New Orleans High Crimes & Apparitions: Immersive True Crime Tour

New Orleans High Crimes & Apparitions: Immersive True Crime Tour — A Review

Exploring New Orleans often means diving into lively jazz scenes, vibrant festivals, and mouthwatering Creole cuisine. But for those intrigued by the darker side of the city, the High Crimes & Apparitions tour offers a compelling glimpse into its haunted, criminal past. This tour promises to blend history, ghost stories, and true crime in an engaging, theatrical way.

What makes this experience particularly appealing are three standout features: it’s interactive, thanks to a specially provided app that turns you into a ghost hunter; the small group setting ensures a more intimate and personalized experience; and the guides are known for their knowledgeable storytelling. Only potential snag? If you’re not a fan of walking or cold weather, this might feel a bit taxing, as it’s roughly 2 hours on foot through historic streets.

This tour really suits curious travelers who enjoy haunted tales, true crime stories, and historical context. If you’re looking for an experience that combines entertainment with a bit of spooky education, this could be your perfect pick.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling from knowledgeable, licensed guides
• Interactive ghost hunt via a downloadable app
• Historic stops with detailed crime and paranormal tales
• Small group size for a more personalized experience
• Value for money with a two-hour, immersive tour
• Suitable for those with moderate physical fitness and an interest in dark history

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Price and Overall Value

At $49.99 per person, this tour offers a fairly accessible way to explore New Orleans’ darker side, especially considering it lasts around two hours with a licensed guide. You’re paying for more than just a walk; you get an interactive ghost hunt via an app, which makes it more engaging than a typical walking tour. Since it’s booked on average 5 days in advance, there’s a good chance you can secure your spot, but it’s wise to plan ahead, especially during busy seasons.

Starting Point and Meeting Details

The tour kicks off at 311 Exchange Place at 7:30 pm, which is centrally located in the French Quarter. The meeting point’s proximity to public transportation makes it accessible, and the tour generally ends near Hotel Villa Convento on Ursulines Ave, making it convenient for those staying nearby. The small group size—up to 15 travelers—enhances the experience, allowing for more interaction and personalized storytelling.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1: French Quarter

Your journey begins with a stroll through the iconic French Quarter. This area’s stunning architecture and lively streets set a perfect backdrop for the stories to come. While the French Quarter is famous for its vibrancy, it also harbors many tales of violence, spirits, and hidden secrets. Expect a 30-minute walk here, just enough to set the scene and introduce the darker history of the city.

Stop 2: Jimani Lounge & Restaurant

Next, you’ll visit the site of the Upstairs Lounge—a place associated with one of the most horrific hate crimes in U.S. history. Although the admission ticket isn’t included and you won’t be dining, the guide will recount the tragic event that left a permanent mark on the city’s collective memory. The site’s somber atmosphere makes it a powerful storytelling spot.

Stop 3: New Orleans Pharmacy Museum

At this stop, your guide highlights the story of one of NOLA’s most notorious serial killers. The Museum itself, with its vintage apothecary displays, adds an authentic touch. The guide’s storytelling is detailed, giving you both the chilling history and the local lore. Admission isn’t included, so plan for that if you want to explore further.

Stop 4: Omni Royal Orleans

This hotel is the scene of a major tragedy, and it’s said to be haunted by residual spirits. The guide shares the tragic story behind the site, adding another layer to this dark tapestry. Expect about 15 minutes here, but the stories and views can be quite compelling.

Stop 5: Jackson Square

Famous for artists and street performers, Jackson Square has also seen its share of violence and unrest. Your guide will reveal stories of past crimes and ghostly sightings, enriching your appreciation for this historic square.

Stop 6: Pirates Alley

A quiet, atmospheric alley near St. Louis Cathedral, Pirates Alley is perfect for a ghostly sip of absinthe (or water) while checking out the surroundings. The tranquil setting contrasts with the tales of pirates, ghosts, and secret meetings, making it a favorite for many.

Stop 7: The Dungeon

Finally, you’ll visit the notorious Dungeon, where tales of mysterious spirits and ghostly apparitions swirl around stories of prisoners and executions. The guide recounts the tale of ‘Never and Worry,’ adding a personal touch to the haunted history of the place.

Guides and Atmosphere

While the tour doesn’t specify guide names, reviews suggest that guides are well-informed and engaging, with a knack for balancing storytelling with factual history. Their ability to create a spooky yet respectful atmosphere is crucial, especially at sites like the Upstairs Lounge and The Dungeon.

The App and Ghost Hunt

One of the tour’s highlights is the app you download at the start, which turns the experience into a collective ghost hunt. This adds an interactive element, making you part of the story rather than just a spectator. Many reviews praise the extra layer of fun and engagement this provides.

Additional Considerations

• The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness because it involves walking through various historic sites. Comfortable shoes are a must.
• Since alcoholic beverages are available for purchase, some guests might find the experience even more fun if they choose to sip along.
• The free cancellation policy offers peace of mind, allowing you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

Travelers have noted that guides bring stories alive with their detailed narratives, often adding personal or lesser-known insights. For example, one reviewer said, “Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable, and the way they described the ghost stories made us feel like we were part of the scene.” Such comments highlight the value of skilled storytelling in creating an immersive experience.

The stunning views and historic sites paired with haunting tales make this tour not just educational but also visually captivating. The sites chosen are carefully curated to give a well-rounded sense of the city’s criminal and supernatural history.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for history buffs, ghost enthusiasts, and true crime fans. It’s ideal for those who enjoy interactive adventures and are comfortable with walking moderate distances. Since it’s a small group, it appeals to travelers seeking a more personalized, less commercialized experience.

The Sum Up

The New Orleans High Crimes & Apparitions tour offers a unique blend of dark history, ghost stories, and cultural insights. It balances entertainment with education, providing a well-rounded view of the city’s haunted past that’s both engaging and thought-provoking. The interactive app and small group setting make it stand out from typical ghost tours, adding an extra layer of fun.

If you’re after an authentic, informative, and spooky experience that doesn’t break the bank, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially perfect for those who appreciate stunning locales, detailed storytelling, and a little ghostly mischief.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, covering several key sites around the French Quarter.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 311 Exchange Place and usually ends near Hotel Villa Convento on Ursulines Ave, making it convenient for nearby accommodations.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While suitable for most, travelers should consider the dark themes and historical violence discussed. Moderate physical fitness is recommended due to walking.

Do I need to purchase additional tickets?
Admission is not included for certain stops like the Pharmacy Museum and Omni Royal Orleans, so plan to buy tickets if you wish to explore these places further.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
The information suggests that it’s near public transportation and involves walking, but specific accessibility details aren’t provided. It’s best to contact the tour provider for more info.

In summary, the New Orleans High Crimes & Apparitions tour offers a compelling mix of spooky stories, historic sites, and interactive fun that appeals to anyone curious about the city’s darker secrets.