5 Cemeteries of New Orleans – Anne Rice’s & other famous graves

Discover the Fascinating Cemeteries of New Orleans with a Guided Tour

This $29 tour takes you through five distinct cemeteries in New Orleans, each with its own character, history, and stories. With a duration of approximately two hours, the tour offers a relaxed pace, as all cemeteries are located close to one another. The tour is fully narrated, providing insightful details about the variety of burial practices and the cultural diversity of this unique city. It’s an excellent choice for those interested in history, architecture, or the stories of famous figures buried in New Orleans.

One of the tour’s biggest strengths is its coverage of different religious and cultural burial sites, from Catholic and Jewish cemeteries to Protestant and non-denominational grounds. The guide’s expertise and engaging storytelling receive high praise, making complex histories accessible and entertaining. This tour is ideal for history buffs, fans of Anne Rice, or anyone curious about New Orleans’ distinctive approach to laying loved ones to rest.

Key Points

• Multiple cemeteries: Visit five cemeteries, each with its own unique character.
• Celebrity graves: See the final resting places of Anne Rice, Louie Prima, and other notable figures.
• Diverse burial traditions: Learn about Catholic, Jewish, Protestant, and non-denominational burial styles.
• Engaging narration: The fully narrated tour offers stories, history, and humor.
• Leisurely walk: All sites are close together, making the tour easily walkable in about two hours.
• Affordable: At $29 per person, it provides great value for an immersive cultural experience.

Starting Point and Tour Duration

The tour begins at Morning Call Coffee Stand located at 5101 Canal Blvd at 11:00 am. The group size is limited to 22 people, ensuring a comfortable experience and plenty of opportunities for questions. The two-hour itinerary covers six cemeteries, with stops lasting about 30 minutes each.

Exploring the Greenwood and Cypress Grove Cemeteries

Your first stops are Greenwood Cemetery and Cypress Grove Cemetery, both renowned for their stunning architecture and imposing graves. Greenwood Cemetery, often called “the most beautiful cemetery in America,” features impressive statues and elaborate monuments. Here, you encounter celebrity graves and hear stories about New Orleans’ burial customs.

Next, Cypress Grove Cemetery provides a Protestant perspective, with monumental graves and a fascinating story about the feud between two families over their impressive tombs. These cemeteries illustrate how wealth and family rivalries influence New Orleans’ distinctive above-ground burial style.

The Enchanting Metairie Cemetery and Anne Rice’s Grave

A highlight of the tour is the visit to Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery, which many call “the most beautiful cemetery in America.” Visitors will find the resting place of Anne Rice, the famous author of “Interview with the Vampire,” along with Louie Prima, the musician, and several actors and mafiosos.

The cemetery’s lush landscape and elaborate mausoleums make it a visual standout. The guide shares stories about the lives of those buried here, connecting literature and music history directly to the city’s culture.

Exploring the Historic Irish and American Cemeteries

The tour continues to St. Patrick Cemetery, which actually comprises three separate cemeteries. The oldest, St. Patrick #1, was established by Irish immigrants fleeing the Irish Potato Famine and features modest, haphazard graves reflecting the humble beginnings of Irish New Orleanians.

Across the street, St. Patrick #2 displays more imposing, ornate graves that symbolize Irish-American prosperity. The guide explains the struggles and triumphs of Irish immigrants, giving depth to their burial sites and community history.

Honoring the Katrina Hurricane Victims

One of the most touching stops is the Hurricane Katrina Memorial, dedicated both as a memorial to victims of the 2005 hurricane and as a cemetery for 80 local residents who lost their lives. The story of their bodies being lost and later re-discovered in a freezer adds a poignant layer to the visit.

This memorial demonstrates how New Orleans uniquely honors its dead, blending tragedy with resilience. The site’s beauty and significance make it a meaningful conclusion to the tour.

The Practicalities of the Tour

The tour is fully narrated, with guides explaining burial customs, local history, and celebrity stories. The meeting point at Morning Call is accessible, and the walking distance between cemeteries is manageable for most. The group size of up to 22 ensures a personal experience, with ample time for questions and photos.

No food or drinks are included, but the focus remains on the cemeteries and their stories. The tour’s value is enhanced by the knowledgeable guides, who make the experience both educational and engaging. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for travelers’ plans.

What Sets This Tour Apart: Diversity and Depth

This tour distinguishes itself by covering a wide range of cemeteries, representing different religions, social classes, and histories. The inclusion of Anne Rice’s grave adds literary appeal, while the stories about Hurricane Katrina victims highlight the city’s collective resilience.

The fully narrated format allows for a rich understanding of New Orleans’ burial traditions, which differ markedly from those in other parts of the USA. The leisurely walk and close proximity of the cemeteries make this tour accessible and rewarding.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Do for Cultural Enthusiasts

For anyone interested in history, architecture, or celebrity stories, this $29 guided tour offers a compact yet comprehensive look at New Orleans’ burial customs and fascinating stories. The high praise for guides like Christopher and Bobby, who are described as knowledgeable and personable, adds to the tour’s appeal.

While not suited for those seeking a physically demanding experience, this tour suits most travelers who want an engaging and educational glimpse into the city’s cemetery culture. Its affordable price point and rich content make it a top choice for visitors wanting to explore the city’s hidden stories and historic sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately two hours.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Morning Call Coffee Stand, 5101 Canal Blvd.

What cemeteries are included?
The tour visits Greenwood, Cypress Grove, Metairie, St. Patrick #1 and #2, and the Hurricane Katrina Memorial.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate; the walk is manageable and the narration engaging.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Is there a guide included?
Absolutely, the guided narration is a core part of the experience.

What notable graves will I see?
You’ll find Anne Rice’s grave, Louie Prima, and other celebrities, along with memorials for Katrina victims.

How accessible are the cemeteries?
All cemeteries are close to one another, making the walk relatively easy for most.

Are food or drinks included?
No, but the focus is on the cemeteries and their stories.

What makes this tour unique?
It offers a broad view of New Orleans’ burial customs, diverse religious sites, and famous graves, all narrated with engaging stories.

This well-reviewed tour stands out for its expert guides, diverse cemeteries, and meaningful stories, providing an enriching way to understand New Orleans’ culture and history.