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Exploring New Orleans Historic Cemeteries: A Guided Walking Tour of Legendary Tombs - New Orleans

Exploring New Orleans Historic Cemeteries: A Guided Walking Tour of Legendary Tombs

New Orleanseasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1.5 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; involves walking at a gentle pace.

Overview

Discover the rich history and haunting beauty of New Orleans’ iconic cemeteries on a 1.5-hour guided walking tour. Experience unique burial customs and stories that bring the city’s past to life beneath sculpted tombs and iron gates.

New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans Historic Cemetery Tour

1.5 Hours • All Ages

City Tour
History Tour
Walking Tour

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Adventure Photos

New Orleans Historic Cemetery Tour photo 1

About This Adventure

Embark on a captivating 1.5-hour walking tour through New Orleans' historic cemeteries, guided by a master storyteller. Discover the unique burial customs, the city's rich history, and the secrets of St. Patrick Cemetery #1, Charity Hospital Cemetery, and more. Experience a blend of trepidation and reverence in this unforgettable exploration.

Join us on a journey through three of New Orleans’ hallowed historical cemeteries.

On this tour, your master storyteller will lead you through the maze of above-ground tombs in St. Patrick Cemetery #1, 2 and Charity Hospital Cemetery. Explore its secrets with your 5-star guide, and the culture of death and burial that makes New Orleans unique.

From burial customs and traditions- to the history of the Masons and Catholics in New Orleans- to the deaths of the thousands buried in the graveyard behind the Katrina Memorial, this tour will leave you with feelings of trepidation and excitement, as well as with a reverence for our city’s rich history.

We can guarantee that this is the most in depth cemetery tour in the city!

Duration

This is a narrated 1.5-hour walking tour.

Meeting point

We meet 15 minutes prior to departure at 4840 Bienville Street at G's Pizza.

Reservations are required. Limited availability for each time slot.

  • This tour is rated PG-13 and may not be suitable for some small children under the age of 10, depending on their level of sensitivity to traumatic and violent topics.

  • Gratuity not included. Tips are appreciated, but not required. For those unsure of an appropriate tip, $5-$10 per person is the general range, depending on how much you enjoyed your experience.

What to bring & wear

  • The red (canal and cemeteries) streetcar is a lovely way to reach your destination and a great way to see the city.

  • Bring your camera! You may be the one to capture the photograph(s) that will change or confirm your beliefs concerning the other side!

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes & drink plenty of water. Dehydration can ruin your tour! Additional purchases & drinks are not included in pricing.

Cancellation Policy

  • Refunds can be given for any cancellations up to 24 hours prior to tour departure. All tours go our rain or shine barring dangerous weather conditions. A $5 per person rescheduling Fee for any tours that are rebooked from a an affiliate company, such as Groupon.

Adventure Tips

Wear comfortable walking shoes

The tour covers uneven terrain and requires standing for extended periods—supportive footwear is essential.

Stay hydrated

Bring a water bottle, especially in warmer months, to stay comfortable during the 1.5-hour walk.

Bring a camera

Capture the unique above-ground tombs and intricate stonework for memorable photos.

Use the red streetcar for access

Ride the red Canal Street streetcar to reach the meeting point easily while enjoying city views.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Urban birds such as mourning doves
  • Occasional sightings of squirrels in green spaces

History

New Orleans cemeteries date back to the 18th century and reflect French and Spanish colonial burial customs.

Conservation

Efforts focus on preserving the delicate stonework and preventing damage from tourism while educating visitors.

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Adventure Hotspots in New Orleans

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Necessary for navigating cobblestone and uneven ground in the cemeteries.

Water bottle

Essential

Keeps you hydrated during warmer weather while walking outdoors.

summer specific

Camera or smartphone

Useful for capturing striking images of the historic tombs and sculptures.

Light jacket or umbrella

Provides protection against unexpected rain or chilly temperatures.

spring;fall;winter specific