New Orleans: Walking Tour Inside St. Louis Cemetery No. 1

Planning a trip to New Orleans? If you’re intrigued by the spooky, soulful side of this vibrant city, a guided tour inside St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is almost a must. This isn’t your average cemetery walk — it’s an atmospheric peek into the city’s most famous resting places, often off-limits to the general public. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll learn about the city’s unique burial customs, hear stories about legendary figures, and get up close to some truly iconic tombs.

What I really appreciate about this tour is how it balances education with entertainment. First, you’re in one of America’s oldest cemeteries, which is visually striking with its above-ground tombs. Second, the guides seem genuinely passionate and know their stuff, making the experience both interesting and respectful. A possible hiccup? The cemetery’s restrictions mean you can’t linger after the tour to further explore or snap extra photos, which might be frustrating for some. Still, this experience is ideal for history buffs, culture lovers, or anyone curious about New Orleans’ distinctive burial practices.

If you’re comfortable walking for about an hour and enjoy stories sprinkled with local lore, you’ll find this tour right up your alley. It’s especially suited for those who want to dive into the city’s past without the hassle of navigating on their own. And at just $25, it offers pretty good value for a compact, engaging glimpse into the city’s soul.

Key Points

• Exclusive Access: The cemetery is closed to the public, so this guided tour offers a rare inside view.
• Iconic Tombs: See Marie Laveau’s tomb, Nicolas Cage’s pyramid-shaped mausoleum, and the resting places of notable figures like Homer Plessey.
• Engaging Guides: Reviews consistently praise guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and personal stories.
• Visual Feast: The above-ground tombs are both elaborate and fascinating, making for great photo opportunities.
• Respectful Experience: The tour is described as respectful and well-paced, ideal for those interested in history and culture.
• Value for Money: For just $25, the 55-minute experience offers a compact but memorable peek into the city’s hauntingly beautiful history.

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What to Expect from the Tour

Starting at the Basin St. Station Visitor Center, your adventure kicks off with an introduction to the cemetery’s history and significance. The center itself offers exhibits about New Orleans, which can enrich your understanding even before stepping outside. After receiving your tour stickers, you’ll head to the front gates of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, where the real journey begins.

Expect to walk through a maze of tombs, many of which are above ground—a distinctive burial style born out of New Orleans’ high water table. Your guide will narrate stories about these crypts, sharing details about their architecture, the people buried within, and cultural customs that make this cemetery unique.

Notable stops include the tomb of Marie Laveau, the legendary Voodoo Queen, which is a highlight for many visitors. As the reviews reveal, seeing her tomb in person is a memorable experience, with some guides sharing stories about her life, rituals, and her enduring legacy. You’ll also see the pyramid-shaped mausoleum built by actor Nicolas Cage, which adds a touch of Hollywood flair to the historic landscape.

Throughout the tour, guides will talk about New Orleans’ burial customs, which differ from traditional Western practices. You’ll learn why many tombs are above ground, a necessity due to the city’s water table, and how this shapes the city’s haunting aesthetic.

Expect a mix of storytelling, historical facts, and fun tidbits — some guides even share personal experiences or connections to the city’s history. The tours are generally timed well, lasting about 55 minutes, making it an easily manageable activity even if you’re on a tight schedule.

The Experience of Walking Through History

Walking among the tombs, you’ll notice the elaborate craftsmanship of many crypts — from intricate carvings to towering mausoleums. This isn’t just a cemetery; it’s an open-air museum of funerary art and a testament to the city’s history.

Guides are praised for their knowledge and respectfulness. Many reviewers highlight guides like Mama Nita, Zelda, or Buddy, who are described as engaging, funny, and full of interesting stories. Their personal touch adds depth to the experience, making it more than just a walk through old stones.

The stories told about notable residents — from the Voodoo Queen to Homer Plessey — add layers of intrigue. These tales bring the past to life and help visitors understand the city’s cultural makeup. For example, as one reviewer shared, guides sometimes have personal connections or interesting anecdotes about Marie Laveau, making her tomb even more compelling.

The highlights include viewing Nicolas Cage’s mausoleum, which is a peculiar yet fascinating sight. Some visitors find it amusing, and guides often share the story behind the pyramid-shaped tomb, emphasizing the blend of celebrity and eccentricity that makes New Orleans special.

The Practical Side: Logistics, Cost, and Tips

The tour is quite straightforward to join. You check in at the Cemetery Tour Desk inside the Basin St. Station Visitor Center, which is conveniently located next to the French Quarter. This proximity makes it easy to combine with other sightseeing plans.

At $25 per person, the tour is competitively priced, especially considering the exclusive access and the knowledgeable guides. It’s a good value for anyone interested in history, culture, or the macabre side of New Orleans. The 55-minute duration makes it manageable even on a busy day, and trips are available morning, afternoon, or evening.

The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, adding flexibility for travelers with changing plans. Booking in advance can secure your spot, especially during peak times.

A word to the wise: Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking through uneven terrain. Also, prepare for the weather — hats, sunscreen, and water are recommended, especially in summer. One reviewer even suggested bringing an umbrella for extra shade.

The Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers excellent insights, it’s important to note that you can’t stay in the cemetery afterward. The guides mention that, due to past vandalism, visitors are asked to leave once the tour ends. This could be a downside for those who want to linger longer or take additional photos.

Plus, the tour is relatively short, lasting only about 55 minutes. If you’re craving a deep dive into the cemetery’s entire history, you might find this a bit light. But for most visitors, the curated highlights and the stories shared make it worthwhile.

Some reviews mention the midday heat in New Orleans can be intense, so dressing appropriately is wise. Guides often provide some shade or misting tents, but bringing your own water and sun protection is a good idea.

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Who Should Do This Tour?

This guided walk is perfect for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and those interested in New Orleans’ unique burial customs. It’s also a great choice for travelers who prefer guided experiences to wandering on their own, especially since the cemetery is closed to the general public.

It’s a good fit for people who don’t mind walking outdoors in the heat and who appreciate storytelling and local lore. If you’re looking for an eerie, atmospheric experience with plenty of photo opportunities, this tour ticks those boxes. It’s less ideal for those seeking a long, detailed exploration or wishing to stay within the cemetery after the tour.

FAQs

Is the cemetery open to the public for self-guided tours? No, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is closed to the general public. The only way to access it is via an authorized guided tour like this one.

How long is the tour? The guided walk typically lasts about 55 minutes, making it a quick but impactful experience.

What’s included in the tour? The price covers the guided walking tour and the guide’s insights. No additional tickets are required.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Where do I meet the guide? You meet at the ‘Cemetery Tour Desk’ inside the Basin St. Station Visitor Center, located next to the French Quarter.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour suitable for children? While not explicitly mentioned, the tour is generally respectful and informative, so families with older children interested in history should be fine.

What should I wear? Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Bring sun protection like hats and sunscreen, especially in warmer months.

Are there any hidden fees or extra costs? No, the $25 fee covers the tour. However, you might want to budget for souvenirs or snacks at the Visitor Center.

Can I take photos during the tour? Yes, but remember that the cemetery is restricted and visitors are asked to leave after the tour, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re eager to see the resting places of some of New Orleans’ most famous residents, this guided tour inside St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is a solid choice. It offers a respectful, engaging, and visually striking experience that balances storytelling with history. The guides’ knowledge and personable approach shine through, making it more than just a walk among tombs—it’s a glimpse into the city’s soul.

While the 55-minute duration and the cemetery’s restricted access after the tour might leave some wanting more, the experience remains highly worthwhile. The ticket price is reasonable considering the exclusive access and the stories you’ll hear. It’s best suited for those interested in history, architecture, or the city’s cultural quirks, and who don’t mind walking outdoors in the heat.

All in all, it’s an experience that adds a meaningful layer to your visit without overwhelming your schedule or budget. If you enjoy stories of legends, local customs, and historic architecture, this tour will likely stand out as a memorable highlight of your trip.

Enjoy your time in New Orleans, and don’t forget to look up from your feet every now and then — the city’s stories are written in its stones.

You can check availability for your dates here: