New Orleans Historic Cemetery Tour: Explore Our Cemeteries

If you’re looking for a tour that offers more than just surface-level sightseeing, the New Orleans Historic Cemetery Tour is a compelling choice. Promoted as an off-the-beaten-path experience, it takes you beyond the tourist crowds and into the heart of the city’s burial traditions and stories of tragedy. This tour is perfect for history buffs, curious travelers, and anyone eager to see a different side of NOLA that’s both haunting and fascinating.

What we love about this experience is how it combines storytelling with historical insight. The guides are praised for their knowledge, making each stop not just a walk through a cemetery but a lesson in local customs and history. Plus, the tour’s affordability—at just under $30—means you get a lot of value for a meaningful and memorable experience.

A potential consideration is the walking aspect; while the tour is designed to be accessible, the terrain in some cemeteries presents challenges for those with mobility issues. Also, the tour runs during daylight hours due to cemetery hours, so this isn’t a nighttime ghost tour.

This tour suits those who enjoy history, culture, and stories that linger long after the visit. It’s ideal for small groups seeking an intimate, educational experience that’s both respectful and intriguing.

Key Points

• It’s a 2-hour guided walking tour that covers three historic cemeteries and a memorial.
• The tour is highly praised for engaging, knowledgeable guides and storytelling.
• Visitors learn about burial rituals, local traditions, and the stories behind the graves.
• Cost-effective at $29.99, providing substantial value.
• The experience is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness and those who appreciate detailed historical context.
• The tour’s small group size—up to 10 travelers—ensures a personalized experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Cemeteries and Stories

The Tour Itself: An Organized and Thoughtful Experience

Starting at G’s Pizza on Bienville Street, the tour immediately sets a relaxed tone. You’ll check in about 30 minutes before departure, ensuring plenty of time to gather with your small group. The guide, often praised for their storytelling prowess, leads you on a walk that lasts around two hours, including visits to three key sites.

The first stop—St. Patrick Cemetery No. 2—is a deep dive into burial culture. Here, the guide explains the unique practices of New Orleans’ cemeteries, which are known for above-ground tombs due to the city’s high water table. Expect to hear about specific burial rituals and the significance of the elaborate mausoleums. One reviewer described this stop as “very enjoyable” and appreciated the guide’s engaging approach.

Next, you’ll explore cemeteries near City Park in Mid-City. While the specific cemeteries aren’t named beyond the first and Katrina memorial, this part offers a broader look at local burial sites. You’ll get a sense of the city’s history through the graves, which often include notable figures and stories. One participant noted that the stop was “really hoping to hear some stories or who was born there,” indicating that the guide’s storytelling adds richness to the experience.

The Heart of the Tour: The Katrina Memorial

The last stop, at the Charity Hospital Cemetery, features the Katrina Memorial—an emotional tribute to those lost during Hurricane Katrina. The guide shares stories of tragedy and resilience, painting a picture of the city’s resilience amidst tragedy. Visitors often comment on how this part of the tour “made the experience more meaningful” and appreciate the respectful tone.

What You’ll Likely See and Learn

Throughout the tour, you’ll see a mix of historic tombstones, personalized mausoleums, and memorials. The guide dives into the history behind each site, explaining why certain burial practices are unique to New Orleans. Expect to hear about the yellow fever outbreaks, hurricanes, and other tragedies that shaped the city’s approach to death and remembrance.

Authenticity and the Guide’s Role

Many reviews highlight the guides’ expertise. One reviewer called the guide “wonderful,” and another said Taylor’s storytelling “never stopped.” This enthusiasm and depth of knowledge are what set this tour apart. The small group size ensures you can ask questions and engage without feeling rushed.

The Practical Aspects: Price, Duration, and Accessibility

At $29.99, the tour offers excellent value considering the depth of insight and the intimate nature of the experience. It lasts approximately two hours, making it a manageable addition to your day. The tour is conducted on foot, with some terrain that might challenge those with mobility issues, so planning accordingly is wise.

You’ll meet at G’s Pizza and end near the Katrina Memorial on Canal Street, both accessible via public transportation. The tour’s small size—maximum 10 guests—means you’ll have an intimate experience, but it also demands punctuality, as late arrivals can’t join once the tour has started.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates history told through stories, this experience will resonate deeply. It’s perfect for travelers looking for an authentic look at New Orleans’ burial traditions, rather than a generic cemetery walk. Those interested in local history, cultural practices, or emotional memorials will find it especially rewarding.

This tour is also well-suited for small groups and those who prefer an engaging, guide-led experience over self-guided visits. Keep in mind, it’s a daytime tour. If your interests are more supernatural or spooky at night, you might want to look for other options.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For travelers seeking a meaningful, well-guided look into New Orleans’ cemetery culture, this tour offers up a lot of value. The guides are experts at weaving stories that stick with you, and the small group size ensures a personal feel. The historical context provided helps you understand why New Orleans’ approach to death and remembrance is so distinctive.

The affordability makes it accessible, and the inclusion of emotional memorials like Katrina’s monument adds depth. It’s especially great if you’re interested in stories of resilience, tragedy, and legacy, rather than just seeing pretty tombstones.

If your trip to New Orleans includes a curiosity about its darker, more profound side, this tour will satisfy your curiosity and deepen your appreciation for the city’s spirit.

FAQ

Where is the departure location for the New Orleans Cemetery Experience?
It departs from G’s Pizza at 4840 Bienville St. It’s best to arrive about 30 minutes early to check in and settle in.

How early should I arrive?
Check-in begins 30 minutes prior to the tour’s start time. The tour departs on time, so arriving early ensures you don’t miss anything.

Do I need to make reservations?
Yes, reservations are required due to city regulations on tour group sizes. Booking in advance guarantees your spot.

Can I do this tour at night?
No, the tour runs during the day because the cemeteries close at 4 pm, and the Catholic Archdiocese controls their hours.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours aren’t canceled for rain, cold, or snow, but they will be canceled if there’s flooding, storms, or lightning. In such cases, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
While efforts are made to accommodate all guests, the terrain can be challenging. You should have moderate physical fitness to navigate the cemeteries comfortably.

What’s included in the price?
A guided walking tour led by a professional storyteller is included. Drinks are not included, but you’re welcome to bring your own.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately two hours, covering three cemeteries and memorial sites.

What’s the group size?
A maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and opportunities for questions.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In summary, this Cemetery Tour is a thoughtful, engaging way to experience a side of New Orleans many visitors overlook. With expert guides, meaningful stories, and a manageable length, it’s well worth considering if you want to deepen your understanding of the city’s unique ways of honoring the past. Whether you’re a history lover or simply curious about the stories etched in stone, this tour offers a respectful and compelling journey through the city’s most solemn and storied sites.