Description

As one of America’s oldest and most famous cemeteries, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is exclusively accessible via a certified guided tour. Walking among the intricate above-ground crypts and the final resting places of legends like Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau, the macabre and unique history of New Orleans hits different.

Why is this experience so famous?

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is globally renowned, consistently ranked as one of the world’s most unique and historic burial sites, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. People rave about its iconic, elaborately designed above-ground tombs and the intimate, exclusive access it provides, as it is closed to the general public. Its fame is intrinsically linked to its legendary residents, making this guided tour the only way to pay respects to cultural icons like the Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau and civil rights pioneer Homer Plessy. It’s a must-do because it is an intimate cultural deep dive into 18th-century Creole history, architecture, and the city’s one-of-a-kind burial traditions, which are otherwise inaccessible.

Is it worth visiting?

Definitely, especially if you are interested in New Orleans’ unique history, architecture, and macabre legends. You will gain exclusive, guided access to America’s oldest and most famous cemetery (not open to the public) and witness the incredible above-ground tombs and unique burial customs firsthand. Highlights include seeing the crypt of the legendary Voodoo Queen, Marie Laveau. This is an intimate and essential historical experience, led by knowledgeable local guides who bring the past to life. Skip the hassle of trying to secure entry, book online today to reserve now & pay later, and benefit from free cancellation.

What’s the best time to visit?

For the most comfortable experience, aim for the pleasant weather in Spring (March-May) or Fall (October-November). Summer is very hot and humid, so book an early morning tour to beat the heat. For the best atmosphere and fewer crowds, visit on a weekday and steer clear of major holidays like Mardi Gras.

How much time should I allow for this experience?

The official guided walking tour has a set duration of 55 minutes. For a basic visit focused solely on the cemetery tour, allow a total of 1.5 hours, which accounts for the tour time and the required check-in at the Basin St. Station Visitor Center. For a more thorough experience, including browsing the exhibits and gift shop at the Visitor Center before or after your tour, budget for a complete 2 to 2.5 hours. Always allow an extra 30 minutes of buffer time for the mandatory check-in process and departure logistics. This tour is brief enough to be easily scheduled in the late morning or early afternoon as part of a fuller day of sightseeing.

Is it better to go in the morning or afternoon?

For a walking tour inside an exposed, historical site like St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, the best time to visit is unequivocally the **morning**. The primary reason is the New Orleans climate: Morning tours offer a distinct advantage by allowing you to experience the cemetery before the high heat and oppressive humidity of the afternoon set in, making your 55-minute exploration much more comfortable and reflective. While afternoon tours can offer a potentially less crowded, solemn experience, the intensity of the midday sun severely detracts from the quality of the visit and can make photography challenging due to harsh shadows. The morning light is also better for capturing the intricate architecture of the “Cities of the Dead.” My recommendation is a clear **Morning** slot, which is better for this historical and cultural deep-dive. This allows you to complete the tour with a fresh mind and then seamlessly connect to the rest of your day, setting you up perfectly for lunch and afternoon exploration of the nearby French Quarter. Insider tip: To secure your reserved spot and ensure a timely departure for this authorized, limited-access tour, you must arrive at the Basin St. Station Visitor Center at least **15 minutes** before your scheduled tour time.

In summary, this is a must-do, profound historical experience that grants exclusive, guided access to New Orleans’ oldest and most famous cemetery to explore its unique above-ground tombs. The walking tour lasts approximately 55 minutes, and booking your timed-entry ticket online offers flexibility and ensures your required entry to this sacred site. Secure your tickets now.