French Quarter Ghost Tour: A Haunting Walk Through New Orleans

New Orleans is known for its jazz, Creole cuisine, and Mardi Gras celebrations. It’s also considered one of the most haunted cities in America. The French Quarter Ghost Tour, hosted by NOLA Ghosts, takes you deep into the city’s chilling past. Over the course of an hour, you’ll explore 300 years of murder, mayhem, and mystery, guided by storytellers who reveal the raw truth behind the legends.

During my latest trip to The Big Easy, I organized a group of colleagues to join me on this ghost tour through the French Quarter. It’s one of the top tours in the city, and offers a great historic rundown on the ghosts that still call New Orleans home.

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If you’re planning to visit New Orleans, I recommend booking a ghost tour. Whether it’s just you, or a full group of colleagues at the convention center, the tours work for all visitors of New Orleans.

Step Into the Dark Side of the Crescent City

Because this is one of the most popular ghost tours in New Orleans, it’s best to book your tickets in advance. Tours often sell out, especially on weekends and holidays, so securing your spot early ensures you won’t miss out. Once you’ve booked, plan to arrive about 10–15 minutes before the scheduled start time. This gives you a chance to check in, meet your guide, and get ready for the walk.

The tour begins at the front steps of the St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square, where your guide sets the stage for an evening of spine-tingling stories. Over the course of an hour, you’ll walk through the French Quarter’s narrow streets and historic buildings, hearing about 300 years of murder, mayhem, and ghostly encounters. Stops include infamous sites like the LaLaurie Mansion, Muriel’s Jackson Square, and the Hermann-Grima House. Each stop has its own chilling legend and lingering spirits.

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I’ll admit. Some of the stories are difficult to hear. They involve torture, murder, and death. However, the history adds to the understanding of what shaped the city and the spirits that are rumored to walk the streets and haunt the buildings.

Tips for a Great French Quarter Ghost Tour

Comfort is key on this tour. The streets of New Orleans can be uneven, and the weather varies from hot and humid to rainy and cool depending on the season. Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the forecast so you can focus on the stories rather than your feet.

Don’t forget to bring a camera or cellphone. The French Quarter’s atmospheric streets are perfect for photos, and you never know when you might capture something unexpected in the shadows.

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The French Quarter Ghosts and Ghouls Tour isn’t just about scares—it’s about connecting with the history and resilience of New Orleans. You’ll leave with unforgettable stories, a deeper appreciation for the city’s haunted past, and maybe even a photo that makes you wonder what lingers in the night.

The Details

Address: The French Quarter at the St. Louis Cathedral, 615 Pere Antoine Alley, at the front of the steps to the entrance facing Jackson Square.

How long to spend: Tours last 60 minutes.

Cost: $26 for adults. Children 12 and under are $16 each, while children under six are free.

Hours: Ghost tours are held nightly at 8 PM, rain or shine!

Website: https://neworleansghosttour.com/new-orleans-ghost-tour/

DISCLOSURE: I received two complimentary spots on the French Quarter Ghosts and Ghouls of New Orleans for the purpose of review. All opinions are my own.

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