New Orleans: Tombs and Mansions of the Garden District

Discover the Charm of the Garden District’s Historic Homes and Cemeteries

The New Orleans: Tombs and Mansions of the Garden District tour offers an engaging 2-hour walk through one of the city’s most picturesque neighborhoods. Priced at $38 per person, this tour is perfect for those eager to see the sweeping antebellum architecture and learn about the area’s intriguing past. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the experience is well-suited for visitors who enjoy history, architecture, and a leisurely pace, though it requires comfortable walking shoes and a willingness to explore on foot.

The tour covers iconic landmarks, including famous celebrity homes, a notorious filming location from American Horror Story, and the Merrick-Jones House with its connection to the Manson Murders. With credible historical insights and stories about the neighborhood’s most notable sites, this experience delivers both beauty and substance. While it does not include transportation, the focus on walking makes it accessible for those ready to explore at a relaxed pace.

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Key Points

• Price and Duration: $38 per person, 2-hour walking tour
• Starting Point: In front of the Colonel Short’s Villa at 1448 Fourth Street
• Main Highlights: Celebrity homes, American Horror Story filming site, Merrick-Jones House, and historic cemeteries
• Includes: Experienced guide, well-researched history
• Excludes: Transportation and food
• Physical Requirements: Moderate walking; not suitable for those with mobility impairments

The Tour Begins at Lafayette Cemetery for an Immersive Cemetery Experience

The tour kicks off at Lafayette Cemetery, one of the most famous above-ground cemeteries in New Orleans. Here, chilling tombs and intricate vaults tell stories of the city’s unique burial traditions. The above-ground graves are a distinctive feature of New Orleans, and the guide shares insights into local funeral customs that date back decades. Visitors appreciate the atmosphere of this historic site, which offers a glimpse into both the city’s culture and its sometimes eerie past.

From Lafayette Cemetery, the route takes you down Prytania Street, renowned for its historic homes. The guide discusses why celebrities like Nicolas Cage have bought properties in this area, including amusing stories such as blank checks written to local families. The walk is paced comfortably and allows plenty of time to admire the architecture and take photos. The cemetery stop alone makes this tour a worthwhile peek into New Orleans’ distinctive burial practices.

Exploring the Architectural Marvels and Famous Residences

One of the highlights of this tour is the chance to see some of the most beautiful historic homes in the city. The guide points out Greek and Gothic-style architecture, explaining the historical significance behind each design. You’ll pass by homes owned by celebrities, sports figures, and beloved writers, adding a touch of modern fame to the neighborhood’s historic charm.

A notable stop is the Jackson Avenue mansion that served as the Robichaux Academy for Witches in American Horror Story. This location draws fans of the show and architecture lovers alike. The tour offers a close-up view of these magnificent residences, with stories that reveal their past owners and their importance to New Orleans’ architectural landscape.

Discovering the Merrick-Jones House and Its Dark Connection

A particularly intriguing part of the tour is the story of the Merrick-Jones House. The guide shares details about its surprising connection to the Manson Murders, giving a darker twist to the neighborhood’s otherwise elegant scenery. Visitors find these stories fascinating as they add depth to the historic architecture and provide insight into the neighborhood’s more dramatic history.

This stop underlines how the tour is more than just a walk past pretty houses; it’s an exploration of the neighborhood’s secret histories. The stories about these homes enrich the experience, making it not just a visual tour but a narrative journey through the neighborhood’s complex past.

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Uncovering the Hidden Gems and Bonus Stops

Throughout the walk, the guide shares interesting tidbits and local lore, including a visit to the Eiffel Society Building, a former restaurant that once sat at the top of the Eiffel Tower. Such bonus stops keep the tour lively and give visitors insight into diverse aspects of New Orleans culture.

The tour is designed to be informative and fun, with the guide’s engaging storytelling keeping the group entertained. It’s clear that the focus is on credible history and local stories, which appeal to history buffs and curious travelers alike. The route also allows for photo opportunities at key scenic spots, making it a visually rewarding experience.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour departs from 1448 Fourth Street, directly in front of the Colonel Short’s Villa. The group size varies; some days may feature just a small, private group, offering a more personalized experience, while larger groups are also common. Since no transportation is included, walking the neighborhood is the main mode of exploration, and participants should wear comfortable shoes and prepare for weather conditions.

The tour is available mostly in the afternoon, and it takes place rain or shine. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed pace to take in the sights and stories of the Garden District without rushing. The guide’s local expertise ensures that each stop feels meaningful, whether admiring the architecture or hearing about the history behind each site.

Accessibility and Participant Considerations

This tour is not recommended for individuals with mobility impairments, as it involves walking about a mile and navigating uneven sidewalks. Visitors should also keep in mind that smoking, alcohol, and video recording are not permitted during the tour. The experience is focused on live narration and visual appreciation of the area’s landmarks.

Participants should bring comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing—the tour proceeds rain or shine—and be prepared for a moderate walking pace that does not require extreme physical effort.

The Guides and Their Knowledge

Reviews highlight the expertise of the guides, with specific praise for Craig, who is described as extremely knowledgeable, engaging, and a skilled storyteller. Visitors appreciate the depth of historical insight and the ability to tell engaging stories about the homes and sites along the route. The guides’ credibility and storytelling talent significantly enhance the overall experience, turning a simple walk into a learning adventure.

Value and Overall Impression

At $38 for a 2-hour tour, this experience offers a good value for those interested in architecture, history, and local stories. The well-researched narration and famous sites make it a compelling way to explore the Garden District without the need for a rental or guided car tour.

While the tour does not include transportation and focuses on walking, the scenic stops and storytelling compensate for this limitation. The informative and engaging guides ensure that visitors walk away with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for New Orleans’ charming neighborhoods.

Final Thoughts on the Tombs and Mansions of the Garden District Tour

This tour excels at showcasing the beauty and secrets of the Garden District, making it ideal for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs. The stories of celebrity homes, historic cemeteries, and notorious connections make each stop interesting and memorable.

The moderate pace and local expertise create a relaxed yet enriching experience. Visitors who want a focused, credible exploration of one of New Orleans’ most iconic neighborhoods will find this tour well worth the price. It’s particularly suited to those who enjoy walking tours, want to avoid overly commercialized experiences, and appreciate a personalized storytelling style.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $38 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts 2 hours, providing a leisurely pace to explore the neighborhood.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is in front of Colonel Short’s Villa at 1448 Fourth Street.

What are the main highlights?
You will see famous homes, visit Lafayette Cemetery, see the American Horror Story filming location, and hear stories about the Merrick-Jones House and notorious history.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation is not included. The tour is a walking experience.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
This tour is not recommended for those with mobility impairments due to the walking involved.

What should I bring?
Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring weather-appropriate clothing.

Does the tour run rain or shine?
Yes, the tour takes place rain or shine.

Are there any restrictions?
Smoking, alcohol, and video recording are not allowed during the tour.

How knowledgeable are the guides?
The guides are highly praised for their expertise and engaging storytelling, making the experience both informative and fun.

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