Discover the Spooky Side of New Orleans with the Haunted Pub Crawl
If you’re after an experience that combines a love of spirits with a dash of ghostly legend, the New Orleans Spooky Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl might just be your perfect night out. While I haven’t personally tagged along with this tour, reviews and descriptions paint a vivid picture of a fun, slightly eerie adventure through the French Quarter’s most haunted bar scene.
What I love about this tour is how accessible and laid-back it feels — with to-go drinks, it’s a flexible way to explore without feeling rushed, plus the stories are well-researched and presented by guides with real local knowledge. The lively atmosphere, combined with creepy tales of tragic hauntings, promises an evening that’s both entertaining and a little unsettling. One potential downside? Parking in the French Quarter can be tricky, so arriving early is recommended.
This experience seems ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy a good story, a cold drink, and a bit of ghostly lore. Perfect for groups, especially bachelorette parties or those celebrating something special, it’s a lively night out that balances history, humor, and a touch of the supernatural.
Key Points
- Authentic Ghost Stories: The guides deliver well-researched, engaging tales of New Orleans’ haunted past.
- Flexible Drinking: Enjoy your drinks To-Go, allowing you to walk, chat, and soak in the atmosphere freely.
- Historic Streets: The tour explores iconic spots in the French Quarter and beyond, adding visual charm to the spooky tales.
- Fun Group Atmosphere: Meeting fellow travelers and making new friends is a big part of what makes this tour enjoyable.
- Accessible & Convenient: It’s wheelchair accessible and easy to join, with options to reserve and pay later for flexibility.
- Great for Celebrations: Especially popular with bachelor/bachelorette parties, thanks to its lively and social vibe.
A Detailed Look at the Haunted Pub Crawl
Starting Point & Atmosphere
The tour kicks off at the Golden Lantern Bar, located at 1239 Royal St. It’s a lively spot that sets the tone for an evening of fun. Arriving at least 15 minutes early is wise, considering parking challenges in the French Quarter — this way, you can settle in comfortably and maybe score a local cocktail before the tour begins. The guides, like the well-loved MadCat Tour guides, are known for their engaging storytelling and local expertise, which makes the experience feel authentic and immersive.
The Itinerary & Stops
The itinerary takes you through some of the most iconic parts of the city’s historic streets, with stops designed to maximize storytelling and atmosphere. Each bar stop lasts about 25 minutes, giving enough time to chat, sip, and listen.
- Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar: Known as one of the oldest bars in New Orleans, it’s steeped in history and ghostly legend. Guests often mention its authentic, timeworn charm and how the stories of pirates and spirits add to its mystique.
- Finnegan’s Easy: An Irish pub with a lively vibe, where the ghost stories continue. Reviewers note that it’s a fun spot to relax without losing the spooky edge.
- Crossing & The Upper Quarter: These stops showcase the city’s architecture and dark past, with tales that keep you looking over your shoulder. The stories are carefully researched, making the legends feel both plausible and chilling.
The tour concludes back at 1000 Bienville St, giving you the chance to continue your night, perhaps with a signature drink or some late-night bites.
The Experience & What Makes It Unique
What sets this crawl apart from other pub experiences is the combination of storytelling and alcohol — guides like MadCat are praised for their local insights and engaging style, making each tale memorable. With the ability to take drinks To-Go, you can walk between stops, maintaining the flow and energy of the tour without feeling boxed in.
Guests have mentioned that the stories are “thoroughly researched,” adding credibility to the ghostly tales. The guides are passionate about history and having fun, which is evident in the way they narrate and interact with the group.
Price & Value
At $30 per person, this tour offers an accessible way to enjoy a mix of sightseeing, storytelling, and socializing. While drinks aren’t included, the flexibility to buy your own signature cocktails from the bars means you can tailor your experience — whether you prefer a craft cocktail, a beer, or something else entirely. The tour provides a fun, lively way to explore the French Quarter after dark, making it good value for those looking for entertainment and a taste of local legends.
Group Size & Accessibility
The tour is suitable for most groups and is wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal. The two-hour duration strikes a balance — long enough to enjoy multiple locations and stories, but not so lengthy that it becomes tiring.
Weather Considerations
Since the tour runs rain or shine, bringing a jacket or umbrella is wise. The streets are historic, often uneven, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Guests have noted that the experience is just as enjoyable in various weather conditions, especially if you’re prepared.
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Who Would Love This Tour?
This haunted pub crawl is perfect for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, and social travelers looking for a spirited night out. It’s especially well-suited for groups celebrating a special occasion, as the lively atmosphere, fun guides, and spooky tales create a memorable experience. If you’re interested in exploring the French Quarter’s history while enjoying drinks and stories, you’ll find this tour hits the right notes.
It’s also an excellent choice for those new to New Orleans, offering a relaxed, guided way to see the city’s haunted spots without the hassle of planning your own route. The combination of storytelling, socializing, and a touch of supernatural makes it a well-rounded, entertaining experience.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While the tour encourages enjoying drinks, it’s entirely fine to participate without consuming alcohol. You can simply enjoy the stories and atmosphere.
Are the stories scary or spooky?
The tales are intended to be eerie and unsettling, but they’re presented in a fun and engaging way. They’re perfect for those who enjoy a spooky story without it being overly frightening.
What is the meeting point and how early should I arrive?
The tour begins at Golden Lantern Bar, 1239 Royal St. Arriving at least 15 minutes early is recommended, especially because parking can be challenging in the French Quarter.
Can I join if I’m under 21?
No, this tour is for guests 21 and older, due to the alcohol consumption involved.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be walking through historic streets. Weather-appropriate clothing, like a jacket or umbrella, is advisable since the tour runs rain or shine.
Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, making it accessible to a broader range of travelers.
In essence, the New Orleans Spooky Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl offers a lively, affordable way to explore the city’s haunted lore while enjoying a few drinks and great company. With engaging guides, authentic stories, and a flexible format, it’s bound to appeal to those who want fun, slightly spooky, and truly local experiences in the French Quarter.
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