New Orleans Garden District and Lafayette Cemetery Tour

Discovering the Charm of New Orleans’ Garden District and Lafayette Cemetery Tour

If you’re heading to New Orleans and want to soak up the area’s elegant side, this Garden District and Lafayette Cemetery tour promises a leisurely exploration filled with stunning architecture, intriguing stories, and a taste of local culture. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and details paint a compelling picture of what to expect.

What we love about this experience is how it combines beautiful antebellum homes, the mysterious allure of the cemetery, and small-group intimacy. Each aspect offers a chance to appreciate the city’s visual and historical richness without feeling overwhelmed. The cost ($25 per person) is quite reasonable considering the depth of stories, the personal attention from guides, and the chance to see iconic film locations.

However, one consideration is that the Lafayette Cemetery is temporarily closed to the public, which might disappoint those eager to explore inside. Still, the tour keeps the cemetery’s exterior as a highlight, and guides share plenty of details from outside the gates. This tour is ideal for architecture buffs, history lovers, or anyone curious about New Orleans beyond Bourbon Street.

Key Points

• Affordable pricing offers good value for a detailed, guided experience.
• Small-group setting ensures personalized attention and more engaging stories.
• Expert guides like Rob and Dave are highly praised for their knowledge and friendly approach.
• Iconic film locations make the cemetery and homes feel like stepping into a movie scene.
• Cultural insights about Creole and American residents enrich the tour.
• Limited access to the cemetery’s interior might be a downside but is balanced by excellent storytelling outside.

An In-Depth Look at the Garden District and Lafayette Cemetery Tour

What makes this tour stand out?

This walk through the Garden District is more than just a stroll among grand homes. It’s a chance to look at architecture that tells stories of past wealth and social change, from Creole influences to Greek Revival styles. Guides like Rob and Dave are consistently praised for their warmth, knowledge, and ability to make history come alive. One reviewer noted that Dave was “very knowledgeable about the garden district,” and that he really loves New Orleans, which shines through during the tour.

The Route and Highlights

Starting at the Garden District Book Shop, the tour kicks off with a friendly meet-and-greet that sets a relaxed tone. From there, you’ll wander along picket-fenced lawns, historic mansions, and tree-lined streets. The guide will point out details like transitional architecture, which blends different styles, and tropical plants that add a lush backstory to the area’s aesthetics.

One of the most evocative stops is Lafayette Cemetery No. 1. Despite the current closure to public access, guides still take you to the gates, sharing stories of the aboveground tombs and the notable residents buried there. You might recognize the cemetery from movies like Interview with the Vampire, which adds a cinematic flair to the experience. Reviewers loved learning about the funerary customs of New Orleans and the stories behind famous tombs, even from outside the gates.

What Do You See and Hear?

Expect to see 19th-century mansions, many of which belonged to notable figures. Descriptions of Greek Revival architecture, Creole influences, and English gardens make the homes visually captivating. Some reviewers mention that the guide shared stories about celebrity owners and film locations, which adds a fun, modern twist.

The small-group setup really enhances the experience. With around 14 travelers, guides can tailor stories and pause for photos. Several reviewers appreciated that guides like Muriel, Randy, or Dave balanced historical facts with personal anecdotes, making the tour feel genuine and engaging.

The Atmosphere and Experience

The tour’s duration of roughly 2 hours hits a sweet spot—enough time to explore without feeling rushed. The pace is generally relaxed, perfect for those who prefer a leisurely walk. Reviewers mentioned there are no restroom facilities available once the tour starts, so bringing water or a small snack might be wise.

The Value for Money

At $25, this tour is an excellent deal. For this price, you gain access to expert narration, scenic views, and behind-the-scenes stories that make the architecture and history come alive. Many reviewers called it “well worth it” and “excellent value”. The inclusion of the small-group setting adds to the feeling of an intimate, personalized experience that large bus tours can’t match.

Caveats and Considerations

The main caveat is the temporary closure of Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 to the public. The tour still includes a look at the cemetery gates and detailed stories about the tombs. If inside access is a priority, you might find this somewhat disappointing, but the guides handle it well with inside stories and outside observations.

While some reviews mention that parts of the tour focus on film locations and celebrity homes, most agree that the guides seamlessly incorporate local culture, architecture, and history. If you’re after in-depth cultural insights and stunning visual architecture, this tour does a good job balancing entertainment with education.

Practical Info

• Meeting point: The Garden District Book Shop on Prytania Street.
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours.
• Group size: Limited to 14 travelers.
• Price: $25 per person, good value considering the depth of storytelling.
• Booking: Book 14 days in advance on average, so plan ahead.
• Accessibility: Most travelers can participate, but be mindful of uneven ground and standing during the tour.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for lovers of historic architecture and storytelling. It’s also great for film enthusiasts who want to see famous movie locations in a real neighborhood. The small-group format makes it ideal for those who prefer a more personal touch compared to larger bus tours.

However, if inside cemetery access is a must or you’re looking for a more active or extensive tour, you might want to explore other options. Still, for those seeking a balanced mix of history, architecture, and local stories at a friendly price, this tour hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at the Garden District Book Shop, and you’ll need to make your way there independently.

How much walking is involved?
The tour involves walking through the neighborhood for about two hours, with some standing and uneven ground. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Can I bring food or drinks?
There are no facilities or stops for food and drinks during the tour, so bringing water is advisable.

Is Lafayette Cemetery open to visitors?
Currently, Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 is closed to the public for repairs, but the tour includes a stop outside the gates with plenty of stories about the tombs and residents.

What makes guides like Rob and Dave special?
Reviewers highlight their knowledge, friendliness, and love for New Orleans, which makes the stories more engaging and authentic.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking about two weeks in advance is typical, as the tour is popular and limited to small groups for a more personalized experience.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
Most travelers participate comfortably, but those with mobility issues should consider the uneven ground and standing times involved.

Final Thoughts

This Garden District and Lafayette Cemetery tour offers a thoughtful, well-rounded look at New Orleans’ refined side. It’s ideal for those who appreciate historic homes, storytelling, and cinematic locations, and who value small-group intimacy. While the cemetery’s interior access is temporarily unavailable, guides compensate with vivid descriptions and engaging stories from outside.

You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of how New Orleans’ distinctive architecture and history intertwine—plus plenty of photo opportunities and fun anecdotes. At an affordable price, it’s a fantastic way to see a different side of the city, away from the hustle of Bourbon Street. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply curious about the city’s past, this tour will likely become a highlight of your visit.