Historic Cemetery Walks with Red Sash Tours in New Orleans

Start your morning off with beignets and coffee at the famed Morning Call restaurant while learning about the general history of cemeteries in New Orleans. Next, we venture into Greenwood Cemetery (1852), home of the largest assemblage of iron tombs in the city, unique monuments and funerary symbols, as well as local and national celebrities, such as a Pulitzer-prize winning writer, the man who spiced up New Orleans, and the burlesque dancer whose claim to fame was dancing with seven boa constrictors at once (and occasionally an iguana). Afterward, journey into Cypress Grove (1838), the first cemetery built to honor New Orleans volunteer firemen and their families. View the large society tomb built for the temporary burial of Chinese citizens, and many original tombs crafted in granite, marble, and cast-iron that hold some of New Orleans’ earliest prominent citizens. We then visit the Hurricane Katrina Memorial located in the spot where Charity Hospital used to bury the poor and indigent. This is followed by a quick visit to St. Patrick’s Cemeteries No. 1 and 2 (1841) and pausing outside the Odd Fellows Rest (1849) to learn about its history and the various symbols adorning its iron gate. The tour ends back at the Morning Call.

This exclusive comprehensive tour led by writer and cemetery expert Sally Asher will cover everything from burial traditions, symbolism, types of tombs, and offer an in-depth overview of many different cemeteries in New Orleans.

Red Sash Tours is only private tour company allowed to give tours in Greenwood Cemetery and the only company allowed in Cypress Grove.

The tour starts and ends at the Morning Call, 5101 Canal Blvd. It is easily accessible by streetcar, automobile, bus, or uber.

Children six and under are free but must purchase any beignets or drink separately. Children six to twelve are $25. Adults are $50. Price includes two beignets and choice of beverage and a walking tour of six different cemeteries.

Minimum of four guests required, if this requirement is not meant, guests will be notified by 8pm the night before that the tour will be cancelled. The tour will run approximately 2.5 hours and will roughly cover the distance of a mile.