New Orleans: French Quarter Saints & Sinners History Tour

Introduction

If you’re eager to explore the deeper, often darker stories of New Orleans’ French Quarter, the French Quarter Saints & Sinners History Tour might just be your perfect match. This 105-minute stroll promises a blend of history, legends, and colorful anecdotes that paint a vivid picture of one of America’s most intriguing cities.

What we love about this tour are its enthusiastic guides, the fascinating tales that reveal New Orleans’ eclectic spirituality, and the cost-effective price point that offers great value for such an in-depth experience. However, it’s important to note that this is a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are a must, especially in the city’s humid summer months.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, curious travelers, or anyone interested in the city’s voodoo, religious mix, and legendary characters. If you enjoy storytelling with an authentic local flavor, this experience will keep you engaged from start to finish.

Good To Know

• Authentic storytelling: Guides bring local legends and historical facts vividly to life.
• Cultural blend: Learn about New Orleans’ unique mix of religions, including Catholicism and voodoo.
• Engaging narratives: Tales of saints, sinners, witches, and vampires make the city’s dark past come alive.
• Affordable price: At just $22, it offers a compelling introduction to the French Quarter’s complex history.
• Accessible & flexible: The tour is wheelchair accessible, with options to buy drinks beforehand and even bring cocktails along.
• Authentic insights: The guides are praised for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and humor, making the tour not only educational but also fun.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary and What to Expect

This tour starts at The Voodoo Lounge on North Rampart Street, a lively spot in the French Quarter known for its colorful atmosphere. From here, your guide will take you through the streets that have seen everything from religious devotions to lawless revelry.

The core of the experience is the storytelling—each stop is packed with tales of the city’s colorful characters, secret societies, and spiritual practices. You’ll hear stories about Marie Laveau, the famed voodoo priestess who was also a devout Catholic, demonstrating how the city’s faith and magic are often intertwined.

The guides are praised for their ability to weave humor into history, making it accessible even to those unfamiliar with New Orleans’ complex past. Expect to marvel at sights like historic churches with Roman altars trimmed in gold alongside tales of witchcraft and conspiracy. The tour also touches on the city’s lawless origins, with descriptions of its dark, lawless roots—an aspect that helps explain the city’s free-spirited vibe today.

What makes this walk stand out? It’s not just about the sites but about hearing stories that many visitors miss or overlook. For example, reviewers mention guides like Bobby and Erin, who bring a wealth of local knowledge and a humorous, down-to-earth style, making the tour feel like walking with an old friend rather than a formal lesson.

The tour’s length—just under two hours— makes it manageable even in a busy sightseeing schedule. Plus, with the option to buy a drink an hour before the tour, you can start with a little local spirit or even bring one along, adding to the fun.

Deep Dive into the Highlights

Exploring New Orleans as a Cultural Melting Pot

One of the most notable aspects of this tour is how it highlights the city’s religious and cultural diversity. Stories of Catholic saints, voodoo priestesses, and African spiritual practices show how the city’s identity is woven from multiple threads. You’ll learn that Marie Laveau, perhaps the most famous voodoo figure, was actually deeply religious and Catholic—challenging stereotypes and revealing the city’s nuanced spiritual landscape.

Tales of Saints and Sinners

Throughout the walk, guides share vivid stories of notable characters—both revered and infamous. Reviewers rave about guides like Billy, who peppers history with levity, keeping the atmosphere lively. For instance, stories of witches, vampires, and secret societies add a supernatural flavor that makes the tour feel like stepping into a dark novel.

A favorite story among guests is the conspiracy theories and legends surrounding some of the city’s oldest buildings and landmarks, which are said to be haunted or cursed—perfect for fans of ghost stories or those interested in the supernatural.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Marvel at the Sights

While the main focus is storytelling, you’ll also get a chance to appreciate the architecture and historic streets of the French Quarter. Expect to see colonial-era buildings, Spanish and French influences, and Roman Catholic churches—each with their own story, woven into the history shared by your guide.

The Vibe and Atmosphere

This isn’t just about facts; it’s about feeling the spirit of New Orleans. The guides’ enthusiasm—praise for Erin’s energy, Woody’s humor, and Erica’s storytelling—helps recreate the city’s lively, sometimes mischievous feel. Reviewers mention that the guides’ personalities add a layer of authenticity, making it clear they’re passionate about the city’s stories.

Practical Details and Value

Cost and Inclusion

For just $22 per person, this tour offers a cost-effective way to get an immersive introduction to the city’s darker side. The guide is included, and there’s no extra charge for most of the stories and sights, making it an excellent budget-friendly option.

Duration and Comfort

At 105 minutes, the walk is short enough to keep energy levels high but long enough to cover a decent stretch of the French Quarter. It’s suitable for most travelers, though it’s worth noting that the tour is only for adults 17 and older. Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially in summer when the humidity can be intense.

Accessibility & Extras

The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a big plus for travelers with mobility needs. Arriving early lets you enjoy a one-for-one hurricane drink special—a fun way to start your New Orleans adventure—and you’re allowed to bring a cocktail along for the walk, adding a festive touch.

What’s Not Included

Food, drinks, gratuities, and transportation are not included, so plan to explore the local cuisine afterward. The tour itself is all about storytelling, so it’s best suited for those who want to walk and listen rather than take breaks for meals.

Authentic Guest Experiences

Reviewers consistently mention the knowledge and personality of the guides as a major highlight. Melina from the UK appreciated Angela’s storytelling, calling her “fantastic and bringing history to life,” while Miah from the US loved guides like Bobby for his humor and down-to-earth style.

Others, like Michelle, praised Woody for his entertainment value and historical insights, and Cassandra from Canada credited Bobby for making the stories both informative and fun. The common theme? The guides’ passion and storytelling ability make the experience memorable.

Many guests enjoyed the balance of historical facts and lively anecdotes, with some even mentioning how the stories left them with a new appreciation for New Orleans’ layered spiritual and cultural identity.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history lovers, fans of ghost stories, or those curious about the city’s voodoo and religious blend. It’s also a great intro for first-timers who want to get a feel for the city’s unique spirit without overloading on museums or expensive excursions.

If you’re someone who enjoys authentic storytelling, a lively atmosphere, and a manageable walking pace, you’ll find this tour engaging. Be prepared for some entertaining and sometimes surprising revelations about New Orleans’ past.

The Sum Up

The French Quarter Saints & Sinners History Tour offers a captivating peek into New Orleans’ complex tapestry of faith, folklore, and history—all delivered with humor and passion by knowledgeable guides. It’s a perfect way to gain a deeper understanding of the city’s contrasts: sacred and profane, historic and supernatural.

At just $22, this tour provides excellent value—especially considering the quality of storytelling and the authenticity of the experience. It’s suited for anyone looking to add a spirited, informative walk to their NOLA itinerary without breaking the bank.

If you love stories that combine history, legend, and local color, this tour is a must. It’s a lively, engaging introduction to a city that’s fundamentally about celebration, faith, and the stories we tell about ourselves.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? No, it is only for adults 17 and older, due to the mature themes and stories discussed.

How long does the tour last? It lasts approximately 105 minutes, making it a manageable and engaging activity for most visitors.

Where does the tour start? The meeting point is The Voodoo Lounge at 718 N Rampart Street, at the corner of Orleans & N Rampart.

Can I buy drinks beforehand? Yes, arriving an hour early allows you to buy a one-for-one hurricane drink, and you’re also allowed to bring cocktails along on the tour.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What’s included in the price? The guide’s narration is included; extras like food, drinks, gratuity, and transportation are not.

How much does the tour cost? It costs $22 per person, making it an affordable introduction to New Orleans’ complex history.

Are tips expected? Tipping your guide is customary but not included in the ticket price; tips are appreciated for excellent guides.

What language is the tour in? The tour is offered in English.

What should I bring? Remember to bring a valid ID, and wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking in warm weather.

In essence, this tour offers an authentic, storytelling-rich experience that captures the soul of New Orleans—perfect for those eager to uncover the city’s hidden stories and local legends.

You can check if your dates are available here: