Night Cemetery Insiders Bus Tour- New Orleans

Exploring the Night Cemetery Insiders Bus Tour in New Orleans

If you’re looking for a way to experience a different side of New Orleans—one that combines history, haunting stories, and a touch of local mystique—the Night Cemetery Insiders Bus Tour is worth considering. This tour offers a two-hour journey through some of the city’s most interesting burial sites, led by knowledgeable guides who bring the stories to life. It’s perfect for those who enjoy history with a side of the eerie, and for travelers seeking a memorable, guided experience that’s both engaging and respectful.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances storytelling with respect for the sites, making the morbid fascinating rather than macabre. Plus, the convenience of transportation and an intimate group size mean you can relax and absorb the stories without fuss. On the flip side, if you’re sensitive to the dark or morbid tales, the subject matter might be a bit intense—especially at night. This experience suits history buffs, curious travelers, and those who love ghost stories or local lore, but probably not ideal for very young children or anyone with mobility issues.

Key Points

• Two historic cemeteries: Masonic Cemetery #1 and Katrina Memorial at Charity Hospital Cemetery
• Guided by expert storytellers making history engaging
• Located conveniently in New Orleans’ French Quarter
• Includes transportation, making it easy to focus on the experience
• Suitable for most travelers, with a focus on respectful storytelling
• Offers a meaningful look at the city’s burial customs and tragic events

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point and Meeting Logistics

The tour departs from Voodoo Tavern and PoBoys at 1140 Decatur St, in the heart of the French Quarter. This location is a bonus because it’s easy to reach—whether you’re walking from nearby hotels or arriving by public transportation. The tour is a mobile ticket, and it’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes early to settle in and avoid any last-minute rush. With a maximum of 32 travelers, the group remains intimate enough for personal storytelling, yet large enough to create a lively atmosphere.

First Stop: Masonic Temple Cemetery #2

This cemetery, founded in 1865 by the Grand Lodge of Louisiana, offers a distinct contrast from the typical Catholic cemeteries that dominate New Orleans. What makes it particularly interesting are the elaborate tombs and the communal nature of the graves, where lodge members pooled resources to purchase large, impressive tombs. The layout is uniquely designed—occupying two triangular city blocks, with streets like Conti bisecting the space—mirroring the Masonic emblem of the square and compass.

The cemetery is enclosed by cast-iron fences and features oak allées along its edges, creating a peaceful yet stately atmosphere. Tombs here are expressions of Masonic symbolism and brotherhood, which makes this a visually fascinating stop. As one reviewer noted, “the cemetery’s angular walkways mimic the Masonic square and compass,” adding an element of symbolic design hidden in plain sight. Expect about 40 minutes here, with plenty of opportunities to ask your guide questions about the symbolism and history.

Second Stop: The Hurricane Katrina Memorial

Next, the tour takes you to the Katrina Memorial at Charity Hospital Cemetery—a site imbued with emotional weight. This site, located on the former grounds of Charity Hospital’s paupers’ field, contains the remains of 85 unclaimed victims of the 2005 levee failures. These graves are simple, unassuming, and contemplative, designed for quiet reflection rather than spectacle.

Surrounded by pathways that twist like storm-shaped ribbons, the memorial creates a stark, somber space that invites visitors to pause and consider the tragedy. The guide will explain the lasting impact of Hurricane Katrina, and you’ll understand why this site remains a poignant part of New Orleans’ landscape. This stop also lasts about 40 minutes, giving plenty of time to absorb the stories and pay respects.

What Makes This Tour Special

Storytelling by Knowledgeable Guides

Reviewer comments consistently highlight the guides’ expertise and engaging storytelling. “Trish is a great guide!” and “Henry was a fun guide!” are common praises. The ability of the guides to blend history, personal stories, and local lore appears to be one of the tour’s strongest features, elevating it beyond a simple cemetery visit.

Transportation and Convenience

The two-hour bus tour format means you avoid walking long distances between cemeteries and can relax while traveling through the city’s historic districts. This is especially helpful if you’re traveling with kids, older adults, or anyone with limited mobility. Plus, the tour’s timing in the evening (some reviews mention night tours) adds a spooky, atmospheric element that enhances the experience.

Cost and Value

At $55 per person, the tour offers good value considering the transportation, guided storytelling, and access to two significant cemeteries. It’s a fairly short but immersive experience. Several reviewers mentioned how much they learned and enjoyed the stories, which suggests that the price is justified for an authentic, insightful look at the city’s burial customs and history.

What You’ll See and Experience

The Elaborate World of Masonic Burial Traditions

The Masonic Cemetery is a colorful, symbol-rich environment. Expect to see elaborate tombs—some large and communal—that showcase the wealth and brotherhood of Masons. Oak-lined avenues and cast-iron fencing create a picturesque, almost park-like setting. Your guide will explain the significance of Masonic symbols, the communal approach to burials, and how these practices differ from the Catholic traditions more common in the city.

The Reflection of Tragedy at Katrina Memorial

The Katrina Memorial is stark and straightforward, a place designed for respectful reflection. Here, you’ll learn about the 85 unclaimed victims and the broader disaster that reshaped New Orleans. The site’s shape, with its storm-like pathways, emphasizes the chaos and destruction wrought by the hurricane. The guide’s storytelling turns this somber space into a powerful reminder of resilience and loss.

Authentic Atmosphere and Respectful Tone

The tour’s evening timing adds a layer of haunting ambiance that many travelers appreciate. Several reviews mention it would be even more atmospheric to do the tour at night, and the quiet, contemplative mood suits the subject matter well. The guide’s tone balances respect for the dead with engaging storytelling, ensuring the experience feels meaningful rather than morbid.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive early to meet the group and settle in.
• Wear comfortable shoes—most of the tour is on flat surfaces, but walking within cemeteries can be uneven.
• The tour is family-friendly, suitable for ages 6 and above, but consider younger children’s comfort with morbid stories.
• It’s a mostly seated experience with some walking; not wheelchair accessible due to uneven ground.
• Bring layers, as evenings can be cool, and don’t forget a hat or sunglasses if it’s still daytime when you arrive.
• Public transportation or ride-share services are recommended since parking can be limited near the meeting point.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate history, storytelling, and a respectful approach to exploring death customs and tragic events. If you’re intrigued by New Orleans’ cemeteries but want a guided experience that provides context and stories, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy a slightly spooky atmosphere combined with insightful narration.

It’s a great choice for those who value knowledgeable guides and want to learn more about the city’s unique burial traditions—without the hassle of exploring alone or navigating unfamiliar grounds. The tour’s intimate group size and engaging storytelling help make it a memorable part of any trip to New Orleans.

However, it may not be ideal for very young children or travelers with mobility issues, and those sensitive to darker themes should approach with awareness. Still, for most visitors wanting a respectful, authentic glimpse into New Orleans’ hidden history, this tour offers a meaningful, well-organized experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour visit the tomb of Marie Laveau?
No, Marie Laveau’s tomb is located in St. Louis Cemetery 1, which this tour does not include. Instead, you’ll explore other notable cemeteries with their own stories.

Are the cemeteries accessible for people with mobility issues?
Unfortunately, the tour covers uneven grounds within the cemeteries, making it not wheelchair accessible.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours, including transportation and visits to two cemeteries.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for most travelers aged 6 and above. However, the morbid tales might be intense for very young children.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, along with layered clothing, a hat, and sunglasses if needed. The tour is mostly on flat surfaces but can involve some walking on uneven ground.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Yes, the small group size and engaging guides make it a friendly experience for solo travelers, especially those interested in local history and stories.

How many people usually participate?
The tour caps at 32 travelers, ensuring a personal experience without feeling crowded.

To sum it up, the Night Cemetery Insiders Bus Tour offers a respectful, engaging way to explore New Orleans’ burial sites and tragic history. It’s especially valuable for those who enjoy stories told by passionate guides and want to gain deeper insight into the city’s unique customs and past. Whether you’re a history lover, a ghost-story enthusiast, or simply curious about the city’s darker corners, this tour provides a memorable, authentic glimpse into the soul of New Orleans.