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

Tremé / Lafitte, New Orleans



Discover where New Orleans' most famous figures like the Voodoo Queen Mariel Laveau have been laid to rest on a guided walking tour inside St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 Guided Walking Tour in New Orleans

This walking tour explores St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 in New Orleans, suited for history enthusiasts and those interested in unique burial customs.

Description

Discover the history of one of America's oldest cemeteries, closed to the general public, on this guided walking tour of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1. Learn about New Orleans' distinctive above-ground burial practices as you walk among fascinating tombs.

Meet your guide at the Basin St. Station Visitor Center, which features exhibits on New Orleans, an interactive Hurricane Katrina flood map, a café, restrooms, and a gift shop. Receive your tour sticker and depart promptly for your exploration of the cemetery.

Approach the front gates of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 and hear the story of the site’s origins. Visit notable tombs including those of Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau, actor Nicolas Cage's pyramid-shaped tomb, and former mayor Homer Plessy. Learn about the lives of these individuals while observing the elaborate above-ground crypts and below-ground sites.

Highlights

  • Access to St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, closed to the general public
  • Visit the tomb of Marie Laveau, the Voodoo Queen
  • See the pyramid-shaped tomb erected by Nicolas Cage
  • Learn about New Orleans' unique burial customs and cemetery history
  • Hear stories about notable historical figures from New Orleans

Includes

  • Guided walking tour of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1

Excludes

  • Tips

Important Information

  • The cemetery is closed to the general public and accessible only through authorized tours.

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Book your tour in advance to secure your spot. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, especially during warmer months.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes authorized access to St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, visits to notable tombs like Marie Laveau's and Nicolas Cage's, and insights into New Orleans burial customs and history.
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is located in the French Quarter neighborhood of New Orleans.
Marie Laveau was a famous Voodoo Queen in New Orleans, and her tomb is a popular site for visitors interested in local culture and history.
No, the cemetery is closed to the general public except through authorized guided tours like this one in New Orleans.
Tour durations vary, but most guided walks inside St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 last around 60 to 90 minutes; check the tour provider's website for details.
The tour highlights above-ground burial practices, family tombs, historical architecture, and cultural stories unique to New Orleans cemeteries.
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, but it is best suited for older children who can appreciate historical and cultural contexts.
Photography is generally permitted during the tour, but it is important to be respectful and follow the guide's instructions.
Booking in advance is recommended because access to the cemetery is limited and tours often sell out quickly.
Tours operate year-round; mornings or late afternoons are popular times, but check the tour schedule and New Orleans weather conditions before booking.

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