Galliten Street in its day—a den of pirates, gamblers, street gangs, and sex workers. Your guide might mention Bricktop, a notorious female serial killer from the area. This stop encapsulates the rough-and-tumble energy of old New Orleans and connects past to present.

The Value of This Tour

Priced at just $21 per person, this tour offers substantial value. For that price, you get an engaging guide, several local stories, and refreshments. Many reviews praise the guides for their enthusiasm and knowledge, which significantly enhances the experience. The small size of the group allows for more interaction and personalized storytelling, making the experience feel exclusive rather than touristy.

While some reviewers note that the tour ended slightly early or included parts of other tours, the overall consensus is positive, especially regarding the entertainment factor and informative content. The high praise for guides like Wolfy and Andrea highlights the importance of a good storyteller in making this tour memorable.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Arrive promptly at the meeting point inside the Voodoo Lounge. The tour starts at 1:30 pm.
• Remember, alcoholic drinks are available for purchase; the included Hurricane is a free perk, but you’ll want to budget if you want more.
• The tour is suitable for those with a moderate physical fitness level; expect to walk on uneven streets and stand around for a bit.
• It’s recommended for travelers aged 17 and above, with a minimum drinking age of 21.
• Bring cash or cards if you want to purchase additional drinks or souvenirs.
• If the weather looks questionable, check the cancellation policy—full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The knowledgeable guides truly make the difference. Multiple reviews mention the guides’ passion, humor, and storytelling skills—Wolfy, Hope, Andrea, and Evian have earned praise across the board. The ability to balance historical facts with lively anecdotes makes the stories resonate, keeping everyone engaged, whether they’re history buffs or casual visitors.

Another highlight is the authenticity of the stops. From the famous cathedral to the notorious French Market, each site has a story that ties into the city’s colorful, sometimes sordid past. The inclusion of local legends, like Bricktop or the inspiration behind “House of the Rising Sun,” gives a sense of how the city’s past still influences its culture today.

The Atmosphere and Unique Experiences

The buy-one-get-one-free Hurricane and the chance to bring drinks along help set a relaxed tone. The small group size encourages conversation, and the informal vibe allows everyone to feel like part of a local story rather than just a tourist.

You’ll love the way the guides blend humor with respect, especially when sharing stories about the city’s more controversial figures. Several reviews mention how the guides’ storytelling made the history fun and accessible, turning what could be heavy or scandalous tales into lively anecdotes.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This Saints and Sinners Walking Tour is best suited for adults who enjoy lively storytelling, local legends, and a touch of naughtiness. If you’re after a quick, energetic introduction to the darker side of New Orleans, this is a perfect pick. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate small-group intimacy and guides with personality.

However, if you’re looking for an in-depth historical tour with a focus on architecture or detailed history, this might feel a bit light. It’s more about entertainment and atmosphere than exhaustive learning. Also, those who prefer family-friendly activities should look elsewhere, as this is adults-only and includes some risqué stories.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour For?

If you’re in New Orleans and crave an authentic, fun, and slightly mischievous experience, this tour delivers. It offers a rare peek into the city’s darker, more colorful stories, told with humor and expertise. The small group size ensures an engaging, personal experience, and the guides’ enthusiasm makes the stories come alive.

For travelers who love local legends, historic sites, and a vibrant atmosphere, this tour is a great way to add depth and personality to your visit. It’s perfect for those wanting to mix history with humor, and to experience the city’s sassy spirit without spending a fortune.

While it’s a quick tour, the entertainment and authentic tales make it well worth the price. Just leave the kids at the hotel and channel your inner sinner—this is a fun, memorable way to experience the real New Orleans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children? No, this tour is designed for adults only—the content, stories, and alcohol policies are not appropriate for minors.

What is the starting point of the tour? You meet at the Voodoo Lounge inside 718 N Rampart St, where the tour begins at 1:30 pm.

Are drinks included? The tour includes a buy-one-get-one-free Hurricane in a souvenir cup, which you’re welcome to bring along. Additional drinks are available for purchase.

How long does the tour last? The walking experience is approximately two hours, making it a compact but lively exploration.

Can I cancel if I change my plans? Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Is this tour accessible by public transportation? Yes, it’s near public transportation, making it easy to reach the starting point.

What’s the group size limit? The tour groups are limited to 14 travelers for a more personal experience.

Do I need to be in good shape to participate? Yes, travelers should have moderate physical fitness, as there will be walking on uneven streets and some standing.

This Saints and Sinners tour strikes a fine balance between entertainment and insight, ideal for those who want to see the wilder side of New Orleans while enjoying lively storytelling. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of local legends, or just looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon, this tour could be just what you need to spice up your visit.