Ghost Tour with ghost hunting gear

Introduction

If you’re looking to add a supernatural twist to your trip to New Orleans, a ghost tour equipped with ghost-hunting gear might sound intriguing. While this particular tour promises an eerie journey through the French Quarter, a few hiccups have shadowed its reputation — notably inconsistent guides and unreliable service.

What we do like about this experience? The concept of actively using EMF detectors to hunt spirits is refreshing and makes the experience more interactive. The tour’s focus on iconic haunted sites like the LaLaurie Mansion and Pirate’s Alley offers genuine glimpses into the city’s ghostly lore. Lastly, the chance to combine history with paranormal activity can make for a memorable night — if all runs smoothly.

However, the main consideration? The tour’s reviews reveal issues with guide punctuality and customer service, which could impact your overall experience. This tour is best suited for those who prioritize authentic ghost stories and hands-on ghost hunting, rather than a perfectly organized, hassle-free event.

Key Points

• Interactive ghost hunting: Use of EMF detectors adds a fun, participatory element.
• Historic sights: Stops include famous haunted locations like LaLaurie Mansion and Pirate’s Alley.
• Knowledgeable guides: Well-rated guides enhance storytelling and site explanations.
• Weather considerations: Tour takes place rain or shine, so come prepared.
• Potential for disappointment: Some reviews mention guides not showing up or poor service.
• Approximate duration: One hour, with flexible starting times (check availability).

What to Expect from the Ghost Tour with Ghost Hunting Gear

This tour offers an hour-long walk through some of the most haunted parts of the French Quarter, with a focus on engaging your curiosity and senses. The journey begins at the impressive St. Louis Cathedral, a central landmark in Jackson Square. Here, your guide, presumably knowledgeable and engaging, will introduce you to the ghostly tales that have haunted this area for centuries.

From there, you’ll move on to Jackson Square, where the historic ambiance and the art-filled surroundings set the perfect scene for ghost stories. Expect to learn about the city’s past—sometimes dark—and how it continues to echo through its streets today.

Next stop is Pirate’s Alley, a narrow, atmospheric passage that whispers stories of pirates, sailors, and stories of supernatural encounters tied to the city’s nautical history. Here, the guide might share tales of spectral sailors and ghostly pirates, adding a touch of maritime mystique.

The tour then brings you to the Andrew Jackson Hotel, a building steeped in history. With EMF detectors in hand, you’ll explore its rooms and corridors, looking for signs of lingering spirits. The guide will probably point out stories of haunted happenings that have left a mark on the hotel’s walls.

The highlight for many is the Lalaurie Mansion—infamous for its dark past involving Madame LaLaurie’s sadistic acts. This stop promises chilling stories of tortured spirits, and the opportunity to scan for residual energies with your ghost-hunting gear.

A hidden gem follows, which could be anything from a lesser-known haunted site to a location with a spooky local legend. This adds a layer of intrigue, especially for those who love discovering off-the-beaten-path stories.

The tour concludes back at St. Louis Cathedral, offering a full-circle experience filled with tales of restless spirits and supernatural whispers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Realities of the Tour: Pros and Cons

Pros: The standout feature of this tour is its interactive element. Equipping every party with EMF detectors allows you to participate actively in hunting for spirits, which adds a fun, modern twist to traditional ghost storytelling. Knowledgeable guides—highlighted as a major plus—bring history alive and enhance the authenticity of the stories. Visiting iconic sites like the LaLaurie Mansion and Pirate’s Alley means you’re not just hearing ghost stories but also stepping into parts of the city’s haunted past.

Cons: Unfortunately, some reviews caution that the experience isn’t foolproof. One reviewer mentioned arriving early and waiting over 40 minutes without the guide appearing, which can be disappointing, especially if you’ve scheduled other plans. Another call-out was a straightforward “scam” review, indicating that the experience might not be as reliable or well-organized as hoped.

What does this mean for you? If you’re someone who values guided expertise and an engaging, hands-on experience, this tour could be a hit — provided the guides are punctual and responsive. If you’re wary of logistical hiccups, it might be wise to consider other options or be prepared for potential delays.

The Itinerary and Site Highlights

Starting Point at St. Louis Cathedral:
This iconic landmark kicks off the tour with its impressive architecture and spiritual resonance. It’s a natural conversation starter about the spiritual history of New Orleans.

Jackson Square:
A hub of activity and history, Jackson Square is where stories of haunted artists, street performers, and historical figures come alive. The guide will likely share tales of ghostly sightings and restless spirits lurking in the shadows.

Pirate’s Alley:
An evocative narrow passage lined with centuries-old buildings. Stories here are often maritime in nature, with ghostly sailors or pirates said to haunt the area. It’s a favorite for its atmospheric charm.

Andrew Jackson Hotel:
This historic hotel becomes a focal point for paranormal investigation. With EMF detectors, visitors can scan the rooms and corridors for signs of lingering spirits, making the experience immersive and tangible.

Lalaurie Mansion:
Arguably the most notorious stop, the Lalaurie Mansion has a reputation that precedes it. Stories of Madame LaLaurie’s cruelty and tortured spirits make it a chilling scene, perfect for ghost hunting.

Hidden Gem:
The tour’s surprise location offers a lesser-known story or site, giving the experience an exclusive feel. It adds to the atmosphere and mystery of the journey.

Return to St. Louis Cathedral:
A fitting ending that allows for reflection on the stories and experiences shared throughout the walk.

Experience and Practical Details

Group Size: Typically small, ensuring more personalized interaction, but this can vary. The inclusion of EMF detectors for each party suggests a group-focused, participatory atmosphere.

Duration: About one hour, which is enough time to cover several sites without fatigue. It’s a manageable length for most travelers, especially those with tight schedules.

Cost and Value: At $20 per person, this tour is relatively affordable, especially considering the inclusion of ghost-hunting equipment. For enthusiasts of paranormal activity, it’s a reasonable price to add a spooky layer to your visit.

Weather and Accessibility: The tour takes place rain or shine, so bringing rain gear might be wise. It’s also noted as wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a broader range of visitors.

Meeting Point and End: The tour begins at the gate across from St. Louis Cathedral and ends back at the same spot, simplifying logistics for travelers.

Authenticity and Customer Experiences

While the concept is appealing, reviews highlight notable issues. One reviewer shared that the guide did not show up despite arriving early and waiting 40 minutes — a frustrating experience that could ruin the night. Others simply called the tour a “scam,” indicating inconsistent experiences.

The value of a guided tour often hinges on the guide’s knowledge and punctuality. Despite the controversy, some reviews praise guides for their storytelling skills, which can greatly enhance the ghost-hunting adventure. This suggests that your experience may heavily depend on who is guiding that night.

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Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This ghost tour offers a unique blend of haunted sightseeing and interactive ghost hunting. For those who enjoy hands-on experiences and spooky stories, it can be a fun addition to your New Orleans trip. The inclusion of ghost-hunting gear makes it stand apart from typical walking tours, giving you the chance to actively participate rather than just listen.

However, the mixed reviews suggest that preparation and flexibility are key. Arriving early to avoid guide no-shows or delays, and keeping expectations realistic, can help ensure a smoother experience.

If you are a fan of history, haunting legends, and don’t mind the possibility of logistical hiccups, this tour could be a memorable part of your visit. Conversely, if you prioritize flawless organization, you might want to explore other haunted experiences in the city.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to combine local history with paranormal activity. It’s also a good fit for those who enjoy interactive elements, like using ghost-hunting gear. If you’re interested in famous haunted sites like LaLaurie Mansion or pirate legends, it could provide some fun insights.

However, if guide reliability or punctuality is a top priority, or if you’re seeking a polished, high-end experience, other options might be better suited. This tour is best suited for curious, open-minded visitors who are prepared for a slightly unpredictable but spirited adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The description doesn’t specify age restrictions, but given the ghostly themes and potentially spooky stories, it’s best for older children or teens comfortable with ghost stories.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes EMF detectors for every party and an experienced, knowledgeable guide. It does not include hotel pickup or drop-off.

Can I cancel the tour if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for last-minute changes.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can join in the fun.

Where exactly do I meet the guide?
You’ll meet at the gate across from St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square, where the tour guide will be waiting by the steps.

Does the tour operate rain or shine?
Yes, it runs in any weather, so come prepared for rain or shine.

To sum it up, this ghost tour with ghost-hunting gear in New Orleans offers a fun, interactive way to explore the city’s haunted past. While it has its share of organizational issues, it remains appealing for curious adventurers eager to hunt spirits and learn about some of the most iconic haunted locations. If you’re flexible, open-minded, and ready for a spooky, hands-on experience, it might just add a memorable layer to your NOLA visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: