Vampire of the Vieux Carre

Dear Vampirling,

As you know, the turning of one so young is a forbidden practice in the vampire world. However, what’s been done has been done. Allow me to guide you through a series of unforgettable locations where you may find community and perhaps even sate your thirst—if only for a moment.

The Vampire Café is a must-visit for any fledgling in New Orleans. While their menu is suitable for a light bite, I would recommend their sister establishment, The Apothecary, for a more satisfying repast. A small appetizer at the Café will do to wet your appetite, and a full meal at the Apothecary will leave you replenished. They offer non-alcoholic blood bags, perfect for your day of adventure.

Afterward, take a stroll through The Vampire Boutique, where you’ll shop amongst your fellow creatures of the night. Be mindful when choosing color-changing eye contacts, as they can be difficult and sometimes hazardous to manage. If you’re feeling particularly extravagant, you may wish to commission a pair of custom-made vampire fangs. They are quite expensive, but undeniably impressive.

While at the Apothecary, be sure to request access to the upstairs gallery. There, you’ll find breathtaking paintings of the legendary Casket Girls—their beauty immortalized through brush and canvas.

Next, book your passage to the Gallier House Museum. Not only does it feature the stunning interior and exterior of Interview with the Vampire’s recent AMC adaptation, but the fall exhibit on Creole mourning traditions is something you cannot miss. Gallier House Events

Make your way to Hotel Royale on Royal Street. Politely request to visit the courtyard, where you can take pictures of Marcel’s home—as seen in the TV show The Originals. The vampire connection runs deep here.

Now, something that may surprise you—given our damned nature—consider attending a Gospel Mass at Saint Augustine’s. This historical church, situated in the heart of the Free People of Color’s neighborhood, Treme, offers a most unique experience. It was also one of the key shooting locations for the violent church scenes in Interview with the Vampire. A place of worship for some, and a place of dark secrets for others.

No vampire journey would be complete without a visit to one of New Orleans’ legendary cemeteries. Saint Roch is free and an excellent choice for a peaceful wander. However, if you have a car at your disposal, venture out to Metairie Cemetery, where you’ll find hauntingly beautiful tombs, including those of the Italian Society. You may even wish to pay your respects at Anne Rice’s final resting place.

Explore the occult side of the city with a stop at one of New Orleans' finest magic shops. Make your way to Sassy Magic or Crescent City Conjure. Both are brimming with mysterious and potent artifacts.

For a thrilling experience, visit The Haunted Sanctuary in Exchange Alley, run by the coven at Witches Brew. There, you may find all manner of witchcraft and wonder.

Finally, you must not leave without seeing Dark Matter. It’s an art gallery like no other—one that thrives on the eerie and the supernatural, with works that will stir the deepest corners of your dark soul.

And a final word of caution, Vampirling: While your powers allow you to roam in daylight, do remember to wear plenty of sunblock and seek shade when necessary. You are the future of vampirekind, but New Orleans is a place rich in tradition, and those who walk these streets must always be aware of their surroundings.

May the night keep you in its embrace,

Your Friend in the Moonlight,

The Vampire Orion