Get Your 'Cirque du Freak' On In New Orleans

Get Your 'Cirque du Freak' On In New Orleans
October 30, 2009
Jaunted

Vampires were wondering the streets of New Orleans long before Robert Pattinson was even a glimmer in his parents' eye. Today, vampire folklore is so deeply rooted in the city's history, from Anne Rice to stories of the undead walking the French Quarter, that is no surprise the movie Cirque du Freak: The Vampire's Assistant was filmed here too. The movie, in theaters now, is about Darren, a teenage boy who meets a mysterious man at a freak show and ends up leaving his normal life to become a vampire. Just in time for All Hallow's Eve, here's how to get in touch with your own inner-vampire in New Orleans.

Where to Stay:
The Dauphine Orleans Hotel in the French Quarter is exactly what most people think of when they think of New Orleans. The hotel features courtyards and balconies that overlook the quarter, luxurious accommodations and a history filled with ghosts and vampires. Best of all, even though the hotel is located in the French Quarter, they offer on-site parking and quiet rooms. There's no rowdy, bead-throwing here, just good 'ol southern hospitality. Rooms start at $106 a night.

Where to Shop:
Boutique du Vampyre, located at 712 rue Orleans, sells everything an aspiring vampire, or vampire hunter, needs. You can get a vampire hunting kit, that includes two small daggers, holy water, garlic, a cross and everything else you need to get rid of the undead for $195. For those who may be more pro-vampire, they make custom fangs or you can get a temporary bite tattoo for only $4.

What to Do:
Spend an afternoon walking along the quaint, tree-lined Uptown street, just off St. Charles Avenue near Loyola University. This is the neighborhood that belonged to Darren, Cirque du Freak: The Vampire's Assistant main character. If you're looking for something with more bite, take the New Orleans Vampire Tour. The tour takes you to all the sites associated with the legends and history of vampires in New Orleans. The cost is $20 for adults and departs every night at 8:30 PM from St. Louis Cathedral.