Step into St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 with Save Our Cemeteries for a revealing walk through New Orleans' rich burial heritage. Learn the real stories behind the city's famed residents on this accessible 1.5-hour tour.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, including wheelchair users; mostly flat terrain.
Wildlife
History
St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 was established in the mid-19th century and reflects New Orleans’ tradition of above-ground burial to manage its swampy soil.
Conservation
Save Our Cemeteries focuses on preserving these historic sites by educating visitors about respectful practices and supporting ongoing maintenance.
Save Our Cemeteries
Step into St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 with Save Our Cemeteries for a revealing walk through New Orleans' rich burial heritage. Learn the real stories behind the city's famed residents on this accessible 1.5-hour tour.
Save Our Cemeteries is an organization based in New Orleans, Louisiana, dedicated to preserving, documenting, and promoting the city's historic burial grounds. The organization offers guided tours and educational experiences that highlight the architecture, cultural traditions, and stories embedded in local cemeteries. Notable guided experiences include visits to St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 near City Park, a combined Tour of the Historic Pitot House and St. Louis Cemetery No. 3, the monthly St. Roch Cemetery tour with its chapel of local offerings, and a guided exploration of Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery, known for its sculptures and notable interments.
Tours balance historical context with on-site interpretation, helping visitors understand cemetery design, funerary art, and community heritage. In addition to public tours, the organization engages in cemetery documentation and community outreach to support ongoing care and awareness. Tour schedules and special events are announced by the organization; some tours operate on set dates such as the first Friday of the month for St. Roch Cemetery.
Save Our Cemeteries works with local stakeholders, volunteers, and preservation professionals to maintain respectful access to sensitive sites while sharing accurate historical information. For visitors seeking thoughtful, place-based learning about New Orleans history, these guided experiences provide a structured way to explore cemeteries, learn about prominent local figures, and witness distinctive funerary art. The organization documents funerary markers, provides interpretive materials for visitors, coordinates volunteer days, and collaborates with municipal partners to ensure site stewardship. Visitors should check schedules and respect site rules during visits and traditions.
Location
New Orleans, LA
Historic cemeteries across the city
Special Schedule
First Friday
St. Roch tour first Friday each month
Tours Offered
4
Guided cemetery and house tours
Preservation Focus
Advocacy & Care
Documentation and community outreach
Reserve a spot on a St. Louis Cemetery No. 3, St. Roch, Metairie, or Pitot House combination tour and experience New Orleans history up close.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Paths are flat and accessible but walking shoes will keep you comfortable during the 1.5-hour tour.
Book in Advance with a Group
Tours need a minimum of 4 guests booked 12 hours ahead to avoid cancellation—plan accordingly.
Respect the Cemetery Rules
Stay on marked paths and avoid touching monuments to preserve historic tombs.
Bring Water, Especially in Summer
New Orleans heat and humidity can be intense; stay hydrated throughout the experience.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Ensures stable footing on paved and gravel paths throughout the cemetery.
Water Bottle
Keeps you hydrated during warm, humid weather on the tour.
summer
Light Rain Jacket
Useful for unexpected showers common in shoulder seasons.
spring|fall
Sun Protection (Hat/Sunscreen)
Protects skin during outdoor portions of the tour, especially in sunnier months.
spring|summer|fall