Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery Walking Tour

The Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery Walking Tour offers an engaging journey through one of America’s most picturesque cemeteries. Priced at $35 per person, this 1 hour 30-minute tour is an ideal choice for those interested in exploring New Orleans’ iconic burial sites with a knowledgeable guide. The tour departs from Metairie Cemetery, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd, and is designed to be accessible, including wheelchair-friendly paths. With a perfect 5.0 rating based on 73 reviews, visitors consistently praise the tour for its depth of information and the beauty of the cemetery. This experience not only provides a chance to admire stunning funerary architecture but also supports the non-profit organization Save Our Cemeteries, dedicated to preserving the historic resting places of New Orleans.

While the tour is rich in historical detail and visual grandeur, it is especially suitable for those who appreciate detailed storytelling and scenic walks. Its small group size, capped at 16 travelers, ensures an intimate atmosphere. Be aware that booking typically occurs around 17 days in advance, so planning ahead helps secure a spot. The guided walk is an excellent way to learn about the city’s influential citizens, from Louisiana governors to famous bandleaders, all while supporting a good cause.

Key Points

• Price: $35 per person for a 1 hour 30-minute guided walk
• Location: Starts at Metairie Cemetery, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd in New Orleans
• Highlights: Stunning funerary architecture, sculpture, and ironwork
• Special features: Small group size, wheelchair accessible, mobile ticket
• Support: Proceeds benefit Save Our Cemeteries, helping preserve historic graves
• Guide reputation: Guides are praised for their knowledgeable, engaging storytelling

Discovering Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery’s Grand Tombs and Sculptures

This tour focuses on the most stunning city of the dead in New Orleans, highlighting the grand funerary architecture and sculpture that make Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery notable. Visitors see Greek temples, gothic, Islamic-style tombs, obelisks, and marble monuments with intricate ironwork and stained glass. These elements showcase the cemetery’s reputation as one of the most visually impressive burial sites in the U.S.

The cemetery spans 65 landscaped acres, with the graves of over 9,000 people. Among those laid to rest are Louisiana governors, New Orleans mayors, kings of Carnival, Confederate generals, and other notable citizens like Louis Prima, Al Hirt, Anne Rice, and Tom Benson. The landscape’s lush surroundings of live oaks add to the serene and hauntingly beautiful atmosphere.

Starting Point at Lake Lawn Funeral Home & Cemeteries

The tour begins at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home & Cemeteries, where the guide introduces guests to the cemetery’s history and significance. The starting point’s convenient location makes it easy to access, and since the tour ends back at the same spot, it offers a straightforward experience. The 10:00 am start time makes it perfect for morning exploration before the weather warms or crowds gather.

The location itself offers a glimpse into the most ornate and historically significant graves, setting the stage for an engaging walk. The guide’s storytelling brings to life the stories behind some of the most impressive monuments and the notable figures buried here.

The Experience of the Guided Walking Tour

Led by a very knowledgeable guide, the tour emphasizes storytelling and historical context. The guides are noted for their enthusiasm, passion, and depth of knowledge—a point repeatedly praised in reviews. Visitors learn about the families, historical events, and personal stories connected to the graves.

The pace of the small group walk allows for close-up views of the monuments and ample opportunity to ask questions. The walk is described as easy, with wheelchair accessibility, making it accessible to most visitors.

Highlights of the Funerary Architecture and Sculptures

The cemetery’s monuments are a visual feast. The gothic and Islamic-style tombs, Greek temples, marble sculptures, and ironwork are considered some of the most grand in the U.S. The stained glass windows add color and character to the site, standing out against the natural greenery.

Visitors appreciate how the guide points out details and stories behind each monument, making the experience both educational and visually captivating. The cemetery’s well-kept grounds and serene environment enhance the overall impression.

The Notable Burials and Historical Figures

Lake Lawn Metairie serves as the final resting place for many influential and notorious New Orleanians. Among the graves are Louis Prima and Al Hirt, celebrated bandleaders, as well as Anne Rice, the vampire writer. The cemetery also honors Louisiana governors, Mayors of New Orleans, Confederate generals, and kings of Carnival.

The presence of such diverse and prominent figures gives the tour a rich layer of cultural and historical context. Learning about these personalities illuminates the broader story of New Orleans’ history and its colorful residents.

Supporting Preservation Through the Tour

Proceeds from the Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery Walking Tour go to Save Our Cemeteries, a non-profit dedicated to preserving and restoring the historic cemeteries in New Orleans. Visitors contribute to the upkeep of these iconic sites simply by participating, which adds a meaningful dimension to the experience.

This support helps maintain the stunning architecture, sculptures, and landscaped grounds, ensuring future generations can continue to enjoy and learn from them.

Tour Logistics and Practical Details

The tour starts promptly at 10:00 am and is scheduled to last about 1 hour 30 minutes. It includes a mobile ticket for easy access, and the group size is limited to 16 travelers, guaranteeing an intimate atmosphere. It’s suitable for most travelers, including those with mobility challenges, owing to its wheelchair accessibility.

Booking typically occurs around 17 days in advance, so planning ahead is recommended. The meeting point at Metairie Cemetery is easy to find, and the tour concludes at the same location, simplifying logistics.

Why This Tour Stands Out in New Orleans

What sets this tour apart is the combination of stunning funerary art, comprehensive storytelling, and support for cemetery preservation. The guides are consistently praised for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and engaging manner, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

Plus, the small group size enhances the personal feel, enabling deeper interaction and a more relaxed exploration. The visual beauty of the monuments, combined with the historical stories of influential figures, makes this tour a memorable part of any trip to New Orleans.

Final Thoughts on the Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery Walking Tour

This tour offers a balanced blend of history, art, and scenery at a reasonable price point. It’s ideal for visitors interested in architecture, local history, or cemetery art, and those who appreciate guided storytelling. The focus on supporting preservation efforts adds a meaningful aspect to the experience.

While it emphasizes the more elaborate and wealthy graves, it provides a clear window into the cultural fabric of New Orleans. Its accessible setting, enthusiastic guides, and stunning scenery make it a worthwhile addition to any itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery Walking Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $35 per person.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Metairie Cemetery, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd in New Orleans.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible and designed for easy walking.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking is typically recommended around 17 days in advance.

What will I see during the tour?
Expect to see Greek temples, gothic and Islamic tombs, obelisks, marble monuments, and stained glass. You’ll learn about notable residents like Louis Prima, Anne Rice, and Louisiana governors.

Who leads the tour?
A very knowledgeable and passionate guide leads the walk, known for their storytelling ability and enthusiasm.

Does the tour support any cause?
Yes, proceeds benefit Save Our Cemeteries, a nonprofit dedicated to preservation.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is there any food or drink included?
No, the tour is purely a walking experience with no food or drinks provided.

Are pets allowed?
Service animals are permitted; other pets are not specified but are generally not allowed on tours.

This guided walking tour of Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery combines visual splendor, rich history, and community support into an experience that genuinely enriches understanding of New Orleans.