St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
Explore New Orleans' oldest cemetery, a city of above-ground tombs and legendary figures like Marie Laveau.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore New Orleans' oldest cemetery, a city of above-ground tombs and legendary figures like Marie Laveau. 
"The cemetery itself is fascinating, but the poor check-in experience and off-topic tour content held it back from being truly exceptional. "
🎯 Book Tours in Advance
Guided tours are mandatory. Book ahead to guarantee your spot and avoid missing out!
💧 Stay Hydrated & Shaded
Bring water and wear a hat. The sun is intense! Umbrellas are a good idea too.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Marie Laveau's Tomb
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
Visit the legendary tomb of the Voodoo Queen, a central figure in New Orleans' spiritual history.
+1
Above-Ground Tombs
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
Marvel at the unique above-ground burial vaults, a necessity due to New Orleans' high water table.
Historic Figures' Gravesites
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
Discover the final resting places of notable New Orleanians, including architect Benjamin Henry Latrobe and chess master Paul Morphy.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Guided Tours are Mandatory
Prepare for the Heat & Sun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tours in Advance
Guided tours are mandatory. Book ahead to guarantee your spot and avoid missing out!
💧 Stay Hydrated & Shaded
Bring water and wear a hat. The sun is intense! Umbrellas are a good idea too.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven historic grounds. Good walking shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Respect the Tombs
Photography is allowed, but please be respectful. Avoid touching or damaging the historic tombs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tours in Advance
Guided tours are mandatory. Book ahead to guarantee your spot and avoid missing out!
💧 Stay Hydrated & Shaded
Bring water and wear a hat. The sun is intense! Umbrellas are a good idea too.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven historic grounds. Good walking shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Respect the Tombs
Photography is allowed, but please be respectful. Avoid touching or damaging the historic tombs.
⏳ Arrive Early
Give yourself extra time to check in and explore any small museum exhibits before your tour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the historical depth and unique architecture of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, with many highlighting the engaging and knowledgeable tour guides. However, some reviews mention issues with initial check-in staff and tours occasionally veering off-topic. The intense heat and lack of shade are also common points of concern.
"This tour was great, but what made it spectacular was our Tour Guide Richie.. his family is Native to New Orleans since it was founded in 1718. He was super knowledgeable, kind and slid a few jokes in when possible. I was a bit disappointed that he couldn’t just roam around the cemetery, but I completely understand why when you see some of the previous damage people have done to the tombs. I was completely weary about taking a guy to tour because sometimes you do not get the greatest guides. Thankful that we got Richie."
Lou Gia
"Thoroughly enjoyed the tour of the cemetary. Getting to see the tombs up close and find out the great history from our tour guide Richard aka Ritchie.
Ritchie was very detailed in the history of the cemetery and had an answer for any questions from our tour group. And keeping a great pace allowing us to see many of the plaques and still have time for pictures.
Strongly recommend a visit from anyone wanting to see the history of New Orleans through the years."
Mike M
"This tour of the cemetery was lead by Will. He did an amazing job, shared his knowledge of the historical information, kept it real, and checked to see if we had any questions and answered them along the way. It was a super hot day and he made sure everyone in our group was okay throughout the tour. His humor and knowledge kept our minds on the tombs and history rather than how hot it was outside. He shared the local stories and information about the key figures buried within the cemetery. Highly recommend this tour with Will. (His eyes will enchant you if the stories of the cemetery do not!)"
Liane Martonis
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. It's easily accessible by foot from most French Quarter hotels. If driving, parking can be challenging, so consider ride-sharing services or public transport.
Parking in the French Quarter is limited and can be expensive. There are several paid parking garages nearby, but walking or using a rideshare is often more convenient.
No, independent visits are not permitted. You must join a guided tour to enter St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.
Many visitors find walking from their French Quarter accommodations to be the easiest and most enjoyable way to reach the cemetery.
Yes, the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) operates bus routes that stop near the French Quarter, making it accessible via public transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for guided tours must be purchased in advance online through authorized tour operators. Walk-up tickets are generally not available.
Tour times vary by operator and season, but typically run throughout the day, starting in the morning and concluding in the late afternoon. It's best to check the specific tour provider's schedule.
Tour prices can vary, but generally range from $25-$40 per person. Booking in advance is recommended.
The cemetery itself is not open for general public access. Entry is only permitted with a guided tour during scheduled times.
No, you cannot purchase tickets at the cemetery entrance. All entry is managed through pre-booked guided tours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most guided tours of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 last approximately 45 minutes to an hour, focusing on key historical sites and figures.
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the cemetery, but visitors are asked to be respectful of the tombs and other visitors.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Given the New Orleans heat, light, breathable clothing, a hat, and sunscreen are highly recommended.
The cemetery has uneven terrain and narrow pathways, which can be challenging for those with mobility issues. It's advisable to contact the tour operator in advance to discuss accessibility concerns.
Restroom facilities are typically not available within the cemetery itself. It's advisable to use facilities before your tour begins.
📸 📸 Photography
The unique architecture of the above-ground tombs, the intricate details on gravestones, and the overall atmospheric setting offer many photogenic opportunities. Marie Laveau's tomb is a popular subject.
Yes, photography is permitted, but visitors must be respectful of the historical site and other guests.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the density of the tombs and a telephoto lens for details on distant graves.
While generally allowed, avoid intrusive photography that disturbs others or damages the site. Always be mindful of your surroundings.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in historic cemeteries and urban areas due to safety and privacy regulations. Check with the tour operator for specific rules.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the historical figures and the stories behind them, making it an engaging history lesson. Pro-tip: Opt for an early morning tour to avoid the intense heat, which can make the experience uncomfortable for younger children. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes and stays hydrated.
👻 Ghost & History Enthusiasts
+1 Tours often delve into the legends and folklore surrounding Laveau and other historical figures, offering a glimpse into the spiritual undercurrents of New Orleans. Beyond the ghost stories, the cemetery is a treasure trove of New Orleans history. Guides will illuminate the lives of prominent citizens, the city's architectural evolution, and the cultural melting pot that shaped its past.
Consider booking a tour with a guide known for their storytelling prowess to fully immerse yourself in the cemetery's rich, and sometimes spooky, narrative. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Architecture of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
+1Walking through St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is like stepping back in time. The densely packed tombs, many dating back centuries, tell stories of the city's diverse population, from wealthy merchants and politicians to free people of color and enslaved individuals. Notable figures interred here include architect Benjamin Henry Latrobe, chess master Paul Morphy, and the legendary Voodoo Queen, Marie Laveau.
+1 The cemetery has also been a filming location for various movies, adding to its mystique and cultural significance. Due to vandalism and preservation concerns, access to St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is now strictly controlled and requires a guided tour. This ensures the protection of its invaluable historical and architectural heritage. The tours not only provide access but also offer deep insights into the lives of those buried there and the unique cultural practices of New Orleans.
Navigating Tours and Guides
When choosing a tour, consider the guide's reputation and the tour's duration. Many visitors rave about guides like Richie and Will, praising their deep knowledge of New Orleans history, engaging storytelling, and ability to answer questions.
Social
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