spooky activities for a weekend in new orleans
If you're into haunted history, vampire lore, or all things voodoo, New Orleans, Louisiana should be at the top of your spooky season bucket list. This city has a long history of ghost stories, unsolved mysteries, and eerie legends woven into its streets, cemeteries, and architecture. Whether you're visiting in October or just want a darker twist on your NOLA getaway, here are five must-do spooky activities to check out.
Explore the cemeteries: New Orleans is famous for its above-ground cemeteries, and many of them offer guided walking tours that dive into the city's haunted history. St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is the most iconic and is home to elaborate tombs, ghost stories, and notable figures from NOLA’s past. Don’t go solo, a guided tour gives you all the creepy backstory you didn’t know you needed.
Visit the LaLaurie Mansion: One of the most infamous sites in the city, the LaLaurie Mansion is said to be the most haunted house in America. It’s the former home of Delphine LaLaurie, whose dark past was made famous on American Horror Story: Coven. While you can't go inside, the exterior alone is chilling, and it's a staple on nearly every ghost tour in the French Quarter.
See Buckner Mansion: Another AHS: Coven filming location, Buckner Mansion served as Miss Robichaux’s Academy for Exceptional Young Ladies. It’s located in the Garden District and is one of the most photographed homes in the city. While it’s privately owned and not open for tours, it’s definitely worth a stop for fans of the show.
Track down Jacques St. Germain’s house: New Orleans has vampire legends too, and one of the most famous is Jacques St. Germain, rumored to be the original American vampire. His home in the French Quarter still stands, and while you won’t find him walking around, the story alone will send a chill down your spine.
Visit the tomb of Marie Laveau: Known as the Voodoo Queen of New Orleans, Marie Laveau’s tomb is a major pilgrimage site for those interested in the spiritual side of the city. You can find her tomb in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, often marked with triple Xs left by visitors. Respectful visits only as this is a sacred space to many.
Drink blood at a Vampire speakeasy: You may be familiar with the Vampire Cafe, but not as many people know about the speakeasy bar called Potions Lounge. It’s supposedly a vampire owned and operated bar where all of the real vampires of NOLA hangout. You can only get access by purchasing something from the Vampire Cafe or Boutique. After you purchase, they will give you a card that gives you an address and password to enter the secret bar. You have to physically have the card with you at the address because when you get there, there will be a Gatekeeper Vampire you need to give it to along with the password. Once you’re in, you can enjoy fun themed cocktails, including a blood bag, inside of a dark and moody bar.
Final tips for spooky travelers
Join a ghost or voodoo tour for even more creepy context
Wear comfortable shoes for walking through cemeteries and the French Quarter
Many of these spots are private property, so be respectful and stick to public viewing areas
New Orleans gets hot even in October, so plan your spooky outfit accordingly
Click HERE for a link to my full New Orleans travel guide which includes everything on what to do, where to eat/drink, and more!
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