New Orleans Cemetery Walking Tour

New Orleans is renowned for its captivating burial practices, and the Cemetery Walking Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore this fascinating aspect of the city’s history. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour takes visitors through iconic gravesites, shedding light on the cultural traditions that have shaped this distinctive landscape. With exclusive access to these hallowed grounds, participants can expect an informative and thought-provoking experience that delves into the rich tapestry of New Orleans’ funerary customs. What secrets do these above-ground tombs hold?

Key Points

• A 3-hour guided walking tour that explores the unique above-ground burial practices of New Orleans cemeteries.
• Provides exclusive access to historic sites, including the iconic Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 and St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.
• Offers insights into the cultural and architectural significance of the city’s funerary traditions from licensed guides.
• Includes a visit to the Hurricane Katrina Memorial, offering a poignant perspective on the city’s resilience.
• Departures available in the morning and afternoon to accommodate different schedules.

Overview of the Tour

The New Orleans Cemetery Walking Tour is a highly-rated experience that allows visitors to discover the unique above-ground burial practices and famous sites of the city’s oldest cemeteries.

This 3-hour tour is led by licensed guides and includes morning or afternoon departure options. Highlights include access to sites only available with an official guide, a stop at the Hurricane Katrina Memorial, and a moderate fitness level requirement.

With a maximum group size of 28, the tour offers an informative and entertaining look into New Orleans’ rich history and culture.

Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.

Unique Burial Practices

One of the primary highlights of the New Orleans Cemetery Walking Tour is the opportunity to witness the city’s unique above-ground burial practices.

Unlike typical underground interments, New Orleans’ cemeteries feature elaborate tombs and mausoleums built above the ground. This distinctive style evolved due to the city’s high water table, which made traditional burials impractical.

Tour participants gain exclusive access to these historic sites, learning about the cultural and architectural significance of the ornate structures.

Exclusive access to historic sites, learning about the cultural and architectural significance of the ornate structures.

Guides provide fascinating insights into the rituals and traditions surrounding this distinctive funerary culture, offering a glimpse into New Orleans’ rich history.

Access to Famous Sites

A key highlight of the New Orleans Cemetery Walking Tour is the exclusive access it provides to the city’s most famous burial sites.

With an official guide, visitors can explore:

• The iconic Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, featuring elaborate above-ground tombs and the final resting place of notable historical figures.
• St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, the oldest and most renowned cemetery in New Orleans, home to the legendary voodoo priestess Marie Laveau‘s tomb.
• Other exclusive sites that are off-limits to the general public without a licensed guide.

This insider access offers a unique and immersive experience, allowing travelers to explore the rich history and traditions of New Orleans’ renowned cemetery culture.

Departure Options

Visitors to the New Orleans Cemetery Walking Tour have the flexibility to choose from morning or afternoon departure options.

The morning tour departs at 9:00 AM, allowing guests to beat the midday heat and explore the historic cemeteries when they’re less crowded.

The afternoon tour, on the other hand, starts at 1:30 PM, providing an opportunity for those who prefer a more leisurely pace or need to fit the tour into a busy schedule.

Regardless of the time, both departures offer the same comprehensive experience led by knowledgeable guides, ensuring visitors make the most of their cemetery exploration.

Included in the Tour

The New Orleans Cemetery Walking Tour includes a variety of features that enhance the overall experience for participants.

Travelers on this tour can expect:

• A knowledgeable local guide who provides insights into the unique above-ground burial practices found in the city’s oldest cemeteries.
• Access to famous sites that are only accessible with an official tour guide.
• The option to choose from morning or afternoon departure times to best fit their schedule.

Plus, the tour price includes all necessary fees, gratuities, and even hotel pickup and drop-off for added convenience.

Meeting and Accessibility

The meeting point for the New Orleans Cemetery Walking Tour is located at 5101 Canal Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70124, in front of the Morning Call Coffee Stand.

The tour returns to the same meeting point upon completion.

The tour is accessible to wheelchair users and those with strollers, and it’s conveniently situated near public transportation.

The tour experience is flexible in duration, with a 10-minute stop at the Hurricane Katrina Memorial.

Participants should have a moderate fitness level and wear comfortable shoes to fully enjoy the walking tour of New Orleans’ oldest cemeteries.

Tour Experience Details

Although the tour’s duration is flexible, it includes a 10-minute stop at the Hurricane Katrina Memorial.

This walking tour offers an immersive experience in New Orleans’ oldest cemeteries. Participants can expect:

• A moderate fitness level and comfortable shoes are recommended, as the tour involves extensive walking.
• The group size is capped at a maximum of 28 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Guided access to famous sites that are only accessible with an official tour, providing a unique opportunity to explore the city’s rich history.

Customer Feedback

How do the tour’s customers rate their experiences? Based on 811 reviews, the New Orleans Cemetery Walking Tour receives an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5.

Customers frequently praise the guides’ knowledge, engagement, and humor, with reviews highlighting entertaining and informative tours.

However, a few travelers note issues with overly fast-talking or sarcastic guides, as well as concerns about timeliness and accommodations.

Despite these minor complaints, the vast majority of customers – 97% – recommend the tour, citing its unique insights into the city’s oldest cemeteries and burial practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Most Famous Cemeteries Visited on the Tour?

The tour visits St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, the oldest and most famous cemetery in New Orleans. It’s known for its unique aboveground tombs and the final resting place of voodoo priestess Marie Laveau.

How Do the Guides Ensure the Safety of the Group?

The guides ensure the safety of the group by closely monitoring participants, providing clear instructions, and adapting the tour to avoid any potential hazards. They prioritize the group’s well-being throughout the experience.

Can I Take Photos Inside the Cemeteries?

Yes, visitors are generally permitted to take photos inside the cemeteries on the tour. However, guides may request that photos be limited in certain areas out of respect for the sanctity of the sites.

Are There Any Restrictions on What I Can Wear?

Visitors are generally not restricted on what they can wear, but it’s recommended to dress comfortably and respectfully when exploring the cemeteries. Avoid overly casual attire, as the tours visit sacred historical sites.

How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?

The tour involves a moderate level of walking. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the tour includes stops at various cemetery sites and may require navigating uneven terrain. The total duration is flexible but typically includes a 10-minute stop.

The Sum Up

The New Orleans Cemetery Walking Tour offers a captivating 3-hour experience that delves into the city’s unique above-ground burial practices. Led by licensed guides, the tour includes visits to iconic sites like Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 and St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, where participants gain exclusive access and learn about New Orleans’ rich funerary traditions. With a maximum group size of 28, the tour provides an informative and immersive exploration of the city’s distinctive burial culture.