New Orleans: Garden District and Lafayette Cemetery Tour

If you’re pondering a visit to the Garden District in New Orleans, this tour offers a solid way to soak in its beauty and history. It’s a two-hour walk that takes you through one of the city’s most picturesque neighborhoods, full of grand homes and intriguing stories. The tour is run by NOLA Historic Tours, LLC, and sounds like a great option if you want to see a side of New Orleans that’s both elegant and film-worthy.

What really draws us in about this tour is the focus on architecture and the chance to spot the homes of some pretty famous residents—including actors, musicians, and even a sports legend. Plus, the inclusion of the historic St. Charles Avenue Streetcar adds a nostalgic touch to the experience. On the downside, one thing to keep in mind is that the Lafayette Cemetery is permanently closed to visitors, so if cemetery exploration is your main goal, this might be disappointing.

This tour is best suited for those interested in architecture, film locations, or simply wanting a guided glimpse of the Garden District’s unique charm. It’s a good pick for travelers who appreciate storytelling and want a taste of New Orleans’ elegant side without spending an entire day on it.

Key Points

• Beautiful architecture and historic homes line the streets of the Garden District.
• The St. Charles Avenue Streetcar is included, offering a scenic ride.
• The tour is informative and engaging, led by knowledgeable guides.
• Some famous residents’ homes are highlighted, adding a touch of celebrity appeal.
• Be aware that the Lafayette Cemetery is now permanently closed for visits.
• The tour is two hours long and affordable, making it accessible to most travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Garden District Tour Experience

The first thing you’ll notice is how accessible and straightforward this tour setup is. You meet inside the Garden District Book Shop, located at Prytania Street, right at the corner of Washington and Prytania. From the French Quarter, hopping on the historic Saint Charles Streetcar is part of the charm—just catch it at Canal and Carondelet at least 30 minutes before your tour begins, and you’ll arrive right on time at Washington Avenue, ready to start exploring.

Once the tour starts, you’ll be walking through streets that look more like open-air museums—lined with live oaks and homes showcasing styles from Greek Revival to Queen Anne, Italianate, Swiss Chalet, and Gothic. The guide’s role is crucial here—they’re generally very knowledgeable and entertaining, blending facts with stories that keep you interested. One reviewer mentioned, “Our tour guide was very informative,” which suggests you’re in capable hands.

Architectural Highlights

What makes this neighborhood stand out is the variety of architectural styles—each telling a story about the area’s different eras and influences. You’ll see Greek Revival homes with tall columns, Italianate designs with intricate ironwork, and even some Gothic Revival touches. We loved the way the guide explained how these styles reflect the history and culture of the antebellum South and the American expansion.

Celebrity and Film Sights

Fans of film and pop culture will appreciate the stops that highlight homes of celebrities like Nicolas Cage and the Manning brothers—Archie, Peyton, and Eli. The tour also mentions the Buckner Mansion, famously used as Miss Robichaux’s Academy in American Horror Story. While you can’t enter these homes (most are private residences), the outside views are impressive enough, and the stories behind them add a layer of fun.

Notable Stops and Landmarks

The tour points out the Cornstalk Fence House and the death site of Jefferson Davis, giving you a sense of historical significance. Perhaps most notably, they highlight the film site of Brad Pitt’s The Curious Case of Benjamin Button—a nice touch for movie buffs.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Cemetery Issue

A significant point to mention—based on reviews and current facts—is that the Lafayette Cemetery is permanently closed to visitors. One review notes the high cost of the tour and the disappointment that you can’t access the cemetery, which is a staple in many New Orleans tours. If visiting cemeteries is a must for you, this tour might not fully meet your expectations, but the guide will likely acknowledge this closure during the walk.

Is the Price Worth It?

At $30 per person, this tour is quite reasonable considering it includes a guided walk, storytelling, and the scenic streetcar ride. We think the value lies in the quality of the guide and the visual feast of architecture and historic sites. It’s a laid-back way to learn about the neighborhood without needing to plan multiple stops or worry about transportation logistics.

What’s Included and What’s Not

You’re getting a guided walking tour and the experience of riding the historic streetcar, but there are no food or drinks included. If you’re hungry afterward, you might want to explore local cafes—there are plenty nearby. The tour is also flexible with cancellations, offering full refunds if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, which is a bonus if your plans are uncertain.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy architecture, history, or film locations, and who don’t mind a walk in the sun. It’s also great for those who want a budget-friendly introduction to one of New Orleans’ most photogenic neighborhoods. It’s less ideal if cemetery access is a priority, but the story-rich homes and film sites make up for that.

It’s particularly appealing if you prefer guided insights over self-guided wandering, and if you’re interested in seeing the homes of some notable residents. While not specifically tailored for families, older children who enjoy stories of celebrities and movies could find this engaging.

Final Thoughts

This Garden District and Lafayette Cemetery tour provides a well-rounded snapshot of New Orleans’ elegant side, with expert guides bringing the neighborhoods to life. It’s a comfortable, economical way to enjoy the sights, with enough interesting details to satisfy curious travelers.

The highlights—like the beautiful architecture, celebrity homes, and film locations—make it a fun and educational experience, especially if you’re into history and culture. The major downside, the cemetery closure, is something to be aware of beforehand, so don’t go expecting cemetery access.

All in all, if you’re looking for a relaxed, informative introduction to the Garden District, this tour is worth considering. It’s a good match for those wanting a snapshot of New Orleans’ grandeur without a full-day commitment, and you’ll likely come away with some great photos and stories.

FAQ

Can I enter Lafayette Cemetery during this tour?
No, the Lafayette Cemetery is permanently closed to visitors, so you won’t be able to go inside during this tour. You’ll mainly see the outside of the historic site.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally walking and about architecture and film sites, it’s not specifically geared for kids. Older children with interest in movies or history might enjoy it, but it’s best for travelers who enjoy storytelling and walking.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about two hours, making it a manageable activity without overcommitting your day.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, the St. Charles Avenue Streetcar is part of the experience, offering a scenic ride that adds to the charm of the neighborhood.

What’s the meeting point?
You’ll meet inside The Garden District Book Shop, located at 2727 Prytania Street, at the corner of Washington and Prytania.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds some flexibility for your trip planning.

Is this tour good for a first-time visitor to New Orleans?
Absolutely. It offers a relaxed, scenic look at one of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods, perfect for orienting yourself and capturing some great photos.

Whether you’re a first-timer eager to see what makes New Orleans so charming or a repeat visitor wanting a deeper look at its neighborhoods, this tour hits a lot of the right notes—beautiful homes, fascinating stories, and a taste of local culture.

You can check availability for your dates here: