French Quarter Ghost Tour with Ghost Hunting Gear Included

If you’re after a truly immersive ghost experience in New Orleans, the French Quarter Ghost Tour with Ghost Hunting Gear might just be your ticket to spooky fun. This experience goes beyond mere storytelling — it invites you to participate in the ghostly action, armed with real EMF detectors to hunt spirits yourself. The tour is led by guides who blend storytelling, local history, and paranormal insights, making it a compelling way to explore the city’s darker side.

What really catches our eye is the interactive nature of this tour — you’re not just listening to ghost stories, but actively searching for signs of spirits. Plus, it’s a very affordable option at just $20 per person for roughly an hour of entertainment. However, it’s worth noting that the short duration and group size might not satisfy those looking for a more in-depth investigation or extended ghost tour. This experience suits those curious about the supernatural but also eager to have a bit of fun with ghost-hunting equipment.

Anyone comfortable walking around the historic, sometimes eerie, streets of the French Quarter will find this tour accessible. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want a mix of history, local legends, and the chance to hold their own ghost hunt, all without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Interactive Experience: The tour provides real EMF detectors, turning ghost hunting into a hands-on adventure.
• Affordable Price: At just $20, it offers great value for a guided, hour-long paranormal exploration.
• Historic Stops: It covers iconic haunted sites like LaLaurie Mansion and Pirates Alley.
• Expert Guides: Led by guides who are well-versed in storytelling, history, and the supernatural.
• Short Duration: About 1 hour, making it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing schedule.
• Limited Group Size: Max 30 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Jackson Square

The tour kicks off at Jackson Square, the beating heart of the French Quarter. Here, you’ll be surrounded by centuries-old buildings, including the St. Louis Cathedral, and immersed in the dark legends that cling to this storied spot. The guide’s storytelling begins in this iconic setting, setting the tone for what’s to come.

Travelers can expect a brief introduction to New Orleans’ haunted reputation, with the guide weaving in tales of fires, murders, and voodoo that have shaped its ghostly reputation. As one reviewer put it, “The stories about Jackson Square really set the mood — it’s a perfect place to start if you love history with a spooky twist.”

Pirates Alley: Narrow and Mysterious

Next, the group heads to Pirates Alley, a narrow, dimly lit passageway brimming with lore. It’s the kind of alley where shadows seem to shift, and you might imagine pirates or ghosts lurking in the corners. The guide shares tales of pirates, hidden treasures, and ghostly sightings here, making it a favorite for many.

One visitor noted, “Walking through Pirates Alley, you feel like you’re stepping into a ghost story. The atmosphere is just incredible.” The alley’s restricted size and atmospheric lighting make it ideal for a spooky pause and some eerie photos.

Andrew Jackson Hotel: Haunted Lodging

The tour then moves to the Andrew Jackson Hotel, built atop the ruins of a former boys’ boarding school that burned down in the 1700s. Today, the hotel is known for its ghostly residents, and the guide tells stories of apparitions and unexplained phenomena reported here.

While the hotel itself isn’t visited indoors, standing outside and hearing tales about its haunted reputation adds a layer of real-world creepiness. According to reviews, “The stories about the hotel make you look at it differently — that sense of history mixed with the supernatural is captivating.”

Touchdown Jesus Statue: An Unusual Landmark

One of the most unexpected stops is the Touchdown Jesus statue near St. Anthony of Padua Church. Its outstretched arms and eerie silence lend it a strange sense of presence, and the guide shares local legends about its significance. This landmark’s offbeat nature makes it memorable, especially for those who appreciate oddities in ghost stories.

LaLaurie Mansion: The Most Chilling Stop

Arguably the tour’s highlight (or most chilling moment) is the LaLaurie Mansion. Known for its gruesome past and association with Madame Delphine LaLaurie, who was involved in horrific acts, this site is a true icon of haunted New Orleans. The guide recounts the mansion’s dark history, emphasizing the tragic and disturbing stories behind its façade.

Travelers often comment on the emotional weight of this stop. One said, “Standing outside the LaLaurie Mansion, you can really feel its sinister energy — it’s not just a ghost story, it’s some serious history.”

Old Ursuline Convent: Quietly Creepy

Finally, the group visits the Old Ursuline Convent, the oldest building in the Mississippi Valley, dating back to 1752. Its quiet, historic setting makes it a perfect spot for ghost stories rooted in history. The guide recounts tales of lingering spirits and unexplained sounds, adding to the overall haunted atmosphere.

The Ghost Hunting Experience

What makes this tour stand out is that every participant receives a real EMF detector. This means you’re not just listening to stories — you’re actively trying to detect paranormal activity. Guides encourage you to walk around with your device, looking for fluctuations that might indicate spirits nearby. While the effectiveness of such devices is debated, the fun lies in the participation and the thrill of the hunt.

Some reviews note that the gear “adds a fun element” and “makes you feel like a real ghost hunter.” Others point out that the short duration might limit the depth of the investigation but still provides a memorable experience.

Practical Details and Value

At just $20 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially compared to more expensive, longer ghost tours. The price includes the ghost hunting gear, guides, and access to historic and supposedly haunted sites. It’s an hour of entertainment that combines education, storytelling, and a bit of spooky play.

The tour runs from the starting point at 751 Decatur Street, and it ends back there, making it convenient for participants to continue exploring or grab a bite afterward. Group size is capped at 30 travelers, ensuring everyone gets attention and has room to move around with their EMF detectors.

Considerations

While the experience is lighthearted and open to all, those expecting a deeply investigative or terrifying encounter might be slightly disappointed — it’s more fun and atmospheric than intense. Also, since the tour lasts about an hour, it’s perfect for a quick ghostly fix but not for serious paranormal enthusiasts wanting a full-night investigation.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This ghost tour is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want a taste of New Orleans’ haunted side without paying for a full evening experience. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers interested in history, local legends, and a bit of hands-on fun. If you enjoy casual walks, spooky stories, and the thrill of using ghost-hunting gear, you’ll find this tour engaging.

But if you’re after a lengthy, in-depth investigation or are a serious paranormal investigator, this short, lively tour might leave you wanting more.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. However, younger children might find some stories a bit intense, so use discretion.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour, making it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing schedule.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the guided tour and the use of EMF detectors for ghost hunting.

Are the ghost hunting detectors real?
Yes, the tour provides real EMF detectors, which are meant to add a fun, participatory element rather than guarantee paranormal activity.

Where does the tour meet?
It starts at 751 Decatur Street in the French Quarter.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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

Does the tour operate rain or shine?
Most outdoor tours do, but it’s advisable to check the weather forecast before booking.

Can I tip the guide?
Tips are not included, so if you enjoyed the experience, consider gratuity for the guide.

Final Thoughts

For those curious about New Orleans’ haunted reputation but wanting a fun, affordable, and interactive experience, this ghost tour hits the right note. It combines historic sites with engaging storytelling and a hands-on element that elevates the usual ghost walk. While it’s not a deep-dive investigation, it offers a memorable hour of eerie entertainment that appeals to a wide audience.

If you’re traveling on a budget, love a spooky story, or are just looking to add a bit of mystery to your trip, this tour could be a highlight of your stay. It’s especially well-suited for groups or families seeking something different — a chance to hunt spirits and learn about the city’s darker past in one lively walk.

Note: Always check the latest details and reviews before booking, as operators may update schedules or policies.