Take a tour of St. Louis Cemetery, New Orleans’ oldest resting place, where weathered tombs, ornate crypts, and legendary stories await. You can expect haunting beauty and a glimpse into the city’s timeless past during your guided tour.
When you step into St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, you’re walking through more than two centuries of New Orleans history. Established in 1789, it is the city’s oldest cemetery and a striking example of above-ground burial traditions, born from the city’s high water table. Here, you’ll notice the iconic mausoleums and family tombs that rise like small buildings, many adorned with intricate carvings, wrought-iron gates, and symbolic statues.
You’ll encounter the resting places of notable figures, from early city leaders to cultural icons, including the legendary Marie Laveau, whose tomb draws visitors fascinated by her Voodoo legacy. The cemetery also reflects New Orleans’ diverse cultural influences, blending French, Spanish, and Creole design elements into its architecture.
Over the centuries, St. Louis Cemetery has endured storms, floods, and the changing cityscape, yet it remains a vital link to the past. As you wander through its narrow paths, you’re not just visiting a cemetery; you’re experiencing a living museum of history, spirituality, and folklore, where each tomb tells a story of the city and the people who shaped it.
Oldest cemetery in New Orleans: Founded in 1789, it’s home to over two centuries of history and haunting tales.
Above-ground tombs: Built this way because New Orleans sits below sea level, traditional burials would literally float!
Resting place of Marie Laveau: Visitors still leave offerings at the tomb of the city’s famous Voodoo Queen.
“Cities of the Dead”: Family tombs are reused over generations, creating entire neighborhoods for the departed.
Nicolas Cage’s pyramid tomb: The Hollywood star has already secured his place among New Orleans legends.
Hollywood favorite: The cemetery has been featured in Easy Rider, Interview with the Vampire, and American Horror Story: Coven.
Guided tours only: To preserve its fragile beauty, the cemetery can only be visited with a licensed guide.
The cemetery is not open to the public; it is only open for our authorized walking tours.
The walking tour typically lasts around 55 minutes.
Yes, strollers are permitted in the cemetery.
Yes, wheelchairs and scooters are permitted in the cemetery.
The group size is limited to a maximum of 20 guests, which includes adults, children, and infants. However, children aged 0–2 are not included in this total.
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