New Orleans, a city steeped in history, rich culture, and a distinct air of mystery, is practically synonymous with the supernatural. Its long and often turbulent past, marked by epidemics, fires, wars, and dark secrets, has left behind an undeniable spectral residue. If you’re looking for a thrill, a walk through the Crescent City’s historic streets after dark is sure to give you chills.

Here are 7 of the most chillingly haunted places in New Orleans that will make your spine tingle:

1. The LaLaurie Mansion (1140 Royal Street)

Perhaps the most infamous haunted house in New Orleans, the LaLaurie Mansion holds a truly gruesome history. Owned by the socially prominent Madame Delphine LaLaurie in the 1830s, this seemingly elegant home concealed unspeakable horrors. In 1834, a fire in the mansion led to the discovery of brutally tortured and mutilated enslaved people. While Madame LaLaurie escaped, the spirits of her victims are said to remain, haunting the property with screams, groans, and unsettling paranormal activity. This privately owned residence is a popular stop on ghost tours, its dark past palpable even from the street.

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2. St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 (400 Basin Street)

As New Orleans’ oldest active cemetery, dating back to 1789, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is a labyrinth of crumbling, above-ground tombs. Due to the city’s unique burial practices (graves are built above ground because of the high water table), this “city of the dead” is a dense collection of final resting places, many of which are said to be far from quiet. The most famous resident is the Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau, whose tomb is often adorned with offerings and “X” marks left by visitors hoping for wishes to be granted. Others report seeing full-bodied apparitions and hearing disembodied voices among the crypts. Access is typically restricted to guided tours only.

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3. The Sultan’s Palace (Gardette-LePretre House, 716 Dauphine Street)

This beautiful French Quarter mansion holds a tale of unimaginable horror. Legend has it that in the mid-19th century, a wealthy “sultan” and his entourage occupied the house, indulging in lavish, wild parties. One morning, the entire household was found brutally murdered – dismembered bodies scattered throughout the house and courtyard. While some historians debate the exact details, the gruesome story has firmly cemented the Sultan’s Palace as a hotbed of paranormal activity. Visitors and residents have reported screams, the sounds of Middle Eastern music, and ghostly figures wandering the property.

4. Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop (941 Bourbon Street)

One of the oldest surviving buildings in the French Quarter, Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop is a legendary dive bar said to be haunted by the pirate Jean Lafitte himself. Built in the late 1700s, this atmospheric, dimly lit establishment (often lit only by candlelight) has seen centuries of revelry and dark dealings. Patrons and staff have reported seeing Lafitte’s full-bodied apparition lurking in the shadows, objects moving on their own, and strange whispers in the dead of night. It’s the perfect place to grab a drink and see if you can feel a chilling presence.

5. The Andrew Jackson Hotel (919 Royal Street)

Once the site of a boys’ orphanage that tragically burned down, claiming the lives of several young residents, the Andrew Jackson Hotel is now a charming boutique hotel with a lively spirit population. Guests and staff frequently report hearing the laughter and footsteps of spectral children playing in the courtyard and halls. Some even claim to have had their pillows ruffled or personal items moved. The playful yet undeniable presence of these young ghosts adds a unique, eerie charm to this historic hotel.

6. Muriel’s Restaurant (801 Chartres Street)

Located directly across from St. Louis Cathedral, Muriel’s Restaurant is housed in a building with a long and storied past. The most famous resident ghost is believed to be Pierre Antoine Lepardi Jourdan, who owned the property in the early 1800s. After losing the house in a high-stakes poker game, he tragically committed suicide on the second floor. Today, Muriel’s honors his memory by keeping a table permanently set for him in the Seance Lounge. Guests and staff have reported seeing a shimmering, sparkly light (believed to be Jourdan’s spirit) and other unexplained phenomena.

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7. New Orleans Pharmacy Museum (514 Chartres Street)

This quaint, historic museum, America’s first licensed pharmacy, holds a darker secret. It’s believed to be haunted by the ghost of its second owner, Dr. Joseph Dupas, a physician with a penchant for unorthodox, often gruesome, medical experiments, particularly on pregnant women and enslaved individuals. Visitors to the museum have reported disembodied voices, objects moving on their own, and even the chilling sensation of being watched or touched. The eerie atmosphere and the unsettling history make it a truly unique and unsettling spot.

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New Orleans truly embraces its spectral side, offering numerous ghost tours that delve deeper into the chilling tales and dark corners of the city. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, a visit to these haunted locales is sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the mysterious, and perhaps a shiver down your spine.

A night out at a Broadway show in New York City can easily set you back $150—and that’s just for one seat. But what if we told you that you could stay in the heart of NYC for 4 nights—for less?

Thanks to a travel hack we found through Booksi, you can book 5 days and 4 nights in Midtown Manhattan for just $89 total. Yes, less than the price of a single theater ticket.
Here’s how to turn a Broadway-budget into a full-on Big Apple experience:

Stay Where the Action Is🗽

This deal gets you into the Wingate by Wyndham New York Midtown, just steps from Penn Station, Madison Square Garden, and Times Square. It’s clean, comfortable, and smack in the middle of everything you came to NYC to see.

Explore for Next to Nothing 🍎

New York is a dream destination even without a packed wallet. After you’ve checked in, spend your days exploring: – Central Park (free) – Staten Island Ferry for skyline views (free) – High Line + Chelsea Market (free to walk, cheap to eat) – Grand Central + NY Public Library (gorgeous, historic, and free)

Eat Like a Local (Without the Tourist Prices) 🍕

Sure, NYC has Michelin stars—but you’ll also find: – $1 pizza slices – Bagels with schmear for under $5 – Hidden noodle shops and food trucks serving killer meals for under $10

Still Want Broadway? 🎭

You’re in luck! Use your savings to score rush or lottery tickets. Many big shows offer $30–$50 day-of tickets. That means you can still see a show and stay four nights for less than one regular-priced seat.

The Breakdown 💰

Hotel stay: $89 via Booksi’s special NYC deal

Attractions: Mostly free

Transit: $33 for a 7-day unlimited MetroCard

Meals: Flexible and cheap with NYC’s endless grab-and-go options

Final Word ✨

If you thought staying in NYC required a Wall Street paycheck, think again.

This Booksi deal flips the script: 4 nights in Midtown for less than one

Dive into Paradise: Why Grand Sirenis Riviera Maya is a Snorkeler’s Dream

Akumal, Mexico – When it comes to finding the ultimate snorkeling experience in North America, one resort consistently rises to the top: the Grand Sirenis Riviera Maya Resort & Spa in Akumal. Nestled on a stunning stretch of the Caribbean coastline, this all-inclusive paradise isn’t just a place to relax; it’s a gateway to an unparalleled underwater world.

So, what makes the Grand Sirenis stand out as the #1 snorkeling resort? Let’s dive in!

1. Direct Access to a Thriving Coral Reef: The biggest draw for snorkel enthusiasts at Grand Sirenis is its direct access to a vibrant coral reef, right off the resort’s private beach. Unlike many resorts where you need to book an excursion to see significant marine life, here you simply step into the clear, calm waters and are immediately surrounded by an incredible array of tropical fish, colorful corals, and even the occasional sea turtle. This convenience means more time exploring and less time traveling!

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2. The “Heart-Shaped Inlet” and Its Secret Lagoon: The Grand Sirenis boasts a unique “heart-shaped inlet” within its property, which is widely celebrated as one of the most beautiful and easily accessible snorkeling spots in the region. This natural formation creates a protected, tranquil environment, perfect for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced snorkelers. Many guests rave about the abundance of marine life found within this natural aquarium, making it a truly magical experience. There’s even a “secret lagoon” that can be accessed via a short jungle path, offering another fantastic, unspoiled spot for crystal-clear water and diverse fish.

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3. Abundant and Diverse Marine Life: The waters surrounding Grand Sirenis are teeming with biodiversity. Snorkelers consistently report sightings of:

• Vibrant Tropical Fish: Schools of brightly colored fish in every hue imaginable.
• Graceful Sea Turtles: Akumal is renowned for its turtle population, and seeing these gentle creatures in their natural habitat is often a highlight.
• Unique Coral Formations: The healthy coral reef provides a home for countless marine species and is a breathtaking sight in itself.
• Other fascinating creatures: Keep an eye out for stingrays, barracudas, and various crustaceans that call this reef home.

4. Calm and Clear Waters: The protected coves and inlets at the Grand Sirenis contribute to consistently calm and exceptionally clear waters. This excellent visibility ensures that every snorkeling adventure is a rewarding one, allowing you to fully appreciate the intricate details of the underwater ecosystem. Early mornings are often cited as the best time for the calmest waters and peak visibility.

5. On-Site Convenience and Amenities: The resort makes snorkeling incredibly easy. You can bring your own gear, or simply rent it from the on-site dive shop. The presence of a PADI 5-star Gold Palm dive center, Aqua Excursions, also means that even if you’re not certified, you can try introductory diving lessons or even pursue further certifications, truly expanding your underwater exploration opportunities.

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Beyond the Reef: While the snorkeling is undoubtedly a highlight, the Grand Sirenis Riviera Maya offers a complete luxury experience. From spacious Junior Suites with whirlpool baths to a lazy river, multiple pools, a full-service spa, and a wide array of dining options across 10 restaurants, your time out of the water will be just as enjoyable. The resort’s commitment to blending modern comfort with the natural beauty of the Mayan Riviera creates an unforgettable vacation.

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If you’re dreaming of a vacation where you can easily immerse yourself in the wonders of the underwater world, the Grand Sirenis Riviera Maya Resort & Spa in Akumal is an undeniable top choice. Pack your snorkel gear, and prepare to be amazed by the #1 snorkeling resort in North America!