In 45 minutes, you'll see the most impressive 19th Century mansions of the neighborhood built by wealthy Americans after the Louisiana Purchase - and peek inside the gates of Lafayette Cemetery #1 ( it is closed to the public, but the gates are wide enough for great pictures and some background from your guide).

Duration

45 minutes

About

The Garden District, originally called the City of Lafayette, was established in 1832 as a posh suburb for wealthy Americans who came to New Orleans after the Louisiana Purchase of 1803. These bankers, merchants, speculators, builders, and investors found themselves at odds with the French, Spanish, and African Creoles who had been here since the earliest colonial days. In an effort to create their own oasis that was entirely different and separate from the French Quarter, they built a lovely, elegant, and unique neighborhood that is a beautiful combination of Greek Revival and Italianate architectural styles and the lush greenery that thrives in our subtropical climate. Your guide will show you the highlights of this quiet, picturesque neighborhood and give you a peek inside Lafayette Cemetery #1, the almost 200-year-old cemetery in the center of the neighborhood. After your tour, walk two blocks to Magazine Street for great shopping, art, and dining!