New Orleans is a city steeped in history, culture, and yes…hauntings.
This vibrant city is home to numerous tales of ghosts, ghouls, and otherworldly entities that are sure to send shivers down your spine. From mysterious sightings atop the iconic Lafayette Cemetery to strange happenings at the Hotel Monteleone, these 5 haunting tales of New Orleans are sure to leave you looking over your shoulder.
1. The Ghosts of Antoine’s Restaurant
Antoine’s Restaurant is one of the oldest restaurants in New Orleans and it has a few ghostly residents that linger within its walls. The most famous ghost is said to be Jules Alciatore, son of founder Antoine Alciatore. It is said that he still lurks around the restaurant watching over his family legacy even though he passed away in 1890. Other unexplained occurrences include lights turning on and off inexplicably and the sound of laughter echoing down the hallways at night.
2. The LaLaurie Mansion
The LaLaurie Mansion sits atop Royal Street in the French Quarter and it is one of the most notorious haunted houses in all of New Orleans. Built circa 1832 by Dr. Louis LaLaurie and his wife Delphine, this mansion was home to countless horrors before being abandoned in 1834 after a fire destroyed its upper floors. Rumor has it that Madame LaLaurie tortured her slaves in secret chambers beneath her residence which would explain why her property remains so heavily haunted today with both her spirit as well as those who suffered at her hands still roaming around its grounds.
3. Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau
No list of hauntings in New Orleans would be complete without mentioning Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau who still haunts St Louis Cemetery #1 even after her death more than a hundred years ago! Her spirit can often be seen walking through the cemetery or even granting wishes when asked politely (just don’t forget to give her an offering!). Locals also claim that she appears on St John’s Eve every year when voodoo practitioners gather at her tomb for an all-night celebration honoring their beloved Queen!
4. Hotel Monteleone
Haven’t heard much about hauntings but want a taste? Then head over to Hotel Monteleone where you can experience some minor supernatural activity such as lights turning on unexpectedly or doors slamming shut for no reason! Some say these occurrences are caused by William Wildemere, a former owner who died suddenly under suspicious circumstances inside Room 870 (now known as “The Haunted Room”). Others say they are caused by Maurice Begere, another former owner whose ghost is said to visit guests in their rooms from time to time!
5. The Haunted Courtyard Fountain at Bourbon Street Pub
Finally, if you want something more lighthearted then you should check out Bourbon Street Pub which hosts a courtyard fountain rumored to be haunted by two mischievous spirits! According to legend, these two ghosts were once lovers who drowned themselves rather than be separated by their disapproving families — now they like playing pranks on unsuspecting visitors such as turning on fountains or moving tables around the courtyard!
With its rich history and unique culture, it’s no wonder why New Orleans is rife with tales of hauntings and supernatural activity -from mysterious sightings atop Lafayette Cemetery to strange happenings at Hotel Monteleone this vibrant city has something for everyone! Whether you’re looking for something thrilling or just some lighthearted fun there’s sure to be something here for everyone so come get your fill of spooky stories from America’s most haunted city!