Cemetery Walking Tours in New Orleans

Lafayette Cemetery #1 is New Orleans’ oldest city-operated burial ground. The serene walkways of this city of the dead were established in 1833, when the area was known as the City of Lafayette. The gothic-style vaults and tombs are surrounded by the enchanting Garden District. The Americanization of the area and notable citizens of the post-Louisiana Purchase era are evident in the family names engraved. The human toll that yellow fever took is also laid bare. In recent years, the cinematic allure of the stately space has been captured repeatedly. Anne Rice staged her funeral along the park’s picturesque pathways. The grounds were also showcased in Dracula 2000 and Double Jeopardy. Join the expert guides at Two Chicks Walking Tours as we explore the shady grounds and share its rich history.

Join us for an hour-long exploration of New Orleans’ oldest existing cemetery. Established near the end of the 18th century, St. Louis Cemetery #1 is still in use today, and it’s only accessible to the general public through a licensed tour guide. Our guided adventure offers a glimpse into the evolution of death and burial practices in our area as we walk through a labyrinth of tombs from the past and present. This majestic above-ground cemetery is the final resting place of Marie Laveau, and Nicolas Cage owns a pyramid-shaped vault here for his future and final reservation. Fans of the cult classic film Easy Rider will be interested to see where a particularly sordid scene was filmed, without permission.

New Orleans’ provocative past is an alluring part of our city’s diverse and deep-rooted culture. Celebrate it with us on this two-hour walk through the outskirts of the bustling French Quarter. Our story begins with the centuries-old tombs and vaults that scatter the grounds of St. Louis Cemetery #1. Next, we discuss the world’s oldest profession. Storyville served as New Orleans’ red-light district during the early 1900s, and our conversation will center around the decadent period as well as time periods pre and post. We wrap things up at one of our favorite local bars.