New Orleans: Haunted Pub Crawl

If you’re looking to experience New Orleans beyond the usual sights, a Haunted Pub Crawl offers a lively, spooky, and thoroughly entertaining way to dive into the city’s ghosts and spirits. We’ve gathered plenty of reviews and details to give you a clear picture of what this two-hour tour really involves—so you can decide if it’s right for your trip.

What we love about this experience is how it combines history, humor, and good drinking—all with the laid-back vibe that makes the French Quarter so unique. The guides are consistently praised for being knowledgeable, funny, and engaging, which keeps the atmosphere light despite the ghostly tales. The fact that you get to drink in the streets legally adds a distinctly New Orleans flavor to the evening.

One thing to consider is that the route is subject to change due to parades or construction, which might affect which bars or landmarks you see. Also, drinks are not included in the ticket price, so expect to pay as you go—though many reviewers feel the experience is quite a bargain at $32 for two hours of fun.

This tour is perfect for adventurous singles, couples, or groups who want a relaxed, social way to learn about the city’s haunted past while enjoying some of its best pubs. It’s suitable for those who enjoy storytelling, history, and a good drink—just remember, you need to be 21 or older to join.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling: Guides share true stories of murder, mayhem, and haunted sites passed down through centuries.
• Lively, social atmosphere: Walk from bar to bar while sipping your favorite drink, making for a relaxed and fun experience.
• Historic locations: Stops include one of America’s oldest bars, a notorious brothel, and sites linked to the JFK assassination.
• Flexible routes: The itinerary can change depending on city events or construction, keeping each tour fresh.
• Expert guides: Consistently praised for their humor, knowledge, and ability to entertain.
• Cost-effective: At $32, it offers a good balance of entertainment, education, and drinks, though drinks are paid for separately.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect: An Authentic, Boozy Ghost Tour Through the French Quarter

Starting outside the Jax Brewery building, just near Bon’s New Orleans Street Food, you’ll meet your licensed guide—a friendly local with a knack for storytelling. Your two-hour journey is relaxed, with a focus on haunted bars and historic locations rather than intense ghost-hunting.

The Route and Stops

You’ll explore some of the most haunted areas of the French Quarter, including sights like the Lalaurie Mansion—famous for its gruesome past—and the Laffittes Blacksmith Shop, known as one of the oldest bars in the U.S. These spots aren’t just photo ops; they’re woven into chilling stories of murder, betrayal, and supernatural activity passed down over generations.

While the specific stops may vary, you’ll typically visit a former brothel where you can grab an iconic New Orleans cocktail, like a to-go Hurricane—an absolute crowd favorite. Many reviews highlight the delight of drinking in historic venues while hearing about their dark pasts, which makes the experience feel genuinely rooted in the city’s character.

The Stories and Atmosphere

The guides excel at blending history and humor. For example, some guides will share how New Orleans played a part in the JFK assassination, adding a twist of intrigue to the tour. You’ll also learn about local legends and ghost stories, some of which have been passed down for centuries.

The overall vibe is laid-back and friendly. As one reviewer put it, “Wes was so informative. It was interesting and fun,” emphasizing that this isn’t a creepy, overly serious tour, but rather a fun night out with a spooky twist.

The Drinking Experience

Since walking around with a drink is legal in New Orleans, you can sip as you explore—adding to the festive, carefree atmosphere. Many bars offer good drinks amid their sordid pasts, from classic cocktails to local specialties. Although drinks aren’t included in the ticket price, most find the price of $32 reasonable considering the stories, route, and guide quality.

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The Guide and Group Dynamics

Reviews overwhelmingly praise the guides for their knowledge, humor, and ability to keep everyone engaged, whether they’re seasoned ghost tour fans or newcomers. Guides like DJ, Caroline, Wes, and Coby have all received high marks for making the tour both informative and entertaining. You’ll find the size of the group is manageable, fostering a friendly, interactive environment.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Duration: Just shy of two hours, usually in the evening, perfect for after dinner.
• Price: $32 per person—an affordable way to combine history, fun, and nightlife.
• Inclusions: A licensed guide, but drinks are paid for separately.
• Meeting Point: Outside Jax Brewery, an easy landmark in the French Quarter.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, and the tour is conducted in English.
• Age Restriction: Participants must be 21 or older, so it’s not suited for minors.
• Flexibility: Routes are subject to change due to city events, so expect some variety.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Value

We really appreciate how this tour balances entertainment with education. The guides’ storytelling style makes the haunted sites come alive—sometimes humorously, sometimes eerily. The fact that many reviews mention “good drinks and good stories” suggests that this tour is as much about the social experience as it is about the history.

The stops at historic bars and sites give you a chance to experience the ambiance of old New Orleans, while the stories add a layer of mystery and intrigue. Many guests leave feeling they’ve glimpsed a side of the city that’s rich in dark legends and lively spirits.

Considering the price, most reviewers agree that it’s a great value. It’s an affordable way to spend an evening, combining local history, ghost stories, and a fun drinking atmosphere—a perfect cocktail of entertainment for those wanting to get a taste of authentic New Orleans nightlife with a spooky twist.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Haunted Pub Crawl is best suited for adventurous, social travelers who enjoy storytelling, history, and a good drink. If you’re looking for a laid-back, fun night out that combines ghost tales with local bar hopping, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for couples, groups of friends, or solo travelers who want to meet people and learn about the city’s darker side without being overwhelmed by overly spooky or serious themes.

If your trip includes an interest in haunted locations, historic bars, or simply a fun way to explore the French Quarter, this tour offers a memorable experience at a reasonable price. Just remember to bring your ID for age verification and your comfortable shoes—there’s plenty of walking, and some stops involve historic, uneven streets.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While the tour emphasizes enjoying drinks, non-drinkers can still participate and enjoy the stories. However, since drinks are purchased separately, non-drinkers might find the experience less engaging if they’re not interested in participating in the pub atmosphere.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are not included. The ticket price covers the guided tour and stops at historic bars, where you pay for your beverages separately.

Can I join if I’m under 21?
No, participants must be at least 21 years old to join this tour.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, typically in the evening, making it a perfect pre-dinner or early evening activity.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll be walking around the French Quarter. Dress casually, and consider bringing a light jacket if the weather is cooler in the evening.

Is the route fixed?
Routes are flexible and may change due to parades, construction, or other city events. This keeps each tour fresh and adaptable.

Is the tour accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

What’s included in the tour?
You’ll have a licensed guide who shares stories and history, but the drinks are your responsibility.

Where do I meet the guide?
Outside Jax Brewery, next to Bon’s New Orleans Street Food, which is a convenient, recognizable spot in the French Quarter.

To sum it up, the New Orleans Haunted Pub Crawl offers a lively mix of ghost stories, historic bars, and friendly guides — all wrapped in a fun, social atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned ghost tour fan or a first-time visitor looking for a casual way to experience the city’s haunted reputation, this tour provides a memorable, authentic taste of New Orleans’ spirit—one drink at a time.

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