New Orleans is a city best experienced on foot. Its narrow streets, historic architecture, and lively neighborhoods invite exploration at a leisurely pace. We love how these walking tours allow you to soak up the city’s authentic character, uncover stories behind haunted houses, or admire grand mansions—all while getting some exercise. For instance, the New Orleans: Walking Tour Inside St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is a must for anyone curious about the city’s unique burial customs and famous residents like Marie Laveau. Other favorites include ghostly explorations and celebrity homes, offering a broad taste for various interests.
Below is a selection of the best walking tours in New Orleans, covering history, haunted legends, architecture, and culture. Each offers a different way to experience the city on its lively streets.
1. New Orleans: Walking Tour Inside St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
At number 1 is the New Orleans: Walking Tour Inside St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, which is perfect for history lovers and curiosity seekers alike. This 55-minute guided tour explores one of the most iconic cemeteries, which remains generally closed to the public. The tour features visits to Marie Laveau’s tomb, the pyramid-shaped mausoleum Nicolas Cage built, and other extraordinary tombs. The guide shares fascinating stories about local burial customs and notable figures from the city’s past, making it a compelling experience. The reviews highlight the tour’s accessibility and the chance to see parts of the cemetery usually off-limits, making it great value for $25.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in voodoo, architecture, or just want to see behind the scenes of New Orleans’ most famous burial ground, this is an excellent choice.
2. New Orleans: Drunk History Walking Tour
Coming in at number 2 is the New Orleans: Drunk History Walking Tour. For $30, this 2-hour tour combines culture, comedy, and local stories in the heart of the French Quarter. The tour takes you through the neighborhood’s darker side, exploring pirate legends, ghost stories, and the city’s above-ground burial practices. Part of the fun is stopping at a bar or two to sample local drinks, which makes it ideal for those seeking a lively atmosphere. Reviewers mention how the guide’s insider knowledge and humorous storytelling bring the city’s dark history vividly to life.
Bottom line: Perfect if you want a fun, relaxed, and slightly boozy way to learn about New Orleans’ past.
3. New Orleans: 2-Hour Homes of the Rich & Famous Walking Tour
At number 3, the New Orleans: 2-Hour Homes of the Rich & Famous Walking Tour offers a glimpse into the luxurious side of the Garden District. During this guided walk, you’ll see grand mansions, movie and TV filming locations, and learn about some of the neighborhood’s celebrity residents. Guides like Bob Bell have a reputation for being knowledgeable and personable, making the experience engaging. The tour includes stories about neighborhood scandals and gossip, and can even lead to spotting a celebrity or two relaxing in their gardens. Guests praise its depth of detail and the opportunity to combine architecture with celebrity lore.
Bottom line: Ideal for architecture buffs or anyone interested in the glamorous lifestyle of New Orleans’ stars.
4. New Orleans: French Quarter Ghost and Legends Walking Tour
At number 4, the French Quarter Ghost and Legends Walking Tour explores the haunted streets of one of America’s oldest neighborhoods. This 2-hour adventure promises plenty of spine-tingling stories about paranormal activity, ghost sightings, and historical tragedies. The guide’s enthusiasm is infectious, and visitors often comment on the tour’s well-researched tales and atmospheric stops, including haunted buildings and bars. It’s a popular choice for those wanting to feel the city’s mysterious vibe, especially at night. The reviews commend the tour’s engaging storytelling and the chance to snap photos of ghostly spots.
Bottom line: If ghost stories and haunted history are your thing, this tour offers a fun, spooky experience.
5. New Orleans: St. Louis Cemetery #3 Guided Walking Tour
Number 5 is the St. Louis Cemetery #3 Guided Walking Tour. This 1.5-hour tour takes you into a lesser-known but equally fascinating cemetery, where the guide shares stories about notable residents and burial practices. You’ll get a chance to see architectural styles like vaults and mausoleums. Visitors appreciate the personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide, and reviews often mention how much they learned about the city’s burial traditions. The experience is suited for those interested in history, architecture, and cemeteries still in use.
Bottom line: Perfect if you want a more intimate cemetery tour with rich stories.
6. New Orleans: Five-in-One City Walking Tour
The sixth entry, Five-in-One City Walking Tour, offers a comprehensive look at New Orleans. Covering architecture, history, culture, and supernatural tales, this 2-hour tour visits over 15 sites including National Historic Landmarks. The guide discusses vampire legends, ghost stories, and shares insights on the city’s mythology. It’s a good choice if you want a broad overview without jumping between different tours. Although the review score is slightly lower at 3.9, many travelers find it informative and engaging.
Bottom line: Suitable for those wanting a well-rounded introduction to New Orleans’ many stories and landmarks.
7. New Orleans : Best of Ghost & Voodoo Experience Walking Tour
Number 7 is the Best of Ghost & Voodoo Experience. For $20, this 2-hour tour offers an immersive dive into local legends, including the story of Marie Laveau, and visits to haunted streets and houses. It’s ideal for travelers curious about voodoo practices and the darker side of New Orleans culture. Reviewers highlight the engaging storytelling and the chance to learn about mystical traditions. If you’re interested in the city’s spiritual side, this tour strikes a good balance between entertainment and education.
Bottom line: A solid pick for those interested in voodoo, folklore, and haunted legends.
8. New Orleans : Garden District Architecture Walking tour
Number 8 is the Garden District Architecture Walking Tour. Focusing on historic architecture, the tour explores the oldest cemetery Lafayette and showcases classic Louisiana mansions. The guide discusses colonial architecture and the stories behind these grand homes. Reviewers point out the beautiful houses and the guide’s entertaining style. This tour is perfect for architecture enthusiasts eager to see some of the most beautiful residences in the city.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who love architecture and want to see the most picturesque parts of the Garden District.
9. New Orleans: Ghosts & Spirits Interactive Walking Tour
The ninth spot is the Ghosts & Spirits Interactive Walking Tour. For $27, this interactive experience employs augmented reality to tell stories of paranormal activity and supernatural legends. Led by a local expert, the tour covers spooky tales and haunted sites in the French Quarter. Reviewers mention the unique augmented reality element, which makes it stand out from traditional ghost tours. It’s ideal for tech-savvy travelers or those who want a modern twist on ghost stories.
Bottom line: A fun and innovative tour for anyone interested in paranormal tales with a modern edge.
10. New Orleans: French Quarter Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour
Number 10 is the French Quarter Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour. This one-hour tour concentrates on iconic haunted sites like Jackson Square and LaLaurie Mansion. It’s perfect for those seeking a short, spooky experience. The guide shares stories of murders, hurricanes, and spirits still lingering. Many reviewers praise the knowledgeable guide and the atmosphere, noting it’s a great way to get a quick ghost fix.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers with limited time who want a taste of New Orleans’ haunted tales.
11. New Orleans : African American Heritage Walking Tour
Number 11 explores the city’s African American culture with a Walking Tour focusing on heritage. It highlights Congo Square, Creole food, and vivid stories about enslaved people and Black traditions. Reviewers note the insightful narratives and the importance of understanding the city’s diverse roots. However, with a lower rating at 2.3, it may not have received as many reviews but remains meaningful for those interested in cultural stories.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting an educational perspective on African American influences.
12. New Orleans Dark History Walking Tour
Number 12, the Dark History Walking Tour, is highly rated at 5/5. It offers an unflinching look into the city’s grisly tales, sites of tragic deaths, and supernatural sightings. Led by an expert, the tour reveals the less-glamorous side of New Orleans with real stories that will give you chills. Reviewers mention how fascinating and intense the experience is, making it perfect for those seeking a serious haunted history tour.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want an authentic, no-nonsense look at the city’s dark secrets.
13. New Orleans: Guided Ghost-Themed Walking Tour
Number 13 is the Guided Ghost-Themed Walking Tour, which has perfect 5-star reviews. For $25, it covers the haunted locations of the French Quarter, including Lafitte’s Shop and the Lalaurie Mansion. The guide’s storytelling is captivating and educative, making it a favorite for those interested in true ghost stories.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for those wanting a well-rounded ghost tour with passionate storytelling.
14. New Orleans: Haunted Ghosts & Supernatural Walking Tour
Finally, the Haunted Ghosts & Supernatural Walking Tour ranks at the top with perfect reviews. It provides a 2-hour deep dive into the city’s most chilling legends, from voodoo to vampires. The guides are passionate, and the stories are detailed, making it a must-do for fans of ghost stories and dark legends.
Bottom line: For anyone wanting a comprehensive haunted experience, this tour offers a fitting finale.
How to Choose the Best Walking Tour in New Orleans
When selecting a walking tour, consider your interests—whether it’s haunted legends, architecture, or cultural history. If ghosts are your thing, tours like French Quarter Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour and Haunted Ghosts & Supernatural Walking Tour deliver spooky stories in compact formats. For architecture fans, the Garden District Architecture Walking Tour showcases stunning homes and mansions.
Budget, time, and mobility also matter. Tours range from quick one-hour jaunts to more involved two-hour explorations. Booking early can ensure availability, especially during peak seasons. For a full experience, try combining a cemetery tour with a ghost walk or a neighborhood exploration.
Final Thoughts
New Orleans’ walking tours offer a fantastic way to connect with the city’s complex layers—from eerie ghosts to glamorous celebrities. If your interests lean toward haunted lore, the French Quarter Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour and Haunted Ghosts & Supernatural Walking Tour stand out. For architecture lovers, the Homes of the Rich & Famous and Garden District Architecture Tour are excellent choices.
Travelers interested in learning about the city’s complex African American heritage or exploring its dark secrets will find meaningful options. No matter your preference, booking your tour early and choosing one that matches your interests will ensure a memorable experience. Now, lace up your walking shoes and prepare to uncover the many stories of New Orleans—the city truly reveals its soul on foot.