About this experience
Explore Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 with Save Our Cemeteries, a department of the Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans and the cemetery’s sole tour provider. This historic, city-owned cemetery was established in 1833 and offers a remarkable window into the people, traditions and architecture that shaped New Orleans.
Led by expert guides with deep knowledge of the city’s history and cemeteries, the tour brings Lafayette No. 1’s above-ground tombs, historic societies, and notable residents to life with thoughtful, historically grounded storytelling.
Widely regarded as one of the best cemetery tours in New Orleans, this exclusive experience offers visitors the opportunity to explore a significant piece of the city’s heritage with the organization dedicated to preserving it.
At a glance
- Duration: 1 hr 30 min
What is included
- Led by expert guides with deep knowledge of the city’s history and cemeteries
Itinerary and highlights
The tombs inside this old City of the Dead tell tales of yellow fever, apoplexy, death by lightning and more.
Tombs for Anne Rice’s Mayfair witches & the Vampire Lestat are believed to have been modeled after specific tombs here. Non-fictional people include Judge Ferguson of the Plessy v. Ferguson case, Civil War Brigadier General Harry T. Hays, and the Brunies family jazz musicians.
Meeting and pickup information
- Meet at the main gate to the cemetery.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Save Our Cemeteries
Accessibility and practical details
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Terrain is uneven.
- All tours leave on-time, rain or shine.
- Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the tour begins.
- Tip: DO NOT rely on the streetcars (trolleys) to run on time. You may be late and/or miss the tour.
- Suggested items to bring: bottled water, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, hats, umbrellas (to protect from rain and provide shade).
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Available tour options
- Lafayette Cemetery No. 1: See the lavish above-ground vaults and tombs of the families that once lived in the surrounding Garden District mansions.
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