New Orleans St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 Walking Tour

If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans and want a glimpse into the city’s unique burial customs and stories of intriguing characters, the St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 Walking Tour is a solid choice. This tour, led by local author and historian Sally Asher, offers a chance to see one of the city’s most distinctive cemeteries through the eyes of someone who knows it intimately.

What sets this experience apart? First, the reviews consistently praise the guide’s deep knowledge and engaging storytelling. Second, at just $25, it offers a surprisingly thorough look into New Orleans’ cemeterial traditions and legendary residents. That said, it’s a relatively short tour—about 90 minutes—and some might wish for a little more time to soak in the details. The tour is ideal for history buffs, curious travelers, or anyone interested in the city’s iconic above-ground tombs and their stories.

We love how the tour emphasizes the symbolism behind the tombs and the colorful personalities buried here. We also appreciate the personal attention offered by the small group size, capped at 18 people, which allows for a more intimate experience. A potential consideration? The tour is weather-dependent, and if rain suddenly strikes, it could dampen the experience. This tour suits those who enjoy stories, history, and a walk through a visually striking cemetery.

Key Points

• Led by expert local guide and author Sally Asher, renowned for her knowledge and storytelling
• Focuses on the unique tomb styles, burial practices, and symbolic meanings
• Highlights notable figures buried here, from pioneering women to legendary chefs and local characters
• Small group setting for personalized attention
• Cost-effective at just $25, with insider tips on New Orleans culture
• Duration of 1 hour 30 minutes makes it manageable for most schedules

An Introduction to the Cemetery

The St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 walking tour offers a chance to wander through a cemetery that’s less crowded than its more famous neighbor, St. Louis No. 1. As you stroll, you’ll notice the sheer number of angels watching over the graves—an image so striking you might almost hear their wings. Sally Asher’s storytelling weaves the graves’ visual beauty with stories of the people buried here, making history come alive.

This is no mere stroll among tombstones. It’s an educational journey into the burial customs of New Orleans, where above-ground crypts reflect a city that’s always been a bit different—a place where the dead are part of the living landscape. For travelers fascinated by architecture, local legends, and cultural traditions, this tour offers a compelling window into the city’s soul.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Start Point: 3421 Esplanade Ave, New Orleans. The meeting spot is conveniently near public transportation and easy to find, making it straightforward to begin your exploration.

First stop: St. Louis Cemetery No. 3. Here, Sally Asher will guide you through the maze of tombs, pointing out features like the multitude of angels—so many, in fact, that you might almost “hear the beat of their wings,” as some have said. She will share stories of notable residents, such as the woman behind a quirky castle, the first woman to have a public statue, and other colorful characters that make this cemetery so memorable.

Throughout the walk, Sally explains the evolution of burial practices, from the symbolism on tombs to the reasons why above-ground crypts are a necessity in New Orleans’ water table. She’ll tell you about some of the notable figures—like the architect whose ship disappeared in a hurricane with over a hundred circus performers and prostitutes, or the legendary chefs who made their mark on the city.

The tour lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, and the guide’s detailed narration ensures you’re not just looking at crypts but understanding their stories. The small group size means you can ask questions and get personalized insights, elevating the experience beyond just a walk.

The Stories and Personalities

The comments from previous participants underline just how engaging Sally Asher’s storytelling is. Reviewers describe her as passionate and knowledgeable, with many noting that her explanations help connect the visual aspect of the cemetery with the stories behind the graves.

One traveler mentioned, “You are in good hands! The history, stories, and symbolism helped provide a broad understanding of NOLA history while also bringing into focus some of the iconic figures entombed in the cemetery.” Another noted how the tour offered insight into burial customs, including the symbolism used on tombs, which adds a layer of cultural understanding often missed by casual visitors.

Many reviewers also appreciated the chance to see some of the city’s most famous residents’ final resting places, including Princess Tiana’s resting spot, which delighted fans of Disney and local lore alike.

The Value of This Tour

At $25, this tour is an excellent value given the quality of storytelling, the insight into local culture, and the chance to see a less-visited but visually stunning cemetery. It’s a short tour, but packed with information and personal touches from a dedicated guide.

While some may wish for longer exploration or more time inside the cemetery, the small group format and expert narration make this experience more than just a quick walk. Plus, the insider tips on local food, music, and culture provided by Sally add extra layers to your understanding of New Orleans beyond the cemetery.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• The tour is suitable for most travelers; most can participate. Just consider weather conditions, as it’s an outdoor experience.
• Meeting at 3421 Esplanade Ave makes it accessible if you’re staying nearby or using ride-shares.
• The tour is mobile-ticket only, so plan your timing accordingly.
• It’s best to book at least 22 days in advance, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot.
• Remember, gratuities aren’t included, so if you’re happy with Sally’s storytelling, a tip is appreciated.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This tour is perfect if you’re interested in history, architecture, and stories of notable locals. It’s also ideal for visitors who appreciate a small-group, personalized experience and want to avoid the crowds of the more famous cemeteries. If you’re a fan of storytelling that brings history to life, you’ll find this tour both engaging and educational.

Those with a curiosity about New Orleans’ burial customs will value the explanations of symbolism and practices. For travelers seeking a meaningful, manageable, and visually captivating experience, this tour hits all the right notes.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s outdoors and may involve walking over uneven ground, so consider children’s comfort with walking and weather.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers an expert guide and insider tips on local food, music, and culture. Bottled water and gratuities are not included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where do I meet the guide?
At 3421 Esplanade Ave, near public transportation options.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather; if canceled due to rain, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, the New Orleans St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 Walking Tour offers a rich, engaging look into the city’s burial customs and local characters. Led by a passionate and knowledgeable guide, it provides genuine insight at an affordable price, making it a worthwhile addition to any New Orleans visit. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or simply curious about the city’s unique heritage, this tour balances storytelling with visual beauty and cultural depth.

It’s especially suited for those who enjoy small-group experiences, meaningful stories, and a personal touch in their sightseeing. If you’re eager to explore beneath the surface of New Orleans’ iconic cemeteries, this tour will leave you with stories to tell long after you’ve left the city.