St Louis Cemetery No.3 New Orleans Burial Tradition Audio Guide

Explore the Unique Burial Traditions at St. Louis Cemetery No. 3

This self-guided walking tour of St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 in New Orleans offers an engaging look into the city’s distinctive burial customs. Priced at $6.99 per person, the tour lasts approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, making it a manageable exploration for anyone interested in local history and architecture. The tour is conducted via an audio guide that provides lifetime access, allowing listeners to explore at their own pace both before and after the initial start.

The cemetery, established in 1852, was created to address the Yellow Fever epidemic and is built on a site that once served as a leprosy colony. Its above-ground tombs showcase a variety of architectural styles, making it visually captivating. The tour particularly suits those fascinated by historic cemeteries, notable figures like photographer E.J. Bellocq, and the city’s cultural burial traditions. While the cost is modest, travelers will need to bring their smartphone and headphones to fully enjoy the experience.

Key Points

• Affordable cost of $6.99 makes this tour accessible for most travelers.
• Flexible schedule with offline access allows exploration at your own pace.
• Includes directions and lifetime access to the audio guide.
• Focuses on the historic St. Louis Cemetery No. 3, built on a former leprosy colony.
• Highlights diverse tomb styles and notable figures like E.J. Bellocq.
• Self-guided format offers privacy and custom pacing.

Starting Point at 3421 Esplanade Ave, New Orleans

The tour begins at 3421 Esplanade Avenue, where you will receive directions to the starting point. This self-guided experience is designed for independent exploration, allowing visitors to arrive at their convenience within the cemetery’s open hours, which are 24/7 from September 18, 2024 through October 6, 2026. The activity is private, meaning only your group participates, and service animals are permitted.

The meeting point is straightforward, and the tour ends back at the same location, simplifying logistics. Travelers should plan to have smartphone and headphones ready, as these are not included but essential for listening to the audio guide and following the GPS directions.

Discovering the Historic Significance of St. Louis Cemetery No. 3

Founded in 1852, St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 stands out as one of New Orleans’ historic cemeteries due to its above-ground tombs. Its construction was driven by public health concerns, specifically the yellow fever epidemic, which prompted the city to develop above-ground burial sites. The cemetery’s diverse tomb styles reflect various architectural designs, giving visitors a visual feast and a deeper appreciation for local funeral traditions.

As the site is built on a former leprosy colony, its story intertwines with the city’s health history. Walking through its narrow pathways, visitors encounter notable tombs and learn about the cultural practices that make New Orleans cemeteries famous worldwide. The audio guide offers context about the history and architecture of the tombs, enhancing the understanding of this hauntingly beautiful space.

Architectural Diversity in the Above-Ground Tombs

Tombs at St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 display an eclectic mix of styles, from ornate mausoleums to simple vaults. The above-ground construction is a distinctive feature of New Orleans cemeteries, designed to counteract high water tables and preserve remains. Visitors appreciate how the audio guide explains the significance of different tomb types, revealing insights into local funeral customs and artistic expressions.

This variety of architectural designs creates an engaging visual landscape that combines history, culture, and art. As you walk through the cemetery, you’ll see how each tomb tells a story, whether it’s about notable figures like E.J. Bellocq or families who have been interred there for generations.

The Experience of a Self-Guided Audio Tour

The self-guided nature of this tour provides full flexibility. You can start when you like, pause to explore or take photographs, and listen at your own pace. The audio guide is designed to be easy to follow, with clear directions and informative commentary about each stop.

The offline access feature means you do not need internet connectivity while exploring, making it ideal for those concerned about data. The virtual playback option allows you to listen to the tour like an audiobook from anywhere, providing an accessible way to learn about the cemetery’s history and architecture without the constraints of a scheduled guide.

What to Expect at Each Stop

The tour centers around St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 itself, where the narration guides visitors through its most notable tombs and areas of interest. You will learn about the history of the cemetery’s founding, its connection to Yellow Fever and leprosy, and explore the diverse tomb styles on display.

The narration also shares stories about notable figures like E.J. Bellocq, adding a layer of personal history to the walk. The duration of 45 minutes to 1 hour allows for a thorough yet comfortable exploration, with ample opportunity to pause and examine the tombs up close.

Practical Details and Accessibility

This private tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to enjoy the experience. Since the tour is self-guided, it requires smartphone and headphones, which are not included. The meeting point is accessible year-round, any day between 12:00 AM and 11:59 PM.

Service animals are allowed, and the overall experience is designed to be informative and respectful of the cemetery’s importance. The cancellation policy offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility for those with uncertain plans.

Why Choose This Tour Over Others

Compared to guided options, this self-guided audio tour offers greater flexibility and personal pace, ideal for independent explorers who prefer to control their experience. The low price point of $6.99 makes it a cost-effective way to access detailed insights into New Orleans’ burial traditions without sacrificing quality.

The audio guide’s focus on architectural diversity and notable stories, such as that of E.J. Bellocq, gives it a distinctive appeal. Its offline feature ensures smooth exploration even without internet access, and the easy booking process received positive feedback, emphasizing its convenience.

Final Thoughts on the Cemetery Audio Tour

This self-guided walking tour of St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 provides a thoughtful introduction to New Orleans’ cemetery history. The affordable price, flexible format, and rich content make it suitable for history buffs, architecture lovers, and curious travelers alike.

While it does require a smartphone and headphones, the offline access and lifetime license mean you can revisit the tour anytime. The high ratings and positive review about the knowledgeable narration reinforce its value. It’s an excellent choice for anyone seeking a personalized exploration of the city’s hauntingly beautiful burial sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and it’s appropriate for a wide age range.

Do I need to download anything before visiting?
The audio guide and maps are accessible offline, so no internet connection is required during exploration.

What should I bring on the tour?
A smartphone and headphones are necessary, but no other special equipment is needed.

Can I start the tour at any time?
Yes, the tour is flexible and can be started any time during the cemetery’s open hours.

Is this a guided tour with a person?
No, it’s a self-guided audio tour, so you explore independently using the provided directions and narration.

How long does the tour typically last?
Expect around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on your pace and interest.

Are there any restrictions or accessibility concerns?
Most travelers can participate; service animals are allowed, and the tour is designed to be accessible.

What is included in the price?
The audio guide, directions, and lifetime access are included.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Where exactly does the tour start?
The tour begins at 3421 Esplanade Ave, New Orleans, with directions provided upon booking.