Halloween in New Orleans

Considered Louisiana’s second biggest holiday behind Mardi Gras, Halloween is no stranger to New Orleans tradition of extravagant parties and outlandish decorations. However, with the arrival of COVID-19, many events and celebrations have unfortunately been cancelled, but the Halloween spirit is still alive and well in Louisiana. Here are some final Halloween spooks to share with your family.

1. Ghost Manor

https://www.facebook.com/ghostmanor.org/photos/549766652155050

From now until Halloween, visitors can stop by the popular Ghost Manor located on Magazine Street. This victorian-style house has captured the attention of visitors for nine years with its every-growing display of lighting effects, decorations, and animatronics.  

Unfortunately, guests are not allowed inside due to COVID-19, but they are encouraged to strike a pose in front of its lavish decorations. This “static” display is the perfect spot for Instagram worthy pictures.

2. Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin Patch

https://www.facebook.com/Mrs-Heathers-Pumpkin-Strawberry-Patch-111006328954913/photos/a.304886809566863/1388195127902687

Head on over to Hammond from now until November 8thand spend the day at Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin Patch. Guests can choose their one pumpkin and enjoy a variety of activities, including a zip line, hay maze, and face painting. Mrs. Heather’s also offers educational information on milking cows and growing pumpkin for curious kids.

The patch is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and costs $8 per child under 18 and adults not accompanying a child.

3. New Orleans Ghost Tours

For those searching for a little more spook, New Orleans Legendary Walking Tours offers a ghost tour. Explore the streets of New Orleans and discover first hand why it is considered the most haunted city in the United States. From murders to diseases and everything in between, New Orleans Legendary Walking Tours is sure to have a story that captures your attention.

Tours are held daily at 5:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. with proper COVID-19 precautions in place for guest’s safety. Book a tour today at neworleanslegendarywalkingtours.com or call 504.503.0199.

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Book a tour with Cajun Encounters today by visiting www.cajunencounters.com or calling 504.834.1770 or begin your walkthrough New Orleans by visiting neworleanslegendarywalkingtours.com or calling 504.503.0199

Top 5 Haunted Places in Louisiana as seen on TV

Reality television has captured the attention of society for generations, guaranteeing drama and excitement every moment. A new type of reality has caught the attention of viewers, however, the paranormal kind. Paranormal reality television often follows a group of individuals investigating popular places that are considered “haunted”. Viewers are virtually taken to locations with the team through images and video footage, so they can experience the activity with them from their own home. Louisiana is no stranger to these investigations and locations found through various parts of the state are often featured on popular television shows. This list is compiled of five haunted locations in Louisiana that are featured on television.

1. Oak Alley – Ghost Hunters

When you think about plantations in New Orleans, Oak Alley tends to be the first one that comes to your mind. Located on the west bank of the Mississippi River, Oak Alley’s double-row of century-old oak trees, creating an alley, has cemented this historic beauty’s namesake. This historic location has served for the backdrop for several movies, including the well-known Interview with the Vampire, and they are not the only ones bringing cameras inside.

Ghost Hunters featured Oak Alley in Season 4 Episode 19 of their popular television show. Tales of flying candles and voices were enough to capture this crew attentions and bring them all the way to the south in hopes of capturing it on camera.

Want to visit Oak Alley yourself? Set up a tour today at cajunencounters.com or calling 504.834.1770.

2. Dauphine Orleans Hotel – Buzzfeed Unsolved

Take a trip back in time, or at least feel like you are, with the historic New Orleans hotel, Dauphine Orleans Hotel. With a history so old and rich that it almost competes with Crescent City itself; Dauphine has survived the test of time since its opening in the 1770’s. It’s no surprise that myths of guest who did not check out surround this legendary hotel.

 

Buzzfeed Unsolved, an internet series with a humorous take on unsolved crimes, hauntings, and historical mysteries, took on the great Dauphine Orleans in Supernatural Season 2 episode 9. Hosts, Shane and Ryan, spend the night at this hotel in hopes of seeing one of the many believed sightings, including a dancing lady and wandering sounds of footsteps.

3. St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 – Most Terrifying Places in America

Located near the center of New Orleans, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 attracts more than 100,000 visitors each year and is the oldest cemetery in the city. Visitors travel from all over to visit the tomb of legendary Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau and to take a stroll through living history. Between the many crumbling above-ground graves, this “city of the dead” holds the stories of many well-known personalities within its walls.

Do not let the title scare you. Most Terrifying Places in America simply takes its viewers on a tour across the U.S. to discuss popular paranormal hot spots. This show features a more in-depth historical view of each location with stories of alleged “personal encounters” sprinkled throughout. St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is one of the locations, out of 7, featured on part one of the standalone feature that premiered in 2009.

Interested in taking a look inside? Due to past visitors, the only way in is through a tour. Get your very own ticket in today at neworleanslegendarywalkingtours.com or call 504.503.0199

4. May Bailey’s Place – Ghost Adventures

May Baily’s Place, a Creole-style cottage, holds years of history within its walls. As a place that came into use in the 1890’s, this now cocktail lounge has seen its fair share of visitors at its location in the French Quarter. Today, May Baily’s is decorated with Victorian style portraits, an update from their original design, but visitors can still find memorabilia from their earlier days throughout.

Ghost Adventures, an extremely popular television series, visited the city of New Orleans in Episode 22 of their sixth season. The crew planned to explore the city affected by Hurricane Katrina, and May Baily’s secured their very own spot on that list. Alleged stories of faint shadows and furniture that rearranges itself was enough to capture this legendary crew’s attention.

5. Longleaf Sawmill – Deep South Paranormal

Considered the heart of Louisiana to many people, the sawmill in Longleaf, Louisiana has a history dating back to World War II. Longleaf Sawmill got its start in the late 1800’s, harvesting Louisiana’s pine trees. While the town that once surrounded it is no longer standing, the mill remains a pilar of the history that was once made there.

A lesser known show by the name of Deep South Paranormal featured the Longleaf Sawmill in the very first episode of their first season. The crew investigated hoping to find evidence of crew members that stayed even long after the closing in 1969.

Interested in seeing more of New Orleans history? Book a tour with Cajun Encounters today by visiting www.cajunencounters.com or calling 504.834.1770 or begin your walkthrough New Orleans by visiting neworleanslegendarywalkingtours.com or calling 504.503.0199

Cajun Encounters Guest Reviews

Take a trip down to the famous Honey Island Swamp with Cajun Encounters. Their captains are considered experts in their field, resulting in visitors experiencing an authentic tour of one of America’s most untouched ecosystems. With over 3,616 reviews and a rating of 4.8 stars, Cajun Encounters is perfect for those searching for a new kind of adventure.

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4.8 Stars - Based on 3775 User Reviews

“I’ve done water tours all over the country. Hand’s down, this is the best! Captain John was extremely knowledgeable of the bayous, swamps and river. He’s got a great sense of humor. He answered all of our questions. He grew up in the area so had personal experience and knowledge of the water, plants and wildlife He showed us many alligators, wild boar and raccoon. These critters came quite close as they knew him. He fed them protein logs. Make a reservation a few days before you want to go. Our hotel made ours. We were picked up at a hotel near our hotel. I’d highly recommend being picked up. You must wear a mask on the van. The driver took our temperature as we entered the van. Our van driver, Karen, shared a lot about New Orleans as we drove to the swamp. You pay for your ticket at the gift shop. A mask must be worn. Fun gifts in the shop. Of course I bought my granddaughter a stuffed baby wild boar. 🙂 You can buy cold water and beverages, snacks and ice cream treats. Dont forget to get their alligator jerkey. Nice bathrooms next to the gift shop. No bathroom facilities on the boat. A 2-hour fabulous time. A must do when in New Orleans!”

-Lynn S., September 2020

“This tour was great! From the moment we were picked up by our shuttle driver Alfred, to the end of the tour. Alfred told us info about the area as we passed certain places on the shuttle on our way to the swamp. He was very knowledge and friendly. The tour itself was great. Captain John was very knowledgeable about the swamp, wildlife, and swamp history. He also grew up there so he told us personal stories and experiences which were great to hear him speak about. He was funny and personable and I’m so happy we experienced this tour as first time NOLA visitors. I’d recommend this to anyone.”

-Nia, September 2020

“During this time of partial quarantine for the CovId-19 pandemic, it is difficult to find activities that are open and allow for safety measures for visiting guests of a city. We are from California here visiting a family member and wanted to explore something interesting and adventuresome for my newly teen child to not feel imprisoned by being inside so much. After researching events and activities and carefully reviewing feedback we opted for this adventure tour. Capt. Emmett was a fantastic guide! He was so entertaining, engaging, informative and authentic. The provisions made by the tour company – Cajun Encounters – made the visit very accommodating and comfortable by limiting numbers on the boat and implementing social distancing measures which were quite effective without being imposing or detracting from the excursion. Our group, which was diverse in people, age, and geographical locations was made to feel right at home in “swampland”…. We were encouraged to ask questions, be curious, and be ourselves which made the excursion that much more enjoyable. Thank you to Capt. Emmett for being such a wonderful highlight to our trip to Bayou country. We take back with us joy, laughter, and fond memories of this activity on our trip.”

-Faith E., July 2020

Attractions of New Orleans

Nicknamed the “Big Easy”, New Orleans has made a name for itself by having an exciting nightlife, a vibrant music scene, and a cultural mix of cuisine. A city filled with so much to offer can sometimes be intimidating when planning a trip. Below, there is a list featuring 5 of the top attractions in New Orleans to assist with any future plans.

1. New Orleans French Quarter

A place where you can find yourself surrounded by both the past and the present. Considered New Orleans’s historic heart, the French Quarter is known for its colorful buildings and their cast-iron balconies which only adds to its bright nightlife scene. Now the home of a French Market, modern boutiques, antique stores, and old restaurants, the French Quarter has something for everyone who visits.

2. New Orleans Swamp Tours

Take a trip down the Honey Island Swamp with Cajun Encounters, featuring professional tour guides dedicated to leaving guest with the best possible experience. Step aboard a flat-bottomed boat and see gators first hand while learning about one of Americans most untarnished ecosystems and the nature that inhabits it.

3. The National World War II Museum

Named as one of the top-ranking Best Places to Learn US Military History by USA Today, The National WWII Museum brings history to life in the city of New Orleans by utilizing its rich collection of artifacts. The museum features several different thought-provoking exhibits, including D-Day galleries and the George R. Brown Salute to the Home Front. The National World War II Museum is designed and dedicated to inspiring its visitor with valuable lessons of WWII, containing heroism, tragedy, and liberation.

4. Steamboat Natchez

Visitors can board the last authentic steamboat on the Mississippi River when they step foot on the Steamboat Natchez. Guests can experience live historic and port narration while enjoying the option of New Orleans favorite meals and beverages. Each cruise features a traditional jazz trio and professional New Orleans musicians, depending on the time of day. With three cruises to choose from, guests are sure to have a great time on the mighty Mississippi.

5. New Orleans Cuisine

Perhaps one of the most known calling cards of New Orleans is the culture of good food. Restaurants, such as Coterie Nola and Café Du Monde, are run by New Orleans locals, taking pride in serving the most authentic dishes. Whether it be savory crawfish etouffee or sweet French style donuts, visitors are sure to find a meal that satisfies their tastebuds.

Book a tour with Cajun Encounters today by visiting www.cajunencounters.com or calling 504.834.1770 or begin your walkthrough New Orleans by visiting neworleanslegendarywalkingtours.com or calling 504.503.0199

New Orleans October 2020 Events

With the introduction of the infamous coronavirus, our daily lives have looked a little different than usual. Popular events were cancelled and birthday celebrations were forced to reschedule, but Louisiana is known for not staying down for long. While many events have since gone virtual, New Orleans is still offering in-person family friendly events throughout the month of October.

1. Raine Bedsole Opening Reception – Water and Dreams

Image credit: https://www.callancontemporary.com/

Interested in art? Check out Raine Bedsole’s eighth solo exhibition by the title of Water and Dreams. These mixed media pieces work together to represent the human adventure and showcase the roles water plays in history, world religion, and literature. The variety of multicolored sculptures is enough to capture any art lover’s attention.

Take a relaxing walk through this art exhibit every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday for free until the end of October.

2. Restaurant Week New Orleans

Cuisine is considered an essential part of New Orleans culture. The Louisiana Restaurant Association is bringing this to a front with their Restaurant Week. The event lasts from October 5th to October 11th and involves as many as three dozen restaurants offering special fixed-price menus to some of the most popular spots in town from the French Quarter to neighborhood bistros. Featuring a mix of different styles, including but not limited to Cajun, French, Italian, Asian, and Middle Eastern, visitors and locals are sure to find a meal to please their tastebuds.

Restaurants will be offering both a dine in and take out option.

New Orleans Swamp Tours

Got a taste of what Louisiana has to offer and searching for more? Take a trip down the Honey Island Swamp with Cajun Encounters. Guests can experience the beauty of one of the most untarnished ecosystems in America first-hand while learning about the plants and animals that inhabit it. With top experts as their guides, guests can rest assured that they will have the best educational experience possible. Cajun Encounters is working hard to ensure not only the satisfaction but also the safety of its visitors by implementing proper COVID-19 protocol.

New Orleans French Quarter Tours

For those hoping to immerse themselves in New Orleans culture even more, New Orleans Legendary Walking Tours is the perfect place to see the best that the city has to offer. With tours through the French Quarter, cemeteries, and Garden District, visitors are able to see sights that only the Crescent City can offer. Guests can learn more about the history and culture from the mouths of certified tour guides, ensuring historically accurate and informative information with an entertaining twist. Similarly, to Cajun Encounters, New Orleans Legendary Walking Tours takes its visitors health and safety as their top priority. As a result, they have also implemented COVID-19 protocol to ensure their visitors can experience the best without fear.

Book a tour with Cajun Encounters today by visiting www.cajunencounters.com or calling 504.834.1770 or begin your walkthrough New Orleans by visiting neworleanslegendarywalkingtours.com or calling 504.503.0199