New Orleans: Secrets and Societies Cemetery Experience

Few experiences capture the essence of New Orleans quite like its historic cemeteries. This guided walking tour, priced at $35 per person, offers a compelling way to explore three of the city’s most significant burial sites — the St. Patrick Cemeteries #1 and #2, and the Charity Hospital Cemetery. Led by an expert local guide from The Witches Brew Tour Company, it’s an hour and a half of intriguing history, fascinating customs, and authentic sights.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it balances storytelling with the chance to wander through atmospheric tombs, often filled with stories that go beyond the usual tourist fare. The small group size and live commentary make for a personal, engaging experience. On the flip side, the tour involves quite a bit of walking and takes place rain or shine, so it’s worth considering your comfort level and weather preparedness before booking. This tour suits history buffs, cemetery enthusiasts, and anyone curious about New Orleans’ unique funeral traditions.

Key Points

• Expert Guides Make the Difference: Knowledgeable local guides like Taylor bring cemeteries to life with stories and insights.
• Authentic and Atmospherically Rich: Wander through maze-like tombs and historic sites that tell the story of the city’s diverse communities.
• Focus on Local Customs and History: Learn about New Orleans’ burial traditions, Irish immigrant connections, and the Katrina Memorial.
• Practical and Accessible: A 1.5-hour walking tour that’s easy to fit into your day, with flexible start times.
• Value for Money: At $35, it offers a meaningful, educational experience at a reasonable price.
• Suitable for Most Visitors: Active, interested travelers who enjoy history, culture, and walking tours will find this very rewarding.

Starting Point and Overall Structure

The tour kicks off at G’s Pizza on Bienville Street, a convenient central location in the French Quarter area, making it easy to incorporate into broader sightseeing plans. You’ll spend the next 1.5 hours walking through three key cemeteries, with the guide providing insights into each site’s historical and cultural significance. The tour ends back at the starting point, making logistics straightforward for visitors with tight schedules or those planning to explore more afterward.

Why Cemeteries Matter in New Orleans

Unlike most places, New Orleans features above-ground tombs, a reflection of the city’s unique geographic and cultural circumstances. The city’s high water table means traditional underground burials are impractical, leading to elaborate vaults and crypts. These burial customs are more than just practical—they are woven into the city’s identity, blending French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences.

The tour’s value is rooted in helping visitors understand these customs firsthand, with the guide explaining the significance of everything from Masonic symbols to Irish heritage. It’s a chance to appreciate how history, migration, and local traditions converge beneath the city’s streets.

Visiting the Cemeteries: What to Expect

St. Patrick Cemeteries #1 and #2

The first stops are the St. Patrick Cemeteries, where you’ll navigate through maze-like tombs that seem to stretch in all directions. We loved the way the guide, Taylor, shared stories about the Irish immigrants who settled here and how they influenced local burial practices. As one reviewer noted, Taylor “knows all the cool spots” and is “very knowledgeable,” making the experience both informative and lively.

In Cemetery #2, you’ll find a more complex layout, with crypts stacked closely together, creating an almost labyrinthine feel. During this part, you’ll learn about the importance of family plots and the symbolism in tomb decorations. These cemeteries are often closed to the public, but with a guide, you gain access and context that enhances the visit.

Charity Hospital Cemetery and the Katrina Memorial

The third stop, the Charity Hospital Cemetery, is a poignant site. Here, the guide explains the history of the hospital and the thousands of people buried in the graveyard behind the Katrina Memorial. This area offers a sobering reminder of the devastation wrought by Hurricane Katrina and the resilience of the city. The Katrina Memorial itself is a focal point, allowing visitors to pay respects and reflect on the lives affected.

Learning About Burial Customs and Local Stories

The tour’s strength lies in the stories. From the Masonic Cemetery #1, where symbols hint at secret societies’ influence, to the Irish links at St. Patrick Cemeteries, each stop is packed with stories that make these historic sites come alive. One review mentions learning about how burials were handled in the old days and the aftermath of Katrina, highlighting how the guide’s expertise enhances understanding of these complex histories.

The Guide’s Role

Taylor, the guide praised in reviews, is more than a storyteller; he’s a passionate host who makes the history accessible and engaging. Reviewers mention his friendly demeanor, in-depth knowledge, and the way he strikes a balance between storytelling and allowing time to wander and take photos.

Practicalities and Value

For $35, the tour offers substantial value. It’s a focused experience that doesn’t waste time on unnecessary extras—just meaningful sites, insightful commentary, and authentic history. The tour’s duration is perfect for those wanting a taste of the city’s cemetery culture without a full-day commitment.

It’s important to note that it involves a fair amount of walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The tour operates rain or shine, and weather could affect your experience, but the guide is prepared to adapt.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy history, architecture, and storytelling. It’s ideal for those who want an authentic glimpse into New Orleans’ burial traditions and cultural history. If you’re traveling with children or people with low mobility, consider the walking involved. The tour isn’t suitable for pets or those recording videos during the walk, ensuring a respectful, focused atmosphere.

If you’re looking for a tour that combines historical insight, local culture, and atmospheric sites, this cemetery experience hits the mark. The small-group setting and knowledgeable guides like Taylor make it a personal, informative adventure. You’ll come away with a deeper appreciation of how New Orleans’ past shapes its present, especially through its unique burial customs.

The tour’s affordability and depth of storytelling make it a worthy addition to any itinerary. It’s particularly suited for curious travelers who want more than just superficial sightseeing, seeking instead a meaningful connection to the city’s history and community stories.

While it’s not a leisurely stroll—due to the walking involved—it’s a small investment for a genuinely enriching experience that captures the soul of New Orleans’ storied past.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, providing a compact yet immersive experience.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at G’s Pizza on Bienville Street, a central location in the French Quarter.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
Yes, the tour runs rain or shine, so dress appropriately and be prepared for weather conditions.

Is there a transportation option included?
No, this is a walking tour, so be ready to walk quite a bit through the cemeteries.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on this tour.

Can I record videos during the tour?
Recording videos is not allowed during the walk, but photos are generally fine (check with your guide).

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and water are recommended to stay comfortable during the walk.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for most visitors who are comfortable walking, but very young children or those with mobility issues may find it challenging.

In summary, the New Orleans: Secrets and Societies Cemetery Experience offers a rich, authentic look at the city’s burial traditions, guided by a passionate local expert. Whether you’re a history lover, culture seeker, or just curious about what lies beneath the city’s streets, this tour provides a memorable peek into New Orleans’ unique past.