Walking Tour Inside St. Louis Cemetery No. 1

Step inside a cemetery that’s off-limits to the public—your guide brings hidden stories and local burial traditions to life.

Getting started

Meet your guide at the Basin St. Station Visitor Center. Collect your tour sticker and explore the city exhibits and the interactive map of the Hurricane Katrina floodwaters. arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time so you can grab a coffee and use the restrooms before the tour begins.

What to expect

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1

New Orleans' oldest and most famous cemetery, known for its above-ground tombs and voodoo history.

Features

• Visit the tomb of Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau.

• Learn about the city’s unique burial practices.

• See the pyramid tomb purchased by Nicolas Cage.

• Hear fascinating stories of notable figures buried here.

• Experience it all in a small group of 20 for an intimate, guided walk.

Walking Tour Inside St. Louis Cemetery No. 1

Dive into the spectral essence of New Orleans as you stroll through the enigmatic passages of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, an exclusive retreat usually veiled from public sight. This guided adventure invites you to visit the tomb of the infamous Voodoo queen Marie Laveau and uncover her mystic legacy, interwoven with tales of spiritual rituals and enduring influence on the city's dark allure. As you meander through this hallowed ground, marvel at the intricate architecture of above-ground crypts and below-ground vaults, each one a silent guardian to generations past. The tour is tailored for groups of twenty, ensuring an intimate connection with your knowledgeable guide who will breathe life into the stories of New Orleans's unique burial traditions. With whispered secrets and ghostly echoes guiding your path, this journey weaves history and mystery together, offering unforgettable encounters that forge connections between the living and the departed while acknowledging the profound respect owed to these sacred grounds.

Explore Marie Laveau’s Tomb

Access Marie Laveau’s tomb during the tour's highlight segment where her legendary presence still lingers. This visit encapsulates a pivotal moment in your exploration of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, providing an intimate look into the life and rituals of one of New Orleans' most enigmatic figures. The ornate tomb is surrounded by whispers of voodoo ceremonies and tales of eerie rituals that continue to draw curiosity seekers from around the world. Marvel at the intricate carvings and symbols adorning the structure, each a testament to her enduring influence on the city’s cultural tapestry. Your guide will share chilling anecdotes about Marie Laveau's life, her role in the community as both a healer and a spiritual leader, and how her legend has evolved through generations.

Admire Above-Ground Crypts

Experience the architectural splendor of above-ground crypts as part of the comprehensive itinerary featuring St. Louis Cemetery No. 1’s most striking features. These grandiose structures stand like silent sentinels, each one a testament to the unique burial practices and cultural heritage of New Orleans. As you wander through the cemetery’s winding paths, take in the intricate details and ornate designs that reflect the wealth and social status of those interred within. The tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to appreciate the craftsmanship and artistry evident in these towering tombs, where history is etched into stone with every visit.

Discover Below-Ground Vaults

Explore below-ground vaults representing the tour's centerpiece where a different aspect of burial traditions unfolds. These family crypts offer a glimpse into the communal approach to mourning and remembrance prevalent in New Orleans’s past. Each vault is a sanctuary for generations, with walls lined with rows of plaques bearing names etched in marble or granite. Your guide will illuminate the historical context behind these structures, explaining why above-ground burials are necessary due to the city's high water table, adding layers of understanding and appreciation for the unique architecture that characterizes this sacred ground.

Tour Highlights

• Uncover Marie Laveau’s legendary influence
• Discover ornate crypts and vaults up close
• Hear chilling stories about voodoo rituals
• Learn burial traditions unique to New Orleans
• Enjoy intimate group size for personalized experience
• Explore cemetery usually closed to the public

Embark for explorers of mystique, wander through devotees of history, and seek seekers of secrets, this guided journey delivers an enchanting voyage through time and shadow. Join this mystical exploration to uncover tales of Marie Laveau that linger like echoes in ancient tombs, crafting memories that dance like specters in the moonlit shadows of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.