New Orleans: Cemetery Tour

Exploring New Orleans’ Cemeteries: An Intriguing Journey into the City of the Dead

If you’re visiting New Orleans and have a taste for the macabre, mysterious, or simply fascinating history, a cemetery tour offered by Haunted History Tours might be just what you need. This 2-hour guided walk takes you through some of the city’s oldest and most unique burial grounds, revealing the stories behind the tombs, the city’s unconventional burial practices, and its deep-rooted connections to voodoo and local legends. It’s a tour that promises a blend of history, culture, and a touch of the supernatural, all delivered with an engaging narrative.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the knowledge and passion of the guides. Reviewers frequently mention guides like Toast, who combine historical facts with humor and personal insight, making the tour more than just a walk through graves. A downside to consider is that, since the tour operates rain or shine, bringing an umbrella is advisable—New Orleans weather can be unpredictable.

This cemetery tour is ideal for history buffs, curious travelers, or anyone with a fascination for the spooky side of New Orleans. It’s especially suited for those interested in understanding why the city buries its loved ones above ground instead of the traditional underground method used elsewhere.

Key Points

• Deep Dive into Cemetery History: You’ll visit several of New Orleans’ oldest and most fascinating burial sites, learning why the city’s tombs are above ground.
• Insight into Local Practices: Discover the unique reasons behind New Orleans’ above-ground burials, which are tied to the city’s history of flooding and cultural beliefs.
• Famous Tombs and Personalities: The tour includes visits to notable graves, including those of city celebrities and historic figures.
• Voodoo & Cultural Links: The guide explains the connection between voodoo, local spirituality, and burial customs.
• Engaging Guides: Expect lively storytelling, humor, and respectful insights from guides like Toast, highly praised for their depth of knowledge.
• Authentic Experience: This tour has been recommended by Travel and History Channels, adding to its credibility and appeal.

A Closer Look at the Cemetery Tour Experience

This guided walking tour begins at the Morning Call Coffee Shop, a conveniently placed meeting point, then heads straight into the heart of New Orleans’ historic cemeteries. The route covers several burial grounds, each with its unique features and stories. The tour is designed to be accessible, lasting approximately two hours, which is perfect for fitting into a busy day of sightseeing.

What to Expect at Each Cemetery

You’ll explore several of the oldest cemeteries, wandering through what the city calls its “cities of the dead.” The above-ground tombs form a labyrinthine landscape, often resembling miniature city blocks. As you stroll among Victorian-era graves, you’ll notice tombs decorated with symbols that tell stories about their occupants’ lives and beliefs—a topic often explored in reviews praising guides like Toast, who shares detailed explanations.

One reviewer, Diane, appreciated Toast’s knowledgeable and personable style, saying, “He was very knowledgeable and made the tour very interesting plus adding humor.” His ability to answer questions and weave anecdotes into the tour makes the experience more engaging for visitors, whether they’re history aficionados or casual travelers.

Famous Residents and Hidden Gems

The tour often touches on the final resting places of famous New Orleans personalities, whose tombs are as intriguing as their lives. From local celebrities to historic figures, the tombs are typically ornate and often decorated with mementos, making them visually captivating. Hearing about who’s buried there, and why certain tombs are so elaborate, adds layers to the visit.

Voodoo and Cultural Significance

Since New Orleans has a long association with voodoo and spiritual practices, the tour explores this aspect of local culture. You’ll learn about the city’s connection with voodoo legends and beliefs, which many reviewers find fascinating. The guide’s storytelling helps demystify some of these practices, giving visitors a respectful and insightful understanding.

Weather and Practical Tips

Since the tour operates rain or shine, bringing an umbrella or poncho is recommended. Some parts of the cemeteries are shaded, but others are exposed, so weather can affect comfort levels. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a variety of visitors.

Price and Value

At $28 per person, the tour is considered good value, especially given the in-depth storytelling and the opportunity to visit multiple historic cemeteries in just two hours. Compared to other New Orleans tours, this one offers a focused, niche experience that enriches your understanding of the city’s cultural fabric.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

We found that the guides’ passion and knowledge truly elevate the experience. Many reviews highlight Toast’s deep understanding, humor, and respectful approach, making what could be a somber walk into a lively, educational adventure. The ability to see several cemeteries in a compact timeframe means you’re getting a comprehensive look at the city’s burial traditions without feeling rushed.

On top of that, the tour’s focus on stories—whether about famous graves or voodoo connections—means you’ll come away with more than just a list of tombs. You’ll understand the why behind the above-ground style and gain insight into New Orleans’ distinctive culture and history.

The scenic walk through Victorian tombs, coupled with the engaging narration, makes this experience particularly appealing for first-timers or those who want a deeper, more meaningful connection with the city beyond the usual tourist spots.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Cemetery Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers curious about history, culture, and the supernatural side of New Orleans. It’s perfect for those who enjoy storytelling, detailed explanations, and a mix of humor and respect. If you’re interested in seeing famous tombs, learning about voodoo practices, or simply exploring the city’s most historic sites in a relaxed manner, this experience offers excellent value for money.

It’s also an ideal activity for those with limited time in New Orleans who want a rich, compact experience. The walking pace is manageable, and the 2-hour duration makes it easy to include in a full day of sightseeing. Just remember that weather can influence the comfort of the walk, so plan accordingly.

For anyone eager to see a different side of New Orleans, this cemetery tour offers a compelling mix of history, culture, and local legends. It’s a memorable way to connect with the city’s distinctive character and get behind the scenes of its storied past.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for most ages. It’s a walking experience that involves learning about tombs, history, and some legends, but no explicit content is involved. Many reviews mention that it’s kid-friendly, especially since guides like Toast take time to explain things clearly.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, which is a comfortable duration for most visitors, allowing enough time for exploration without fatigue.

Where do I meet the guide?
The meeting point is at the Morning Call Coffee Shop located at 5101 Canal Blvd. The tour ends back at the same location.

What should I bring?
It’s recommended to bring an umbrella, as the tour operates rain or shine. Comfortable walking shoes are also advisable, given the cemetery terrain.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for visitors with mobility needs.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the guided tour of several of New Orleans’ oldest cemeteries. Gratuities are not included but are appreciated if you enjoyed the experience.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you have the option to reserve and pay later, providing flexibility in planning your trip.

To sum it up, the New Orleans Cemetery Tour by Haunted History Tours offers a well-balanced mix of history, culture, and storytelling, led by guides who are passionate and engaging. It’s a thoughtful, affordable way to explore the city’s iconic above-ground tombs and the stories that make them so compelling. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just looking for something different, this experience promises a memorable glimpse into the city’s unique burial traditions and the legends that surround them.