New Orleans Haunted Pub Crawl

If you’re seeking a night filled with ghost stories, local drinks, and a sprinkle of history, the New Orleans Haunted Pub Crawl might just be your perfect evening. This tour promises a lively two-hour walk through the heart of the French Quarter, blending spirited storytelling with visitations to some of the city’s most iconic and offbeat pubs.

What we love about this experience is how it offers a combination of local charm, intriguing tales, and the chance to explore lesser-known spots around Bourbon Street. The guides are often praised for their storytelling skills and knowledge, making each stop more than just a drink break. Plus, the option to extend your night at the nearby bars, especially Finnegan’s Easy, adds to the overall value.

One potential consideration is that some reviewers found the tour a bit uneven—whether the guide’s energy wanes or the stories don’t quite hit the mark—so it’s worth approaching with an open mind. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a mix of history, haunted tales, and social drinking, especially if you’re into local legends and a spirited atmosphere.

Key Points

• Lively guides make storytelling engaging and add personality to each stop.
• The tour visits lesser-known spots, avoiding the typical tourist traps.
• It’s cost-effective at $30, with excellent value for a two-hour experience.
• The option to continue your night with special drink deals at Finnegan’s Easy.
• The size of the group is limited to 28 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• It’s a great way to explore the French Quarter beyond the usual sights.

What to Expect from the Haunted Pub Crawl Experience

This tour kicks off at a central meeting point at 725 St Peter in the French Quarter, a perfect starting point that’s accessible via public transport or a short walk from many hotels. Over the next two hours, you’ll journey through some of the most atmospheric and historically intriguing pubs in the neighborhood, all while soaking up ghostly tales and local legends.

Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: The French Quarter Walking Tour
The tour begins with a relaxing walk through the historic streets of the French Quarter. You’ll get a chance to admire the architecture, and your guide will start sharing chilling stories linked to the city’s haunted reputation. This initial segment sets the mood, blending architecture and history with spooky folklore.

Second Stop: Finnegan’s Easy and a Drink Deal
After the walking segment, you’re encouraged to head next door to Finnegan’s Easy, where you can take advantage of a 2-for-1 hurricane special—a great way to loosen up and enjoy your night. Keep in mind you must be 21+ with valid ID to partake in alcohol at this venue, which is pretty standard in New Orleans but worth noting if you’re traveling with younger guests.

Bourbon Street and Beyond
One of the major highlights is crossing Bourbon Street, famed for its nonstop parties, vibrant nightlife, and, of course, ghost stories that are as lively as the crowds. The tour often ends in an iconic haunted bar that used to be a hotspot for vampire culture in the 1990s. This bar is also known for its absinthe drinks, adding a quirky, historical twist to your nightcap.

What Makes It Special

• The combination of pub crawl and ghost tour means you get both a lively social experience and a taste of the city’s darker past.
• The tour takes a less touristy route, often exploring local joints that even seasoned NOLA visitors might overlook.
• The live commentary from guides—like Tiny, Randy, Drew, and others—are praised for their storytelling skills and enthusiasm. Reviewers mention Tiny as especially knowledgeable and engaging, making the experience memorable.
• The group size of up to 28 people offers a cozy, friendly atmosphere, allowing for more interaction and personalized attention from guides.

The Real Experience: Stories and Pubs

While some reviews comment on variability in the guide’s delivery—ranging from enthusiastic to unenthusiastic—the majority highlight the knowledge and storytelling ability of the guides. For instance, Tiny was praised for his historical insights and engaging manner, making the ghost stories come alive. Conversely, some found guides less lively, but this seemed more the exception than the rule.

We loved that the tour includes stops at local favorites, not just the big-name bars. For example, one reviewer pointed out that May Bailey’s was a standout with five-star drinks and great music, making the experience more authentic and enjoyable.

The bars visited are known for their character and history. One, once a haunt for Aleister Crowley in the early 1900s, has a spooky ambiance and a connection to vampire culture from the 1990s. Several guests appreciated the mix of haunted tales and local lore, which added depth to the fun.

Expectations at Each Stop

• The initial streets portion offers a blend of architecture and ghostly stories—perfect for setting the tone.
• Finnegan’s Easy is a relaxed pub with a friendly vibe, ideal for starting or ending your night with a drink deal.
• The final bar, with its vampire and absinthe history, delivers a mix of dark intrigue and lively atmosphere, especially if you’re into paranormal themes.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers mention that guides like Randy and Drew make the tour stand out, with Drew being particularly noted for his entertaining storytelling and engaging personality. One guest called Drew “fantastic” and loved that he mixed humor with creepy tales. Meanwhile, some critics felt the tour could be uneven, with comments like “boring” or that the stories felt made-up or superficial.

The group dynamic is important—many mention the fun of sharing stories with fellow travelers, feeding off each other’s energy. It is a social experience, best enjoyed with a sense of humor and openness.

The Drinks and Atmosphere

While food and drinks are not included in the price, the option to continue drinking at the end of the tour is attractive. The special offers at Finnegan’s Easy make it a good value, especially if you’re planning to stay out into the night.

Guests particularly enjoyed the local, less touristy bars, which add an element of discovery. The absynthe drinks and haunted vibe at some venues make these stops more than just a place to sip—it’s an experience.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, ideal for those who want a fun but manageable evening activity.
• It’s booked around 14 days in advance on average, so planning ahead guarantees your spot.
• Price-wise, at $30 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to explore the haunted side of New Orleans.
• You must be 21 or older with valid ID to partake in alcohol, which is standard but worth noting for groups with younger travelers.
• The tour is accessible via public transportation, and the meeting point at 725 St Peter is convenient for most travelers.
• The maximum group size of 28 travelers strikes a balance between lively atmosphere and personal attention.

Considerations

• Some guests experienced variable storytelling quality—so if enthusiasm or detailed stories are your priority, choose your guide carefully if possible.
• The drinks are own expense, so budget accordingly if you plan to indulge heavily.
• The tour doesn’t include food or hotel pickup/drop-off, making it a flexible, independent activity.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This pub crawl is best suited for adventurous travelers eager for a mix of history, haunted tales, and local nightlife. It’s perfect if you enjoy stories with a side of spirits—both ghostly and alcoholic. The experience works well for singles, couples, or groups who appreciate a lively atmosphere and are open to lesser-known spots.

If you’re someone who values authentic local spots over touristy venues, or simply wants a fun way to explore the French Quarter with a spooky twist, this tour is a strong choice. On the flip side, if you’re expecting a highly polished, scripted performance or intense haunted encounters, this might not satisfy your craving.

Final Thoughts

The New Orleans Haunted Pub Crawl delivers a lively, affordable way to experience the city’s darker legends paired with local nightlife. With knowledgeable guides, visits to quirky bars, and stories that range from spooky to humorous, it’s a great option for those looking to combine history, spirits, and social fun.

While some reviewers have noted variability in guide enthusiasm, the overall atmosphere and experience tend to shine—especially when you’re in the right group and with a guide like Tiny or Drew. The tour’s balance of walking, drinking, and storytelling makes it a flexible, memorable evening in The Big Easy.

For travelers who love a mix of ghostly tales, local drinks, and the vibrant street scene, this tour offers a charming, spirited way to spend a few hours. Just remember to keep an open mind, enjoy the stories, and savor the local bars—many of which you might never find on your own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While the tour involves visiting bars and drinking is optional, the main focus is on pub visits and beverages, so non-drinkers may not find it as engaging. You can still enjoy the walking and storytelling.

Are the drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are not included. However, at Finnegan’s Easy, you can get 2-for-1 hurricanes, making it a good deal if you wish to indulge.

What is the age requirement?
Participants must be 21 or older with valid ID to purchase drinks at the bars.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable activity for an evening.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, providing flexibility if plans change.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 725 St Peter in the French Quarter and ends back at the same meeting point.

Are the guides experienced storytellers?
Most reviews praise the guides for their storytelling skills, especially Tiny and Drew, though some found guides less energetic.

Is the tour suitable for groups?
Yes, with a maximum of 28 travelers, it’s ideal for small groups or couples seeking a more intimate experience.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transportation options for easy access.

Can I join the tour if I am staying outside the French Quarter?
Absolutely. The meeting point is centrally located, making it easy for most city accommodations to reach.

To sum it up, the New Orleans Haunted Pub Crawl offers a spirited blend of stories, local bars, and the vibrant nightlife that makes the city so unique. With attentive guides, authentic stops, and a lively atmosphere, it’s a solid choice for those wanting to experience the haunted charm of The Big Easy in a social, fun setting.