Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery Walking Tour

If you’re headed to New Orleans and want to see more than just the jazz and gumbo, a cemetery tour might sound a bit unusual but can be surprisingly enriching. The Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery Walking Tour offers a chance to explore one of the most picturesque and architecturally impressive cemeteries in the US, all while supporting a nonprofit dedicated to preservation. While we haven’t done it personally, reviews and descriptions paint a picture of an experience worth considering, especially if history, stunning scenery, and meaningful stories are your thing.

What we love about this tour is how it combines beautiful funerary architecture with fascinating stories of Louisiana’s influential citizens, all in a manageable 1.5-hour walk. Plus, knowing that your ticket supports an important cause adds a feel-good element to the experience. On the flip side, the tour’s focus on a specific cemetery might not appeal if you’re after a more diverse sightseeing experience or if you prefer guided tours with more interactive elements. But if you’re interested in a calm, informative stroll through a visually stunning landscape, this tour might be just right.

It’s a good fit for travelers who appreciate history, art, and architecture—and who like the idea of supporting local preservation efforts. The small group size (max 16 people) ensures a personal, engaging experience. Just keep in mind that this is a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are a must, and it’s wheelchair accessible, making it accessible for most.

Key Points

• Supports a nonprofit: Your ticket helps preserve historic cemeteries in New Orleans.
• Beautiful setting: The cemetery features grand funerary architecture and lush landscaping.
• Expert guides: Tour guides like Glenn are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm.
• Accessible to most: Wheelchair accessible and suitable for most travelers.
• Short but rich experience: At around 1.5 hours, it’s a compact yet comprehensive tour.
• High praise from visitors: Consistently rated 5 stars with glowing reviews.

What to Expect from the Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery Walking Tour

This tour is designed to give you a glimpse into the grandeur of New Orleans’ cemeteries, which are famous for their unique architecture and storied past. The meeting point is at the Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home & Cemeteries, with the tour starting promptly at 10:00 am. The small group size makes it easy to ask questions and get personalized attention — a big plus when you’re exploring such a visually and historically rich environment.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Start at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home & Cemeteries: You’ll be greeted at the entrance, where you’ll immediately notice the stunning landscape. This cemetery is described as “the most stunning city of the dead,” thanks to its elaborate funerary architecture and lush surroundings. Expect to see Greek temples, Gothic and Islamic style tombs, obelisks, and marble monuments decorated with ironwork and stained glass.

Many notable figures are buried here, from Louis Prima and Al Hirt—famous bandleaders—to Anne Rice, the writer who popularized vampire stories. The graves of Louisiana governors, mayors, and Confederate generals are also among the 9,000 resting souls, spread across 65 landscaped acres. The mix of notorious residents and influential citizens makes it an intriguing snapshot of local history.

Throughout the walk, your guide will share stories about the people buried there and the symbolism behind the tomb designs. From the reviews, we gather guides like Glenn are not only knowledgeable but also passionate, making the tour engaging and lively. As one satisfied visitor put it, “Glenn was very informative and clearly loves the history of cemeteries and New Orleans.”

The Experience: What You’ll See and Feel

Expect a leisurely walk with plenty of interesting visual details—ornate ironwork, stained glass, and statues that tell stories of wealth, power, and sometimes, eccentricity. The live oaks create a serene canopy, and the overall atmosphere is peaceful, yet full of history. Some visitors mention that the cemetery is “absolutely stunning” and that the birds singing and beautiful plants add to the experience, making it almost meditative.

Guides tend to share stories about families and their loved ones, which many reviewers found both fascinating and touching. One reviewer called their guide “the best,” noting Glenn’s enthusiasm and wealth of knowledge. This level of personal attention makes the experience more than just a walk—it becomes a storytelling session that makes history feel alive.

The Practical Side: Duration, Price, and Accessibility

This tour lasts roughly 1 hour 30 minutes, which is perfect if you’re trying to fit in a few activities in a day. At $35 per person, the price is reasonable considering the high-quality guide, the access to a one-of-a-kind landscape, and the support of a nonprofit organization. It’s a thoughtful way to spend an hour and a half learning about local history.

The small group size (max 16 travelers) enhances the experience, allowing for questions and interaction. The tour is wheelchair accessible, so it accommodates most mobility needs. You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes—there’s no mention of transportation between sites, as it’s a straightforward walk, so plan accordingly.

The Reviews: Why People Keep Coming Back

Repeatedly, reviewers praise the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides, especially Glenn, who is described as “the best” and “amazing”. Many mention how much they learned, how engaging the stories were, and how the stunning architecture left a lasting impression. The fact that the tour is run by a nonprofit also resonates, with visitors appreciating that their ticket contributes to preserving New Orleans’ historic cemeteries.

One reviewer even highlighted the value of the experience, noting they covered a lot of ground without feeling rushed, while others appreciated the peaceful, scenic environment. Several reviews mention that the guide’s storytelling brought the tombs and their histories to life, making it not only educational but also quite entertaining.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love architecture, history, or local stories, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s especially suited to those who want a calm, meaningful experience rather than a high-energy tour. It’s great for history buffs, architecture lovers, or anyone interested in Louisiana’s past figures. Since it’s wheelchair accessible and only 1.5 hours long, it’s manageable for most travelers, including those with mobility considerations.

However, if you’re expecting a lively, bustling tour with a variety of locations or more interactive elements, this might feel a bit subdued. It’s primarily a walk through a single, highly photogenic cemetery, which may not appeal if you’re looking for a broader sightseeing day.

Final Thoughts

This Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery Walking Tour offers a chance to see some of the most impressive funerary art in the US, while also supporting a nonprofit dedicated to preservation. The guides’ expertise and passion make it a truly engaging experience, and the stunning scenery makes it visually rewarding. For those interested in history, architecture, or simply seeking a peaceful yet informative outing, this tour hits the mark.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who enjoy stories about notable local figures, appreciate beautiful landscapes, and want to do something meaningful during their visit. The moderate price and small-group size make it an accessible, intimate way to soak in some of New Orleans’ quieter but equally captivating sights.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, so most people with mobility challenges should be able to participate comfortably.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

What is the price of the tour?
It costs $35.00 per person, which is quite reasonable given the experience and support of a nonprofit organization.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 17 days ahead, and confirming your spot is recommended to secure availability.

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 10:00 am, making it a nice morning activity before the day gets busy.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

What kinds of graves and architecture will I see?
You’ll see Greek temples, gothic and Islamic style tombs, obelisks, and marble monuments with ironwork and stained glass. The scenery is a mix of historic grandeur and lush landscaping.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within that window aren’t refunded, so plan accordingly.

Choosing this tour means engaging with New Orleans’ distinctive cemetery culture in a respectful, scenic, and informative way. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or just curious about the city’s many stories, this experience offers a meaningful glimpse into the city’s past—and its artistic soul.