New Orleans Historic Cemetery Tour: Explore Our Cemeteries

Explore New Orleans’ Historic Cemeteries with a Guided Walk Led by Engaging Storytellers

This 2-hour walking tour takes you through some of New Orleans’ most storied cemeteries, including St. Patrick Cemetery No. 2, Masonic Cemetery No. 1, and the Katrina Memorial at Charity Hospital Cemetery. Costing $29.99 per person, it’s a compact yet comprehensive way to experience the city’s unique burial customs and hear tales of hurricanes, yellow fever, and notable residents. Led by passionate guides like Taylor, you’ll learn not just about the tombstones but about the culture and history that shaped this city’s traditions.

What we really appreciate are the personal stories and insights guides share, making the history come alive. Plus, the small group size (max 10 travelers) ensures an intimate experience that encourages questions and curiosity. However, one consideration is the walking nature of the tour, which might be challenging if mobility is an issue—terrain can be uneven in historic cemeteries.

This tour suits history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, or anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of New Orleans’ burial customs and local tragedies. If you enjoy engaging storytelling and authentic experiences off the typical tourist trail, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Authentic experience: Guided by passionate storytellers with detailed local knowledge.
• Historic cemeteries: Visit iconic sites like St. Patrick Cemetery and the Katrina Memorial.
• Cultural insights: Learn about burial rites, traditions, and the city’s unique above-ground tombs.
• Emotional depth: Pay respects at the Katrina Memorial and learn personal stories of the city’s tragedies.
• Small group setting: Limited to 10 travelers for a personalized experience.
• Value for money: At $29.99, it offers a meaningful tour packed with stories and history.

A Detailed Look at the New Orleans Cemetery Tour

This tour is more than just walking through old graves; it’s an invitation into the spine-tingling stories that give life to the city’s history. Starting at G’s Pizza on Bienville Street, you’ll meet your guide and begin a journey into New Orleans’ distinctive burial practices—most notably, the above-ground tombs that are a response to the city’s high water table.

The First Stop: St. Patrick Cemetery No. 2

This cemetery provides a rich picture of local burial customs. When we visited, our guide, Taylor, explained how graves are organized and the significance of above-ground vaults. The 30-minute walkthrough offers a chance to see ornate tombs and hear stories about some of the notable figures buried there. Reviewers repeatedly mention that guides like Taylor love sharing their knowledge, making the experience lively and educational. One traveler noted, “Taylor was a great guide with tons of information,” emphasizing the engaging storytelling style that keeps visitors interested.

Mid-City Cemeteries Near City Park

Next, the tour takes you through cemeteries near City Park, where the atmosphere shifts to a more tranquil, green setting. Spending about an hour here, you’ll see more graves and hear about the local burial traditions. This part of the tour offers a chance to explore on your own briefly, with the guide offering time for questions and photos. As one review said, “The cemetery stop was my favorite part,” highlighting how these less touristy spots can be quietly fascinating.

The Katrina Memorial at Charity Hospital Cemetery

The final stop is the Katrina Memorial, which commemorates lives lost during Hurricane Katrina. Visiting this site, you’ll hear personal stories and learn about the tragic impact of the hurricane on New Orleans. The 20-minute visit is poignant, giving space for reflection. One reviewer described it as “a haunting history,” which perfectly captures the emotional weight of this memorial.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Beyond the visits, the storytelling quality of guides like Taylor makes the difference. Reviewers consistently praise guides for their entertainment and knowledge, often describing them as passionate, friendly, and eager to share stories. This makes the experience both educational and personable.

The tour’s small size ensures that everyone can ask questions and explore at their own pace. This is especially valued when inside cemeteries, where the atmosphere invites reflection and curiosity.

Practical Details and Considerations

The $29.99 price is quite reasonable for a tour that offers three distinct cemeteries and a memorial, plus the chance for personal interaction. Because the tour is walked, it’s best suited to travelers with moderate physical fitness and good footwear, especially because terrain can be uneven. Weather plays a role too; hot days can be intense, so packing sunscreen, hats, and water is recommended—several reviewers noted the importance of dressing appropriately under the sun.

The meeting point is a short walk from public transportation, and the tour ends near the Charity Hospital Cemetery on Canal Street, making it easy to continue exploring or to grab a bite afterward.

Why Is This Tour Worth Considering?

Despite some minor drawbacks—like the physicality of walking or the distance from the French Quarter—most travelers find the authentic insights and personal stories well worth it. It’s particularly appealing for those eager to go beyond the typical tourist sights and experience local history firsthand.

Reviewers mention that guides like Taylor go the extra mile, providing food recommendations and extra historical context, enriching the overall experience. One said, “He made the walking fun and never stopped telling stories,” which is exactly what makes this tour memorable.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history lovers and culture seekers who want to understand New Orleans’ distinctive burial traditions and hear personal stories of tragedy and resilience. It’s perfect for those who appreciate small group settings and engaging guides.

If you prefer a more active, walking experience and are okay with some physical exertion, you’ll find this tour rewarding. However, travelers with mobility issues should consider the terrain challenges and discuss accessibility options beforehand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the departure location for the tour?
It starts at G’s Pizza, located at 4840 Bienville St, making it easy to find and close to public transit.

How early should I arrive?
Check-in begins 30 minutes before departure. Arriving early ensures you’re ready and avoids missing the start, as late arrivals aren’t accepted.

Is prior reservation necessary?
Yes, reservations are required due to the limited group size and to guarantee a spot on the tour.

Why doesn’t the tour run at night?
The cemeteries are owned by the Catholic Archdiocese and close at 4 pm, so tours are scheduled during daylight hours for safety and compliance.

What about bad weather?
Tours are rarely canceled except for severe weather like storms or hurricanes. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a refund.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended. Terrain can be uneven, and the tour involves walking outdoors in heat, so dress accordingly.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not provided but you’re welcome to bring your own water or beverages.

How long does each stop last?
St. Patrick Cemetery is about 30 minutes, cemeteries near City Park about an hour, and the Katrina Memorial around 20 minutes.

What makes this tour different from others?
It’s an intimate, storytelling-focused walk that covers multiple historic sites, with guides who truly engage and share local insights.

Can I explore the cemeteries on my own during the tour?
Yes, there’s time inside cemeteries to look around and ask questions before linking back with the group.

Final Thoughts

For those eager to learn about New Orleans’ unique burial customs and local tragedies, this tour offers an engaging, personal touch that many larger packages lack. The small group size and enthusiastic guides make it a memorable way to deepen your understanding of the city’s character.

While it requires walking and some patience in the sun, the authentic stories and historical insights more than compensate. If you value knowledgeable guides and authentic experiences, and enjoy a mix of history and culture, this cemetery tour is a worthwhile addition to your New Orleans itinerary.

Whether you’re a dedicated history buff or simply curious about the stories behind the city’s famous tombs, this tour will leave you with a deeper appreciation for New Orleans’ resilience and its distinctive burial traditions.