Shadows and Spells: Voodoo, Vampire & Witch Walking Tour in New Orleans' French Quarter
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Able to stand and walk up to 1–1.5 miles; suitable for most fitness levels
Overview
Walk the French Quarter after dark with a guide who weaves voodoo, vampire lore, and witchcraft history into a single 90‑minute route. Expect shrines, alleys, and archival tales—plus practical tips for respecting sacred sites.
Shadows and Spells: Voodoo, Vampire & Witch Walking Tour in New Orleans' French Quarter
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The lamp-glow on Royal Street pulls you forward like a rumor. Cobblestones shine from an afternoon rain as the tour guide’s voice lowers; the French Quarter, with its ironwork balconies and shuttered courtyards, has always liked an audience. On the Shadows and Spells walking tour, the Quarter becomes a stage for stories that survived crossings—of people, of traditions, and of belief itself. For 90 minutes you walk beneath gaslight and the low arc of live oaks, moving from whispered shrines to alleys where legends press close.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Arrive early for a Sassy Magick discount
Meet at Sassy Magick before the tour to get 10% off purchases and ensure a prompt departure.
Wear sturdy, street-ready shoes
Cobblestones and uneven sidewalks make comfortable, supportive shoes essential for the 1–1.5 mile route.
Carry small bills for your guide
Guides rely on tips; bring small denominations to tip at the end of the tour.
Respect active shrines and graves
Do not touch offerings, enter fenced graves, or photograph private altars without permission.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great blue heron along the riverfront
- Urban raccoon in back alleys after dusk
History
New Orleans’ voodoo traditions grew from West African spiritual practices syncretized with Catholicism during colonial and antebellum eras, with figures like Marie Laveau central to the lore.
Conservation
Respectful tourism is key—avoid disturbing offerings, stay on public paths in cemeteries, and follow guides’ rules to protect fragile cultural sites.
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Adventure Hotspots in New Orleans
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Supportive shoes for cobblestones, sidewalks, and occasional stairs.
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated is critical in New Orleans heat and humidity.
summer specific
Light rain jacket or umbrella
Afternoon showers are common—packable protection keeps the tour on schedule.
spring specific
Phone or camera with good low-light capability
Dusk and candlelit shrines photograph best with a low-light device.