Find out about New Orleans’ most haunted homes and mansions

Top things to do in New Orleans

New Orleans is a city of mystery and legend, where historic homes hide ghostly tales. Find out about haunted houses that reveal eerie stories, paranormal activity, and spine-chilling secrets, offering thrill-seekers and history buffs a truly unforgettable experience.

Iconic haunted houses in New Orleans

LaLaurie Mansion

  • One of New Orleans’ most infamous haunted houses, the LaLaurie Mansion is known for its dark history involving Madame Delphine LaLaurie, who reportedly tortured and killed enslaved people in the 1800s.
  • Visitors and paranormal enthusiasts have reported ghostly sightings, strange noises, and an unsettling presence both inside and outside the mansion. Its chilling legacy makes it a must-visit for those intrigued by the macabre.

Location: 1140 Royal St, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70116

Buckner Mansion

  • This 19th-century mansion in Uptown New Orleans is famous for ghost sightings, including apparitions in period clothing and unexplained footsteps.
  • Locals believe the spirits of former residents linger, drawn by the house’s long and mysterious past. The Buckner Mansion has become a popular stop for haunted tours and paranormal investigations.

Location: 3675 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70115

Brennan House (Haunted French Quarter Home)

  • This historic French Quarter residence is rumored to be haunted by former occupants and mysterious visitors. Stories of flickering lights, moving objects, and ghostly silhouettes have been told for decades.
  • Its proximity to other haunted sites makes it a key stop on ghost tours.

Location: 500 Dauphine St, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70112

Gallier House

  • Built in 1857, the Gallier House is an architectural gem said to host the spirits of its original owners. Visitors report hearing footsteps, voices, and strange occurrences that cannot be explained.
  • The house combines historical significance with a touch of paranormal intrigue.

Location: 1132 Royal St, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70116

Find the most haunted houses on Maps

LaLaurie Mansion

Location: 1140 Royal St, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70116 | Find on Maps

Buckner Mansion

Location: 3675 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70115 | Find on Maps

Brennan House (haunted French Quarter home)

Location: 500 Dauphine St, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70112 | Find on Maps

Gallier House

Location: 1132 Royal St, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70116 | Find on Maps

A brief history of haunted houses in New Orleans

New Orleans’ haunted reputation comes from its long, turbulent history. Centuries of colonial rule, battles, epidemics, and natural disasters left deep scars on the city. Many homes witnessed tragedy, death, and suffering, from enslaved people to victims of yellow fever and violent events.

Add the city’s strong Voodoo traditions, spiritual beliefs, and fascination with the supernatural, and it’s no surprise that restless spirits are said to linger. The unique above-ground tombs, historic architecture, and labyrinthine French Quarter streets create an eerie atmosphere that fuels ghost stories.

Essentially, every creaking floorboard and shadowed hallway tells a tale of New Orleans’ complex past, making its homes prime candidates for paranormal legends.

Tours that cover haunted houses & mansions

Ghost, Voodoo & Vampire Haunted City Tour

Embark on a 1.5–2 hour walking tour through the French Quarter, delving into the eerie tales of New Orleans' haunted past. Guided by professional storytellers, you'll uncover the chilling histories of infamous figures like Madame LaLaurie and the vampire legend Jacques St. Germain. Each guide crafts a unique route, ensuring no two tours are alike.

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Haunted Pub Crawl

This 2-hour walking tour combines the best of New Orleans' haunted history with its vibrant nightlife. Visit some of the city's most haunted bars and restaurants, including the infamous Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop. Along the way, enjoy a drink (own expense) and hear tales of ghostly encounters, true crime, and local legends.

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Visitor tips & etiquette

  • Wandering off during night tours can be unsafe and disrupt the experience.
  • Loud chatter can ruin the eerie atmosphere for others.
  • Always ask before taking photos, especially of private homes. Flash photography may not be allowed.
  • Guides may share ghost stories tied to real tragedies, but treat them respectfully.
  • Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing make walking tours much easier.
  • Eating or drinking on the property is often prohibited.
  • These sites can be fragile and culturally significant; respect all boundaries and rules.

Frequently asked questions about haunted house in New Orleans

Are the haunted houses in New Orleans actually occupied?

Yes, several haunted homes, like LaLaurie Mansion, are privately owned, while others are historic landmarks. You can view most from the outside only.

Can you go inside any haunted houses during tours?

No, most tours focus on exteriors due to preservation laws.

Are these haunted houses connected to real historical events?

Absolutely. Many of them are tied to documented tragedies, epidemics, fires, or violent crimes, which fuel the city’s ghost lore.

Why are so many haunted houses concentrated in the French Quarter?

The French Quarter is one of the oldest parts of the city; its layered history, voodoo practices, and yellow fever epidemics contribute to its haunted reputation.

Is it safe to visit these haunted houses at night?

Yes, when part of a guided tour. Independent visits at night are not recommended for safety and legal reasons.

Can paranormal activity really be experienced during tours?

While not guaranteed, many guests claim to hear unexplained sounds or see flickering lights, especially at infamous spots.

Are haunted house tours suitable for kids?

Some are family-friendly, but others, especially adult-only tours, may involve intense stories, alcohol stops, or mature content.

Do haunted houses look different during the day vs. at night?

Yes, the ambiance shifts dramatically. Night tours often highlight eerie details like shadowy balconies, flickering lanterns, and quiet streets.

Can I take ghost-hunting equipment on the tours?

Some tours, like the Haunted Bus Tour, allow EMF readers or spirit boxes, while others restrict equipment to keep the experience immersive.

Are haunted houses protected as heritage sites?

Many are listed as historic landmarks, meaning visitors must follow strict rules to help preserve their structure and stories.

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