New Orleans is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and, of course, its deep connection to the supernatural. When Halloween rolls around, the city transforms into a spooky paradise, offering everything from haunted tours to eerie attractions. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, here are the top 10 things you can do to make your Halloween in New Orleans unforgettable!
Experience a Ghost Bust Tour
Looking for a thrilling yet family-friendly way to explore the city’s haunted history? Hop on one of New Orleans’ popular Ghost Bust Tours! These tours take you on a guided journey through the city’s most haunted sites, all while riding in the comfort of an air-conditioned bus. Perfect for both adults and kids, the tours feature expert guides who share bone-chilling stories of ghosts, hauntings, and the darker side of New Orleans’ history. The Ghost Bust Tour is an exciting way to experience the city without the fear factor going too far for younger participants.
Join a Kid-Friendly Ghost Tour
For those who want to take the spooky experience up a notch but keep it suitable for the whole family, Kid-Friendly Ghost Tours are the perfect option. These walking tours focus on the eerie but fascinating tales of New Orleans’ past, offering a balanced mix of fun and fright. You’ll visit haunted spots in the French Quarter, hear tales of legendary spirits, and learn about the city’s most famous ghost stories. These tours make Halloween memorable without being too scary for younger attendees.
Attend Krewe of Boo Parade
No New Orleans celebration would be complete without a parade, and Halloween is no exception! The Krewe of Boo Parade is an annual Halloween-themed procession that rolls through the French Quarter with incredible floats, costumed performers, and spooky music. It’s fun for all ages, and participants are known to toss Halloween-themed trinkets and candy to the crowd. The Krewe of Boo Parade is a must-see if you’re in town for Halloween weekend.
Explore New Orleans Nightmare Haunted House
For those craving a heart-pounding haunted house experience, New Orleans Nightmare Haunted House is one of the most terrifying haunted attractions in the country. Filled with gruesome scenes, live actors, and horrifying special effects, it’s not for the faint of heart. While it may be a bit too intense for younger visitors, this haunted house is perfect for thrill-seekers looking to immerse themselves in a true horror experience.
See more information about New Orleans Nightmare Haunted House
Visit a Haunted Cemetery
New Orleans’ cemeteries are world-famous for their above-ground tombs and spooky ambiance. Visit St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 or Lafayette Cemetery, where many notable figures are buried. These cemeteries are believed to be haunted, with tales of ghostly apparitions and unexplained occurrences. Many tour companies offer day and night visits to these hallowed grounds, providing you with a chilling history of New Orleans’ burial practices and paranormal activity.
Book a city and cemetery tour here!
Take a Voodoo Tour
Delve into the mystical world of New Orleans’ spiritual heritage with a Voodoo Tour. You’ll learn about the city’s voodoo culture, which has been an integral part of New Orleans since the 1700s. These tours take you through voodoo shops, the famous tomb of voodoo queen Marie Laveau, and provide fascinating insights into how voodoo shaped the city. Some tours even include live rituals!
Halloween Costume Parties on Bourbon Street
Bourbon Street takes its party reputation up a notch for Halloween, becoming one of the wildest and most fun-filled spots in the city. Halloween Costume Parties dominate the street, with bars and clubs hosting costume contests, live music, and themed events. Whether you want to dress as a classic vampire or get creative with a New Orleans-inspired costume, Bourbon Street is the place to flaunt your outfit.
Explore the Mortuary Haunted House
Located in a historic funeral home, the Mortuary Haunted House is another terrifying attraction for those looking for a scare. With interactive haunted experiences, escape rooms, and horror-themed mazes, it’s guaranteed to give you goosebumps. This one is definitely more suited for teens and adults looking for a spine-tingling Halloween thrill.
See more info about the Mortuary here
Enjoy Halloween at Audubon Zoo’s Boo at the Zoo
Perfect for families, the Boo at the Zoo event at Audubon Zoo offers a fun-filled and lighthearted Halloween celebration that’s ideal for younger children. This beloved annual event transforms the zoo into a Halloween wonderland, where kids can enjoy safe and exciting trick-or-treating throughout the grounds. In addition to collecting candy, little ones can participate in festive costume contests, showing off their creative outfits for a chance to win fun prizes.
The zoo also puts on special Halloween-themed animal exhibits, where families can learn about some of the zoo’s more mysterious creatures, adding an educational twist to the spooky fun. The event features a variety of carnival-style games, arts and crafts stations, and live entertainment to keep kids of all ages entertained.
See more info on Audubon’s Boo at the Zoo!
Tour the LaLaurie Mansion
One of the most haunted houses in New Orleans, the LaLaurie Mansion, is infamous for its disturbing history. While the house itself isn’t open for tours, you can still learn about its gruesome past and the ghosts that allegedly haunt the mansion by joining a guided walking tour. It’s an essential stop for those who want to dive deep into the city’s darker, spookier side.
Discover the haunted past of the LaLaurie Mansion
Wrap-Up
Halloween in New Orleans is a celebration like no other, blending the city’s historical, cultural, and supernatural elements. Whether you’re exploring haunted mansions, joining a ghost tour, or partying in the French Quarter, the city has something for everyone during this festive season. If you’re looking for a family-friendly yet spooky adventure, be sure to book one of the city’s Ghost Bust Tours or Kid-Friendly Ghost Tours to make your Halloween experience unforgettable!
