New Orleans Metairie Cemetery Tour: Millionaires and Mausoleums

If you’re curious about the stories behind New Orleans’ iconic gravesites and want to see some of the most elaborate mausoleums the city has to offer, the Metairie Cemetery Tour by Red Sash Tours could be just the experience you need. With a perfect rating of 5.0 based on 248 reviews, this two-hour walk promises a deep dive into the city’s history, architecture, and colorful personalities—all while avoiding the crowds.

What we love about this tour is how it combines stunning visual architecture, insider stories, and local tips about food, music, and culture. The guides are clearly passionate and knowledgeable (with reviewers mentioning Sally and Glenn as standout guides), making the experience both informative and engaging. The only potential downside? The terrain can be uneven and bumpy, which might be a concern for those with mobility issues or strollers.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, architecture lovers, or anyone wanting a richer understanding of New Orleans beyond its famous Bourbon Street. If you’re someone who thrives on storytelling, appreciates beautiful art, and is eager to learn about the city’s notable residents, you’ll find this experience worth every penny.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Highly knowledgeable, with reviewers raving about Sally and Glenn’s storytelling skills.
• Stunning Visuals: Lavish tombs, statues, sphinx guardians, and monuments that make for incredible photo ops.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about New Orleans’ burial customs, history, and the stories of famous locals.
• Value for Price: At $35, the tour offers a lot of value, including entry to the cemetery and insider tips.
• Crowd Avoidance: Guided tour access helps you explore without throngs of visitors.
• Accessible Tips: While most travelers find it manageable, terrain considerations are noted for those with mobility devices.

Discovering the Richness of Metairie Cemetery

The Metairie Cemetery is more than just a burial ground—it’s an open-air museum filled with extraordinary sculptures, ornate mausoleums, and stories that span New Orleans’ colorful past. Before the tour, many visitors remark on how the cemetery is a feast for the eyes, with shining pyramids, Greek temples, Islamic pavilions, and angel sculptures. It’s a place where the city’s wealth, eccentricities, and artistry come together in stone and marble.

The tour begins at the entrance on 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd, where you’ll be swept into a world of stories about the city’s notable figures—ranging from politicians and jazz musicians to notorious mob bosses and even vampire novelists like Anne Rice. One reviewer praised guide Sally for her extensive research and ability to connect history with personal stories, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Stop 1: Lake Lawn Metairie

The starting point is the Lake Lawn Metairie section—an area renowned for its artistic tombs and impressive funerary art. Visitors often comment on the cemetery’s exquisite marble tombs, which reflect the wealth and unique culture of New Orleans. Some tombs are true works of art, with detailed carvings, statues, and symbolic details that reveal the city’s diverse influences.

This section is also notable for its breathtaking setting, surrounded by lush trees and peaceful greenery. The emphasis here isn’t just on the graves but also on understanding burial customs and the symbolism behind various monuments, a topic Sally excels at explaining.

Visiting Notable Tombs and Stories

Throughout the two-hour walk, the guide highlights notable graves, including those of famous residents like Ruth Fertel, founder of the famous Ruth’s Chris Steak House, and Al Copeland, the fried chicken tycoon behind Popeyes. You’ll also hear about lesser-known stories—like the tale of a local vampire novelist—adding a touch of mystique and fun.

Architectural Marvels

From Egyptian pyramids to Greek temples, the variety of mausoleum styles provides a visual feast. Reviewers have praised guides for their detailed explanations of the symbolism and architecture, helping visitors appreciate the thought behind each tomb’s design.

Local Culture and Tips

Beyond the tombs, the guides share insider tips on New Orleans food, music, and culture, helping you connect your cemetery visit with other city highlights. For example, knowing where to find authentic Cajun cuisine or the best jazz spots can turn this tour into part of a broader cultural exploration.

Why It’s Worth the Price

At $35 per person, this tour offers exceptional value considering the expert guidance, entry to one of the world’s most celebrated cemeteries, and the wealth of stories shared. Reviewers consistently mention how guides like Sally and Glenn make the experience engaging and memorable, with some remarks about how the knowledge shared enhances the visual experience of the tombs.

On top of that, the tour’s small group size (up to 18 travelers) ensures a more personalized experience, different from self-guided visits where you might miss the stories and context. The inclusion of insider tips on local culture makes this tour a well-rounded introduction to New Orleans.

Considerations

One repeated point from reviews is that the terrain can be uneven, with some bumpy paths and narrow side paths. If mobility is a concern, it’s worth considering this aspect, though most visitors find it manageable.

Practical Details and Tips for Visitors

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, which makes it suitable for most schedules. Starting at 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd, it ends at the same location, making logistics straightforward. The mobile ticket makes checking in simple, and most travelers book about three weeks in advance, highlighting its popularity.

While bottled water isn’t included, it’s a good idea to bring some if you’re sensitive to the heat or plan on spending extra time exploring afterward. Remember that service animals are allowed, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, provided you’re prepared for some walking.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

If you’re someone who appreciates stories woven into stunning surroundings, this Metairie Cemetery Tour is a must-do in New Orleans. You’ll love the way the guides animate the tombs with stories, making history feel alive. The visual beauty of the mausoleums is a photographer’s paradise, and the insider tips help you connect with the city’s broader culture.

This tour also provides a meaningful way to learn about the city’s burial customs, which are deeply tied to local traditions like above-ground tombs to combat the high water table. For history enthusiasts, the biographies of notable residents and the symbolism in the monuments are real highlights.

If you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy storytelling and cultural insights, this is a fantastic shared experience. It’s best suited for those with an interest in history, architecture, or the quirky charm that makes New Orleans unique.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers find it suitable, but keep in mind that there’s some walking on uneven terrain. Strollers or mobility devices may face challenges on certain paths.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable activity that fits well into a day of sightseeing.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers expert guiding, entry to Metairie Cemetery, and insider tips on local culture. Bottled water isn’t included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the tour. Less than that, and the payment isn’t refunded.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, water, and sun protection are recommended. The tour is outdoors, so dress according to the weather.

Are there any restrictions or requirements?
Service animals are allowed. Most travelers can participate, but be mindful of terrain and the pace of the guide.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd and concludes at the same meeting point, making logistics simple.

Final Thoughts

The New Orleans Metairie Cemetery Tour offers a compelling mix of breathtaking architecture, fascinating stories, and local culture tips. Guided by passionate experts like Sally and Glenn, you’ll gain insights that elevate the visual beauty of the graves and mausoleums into a meaningful experience. The tour’s small size and focus on storytelling deliver a personal touch that many travelers value.

This experience is particularly well-suited for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and those eager to go beyond the typical city sights. It’s a fantastic way to connect with New Orleans’ past, its eccentric personalities, and its artistic legacy—all in just a couple of hours.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or exploring with family, this tour can deepen your appreciation for the city’s unique charm and history. It’s a memorable, enriching activity that offers genuine value, making it a highlight of many visitors’ trips.

Enjoy your visit, and don’t forget to bring your camera—these tombs are almost too beautiful not to capture.