Voodoo, Vampires and Delicious Bites Food Tour

If you’re looking for an experience that combines haunting stories, local history, and mouthwatering food, the Voodoo, Vampires and Delicious Bites Food Tour might just be your ideal outing in New Orleans. This 3-hour adventure offers a fascinating peek into the city’s spooky legends along with a taste of its famous cuisine. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the details suggest it’s a well-rounded, engaging way to get a feel for the city’s unique cultural blend of mystery, history, and flavor.

What we love about this experience are the knowledgeable local guides who bring stories of voodoo queens and vampire legends to life, and the delicious, authentic food you get to enjoy in historic venues. A potential consideration is that alcoholic beverages are not included, so if you’re hoping for an all-in-one experience with drinks, you’ll need to budget extra. This tour is perfect for history buffs, food lovers, and anyone intrigued by New Orleans’ haunted reputation who prefers a small, intimate group environment.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling from passionate, licensed local guides.
• Tasty sampling of classic New Orleans dishes like Po-Boy and Gumbo.
• Unique stops including voodoo shops, haunted theaters, and historic sites.
• Balanced mix of history, legend, and food within a manageable 3-hour timeframe.
• Optional cocktails served in hidden speakeasies for a fun twist.
• Small group size (max 12) ensures a personalized experience.

A Practical Look at What the Tour Offers

This tour is designed to give you a well-rounded taste of New Orleans’ spooky side and its culinary heritage. Starting at the Old Ursuline Convent Museum, you’ll hear stories about the “Casket Girls”, reputed vampires from the 1700s. While the admission ticket isn’t included, the chance to stand in a historic building and learn about early legends provides a solid start for any ghost enthusiast. The story of these mysterious young women and their connection to local vampire lore sets the tone for the rest of the tour.

Next, you’ll visit Voodoo Authentica, a shop showcasing handmade voodoo dolls, gris-gris bags, and potion oils. It’s a lively stop that offers insights into the local practice of voodoo beyond the stereotypes, and the fact that it’s a locally owned shop adds an authentic touch. Here, 15 minutes is enough to browse and soak in the vibrant atmosphere without feeling rushed.

The visit to Le Petit Theatre du Vieux Carre combines history with a taste of local cuisine. While enjoying a warm bowl of Duck and Andouille Gumbo, you can listen to the eerie tales of Caroline, a ghost said to haunt the theatre. This is a lovely way to connect the city’s haunted reputation with its cultural venues. The theatre’s historic ambiance, coupled with a hearty dish, makes this a memorable stop, even if the story of Caroline is more ghostly than gruesome.

Jackson Square is the heart of the city’s historic district. With its iconic statue of Andrew Jackson and the majestic St. Louis Cathedral, it’s a lively hub where you’ll get an overview of New Orleans’ history. The 10-minute stop is brief but impactful, perfect for snapping photos and hearing a quick history lesson from your guide.

Later, at the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, you’ll learn about the links between voodoo, medicine, and vampire legends. This historic site offers a deeper look into how supernatural beliefs intertwined with medical practices in the past. The museum visit is not included in the price, but it’s a highlight for those interested in the darker, more mysterious aspects of local history.

Tasting, Drinking, and Dining

The lunch component of this tour is notably good value. You’ll enjoy a slice of roast beef Po-Boy, Duck and Andouille Gumbo, and a warm Brie cheese round with fruits, nuts, and rosemary ciabatta. These dishes are emblematic of New Orleans cuisine, blending hearty flavors with local ingredients. The inclusion of such traditional dishes ensures you get a genuine taste of the city’s culinary culture.

While alcoholic drinks are not included, you have the option to purchase two specially crafted cocktails. The Vampire’s Apothecary offers a choice between the Alchemist’s Elixir (which changes colors) or the Blood Moon, intriguing drinks that fit the theme perfectly. The second cocktail is served in a secret speakeasy—a fun, immersive experience that adds an element of mystery.

The Itinerary in Detail

Each stop is carefully selected to blend history, legend, and local flavor, creating a narrative that feels both entertaining and educational. The stops are relatively brief but impactful, with most lasting around 10 to 25 minutes. This pacing allows you to see multiple sites without feeling overwhelmed, with enough time to absorb stories and snap photos.

Starting at the Ursuline Convent, the tour immediately immerses you in early New Orleans legends. The stories of vampires and voodoo are woven into the fabric of this historic building, giving you a glimpse into the city’s mysterious past.

Next, Voodoo Authentica provides a vibrant, tangible connection to voodoo practices, with handmade crafts and symbolic items. It’s a lively stop that offers some souvenirs and a chance to understand voodoo beyond Hollywood stereotypes.

Le Petit Theatre offers a cozy setting to enjoy gumbo while learning about ghostly residents like Caroline. The atmosphere here is intimate, and the storytelling adds a layer of intrigue to the delicious meal.

Jackson Square offers a quick but essential snapshot of the city’s history and its iconic architecture, perfect for photos or a brief stroll.

Finally, the Pharmacy Museum adds a slightly darker note, exploring the connections between medicine, voodoo, and vampire legends. It’s a fitting stop that rounds out the story of New Orleans’ mystical past.

Value and Overall Experience

At $97 per person, this tour delivers a lot of value. You get a well-paced itinerary that includes local stories, historic sites, and authentic food, along with optional cocktails that enhance the theme. The small group size (max 12) means a more personal experience, allowing for questions and interaction. The knowledgeable, enthusiastic guides are a highlight, making stories come alive with passion and insight.

The tour’s focus on local, licensed guides ensures you’re hearing accurate, engaging tales. The inclusion of food and the option for cocktails adds a fun, interactive element that elevates the experience beyond a typical walking tour.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy a blend of history, legend, and good food. It’s perfect if you’re curious about New Orleans’ haunted reputation but prefer a guided, curated experience rather than wandering on your own. Food lovers will appreciate the authentic dishes and the chance to sample some unique cocktails. Those interested in voodoo, vampires, and local legends will find plenty to fascinate and entertain.

The Voodoo, Vampires and Delicious Bites Food Tour offers a compact yet comprehensive look at some of New Orleans’ most captivating stories and flavors. It’s a fun, immersive way to connect with the city’s darker side while enjoying its culinary delights. The combination of engaging storytelling, authentic food, and a small group environment makes it a memorable outing for those who want a taste of the spooky and the savory.

While it might not satisfy those seeking a full-blown haunted investigation or extensive museum visits, it strikes a nice balance for a quick, enjoyable, and educational experience. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply curious about the city’s legends, this tour provides a lively, tasty, and slightly mysterious snapshot of New Orleans.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it an easy addition to your day without taking up too much time.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 1140 Decatur St in the French Quarter, a central location in New Orleans.

Are meals included?
Yes, a lunch featuring roast beef Po-Boy, Gumbo, and baked Brie is included.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
No, drinks are not included but can be purchased separately at some stops, with the option to enjoy two special cocktails.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level, as the tour involves some walking and standing.

What is the group size?
The tour is small, with a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start, allowing full refunds if you need to rethink your plans.

In all, the Voodoo, Vampires and Delicious Bites Food Tour offers a lively, flavorful, and slightly spooky slice of New Orleans—perfect for those eager to explore its legends and tastes without the fuss of large crowds or overly long excursions.