New Orleans Night Cemetery Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore historic St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
- Discover the tomb of Marie Laveau, the Voodoo Queen
- Learn about New Orleans' unique above-ground burial practices
- Hear tales of famous and infamous residents
- Experience the eerie ambiance of the cemeteries at night
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Guided bus tour of New Orleans cemeteries
- Expert commentary on cemetery history and architecture
- Transportation to and from the cemeteries
- Food and beverages
Itinerary
Founded in 1865 by the Grand Lodge of the State of Louisiana Free and Accepted Masons, the Masonic Cemetery expresses a character distinct from the Catholic cemeteries that dominate the city. It is known for its many unusual, elaborate tombs, a reputation due in part to the cemetery’s communal nature: members of lodges pooled resources to purchase large group tombs. Occupying two oddly shaped city blocks, the cemetery is triangular in plan, with Conti Street bisecting it. The triangular footprint of the bordering streets overlaid with the cemetery’s angular internal walkways mimics the Masonic emblem of the square and compass. Cast-iron picket fences enclose its two distinct sections, while oak allées line its northern and western edges. Tombs are compactly arranged in rows parallel to Bienville Street, with a wide, paved promenade cutting through the center to provide access to smaller walkways between rows.
Meeting point
Start Location
Unknown location
Important information
Know before you book
- Tours operate rain or shine; dress appropriately for the weather.
- Photography is allowed; please be respectful of the sacred sites.
- Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
- Bring a light jacket or sweater, as evenings can be cool.
- Ensure your camera or smartphone is fully charged for night photography.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Stroller Accessible
- Service Animals Allowed
- Easy Public Transport
- Infants Required On Laps
Traveler reviews
Fun and informative
The tour itself and the tour guide Roy were great! Very educational and interesting, the graveyards are beautiful. It’s New Orleans, so even at 5:00 the other people on our guide were obnoxiously drunk and disrespectful. Our guide did his best to keep things moving along, but these people were awful. The only thing I did not like was the music blasting on the bus.
Ghosts
Bob was awesome and a great story teller stopped at a park and the Masonic Cemetery. Bring your own bottle was a nice touch
You Need to Do This
Kendall gave us the best tour. He was very knowledgeable, he genuinely cared about the city of New Orleans and it showed through his presentation. He was entertaining, and an all around pleasure. On the way back, he even dropped up off at our hotel and saved us the cab fare. His presentation at the Dual Sight was topnotch, and it was fun and informative to watch. At the cemetery, explaining about Katrina, and the effect it had on the cemetery, the myths and superstitions, as well as the ghost pictures were amazing. Kendall is the best!!
Boring.
It was ok. Not what i was expecting. Only went into 1 cemetery. Nothing paranormal about it. Was not spooky AT ALL. I felt like the tour was more about the history of burials in NOLA. Would not do it again & would not recommend either.
Christian was a very good tour guide for our cemetery tour tonight! Very funny and thorough with the details of the city and its history.