New Orleans: Cemetery Tour

Experience the Mystique of New Orleans: Cemetery Tour

If you’re curious about New Orleans’ distinctive burial traditions, this 2-hour Cemetery Tour offers an engaging peek into the city’s most historic and fascinating cemeteries. For just $28 per person, you’ll explore several above-ground tombs, often called the “cities of the dead,” and learn about the stories of the famous and lesser-known residents resting there. Your journey begins at the Morning Call Coffee Shop, where you’ll meet your local guide, and from there, the adventure into the mysterious world of New Orleans’ cemeteries begins.

What we love about this tour are two things: the depth of historical storytelling—your guide’s enthusiasm makes the stories come alive—and the chance to see the stunning Victorian-era tombs, some with intricate carvings and symbolic details that make each visit memorable. It’s also a bonus that the tour is recommended by the Travel Channel, A&E, and the History Channel, adding credibility. On the flip side, you might want to consider that weather can impact the experience, as rain or shine, you’ll be walking outdoors. This tour is perfect for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, or anyone intrigued by haunted heritage and unique burial customs.

If you enjoy stories that mix history, culture, and a touch of mystery, you’ll find this cemetery tour offers an authentic slice of New Orleans’ soul. It’s especially suited to travelers who appreciate well-versed guides and visual storytelling that makes each tomb and story come alive.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $28, it provides a vivid glimpse into the city’s rich burial traditions.
• Knowledgeable Guides: The guides are praised for their passion, humor, and depth of local knowledge.
• Historic Cemeteries: You’ll visit several of New Orleans’ oldest and most interesting above-ground cemeteries.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about voodoo and the unique reasons for above-ground burials.
• Authentic Experience: The tour includes stories of notable celebrities and mysterious tombs.
• Rain or Shine: Tours operate regardless of weather, so bring an umbrella.

A Deep Dive into the Cemetery Tour Experience

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Starting at Morning Call Coffee Shop on Canal Blvd, your guide — often described as engaging, humorous, and incredibly knowledgeable — will gather the small group and lead you into the historic cemeteries, each with its own distinctive character. Expect to walk through several cemeteries in about two hours, focusing on older burial grounds that reveal the city’s unique approach to death and remembrance.

The first stop typically introduces you to why New Orleans prefers above-ground tombs. Unlike many places, the city’s high water table makes traditional burials impractical, so tombs are built to withstand the moisture and storms. Your guide will explain how these vaults and mausoleums are designed, often with Victorian craftsmanship and symbolic motifs.

At each cemetery, you’ll see notable tombs of celebrities and infamous residents. Among the highlights are tombs with intricate carvings, statues, and personalized motifs that reflect the lives or beliefs of those interred. You’ll also hear stories about local legends, including tales connected with voodoo culture, which is deeply woven into the city’s identity.

The Stories and Personalities

The stories behind the tombs often make the experience stand out. For example, some tombs are marked by elaborate sculptures, which serve as personal tributes. The guide’s storytelling brings these details to life, making history feel close enough to touch. One reviewer mentions how their guide, Toast, blended humor with insightful facts, keeping the atmosphere lively and respectful.

You’ll also learn about the symbolism of the tomb decorations — from Victorian mourning symbols to voodoo influences. The tour provides context about local customs that have evolved over centuries, resulting in a rich tapestry of cultural expression.

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The Atmosphere and Group Dynamics

The tour is described as not strenuous, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. It’s a walking tour, but the pace is relaxed, and the group is kept small enough for questions and interaction. Several reviews mention how guides responded thoughtfully to questions, making the experience both informative and personal.

Because the tour is recommended by prominent media outlets, it’s clear that the storytelling is well-researched and engaging. Many guests note how their guides’ personalities—particularly Toast and Thorn—created a lively, memorable atmosphere, blending respectful storytelling with humor.

Practical Details and Value

For $28, you’re paying for an experience that covers multiple cemeteries, stories, and cultural insights. The meeting point at Morning Call is convenient, and the tour operates rain or shine, so packing an umbrella is wise. The two-hour duration is a perfect window to get an intriguing overview without feeling rushed or exhausted.

The tour’s review scores average 4.6 out of 5 from nearly 600 reviews, which indicates consistent satisfaction. Travelers praise the knowledge and personality of the guides, with many saying they learned more than they expected about the city’s cemeteries and voodoo traditions.

The Significance of the Burial Traditions

New Orleans’ above-ground tombs are more than just an unusual aesthetic—they are a practical response to the high water table. Unlike traditional burials, these vaults and mausoleums are designed to withstand flooding and storm surges, which are common in the area.

Beyond practicality, these cemeteries are repositories of local art and symbolism. Many tombs are personal monuments, reflecting religious beliefs, personal stories, or cultural identities. As you stroll through the maze of tombs, you’ll see elaborate sculptures, engraved epitaphs, and symbols that give insight into New Orleans’ spiritual landscape—from Catholic saints to voodoo icons.

Learning why certain symbols, like draped figures or cross motifs, are prevalent helps understand the religious and cultural fabric of the city. The guides often explain these symbols’ meanings, adding depth to what might otherwise be just a visual feast.

Why It’s a Must-Do for Certain Travelers

This tour truly shines for those with a curious mind and a respect for history and culture. It’s particularly suited for history buffs, art lovers, and those intrigued by the supernatural or voodoo. Many reviews mention how guides’ storytelling and humor make the experience engaging for both adults and children — especially since it’s described as kid-friendly.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic local stories and wants to see the city’s most iconic cemeteries, this tour offers great value for money. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides ensure you’re not just passing through but truly understanding what makes New Orleans’ cemeteries so unique.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re visiting New Orleans and want an authentic, respectful, yet entertaining look at its haunted heritage, this cemetery tour is a standout choice. It’s ideal for travelers who value historical detail, cultural insights, and personal stories over superficial sightseeing. The moderate price combined with the high praise from hundreds of travelers makes it a sound investment in understanding the city’s unique relationship with death and remembrance.

For those interested in local customs, Victorian art, and voodoo lore, the tour offers a window into a world that’s both fascinating and respectful. It’s a great way to add a layer of depth and intrigue to your New Orleans visit, especially if you’re the kind of traveler who enjoys storytelling that feels genuine rather than scripted.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is described as not strenuous and is generally considered kid-friendly, especially since guides take time to explain things in understandable terms.

What should I bring?
It’s recommended to bring an umbrella, as the tour operates rain or shine. Comfortable walking shoes are also a good idea, as you’ll be exploring multiple cemeteries.

Does the tour cover specific cemeteries?
Yes, you will visit several of New Orleans’ oldest and most interesting burial grounds, focusing on above-ground tombs typical of the city.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, providing enough time to see a good number of tombs and hear stories without feeling rushed.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, so most visitors with mobility concerns should find it manageable.

What makes this tour different from other cemetery visits?
This tour offers guided storytelling, cultural context, and visits to multiple cemeteries, making it more comprehensive than a solo visit.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans shift.

Is this tour suitable for people interested in voodoo?
Absolutely, the tour explores the connection between voodoo and local burial practices, which many find particularly intriguing.

How do I find the meeting point?
The meeting point is Morning Call Coffee Shop at 5101 Canal Blvd — an easy spot to locate and accessible for most travelers.

Exploring New Orleans’ cemeteries isn’t just about seeing tombs — it’s about connecting with the stories, the art, and the culture that make the city so uniquely fascinating. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or the supernatural, this tour offers a solid, engaging way to understand a city that’s as lively in death as it is in life.

You can check availability for your dates here: