Step beyond the gates of New Orleans’ oldest municipal cemetery with a guided walk through raised tombs, colonial-era funerary art, and the storied resting place of Marie Laveau. Learn history, local customs, and practical tips for visiting this fragile cultural site.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A narrow iron gate opens onto a grid of pale stone and shadow; sunlight cuts across raised tombs and Spanish moss sways from live oaks as the guide leads a single-file procession between vaults. The city’s pulse — distant streetcars, a hint of brass — frames the quiet cadence of footsteps inside St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
55 minutes
Fitness Level
Light walking on mostly level, narrow paths; suitable for most fitness levels.
Wildlife
History
Established in the late 1700s, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 reflects New Orleans’ French and Spanish colonial past and the city’s unique above-ground burial practice due to a high water table.
Conservation
Guided, permitted access helps protect fragile masonry and inscriptions; visitors should remove trash, avoid touching tombs, and support preservation efforts.
Reserve your spot on the St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 Official Walking Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive early to collect tickets
Tours gather inside Basin Street Station — arrive 10–15 minutes early to pick up tickets and avoid delaying the group.
Follow the guide and stay on paths
The cemetery is fragile and permitted access is guided — staying with the group protects tombs and the cultural site.
Dress for heat and sun
Summer in New Orleans is hot and humid; wear breathable clothing and bring water for a 55-minute tour.
Respect graves and local customs
Avoid touching inscriptions, leaving offerings on tombs unless instructed, and keep noise low out of respect for the site.
Comfortable walking shoes
Closed-toe shoes with good traction for narrow gravel and paved paths.
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated matters in New Orleans heat — many tours are 55 minutes without long breaks.
summer
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Limited shade between tomb rows makes sun protection important during warm months.
summer
Light rain jacket
Summer storms and spring showers can appear suddenly; a packable shell keeps you comfortable.
spring