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

Exploring the Hidden World of New Orleans’ Dead: Inside St. Louis Cemetery No. 1

If you’re heading to New Orleans, a visit to St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is a must—so long as you have a loved guide and a sense of curiosity. This 55-minute guided walking tour costs around $25 per person and takes you into the cemetery that’s closed to the general public—making it a rare peek into the city’s above-ground tombs and stories. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour offers insights into the peculiar burial customs, notable figures, and legends that give this city its haunted charm.

What we love most about this experience is the opportunity to stand close to the famous Marie Laveau’s tomb—the Voodoo Queen herself—plus marvel at the pyramid-shaped mausoleum Nicolas Cage built. The stories imparted by guides like Mama Nita or Zelda are both informative and lively, bringing to life the personalities buried here. And because it’s a small-group tour, it doesn’t feel crowded, which makes for a more personal and relaxed experience.

One potential consideration is the outdoor setting, which means you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen, and stay hydrated—especially in warmer months. If you’re interested in history, folklore, or quirky local customs, this tour hits all those marks and is perfect for travelers who enjoy stories with a bit of a spooky twist. It’s especially well-suited for those who love authentic experiences and want to see a side of New Orleans that many visitors miss.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Unique Access: Inside St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, which is closed to the general public, offering an exclusive view of the tombs.
• Fascinating Stories: Learn about Marie Laveau, the Voodoo Queen, and other notable figures from New Orleans’ past.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Mama Nita or Zelda are praised for their knowledge, engagement, and friendly demeanor.
• Rich Cultural Customs: Discover above-ground burial traditions and the reasons behind them, which are so different from most cemeteries.
• Memorable Sight: The pyramid-shaped mausoleum of Nicolas Cage draws lots of curiosity and photos.
• Value for Money: At $25 for about an hour, the tour offers a memorable, authentic experience that’s highly rated by past travelers.

The Experience in Detail

Meeting the Guide and Starting Off

Your adventure begins at the Basin St. Station Visitor Center, a hub of exhibits about New Orleans, with a café and gift shop—perfect for a quick coffee or souvenirs before heading out. Here, you’ll check in and receive your tour sticker, ensuring you’re part of the group that gets special access into the cemetery, which is not open to the public. The meeting point at the Cemetery Tour Desk inside the visitor center is convenient and easy to find, just next to the French Quarter.

Walking to the Cemetery Gates

From the visitor center, you’ll follow your guide to the front gates of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1. As you walk, your guide will set the scene, explaining why access is limited and the significance of this historic site. The cemetery’s maze-like layout makes it tricky to navigate without a guide, so their storytelling is crucial here.

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Inside the Cemetery: Tombs and Tales

Once inside, you’ll see the above-ground tombs, which are both fascinating and slightly eerie. These elaborate crypts are a consequence of New Orleans’ high water table, which made underground burial impractical. Your guide will point out notable tombs, including Marie Laveau’s—the most revered figure in the city’s spiritual landscape. You might also see the pyramid-shaped mausoleum Nicolas Cage recently built, which adds an intriguing modern twist to the historic grounds.

Stories that Stick

The guides animate their tours with fascinating stories—not just about the notable inhabitants but also about the burial customs that make New Orleans unique. For example, the respectful manner in which the dead are buried above ground reflects the city’s climatic and water-related challenges. Past visitors, like Sophie from Ireland, have raved about their guides’ knowledge and respect for the cemetery, emphasizing that the stories of Marie Laveau and other figures are told with reverence, not just sensationalism.

Special Highlights

• Marie Laveau’s tomb: Expect to see visitors leave offerings and perhaps even try a ritual or two—something guides often describe with a mix of respect and curiosity.
• Nicolas Cage’s mausoleum: An unusual sight, it offers a glimpse into the more modern, eccentric side of the cemetery. Reviews mention how fascinating it is to see what contemporary figures have added.
• Notable figures: Besides Marie Laveau, guides often talk about Homer Plessy (of the landmark Supreme Court case) and others whose stories are woven into the city’s fabric.

The Guided Tour Experience

Most reviewers praise guides like Richie, Zelda, or Buddy for their friendly demeanor, engaging storytelling, and depth of knowledge. They often pause to field questions and personalize the experience, making it feel less like a scripted tour and more like a conversation. Many mention how the length—around 55 minutes—is perfect for an outdoor activity in the heat, especially when combined with tips like wearing comfortable shoes, hats, and sunglasses.

Respect and Preservation

Because the cemetery is limited in access and strict about visitor conduct, guides emphasize respect for the graves and the cemetery’s preservation. Past visitors have appreciated how guides balance interest and reverence, ensuring the site remains intact for future visitors.

The Value of the Tour

At just $25, this tour offers exceptional value—a chance to see one of the most iconic cemeteries in the U.S. with a knowledgeable guide who shares the stories, customs, and personalities that give the tombs their ghostly charm. The small group size means you get more personalized attention and the opportunity to ask questions.

While the outdoor setting means you’ll want to be prepared for the weather, the informative narration and authentic access make it well worth it. For history buffs, folklore fans, or anyone curious about the spooky allure of New Orleans, this tour hits the sweet spot of education, entertainment, and respect.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you’re looking for a short, meaningful glimpse into New Orleans’ cemetery traditions and cultural quirks. It suits travelers who appreciate authentic stories, local legends, and beautiful, historic tombs. The tour is also great for those who prefer small groups to avoid feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

If you’re a fan of ghost stories or historic personalities like Marie Laveau, or simply want a unique photo opportunity, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s a perfect fit for history enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone wanting to see a different side of New Orleans beyond the French Quarter.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point and Check-In

Your adventure begins at the Basin St. Station Visitor Center, where you check in and pick up your tour sticker. This is a comfortable, well-equipped spot with exhibits, a café, and restrooms—helpful for preparing for the outdoor part of your tour.

The Walk to the Cemetery Gates

The short walk from the visitor center to the cemetery entrance takes you through the lively streets of the French Quarter, offering a taste of local life. Your guide will share tidbits about the neighborhood’s history and why the cemetery is tucked away behind wrought iron gates.

Entering St. Louis Cemetery No. 1

Once at the front gates, the guide will begin explaining the cemetery’s unique above-ground tombs, a response to high water levels and humidity that make underground burial impractical. This is a rare opportunity since the cemetery is closed to the public outside of guided tours.

Exploring the Tombs and Stories

As you wander through the labyrinth of crypts, your guide points out notable graves, sharing the stories of those laid to rest. The Marie Laveau tomb often becomes a focal point, where visitors leave offerings and legends swirl about her spiritual influence. The Cage mausoleum is another highlight, prompting questions and photo opportunities.

Final Moments and Reflection

At the end of the 55-minute tour, you’ll exit through the gates, carrying with you a better understanding of New Orleans’ burial customs, local folklore, and the notable figures that make this cemetery so special.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This guided tour inside St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 provides an authentic, respectful glimpse into New Orleans’ rich burial traditions and stories of its most famous residents. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts, folklore lovers, and curious visitors who want to experience a rare, guided glimpse into a cemetery that’s usually off-limits.

The knowledgeable guides and small group size mean you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation of the city’s spooky charm and cultural quirks. Plus, at an accessible price point of $25, it’s an experience that offers great value for such a memorable slice of New Orleans life.

If you’re interested in learning about Marie Laveau, seeing Nicolas Cage’s mausoleum, or simply want a more intimate, guided visit that balances history, legend, and respect, this tour is a smart choice.

FAQ

Is the cemetery area accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

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.

How long is the tour?
The guided walk lasts about 55 minutes.

What is included in the tour?
You get a guided walk of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 along with a guide who shares stories and history.

Is the tour suitable for kids?
While the tour is outdoors and involves walking, it’s generally suitable for older children with an interest in history and stories.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is $25 per person, offering good value for a memorable and authentic experience.

Are there multiple tour times available?
Yes, the tour is usually available in the morning, afternoon, and evening.

Why is the cemetery closed to the public?
For preservation and safety reasons, access outside of guided tours is restricted.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen, a hat, and water—especially in warmer months.

This tour offers a rich, well-rounded snapshot of New Orleans’ cemetery culture, perfect for travelers seeking a meaningful glimpse into the city’s past and legends. It balances education, entertainment, and respect, making it a worthwhile addition to any New Orleans itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: