New Orleans: City and Cemetery Sightseeing Tour

If you’re visiting New Orleans and want an authentic taste of the city’s visual and cultural charm, the City and Cemetery Sightseeing Tour offered by Cajun Encounters might just be a perfect fit. For $63 per person and lasting around 2.5 hours, this guided trip takes you through some of the most iconic neighborhoods, with an emphasis on stories, architecture, and a haunted cemetery or two. Your journey starts at the Homewood Suites in the French Quarter, where an air-conditioned mini-coach awaits to whisk you through the city’s colorful streets.

What we especially liked about this tour is the blend of visual beauty and storytelling. First, the architecture of the French Quarter is a genuine delight—think wrought iron balconies, colorful Creole townhouses, and the unmistakable shotgun homes. Our guide, Sarah, was particularly skilled at weaving history with local legends, making the buildings come alive. Secondly, the visit to St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 gave a peek into the city’s unique burial customs, with its above-ground tombs and mystical stories.

One aspect to keep in mind: the tour moves at a quick pace, fitting a lot into just 2.5 hours. If you’re looking for a relaxed, in-depth exploration of each neighborhood or cemetery, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, since it’s a walking tour at the cemetery, it’s not accessible for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.

This tour suits travelers who want an efficient yet engaging overview of New Orleans’ highlights—perfect for first-timers or those short on time but eager to experience the city’s distinctive flavor. It’s especially ideal if you’re interested in architecture, history, and some ghostly stories to spice up your trip.

Key Points

Compact and efficient: A 2.5-hour tour that covers highlights of New Orleans’ architecture and cemeteries.
Comfortable transportation: Travel in an air-conditioned mini-coach for a stress-free experience.
Rich storytelling: Guides share fascinating insights into voodoo, local legends, and the city’s history.
Iconic sights: Includes the French Quarter, Garden District, and St. Louis Cemetery No. 3.
Authentic vibe: Focus on local culture, history, and unique burial customs.
Suitable for most travelers: Not wheelchair accessible and no food included, but fits those wanting a streamlined overview.

When we think of New Orleans, vivid images come to mind: colorful buildings, jazz music echoing through narrow streets, and the scent of spices and something a little spookier—perhaps a hint of voodoo. This tour hits many of those notes, providing a rich visual journey woven with stories that bring the city’s past to life.

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Starting Point: French Quarter Charm

The tour begins at the Homewood Suites, ideally situated for easy access to the French Quarter’s vibrant streets. From there, the mini-coach whisks you away from the hotel, giving you a brief but scenic drive through the historic heart of the city. Expect to see classic French and Spanish-inspired architecture as your guide describes how this area was shaped by diverse influences. We loved hearing stories about Creole townhouses with their wrought-iron balconies and the iconic shotgun homes—narrow, long houses that are a visual symbol of New Orleans’ architectural uniqueness.

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French Quarter and Its Stories

In the French Quarter, the guide shares tales that help you understand what makes this neighborhood special. We appreciated the way stories of local legends and voodoo heritage flowed naturally with the sights. This part of the tour is all about visual cues and storytelling, so don’t expect long stops; instead, enjoy the quick glimpses and commentary.

Passing Through Tremé and Into the Garden District

Next, the tour skirts through Tremé, one of the city’s oldest African-American neighborhoods, known for its jazz roots and vibrant culture. Then, you move into the Garden District, famous for its well-preserved Southern mansions and lush landscapes. From the comfort of the mini-coach, you’ll catch views of grand homes and perhaps glimpse the famous Lake Pontchartrain Causeway—a long, impressive bridge that connects the city to its northern suburbs.

The Cemetery Experience: St. Louis Cemetery No. 3

The highlight—or perhaps the most atmospheric part—is the walk through St. Louis Cemetery No. 3. This cemetery is noted for its above-ground tombs that resemble miniature houses, many of which are spiraling with stories of their inhabitants. Our guide explained that these burial customs developed because of New Orleans’ high water table, making traditional burials impossible. We found the stories about some of the tombs’ residents especially intriguing, adding a ghostly charm to the visit.

Please note: the cemetery is not wheelchair accessible and involves some walking on uneven terrain. If you’re interested in the city’s haunted traditions, this stop will certainly satisfy your curiosity. As one reviewer said, “It’s hauntingly beautiful and filled with stories of the past,” which captures the experience well.

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The Ride Back

After the cemetery visit, it’s a comfortable ride back to the starting point. If you’re pressed for time but still want a taste of New Orleans’ architecture, stories, and cemeteries, this tour offers good value. It’s a quick dive into the city’s soul—enough to whet your appetite for deeper exploration later.

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Why This Tour Offers Value

At $63, you get a guided experience that hits key landmarks without the hassle of navigating on your own. The small-group setting fosters an intimate atmosphere where questions are welcome, and stories become more personal. We found that the combination of bus and walking allows you to see more than a walking tour alone, yet the walking part at the cemetery adds a tactile sense of history.

What You Might Miss

Because it’s a relatively short tour, some details might feel rushed, especially if you love spending time soaking in each neighborhood. Also, there’s no food or drinks included, so plan to eat before or after to keep your energy up. Lastly, those with mobility challenges should note that access to the cemetery isn’t wheelchair-friendly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you want an introductory overview of New Orleans’ architecture and cemeteries. It’s especially suitable for first-timers who want a guided, informative snapshot without committing to a full-day tour. If you’re interested in local stories, voodoo, and ghostly tales, you’ll find plenty here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly designed for children, the short duration and engaging stories can appeal to families. However, the cemetery involves walking on uneven ground, so keep that in mind.

Does the tour include food or drinks?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price. You may want to eat before or after your trip.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
No, the cemetery walk is not wheelchair accessible, so this tour isn’t suitable for travelers with mobility issues.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for the cemetery visit. Dress appropriately for weather—most tours operate in the morning or afternoon, so bring sun protection or rain gear as needed.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience is about 2.5 hours, including transport and walking time at the cemetery.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended. You can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

For those wanting a snapshot of New Orleans’ architectural charm, vibrant neighborhoods, and haunted cemeteries, this tour by Cajun Encounters provides a well-rounded, engaging experience. It balances visual beauty, storytelling, and historical insights, making it a worthwhile addition for visitors short on time but eager to understand the city’s distinctive character.

While it’s not a deep dive, it’s a perfect primer—especially for first-timers, history buffs, or those curious about the city’s voodoo and ghostly legends. If you’re seeking a value-packed, immersive, but manageable introduction to New Orleans, this tour will leave you with plenty to think about and photograph.