St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 Official Walking Tour

Exploring the final resting place of New Orleans’ most colorful characters—such as Marie Laveau and Delphine LaLaurie—has never been more accessible or engaging. The St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 Official Walking Tour offers an intimate look into the city’s iconic cemetery, limited to just 20 participants per tour, for a cost of around $24.25 per person. Lasting roughly 55 minutes, this guided experience is scheduled with a good level of advance booking, generally about 17 days ahead. It begins at Basin St. Station, a charming visitor center packed with exhibits, restrooms, and a gift shop, making it a convenient and comfortable starting point before you walk across the street into the historic cemetery.

What we love about this tour is how it combines local expertise—with guides who are knowledgeable and often praised for their storytelling—and the opportunity to see famous graves up close, like Marie Laveau’s, along with lesser-known but equally intriguing tombs. Plus, the tour’s limited size means more personalized attention and fewer crowds, enhancing your experience of this atmospheric, centuries-old site.

A possible consideration is the weather, since the entire tour is outdoors with little shelter—be sure to come prepared with sunscreen, water, or an umbrella, especially during hotter months. Also, the 45-minute length might feel a bit short for those expecting a more in-depth exploration, but it’s perfect for a quick, insightful peek into New Orleans’ mortuary history.

This tour suits history buffs, fans of ghost stories, or anyone curious about the city’s unique traditions around death and remembrance. If you appreciate guided storytelling and authentic local insights, you’ll find this experience well worth the time and money.

Key Points

• Limited group size ensures a more personal, engaging experience.
• Expert guides bring history, stories, and legends to life.
• Famous graves like Marie Laveau’s are accessible through a well-curated route.
• Outdoor experience calls for sun protection and patience with weather conditions.
• Pre-booking is highly recommended to secure a spot and avoid missing out.
• Accessible for most travelers with options for wheelchairs, strollers, and service animals.

A Deep Dive into the St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 Walking Tour

When we think about what makes this tour special, it’s all about the careful balance of historical storytelling and the chance to see one of the most iconic cemeteries in the United States. The fact that the cemetery is not open to the public without a guide adds to its mystique, making a guided tour the best—and often only—way to explore this “City of the Dead.”

Starting Point: Basin St. Station

The tour kicks off at Basin St. Station, a historic building with exhibits about New Orleans and its complex history, including the devastating effects of Hurricane Katrina. Here, you’ll check in, receive your tickets and tour stickers, and get a brief orientation. This is one of those rare moments where a visitor center enhances your overall experience, offering context before you step into the cemetery.

The Walk Across the Street to the Cemetery

Once inside, your guide—often praised for their knowledge and storytelling skills—will walk you through the gates of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1. This cemetery dates back to 1789, making it the oldest in New Orleans. Its above-ground tombs and mausoleums are true visual spectacles, especially considering the limited space in a city prone to flooding. You’ll notice the unique architecture, including intricate ironwork and tombs stacked in layers, which tell a story about the city’s adaptation to its environment.

Highlights Inside the Cemetery

• Marie Laveau’s Tomb: The legendary Voodoo Queen is perhaps the most famous resident. Visitors often leave tokens, and the tomb has become a pilgrimage site. Your guide will share tales of her influence and the voodoo traditions that still thrive in New Orleans.

• Delphine LaLaurie’s Tomb: Known for her infamous history, LaLaurie’s mausoleum offers a darker glimpse into the city’s past. The stories behind her deeds and the subsequent burial site provide a chilling contrast to the more legendary graves.

• Other Notable Graves: The tour also points out notable residents, historical figures, and some of the most artistically striking tombs, giving you a sense of the city’s diverse cultural roots.

What You’ll Experience

During the roughly 45-minute tour, guides typically intersperse facts with stories, legends, and local gossip—something that reviews frequently praise. One reviewer noted, “The tour guide made it memorable. Zelda told great stories and kept us laughing and informed the entire tour,” highlighting the importance of engaging storytelling. Others have commented on how guides are able to make history feel alive, not just a series of dates and facts.

Authenticity and Respect

It’s worth mentioning that the cemetery is a working site, which means visitors need to respect rules—no touching tombs, no leaving tokens unless explicitly allowed (and generally discouraged), and staying with the guide at all times. Several reviews echo the importance of this, emphasizing that guides are well-trained to maintain respectful conduct while sharing the site’s stories.

The Value of the Tour

At just over $24, this tour offers exceptional value for such a unique glimpse into New Orleans’ mortuary culture. The guided element ensures you get accurate, local insights beyond what you might find on a self-guided stroll. Plus, the tour’s limited size often results in more interaction and personalized storytelling, which many users rave about.

Given the overwhelmingly positive reviews—many mentioning guides like Zelda, Jeff, and Will by name—you’re likely to find an engaging, memorable experience. The tour’s brevity makes it accessible even for those with tight schedules or young children, while still providing a meaningful introduction to the city’s history and legends.

Practical Considerations

• Weather: Since the tour is outdoors, it can be hot, humid, and sunny. Many reviewers have appreciated the availability of misting stations and water sprays to combat the heat. Bring sunscreen, hats, and water.
• Pre-Booking: Highly recommended, as the tour regularly sells out about 17 days in advance.
• Accessibility: The cemetery is wheelchair and stroller friendly, with paths suitable for scooters or wheelchairs.
• Timing: Arrive 10-15 minutes early to avoid missing the start and to collect your tickets and stickers.

Who Is This Tour For?

If you’re interested in history, legends, or ghost stories, and enjoy guided storytelling, this tour will resonate. It’s ideal for travelers comfortable with walking outdoors in the heat and for those who want a curated, in-depth look at New Orleans’ most famous cemetery without the hassle of trying to navigate alone. It’s also perfect for visitors who value authentic stories and memorable guides, as reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and humor.

This experience isn’t suited for those seeking a long, comprehensive exploration of every grave, nor for travelers who prefer a self-guided approach. However, those wanting a short, impactful introduction to the city’s mortuary history will find it just right.

Final Thoughts

The St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 Official Walking Tour offers a highly enjoyable, affordable way to peek into New Orleans’ past—and its ghost stories. The combination of historic graves, engaging storytelling, and limited crowds makes it a standout activity for anyone curious about the city’s unique relationship with death and remembrance.

It’s especially suited for those who appreciate local guides with a knack for storytelling, and who want to see the graves of legends like Marie Laveau without the stress of navigating a busy, open cemetery on their own. The well-organized tour, respectful atmosphere, and authentic stories make this a memorable part of any trip to the Big Easy.

FAQ

How early should I arrive for the tour?
Please plan to arrive at least 10-15 minutes early at Basin St. Station for check-in and tickets. This ensures a prompt start and a smooth experience.

Is parking available nearby?
Yes, there’s a public parking lot adjacent to Basin St. Station that charges about $5-$10 for 10 hours. Remember to pay at the kiosk and display your receipt on your dashboard.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely. Photography is encouraged, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture the striking tombs and historic details.

How knowledgeable is the guide?
Guides are locally licensed, specially trained, and praised for their storytelling. They are equipped to provide accurate and engaging insights into the cemetery’s history and legends.

Can I visit without a tour?
No, the cemetery is only accessible via authorized guided tours. Private visits are reserved for family members through the Archdiocese.

What should I wear and bring?
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for uneven surfaces, bring sunscreen, hats, and water. In colder months, a jacket is advisable, and in the summer, be prepared for heat and humidity.

This tour strikes a nice balance between casual sightseeing and meaningful history, all wrapped in a short walk that’s perfect for most travelers. Whether you’re a history buff, a legend chaser, or just curious about New Orleans’ vibrant culture, this experience offers a memorable glimpse into one of the city’s most iconic sites.