Metairie Cemetery - February 2022. Inside a cemetery in New Braunfels, Texas on a sunny winter day.
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Metairie Cemetery

4.6
·491k reviews·New Orleans, United States

A sprawling 'city of the dead' featuring stunning mausoleums and the final resting places of New Orleans' elite.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Metairie Cemetery - February 2022. Inside a cemetery in New Braunfels, Texas on a sunny winter day.

Metairie Cemetery

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A sprawling 'city of the dead' featuring stunning mausoleums and the final resting places of New Orleans' elite.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Metairie Cemetery is a breathtaking architectural marvel, a true city of the dead."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Comfortable Shoes! 👟

You'll be doing a lot of walking to see the incredible tombs. Prioritize comfort!

Consider a Guided Tour 🚶‍♀️

Tours offer deep historical context and help you find hidden gems.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Flaming Tomb of Josie Arlington

The Flaming Tomb of Josie Arlington

Metairie Cemetery

A legendary tomb rumored to have a perpetual flame, built for a wealthy bordello owner.

Anne Rice's Final Resting Place

Anne Rice's Final Resting Place

Metairie Cemetery

Visit the peaceful resting spot of the acclaimed author of 'Interview with the Vampire'.

The Egan Family Abbey Tomb

The Egan Family Abbey Tomb

Metairie Cemetery

An incredibly detailed tomb designed to resemble crumbling medieval abbey ruins.

Millionaire's Row Mausoleums

Millionaire's Row Mausoleums

Metairie Cemetery

Marvel at the opulent and diverse mausoleums of New Orleans' most prominent families.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating New Orleans' Grand Necropolis

Metairie Cemetery is a sprawling city of the dead, so wear comfortable shoes for extensive walking. Many tombs are elaborate mausoleums, so be prepared for a visual feast. Consider a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and architecture, as some areas can feel remote.

Respectful Exploration is Key

As a place of final rest, Metairie Cemetery demands respect. Stick to designated paths, avoid touching tombs, and maintain a quiet demeanor. While visually stunning, remember it's a solemn place, not a theme park. Check tour availability and booking in advance, especially for popular historical sites.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The way people are buried in NOLA is fascinating and i had never heard anything about this in my life. The St Louis Cemetery number 1 was gorgeous and sad all at the same time. Did you know this is how things were done? #cemetery #burial #burialvault #haunted #creepy #history #storytime #themoreyouknow #cemeterytok #tour #nola #neworleans #louisiana #fyp #fypシ #educateyourself #learn #LearnOnTik...
@tiffsghosttalk
515K likes • 6.3M views

Wear Comfortable Shoes! 👟

You'll be doing a lot of walking to see the incredible tombs. Prioritize comfort! TikTok

Consider a Guided Tour 🚶‍♀️

Tours offer deep historical context and help you find hidden gems. Instagram+1

Reply to @maricelanavarro85 #fypage #questions #cemetery #todayilearned
@miss_lisa_lopez
50.1K likes • 385.5K views
👻 Cemetery Tour! Metairie Cemetery 📌 New Orleans, Louisiana Millionaires and Mausoleums For tour: Https://tripadvisor.tp.st/cvUpNfPr 📍 Check out @redsashtours for more! One of the best tours we had! 👇🏻Spread the word to your Travel lovers 🌎 💕 Hit the heart button ❤️ 🔠 Drop your thoughts in the chat below 🆒 🙋‍♀️ Join my Instagram Community for more helpful tips! @terras_travels 📑 Hold ont...
terras_travels
37 likes • 2.8K views

Respectful Conduct is Crucial 🙏

Remember this is a place of rest. Be quiet and avoid touching the tombs. TikTok

Photography Opportunities 📸

The ornate architecture is stunning, especially during golden hour. Instagram

For some reason, the video is a little bit choppy on this, but I had a great time designing a cemetery tour today for Metairie cemetery. The Ghost did not mind that my hair looks like I escaped from Fraggle Rock. @nawlins_crawlins
nawlins_crawlins
117 likes • 1.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Comfortable Shoes! 👟

You'll be doing a lot of walking to see the incredible tombs. Prioritize comfort! TikTok

Consider a Guided Tour 🚶‍♀️

Tours offer deep historical context and help you find hidden gems. Instagram+1

Respectful Conduct is Crucial 🙏

Remember this is a place of rest. Be quiet and avoid touching the tombs. TikTok

Photography Opportunities 📸

The ornate architecture is stunning, especially during golden hour. Instagram

Open to the Public 🚶‍♂️

Unlike some other NOLA cemeteries, Metairie is generally open without a tour. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Metairie Cemetery for its stunning and diverse mausoleum architecture, often comparing it to a city of miniature palaces. The historical significance and the opportunity to see the final resting places of notable figures like Anne Rice are major draws. While generally open and accessible, some find the sheer size overwhelming without a guide.

What People Like

Magnificent architecture
Historical significance
Notable tombs

What People Dislike

Vastness can be overwhelming

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach Metairie Cemetery from the French Quarter by car, taxi, or rideshare service, which typically takes about 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. Public transportation options are also available, though they may involve transfers and longer travel times. Check local transit apps for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. TikTok

Yes, there is typically ample parking available within Metairie Cemetery. Visitors can usually find spaces along the main roads and near the larger mausoleums. It's advisable to arrive earlier in the day, especially on weekends, to secure a convenient spot. Instagram

Metairie Cemetery is located a few miles outside of the immediate downtown area, so walking from the French Quarter or other central tourist hubs is not recommended due to the distance and traffic. It's best accessed by vehicle or public transport. Instagram

Metairie Cemetery has multiple entrances along Metairie Road. The main entrances are well-marked and provide access to the vast network of roads within the cemetery. Instagram

If you don't have a car, the most convenient ways to explore Metairie Cemetery are by taking a taxi or rideshare service, or by joining a guided tour that often includes transportation or starts from a central location. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Metairie Cemetery is generally open to the public and does not require an admission ticket. You can walk through and explore the grounds freely. Reddit

Metairie Cemetery is typically open daily from dawn until dusk. It's always a good idea to check for any specific holiday hours or unexpected closures before your visit. Instagram

Yes, unlike some other historic New Orleans cemeteries, Metairie Cemetery is open for self-guided exploration without the need for a tour. Reddit

There are no entrance fees to visit Metairie Cemetery. However, if you choose to take a guided tour, there will be a fee for that service. Instagram

Information regarding purchasing plots or crypts is not readily available to the public and would require direct contact with cemetery management or a funeral home specializing in cemetery arrangements. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Key highlights include the 'Flaming Tomb' of Josie Arlington, the tomb of author Anne Rice, the unique Egan Family Abbey tomb, and the grand mausoleums of the city's wealthy families. Instagram+2

While generally safe during daylight hours, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings. Visiting during peak hours or with a group can enhance your sense of security. TikTok

The cemetery is laid out like a city with roads and avenues. A map can be helpful, but simply wandering and taking in the sights is also a rewarding experience. Comfortable shoes are essential! TikTok

Restroom facilities are not widely available within the cemetery grounds. It's advisable to use facilities before entering or plan accordingly. Instagram

Yes, photography is generally permitted in Metairie Cemetery. It's a popular spot for photographers due to its unique architecture and atmosphere. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography, casting long shadows and highlighting the intricate details of the tombs. Instagram

While general photography is allowed, it's important to be respectful. Avoid intrusive photography, especially if there are any ongoing services or visitors paying respects. Drone photography is typically prohibited. Instagram

Architectural photography, historical documentation, and atmospheric or 'dark tourism' style shots are very popular. The unique tombs and mausoleums provide endless subjects. Instagram

Tripods are generally allowed, but it's always best to be mindful of other visitors and ensure you are not obstructing pathways. Check with cemetery staff if you have specific concerns. Instagram

Beyond the famous tombs, look for unique statues, intricate ironwork, aged marble, and the overall 'cityscape' of the mausoleums. The Egan Abbey tomb is particularly striking. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Metairie Cemetery can be a fascinating, albeit somber, experience for families. The elaborate tombs can spark imagination, with some resembling castles or ancient ruins. It's a great opportunity to discuss history and different cultural practices surrounding death and remembrance. Keep the visit relatively short and focus on the most visually striking tombs to maintain children's engagement. Ensure children understand the importance of respectful behavior in a cemetery setting. TikTok+1

Consider a guided tour that is geared towards a general audience, as they can often make the history more accessible and engaging for younger visitors. Emphasize the 'city of the dead' aspect, which can be intriguing. Pack plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are scarce. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for everyone. Instagram

👻 Ghost & History Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by the paranormal and historical narratives, Metairie Cemetery is a treasure trove. The cemetery's grand, aged tombs and the stories of its prominent (and sometimes infamous) residents provide fertile ground for ghost stories and historical deep dives. The 'Flaming Tomb' of Josie Arlington is a particular point of interest for those seeking the supernatural. TikTokInstagram

Many local ghost tours include Metairie Cemetery, offering insights into its haunted reputation and the legends surrounding its tombs. Even without a dedicated ghost tour, exploring the cemetery with a focus on its history, the lives of its inhabitants, and the unique architectural styles will satisfy any history buff. Look for tombs of notable figures like Anne Rice, whose work is intertwined with the cemetery's mystique. Instagram

📸 Photographers

Metairie Cemetery is a dream destination for photographers, offering a wealth of architectural beauty and atmospheric shots. The diverse range of mausoleums, from grand neoclassical structures to Gothic-inspired abbeys, provides endless compositional opportunities. The play of light and shadow, especially during the golden hours, can create dramatic and evocative images. Instagram

Focus on capturing the intricate details of the stonework, the aged patina of the marble, and the unique designs of each tomb. The 'cityscape' of the cemetery, with its rows of ornate structures, is also a compelling subject. Be mindful of respectful photography practices and avoid disturbing other visitors or any ongoing services. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Burial Practices of New Orleans

Metairie Cemetery, like other historic New Orleans cemeteries, showcases the city's unique above-ground burial practices. Due to the high water table, traditional in-ground burials are impractical. Instead, the dead are interred in elaborate tombs and mausoleums, creating a 'city of the dead' that is both a historical record and an architectural marvel. This practice dates back to the colonial era and has shaped the distinct visual identity of New Orleans cemeteries. TikTok+1

The construction of these above-ground tombs varies greatly, from simple family vaults to elaborate, multi-story structures resembling houses or churches. Many are made of brick, marble, or granite, designed to withstand the humid climate. Some tombs even feature intricate carvings, stained glass, and personal mementos, offering a glimpse into the lives of those interred within. The sheer scale and artistry involved in building these final resting places are a testament to the importance placed on honoring the deceased in New Orleans culture. Instagram

This tradition also influences the social and historical narratives associated with the cemeteries. Famous figures, wealthy industrialists, and notable artists are often memorialized in grand mausoleums, making cemeteries like Metairie a living museum of the city's past. Exploring these tombs allows visitors to connect with the history and stories of New Orleans in a profound and tangible way. Instagram+1

Architectural Wonders and Notable Residents

Metairie Cemetery is renowned for its stunning array of mausoleums, often described as resembling a city of miniature palaces. Founded in 1872 on the site of a former horse racing track, it was designed to accommodate the growing population and the city's unique burial needs. The cemetery is home to some of the most ornate and architecturally significant tombs in New Orleans, reflecting the wealth and status of the families interred there. Instagram

Among the most famous structures is the 'Flaming Tomb' of Josie Arlington, a wealthy bordello owner, which is said to have a perpetual flame. Another striking sight is the Egan Family tomb, designed to mimic the ruins of a medieval abbey, complete with crumbling towers and hand-carved stonework. Visitors also flock to pay their respects at the tomb of acclaimed author Anne Rice, whose gothic novels were deeply inspired by the atmosphere of New Orleans cemeteries. Instagram+2

Beyond these individual landmarks, the sheer variety of architectural styles—from neoclassical to Victorian and Art Deco—makes a stroll through Metairie Cemetery a captivating experience. It's a place where history, art, and remembrance converge, offering a unique insight into the lives and legacies of New Orleans' past residents. Instagram+1

Guided Tours vs. Self-Exploration

Deciding whether to explore Metairie Cemetery on your own or with a guided tour depends on your priorities. Self-exploration offers the freedom to wander at your own pace and discover hidden corners. You can spend as much or as little time as you like at each tomb, focusing on what captures your interest. This approach is ideal for those who enjoy independent discovery and have a good sense of direction. Reddit

However, a guided tour can significantly enhance your understanding and appreciation of the cemetery. Tour guides are often local historians or enthusiasts who can share fascinating stories, historical context, and architectural details that you might otherwise miss. They can point out the most significant tombs, explain the unique burial practices, and bring the history of the cemetery and its inhabitants to life. This is particularly valuable for understanding the cultural significance of the site. Instagram+1

Many visitors find that a combination of both is ideal. You might take a tour to get an overview and learn the key stories, then spend additional time revisiting favorite spots or exploring areas that piqued your curiosity. Regardless of your choice, comfortable shoes are a must, as the cemetery is extensive. TikTok

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