LaSimple Mansion (LaLaurie Mansion)
4.4(129)google
Historic BuildingHistoryEerie & HauntedPhoto SpotGuided TourMust-See
Overview
The LaLaurie Mansion, often historically referred to in modern tours as the LaSimple Mansion, is one of New Orleans' most architecturally stunning yet dark and infamous historic properties. Located in the French Quarter, this grand Creole mansion was home to Madame Delphine LaLaurie, a 19th-century socialite later discovered to have cruelly tortured enslaved people in her hidden attic. While the interior remains closed to the public, its chilling history and striking architecture make it a primary stop on all historic walking tours.
Practical Info
Best TimeThe cooler months from October to April provide the best climate. Aim for an October dusk between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM as darkness falls. The dim gas lamps of the French Quarter cast eerie, sweeping shadows across the mansion's ornate cast-iron balconies, creating the ultimate haunting atmosphere to experience this legendary voodoo landmark.
Getting TherePerfectly positioned at 1140 Royal St in the heart of the New Orleans French Quarter. Highly accessible via public transit: ride the historic New Orleans Streetcar (Riverfront or Loyola lines) to the Dumaine St stop, followed by a 3-minute walk. Driving is strictly discouraged due to extreme gridlock and severe parking bans.
Travel Tips
- This is a private residence, and the interior is closed. Tours claiming inside access are scams; it is strictly a walk-by, exterior-viewing attraction.
- Located in the narrow, busy French Quarter, parking is impossible nearby, and traffic is frequent. Do not block the roadway or stand in the street while taking photos.
Photo Tips
Best LightThe mansion is a popular, crowded stop for evening ghost tours. For better photo opportunities without crowds, visit during the morning hours, specifically before 10:00 AM.
Reviews
Positive
- As one of America's most famous haunted houses, its grand exterior architecture and infamous historical background carry a chilling, powerful presence.
- It is an absolute landmark in the French Quarter; nearly every night ghost tour uses it as a key stop, making it highly photogenic.
- The exterior walls and wrought-iron balconies are beautifully maintained, radiating a rich 19th-century Creole mansion charm—a must-see for historic architecture buffs.
- The surrounding signs and location are very clear; it's extremely accessible, just a few minutes' walk from the bustling French Market area.
Heads up
- This is a private residence closed entirely to the public; tourists can only stand on the sidewalk outside to look at the walls, not worth a dedicated trip.
- It feels heavily commercialized during the day, with narrow sidewalks outside constantly packed with tour groups, completely ruining the rumored eerie atmosphere.
- There is no dedicated parking nearby, and street parking is extremely scarce and expensive, making driving there to look for a spot incredibly frustrating.
- Due to the lack of official indoor exhibits or multilingual guides, self-guided visitors will just see an old house without learning the real history.