St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
Explore New Orleans' oldest cemetery, a hauntingly beautiful 'City of the Dead' with unique above-ground tombs and the legendary Marie Laveau's restin...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore New Orleans' oldest cemetery, a hauntingly beautiful 'City of the Dead' with unique above-ground tombs and the legendary Marie Laveau's resting place.
"A must-visit for history buffs and those fascinated by New Orleans' unique culture and legends."
🎯 Book Tours in Advance
Secure your St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 tickets early, as tours fill up quickly!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Marie Laveau's Tomb
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
Visit the iconic tomb of the legendary Voodoo Queen, Marie Laveau, a must-see for many visitors.
Above-Ground Burial Vaults
Throughout the cemetery
Marvel at the unique above-ground burial vaults, a distinctive architectural feature of New Orleans cemeteries.
Historic Architecture
Throughout the cemetery
Explore the intricate and aged architecture of the tombs, showcasing centuries of history and craftsmanship.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Respect the Resting Place
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tours in Advance
Secure your St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 tickets early, as tours fill up quickly!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
💧 Stay Hydrated
New Orleans can be hot and humid; bring water.
🤫 Be Respectful
This is a sacred burial ground. Keep noise levels down.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tours in Advance
Secure your St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 tickets early, as tours fill up quickly!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
💧 Stay Hydrated
New Orleans can be hot and humid; bring water.
🤫 Be Respectful
This is a sacred burial ground. Keep noise levels down.
📸 Photography Tips
Capture the unique atmosphere, but be mindful of others.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 for its unique history, atmospheric beauty, and the fascinating stories shared by knowledgeable guides. The iconic tomb of Marie Laveau is a major draw. Some find the strict tour-only access limiting, and the heat can be a factor for some.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is located in the French Quarter of New Orleans. Access is only permitted with a licensed tour guide. Most tours depart from a central meeting point in the French Quarter, often near the cemetery entrance. It's best to check your tour operator's specific meeting instructions.
Yes, the French Quarter is well-served by public transportation, including streetcars and buses. From your accommodation, you can likely take a streetcar or bus that stops near the French Quarter, and then it's a short walk to your tour's meeting point.
Driving directly to the cemetery is not recommended as parking in the French Quarter can be challenging and expensive. It's advisable to park in a nearby garage and walk to your tour's departure location.
The most common and recommended way is to join a guided tour that meets near the cemetery. This ensures you have access and a knowledgeable guide. Check your tour booking for the exact meeting point.
While there isn't dedicated parking for the cemetery, several parking garages are available in the French Quarter within walking distance. Researching these options beforehand is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you absolutely need to book a guided tour to enter St. Louis Cemetery No. 1. Independent visits are not allowed. Booking St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 official tour tickets in advance is highly recommended.
Tour prices vary depending on the operator and duration, but generally range from $25-$40 per person. It's best to check with specific tour companies for current pricing and to book St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 tickets.
No, you cannot purchase tickets at the entrance. All visitors must be part of a pre-booked guided tour. It's advised to book your St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 tour well in advance.
Tour times vary by company, but generally run throughout the day, typically starting around 9 AM and concluding in the late afternoon. Some companies may offer St. Louis Cemetery 1 night tour options, but these are less common. Check specific tour schedules for St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 tour times.
The cemetery is generally open for tours daily, but hours can vary due to holidays, special events, or weather. It's always best to confirm the operating hours and tour availability with your chosen tour provider.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Many visitors recommend tours that focus on history and local lore. Look for tours with excellent reviews that highlight knowledgeable guides. The best St. Louis Cemetery 1 tour often includes insights into Marie Laveau's tomb and the unique burial practices.
No, a self-guided tour of St. Louis Cemetery 1 is not permitted. Access is strictly controlled and requires a licensed guide. This is for preservation and safety reasons.
Expect to learn about the fascinating history of New Orleans, its unique burial customs, and the stories behind prominent tombs, including Marie Laveau's. Guides often share ghost stories and historical anecdotes.
Yes, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is widely considered one of the most haunted cemeteries in New Orleans, with many ghost stories and paranormal accounts associated with it.
Key rules include staying with your guide, not touching tombs, not climbing on structures, and maintaining a respectful demeanor. Food and drink are generally not allowed inside.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed, but always be respectful of the solemn nature of the site and other visitors. Avoid intrusive photography, especially near tombs.
The tomb of Marie Laveau is a popular photo spot. Also, capture the unique rows of above-ground vaults and the aged architecture for atmospheric shots.
While generally permitted, avoid using flash photography directly on tombs, as it can be damaging. Also, be mindful of your surroundings and don't obstruct tour groups.
You can expect to capture atmospheric, historical, and somewhat macabre images, reflecting the cemetery's age and unique burial traditions.
A professional camera can capture great detail, but a good smartphone camera is also sufficient for most visitors. The lighting can be challenging, so consider a camera with good low-light performance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider the heat and humidity, and bring plenty of water. The walking can be extensive, so gauge your children's stamina. While fascinating, the somber nature of a cemetery might not hold the attention of very young children for the entire duration of the tour.
👻 Ghost & Paranormal Enthusiasts
+1Look for tours that specifically mention ghost stories or paranormal aspects. While the cemetery is a place of rest, the stories of Marie Laveau and other historical figures contribute to its eerie reputation. Be prepared for a captivating and potentially chilling experience.
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
+1The cemetery holds the remains of many notable New Orleanians, including the legendary Voodoo Queen, Marie Laveau, whose tomb is a major draw for visitors. It also houses the tombs of early city founders, Creole families, and prominent figures, offering a tangible connection to the city's rich past. The unique architecture and the stories embedded within its walls make it a crucial historical site.
Over the years, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 has faced challenges from neglect, vandalism, and natural disasters. Preservation efforts, often led by organizations like Save Our Cemeteries, are ongoing to protect this invaluable piece of New Orleans heritage. Visiting with a licensed guide ensures that the cemetery's history and importance are properly conveyed and that its preservation is supported.
Navigating Tours and Access
When choosing a tour, consider what you're most interested in. Some tours focus heavily on the history and architecture, while others delve into the legends of ghosts and voodoo. Many tours, like those offered by City Sightseeing New Orleans, provide a comprehensive overview of the cemetery's most famous residents and historical context.
+1 The St. Louis Cemetery 1 walking tour typically lasts about an hour and covers the most significant tombs and stories.Meeting points for tours are usually located in or near the French Quarter, making it convenient to combine a cemetery visit with other New Orleans attractions. Always confirm your meeting location and time with your tour provider. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven ground.
The Mystique of Marie Laveau
Visitors often leave offerings at Laveau's tomb, such as flowers, coins, or even X marks drawn on the tomb itself, a tradition believed to invoke her spirit or request favors. While the exact tomb attributed to her is debated by some historians, the one most commonly visited is widely accepted as hers and is a focal point of many tours.
The mystique surrounding Marie Laveau adds a layer of intrigue and legend to the cemetery, drawing in those fascinated by the supernatural and the history of voodoo in New Orleans. Her story is a significant part of the cemetery's allure and a highlight for many visitors.
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