St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 Official Walking Tour

Exploring the Dead in New Orleans: A Review of the St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 Official Walking Tour

If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans, chances are you’ve heard about the city’s iconic cemeteries—mysterious, elaborate, and steeped in stories that blend history, legend, and local culture. The St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 Official Walking Tour offers a chance to step inside the city’s most famous resting place with an expert guide, making it a compelling experience for those interested in history, architecture, or just a good story.

What we love about this tour is how accessible it makes the cemetery’s secrets, and how the guided approach ensures you don’t miss out on key details. Plus, the stories about Marie Laveau and the LaLaurie mansion bring a certain flavor of New Orleans’ vibrant, sometimes dark, local culture to life. That said, the tour’s duration is just about 45 to 55 minutes—so if you’re hoping for an extensive exploration, this might feel a little brief.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is limited to only 20 guests, which helps keep the group intimate and the experience personal. If you’re on a tight schedule or prefer wandering on your own, this might not be the best fit, but for those who enjoy storytelling and guided insights, it’s a solid choice.This tour suits history enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone looking to add a uniquely New Orleans experience to their itinerary without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Limited access: The cemetery is only open via guided tours, making this experience exclusive and well-organized.
• Expert guides: Locally licensed guides bring stories to life with a good mix of history, gossip, and local lore.
• Focus on notable graves: Learn about Marie Laveau, the Voodoo Queen, and other infamous residents like Delphine LaLaurie.
• Affordable price: At just over $24 per person, the tour offers good value, especially considering the insights and access you gain.
• Brief but informative: The 45-minute tour packs in a lot of interesting stories, though some may want a longer experience.
• Prepare for the weather: The tour is outdoors, so bring water, sunscreen, and wear comfortable shoes.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting Point at Basin St. Station

Your adventure begins at Basin St. Station, a lovely visitor hub with exhibits, a café, restrooms, and a gift shop. Arriving 10-15 minutes early is wise—this way, you can check in, collect your tickets, and get your bearings. The station itself is a nice place to get a sense of New Orleans before heading out, with displays about Katrina and the city’s history.

The check-in process is straightforward, and the station’s amenities make waiting easier, especially on hot days. It’s also the gathering spot where your guide will meet you before walking across the street to the cemetery gates.

Walk to St. Louis Cemetery No. 1

The walk across the street is brief, but you’ll want to be ready for the heat. Many reviews mention how hot and humid it can be out there, so wearing hats and sunscreen is smart. The cemetery’s gates are iconic—tall, wrought-iron fences that hint at the mysteries inside.

Inside the Cemetery: A 45-Minute Tour

Once inside, your guide leads you through the winding tombs and above-ground graves, explaining the history and significance of this historic site. The cemetery has been around since 1789, making it the oldest in New Orleans—and that history is palpable in its weathered stones and elaborate mausoleums.

You’ll see the final resting place of Marie Laveau, the legendary Voodoo Queen. Guides often share stories about her, blending fact and legend, which adds a lively flavor to the experience. Many reviewers mention how guides like Zelda and Jeff make these stories memorable, with anecdotes that make history feel alive and personal.

The tour also covers the darker side of the city’s past, including the notorious Delphine LaLaurie, a socialite and serial killer whose mansion’s story is as chilling as it is famous. You get a sense of the colorful, sometimes macabre, history that makes New Orleans unique.

Access & Rules

The tour staff is very clear about the rules—no touching tombs, no leaning or sitting on structures, and no vandalism. These rules help preserve the site’s dignity and longevity. Photography is encouraged, so feel free to snap pictures of the statues, tombs, and the overall atmospheric setting.

End of the Tour

The tour wraps back at Basin St. Station, so you can explore the area further or head off to other nearby attractions. If you’re interested, some guides may offer suggestions for further exploration, giving you a richer experience of New Orleans’ history and culture.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

From glowing reviews, it’s clear that the guides make or break this tour. Several reviewers sing high praises for guides like Zelda, Alan, Jeff, and Ra, highlighting their knowledge, storytelling skills, and friendly demeanor. One reviewer called Zelda a “sweetheart,” while others appreciated how Jeff made the history easy to understand and fun.

Most travelers find the 45-minute length just right—long enough to learn something new but not so long that your attention drifts or the heat becomes unbearable. The guided approach means you won’t miss the most important stories or get lost trying to decipher old tombstones on your own.

A common theme among reviews is how the tour makes the cemetery more accessible and less intimidating—especially for those who might be wary of wandering alone or unfamiliar with cemetery etiquette. The small group size (max 20) feels personal and allows for questions and interaction.

What Could Be Better?

A few reviews note that the tour feels a bit quick, especially if you’re particularly interested in the history or architecture of the graves. Some mention that they expected a longer experience, but overall, most agree that the 45-minute duration is enough to get a solid overview.

Weather can be a concern, especially on hot days, but the organizers have set up misting stations, which many visitors find a lifesaver. It’s also good to bring water and sun protection.

Pricing and Value

At $24.25 per person, this tour is a pretty good deal considering the exclusive access and storytelling quality. For the price, you’re not just seeing a cemetery—you’re getting an educational experience with a knowledgeable guide who adds local color and anecdotes. The small group setting enhances the experience, making it more personal and engaging.

The Bottom Line: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re interested in history, ghost stories, or the culture of New Orleans, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy guided experiences and want insider stories about famous residents like Marie Laveau or the LaLaurie mansion.

The tour is fairly compact, making it an ideal choice if you’re short on time but still want a meaningful visit to a significant historic site. It’s also budget-friendly, offering good value for the storytelling and access provided.

Keep in mind, if you prefer to explore at your own pace, or are seeking a more in-depth or longer visit, you might find this a little brief. But for a quick, engaging, and insightful introduction to the city’s “City of the Dead,” it’s hard to beat.

FAQ

• How early should I arrive for the tour?
  Be sure to arrive at least 10-15 minutes before your scheduled departure at Basin St. Station. This gives you time to check in, collect your tickets, and settle in before the tour begins.

• Is parking available nearby?
  Yes, the Park First Parking Lot is conveniently adjacent to Basin St. Station and the cemetery, with affordable rates ($5-$10 for 10 hours). Remember to pay at the kiosk and display your receipt on your dash.

• Can I take photos during the tour?
  Absolutely. Photography is encouraged inside the cemetery, so bring your camera or phone to capture the tombs and atmospheric views.

• Are the guides knowledgeable?
  Yes, the guides are locally licensed and specially trained to provide accurate and engaging tours, blending historical facts with storytelling.

• Can I visit the cemetery without a tour?
  No, access to the cemetery is only permitted as part of these guided tours. Private visits are not open to the general public.

• What should I wear or bring?
  Comfortable shoes are a must—many of the pathways are uneven. Sunscreen, hats, and water are highly recommended, especially during hot months.

In the end, the St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 Official Walking Tour offers an accessible, engaging way to connect with New Orleans’ unique history. Whether you’re a history buff, a curious traveler, or someone who loves a good ghost story, this tour delivers insights and atmosphere in a compact, well-organized package. It’s a must-do for those wanting a glimpse into the city’s legendary “City of the Dead.”