New Orleans Spirits & Spells: Witchcraft, Voodoo, and Ghost Tour

If you’re curious about the darker, more mysterious side of New Orleans, the Spirits & Spells Tour offers a captivating journey into the city’s haunted streets, mystical traditions, and notorious history. This tour promises a mix of spine-tingling stories, authentic rituals, and fascinating sights, all wrapped up in an engaging two-hour walk through the French Quarter.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the expert guide, Jamie, who brings the city’s spooky tales to life with humor and credibility. Second, the unique access to a real Witches’ temple where participants get to cast a spell as part of the ritual, creating a memorable, hands-on moment. Third, the balance of history and mysticism, combining factual stories of voodoo, witchcraft, and ghostly legends with ritual practices that truly feel immersive.

One thing to consider is that, due to the nature of the subject, the tour is not suitable for children under 13. Plus, it involves walking around the French Quarter, so expect casual, leisurely steps rather than strenuous activity. This tour is best suited for those with a curiosity about the supernatural, history buffs, or anyone wanting a different perspective on New Orleans’ eerie past.

Key Points

• Authentic stories from a knowledgeable guide with a credible background in witchcraft and local legends
• Interactive experience including a ritual and group spellcasting in a real witches’ temple
• Visiting iconic haunted sites like LaLaurie Mansion and the Old Ursuline Convent
• Affordable price point at $29, offering great value for a themed experience with added rituals
• Small-group setting (max 26 people) ensures personalized attention and more engaging storytelling
• Accessible and suitable for most travelers who enjoy spooky tales and cultural history

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Hex: Old World Witchery – The Starting Point

The tour kicks off at Hex, a shop and spiritual space that doubles as the tour’s meeting point. Here, you’ll participate in an actual spellcasting ritual in a real Witches’ temple, an experience many reviewers highlight as a highlight. The ritual takes place in a hidden brick courtyard with a magical fountain, making the experience feel both authentic and intimate.

Since this stop is free and lasts about 10 minutes, it’s a fantastic way to familiarize yourself with the environment and get a taste of the magic that’s about to unfold. Several reviewers, like Jamie, a guide described as “super knowledgeable,” explain that the ritual is a strong element of the tour, adding a tangible sense of connection to the mystical practices.

Old Ursuline Convent Museum – Women’s Power and Miracles

Next, the walk takes you to the historic Ursuline Convent, where you’ll spend around 15 minutes exploring the site. Here, the focus is on the stories of women healers and the miracles they created, emphasizing the power of women working together. This stop is valued for its historical significance and showcases how women’s spiritual practices have long been part of New Orleans’ fabric. Reviewers like Annie mention that this part of the tour highlights “the miracles that women working together can create,” adding a layer of empowerment to the mystical lore.

Chartres Street – Inspiration for AHS: Coven

Strolling down Chartres, you’ll hear about Mary Oneida Toups and her real Coven of Witches, the inspiration for the popular TV series American Horror Story: Coven. This story fascinates many, connecting pop culture with real history. The 10-minute stop offers a glimpse into the local witchcraft scene that influenced stories beyond New Orleans.

Reviewers like Mitchell appreciate how knowledge on this stop “made the city make sense,” showing how these tales are rooted in actual history rather than pure fiction.

Muriel’s Jackson Square – Ghostly Tales in a Popular Restaurant

A visit to Muriel’s Jackson Square presents a spooky story about the restaurant’s resident ghost. It’s a fun, laid-back moment that combines dining culture with ghostly legends. Many reviewers find this stop charming and enjoyable, with Kori highlighting how “the stories and magical tales” make the experience memorable.

Voodoo Authentica – The History of Voodoo in New Orleans

This stop often features in the tour, especially during the 4 pm session, where you can enter a real Voodoo supply shop. Here, the stories of Voodoo’s roots in New Orleans come alive, explaining how this religion became intertwined with the city’s identity. Visitors often find this a highlight, as it offers authentic insights rather than commercialized stereotypes.

In fact, several reviewers mention how the guide, Jamie, clarifies misconceptions about Voodoo, making it more accessible and less sensationalized. The shop visit lasts around 10 minutes, enough to browse or ask questions.

735 Ursulines Ave – Malevolent Spirits and Ritual Murders

Venturing into darker territory, this stop focuses on the brutal ritual murders and malevolent spirits that crossed into our world. The stories here are chilling but grounded in the real, often gruesome history of the French Quarter’s darker past. Reviewers like Annie appreciate how this segment underscores the warnings of calling up spirits that you can’t put back down.

LaLaurie Mansion – Haunted House of Infamy

No ghost tour of New Orleans is complete without a visit to the infamous LaLaurie Mansion. The guide shares the true, unsettling story of Madame Delphine LaLaurie, whose cruelty and supernatural activity have cemented her house’s haunted reputation. Many reviews praise the mix of historical storytelling and ghostly tales, noting this as a must-see haunt that truly captures the city’s morbid curiosity.

What to Expect from the Experience

The tour lasts approximately two hours, making it a perfect evening activity without feeling rushed or overly long. The group size is limited to 26 travelers, ensuring everyone can hear the guide and participate comfortably—reviewers like Jamie and Megan often mention how engaging and personable their guides are.

Pricing at $29 per person is highly competitive considering the exclusive access to a witches’ temple, the ritual, and the stories. Many guests feel the experience offers excellent value—not just for the entertainment but for the meaningful insights into New Orleans’ mysticism.

The tour is walkable, leisurely, and suitable for most people, though it is not recommended for children under 13. The meeting point at Hex is near public transportation, making it accessible for visitors staying in the city.

Interaction and Participation

Most reviews emphasize the interactive nature of the tour, especially the group spellcasting. Several mention leaving with a small gift—like a rose quartz—symbolizing good luck or protection, which adds a tangible souvenir to the experience. The guide’s ability to keep everyone engaged, answer questions, and maintain a respectful tone about sensitive topics is frequently highlighted as a major strength.

Practicalities and Tips

While parking fees aren’t included, the central location makes it easier to find nearby parking or public transit options. The tour runs in the evening, so dress comfortably but appropriately for the weather—be prepared for walking and possibly cooler temperatures after sunset.

Why This Tour Works for You

If you’re fascinated by ghosts, witches, and the supernatural, this tour offers a perfect blend of education and entertainment. Jamie’s expert storytelling, combined with the ritualistic elements, makes it more than just a walk—it’s an immersive experience rooted in real history and mysticism.

History buffs will appreciate the stories behind landmarks like the Ursuline Convent and LaLaurie Mansion, while those interested in voodoo and witchcraft will find the explanations clear and respectful. The small-group setting encourages questions and personal attention, making it ideal for travelers who want a more intimate experience.

On the practical side, at just $29, it’s excellent value—especially considering the exclusive access and ritual participation included. It strikes a good balance between entertainment and education, ensuring that you walk away with more than just spooky stories but also a better understanding of New Orleans’ complex relationship with magic and the supernatural.

Best suited for who?

This tour is ideal for curious travelers, culture enthusiasts, or anyone who loves a good ghost story with a side of ritual magic. It’s perfect for those who want a slightly spooky yet respectful exploration of local legends, especially if you’re interested in the real stories behind the myths.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not recommended for children under 13 due to the nature of the stories and rituals involved.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately two hours, providing a comfortably paced walk through key haunted and mystical sites.

What’s included in the price?
For $29, you get access to a witches’ temple, participation in a ritual, a group spellcasting, and stories about voodoo, witchcraft, and hauntings.

Do I need to prepare or bring anything?
Dressing comfortably for walking and the weather is advisable. The experience is mostly about storytelling and participation, so no special preparation is necessary.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Hex, 1219 Decatur St, and ends back at the same location. The tour is designed to be a walk, so no transportation is required during the experience.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Final Thoughts

The New Orleans Spirits & Spells Tour offers an engaging, authentic peek into the city’s haunted and mystical sides. With knowledgeable guides, exclusive access to a witches’ temple, and a memorable group ritual, it’s more than just a ghost walk—it’s an immersive experience that connects history, legend, and magic.

This tour is ideal for those curious about witchcraft, voodoo, or ghost stories, especially if you enjoy stories rooted in real events and traditions. The moderate price tag, small group size, and the chance to cast a spell make it a standout choice for an unforgettable evening in the French Quarter.

Whether you’re a skeptic or a seeker, this experience promises a fascinating glimpse into the mysterious allure that makes New Orleans so uniquely enchanting. It’s a perfect mix of spooky storytelling, cultural history, and interactive fun—an absolute must for anyone looking to add a little magic to their trip.