Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery Walking Tour

If you’re visiting New Orleans and want to uncover a different side of the city, a guided tour of Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery offers a fascinating look into its history, architecture, and notable residents. This tour isn’t just about walking among stones; it’s an insightful experience that combines art, history, and storytelling.

Guided by passionate volunteers from Save Our Cemeteries, this small-group tour (limited to 16 people) provides a balanced mix of education and visual delight that’s hard to beat.

What we love about this experience? First, the expert guides who bring the cemetery’s stories to life with enthusiasm and depth, and second, the stunning architecture that makes the landscape feel more like an open-air museum than just a burial ground. The only thing to consider—these tours are best enjoyed in good weather since they’re outdoors and quite walkable.

This experience suits those interested in history, architecture, or just a quieter, more contemplative side of New Orleans.

Key Points

• Expert guides bring history and stories vividly to life.
• The tour showcases stunning funerary art and architecture.
• It’s a small, manageable group, making it intimate and engaging.
• The tour benefits non-profit preservation efforts, so your ticket supports local history.
• It’s wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all visitors.
• The price of $35 offers good value for a 1.5-hour guided experience.

Why Choose the Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery Walking Tour?

This tour is a prime choice if you’re after a more meaningful connection to New Orleans’ past. The city is famous for its lively music, jazz, and vibrant neighborhoods, but its cemeteries are equally captivating—full of history, ornate sculpture, and stories of the influential figures who called this city home. The small tour size ensures you won’t get lost in a crowd, and the guided narration enriches the experience far beyond just looking at tombstones.

The $35 ticket isn’t just a fee; it’s a donation that helps preserve and protect one of America’s most beautiful cemeteries. Reviews consistently praise the guides, especially Glenn, for being knowledgeable and passionate—a key factor that elevates the experience from a simple walk to a memorable education.

Exploring the Itinerary

The tour begins at the Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home & Cemeteries. Here, you get your first glimpse of why this cemetery is often called “the most stunning city of the dead.” The landscape is dotted with Greek temples, gothic and Islamic-inspired tombs, obelisks, and beautifully wrought ironwork and stained glass. The visual feast alone makes this stop worth the price of admission.

The Architectural Marvels

We loved the way the tour guides point out the grand funerary sculptures—from intricate ironwork to marble monuments. The tombs reflect the wealth and artistic tastes of those buried here, many of whom were prominent citizens. Live oaks drape the landscape, adding a sense of serenity and mystique. As one reviewer said, “The cemetery is absolutely stunning”, and that’s no exaggeration.

The Notable Residents

More than just a beautiful setting, Lake Lawn Metairie is a who’s who of New Orleans history. The graves include 9 Louisiana governors, 7 New Orleans mayors, 49 Carnival kings, and 3 Confederate generals. You’ll also see the resting places of Louis Prima, Al Hirt, Anne Rice, and Tom Benson. These famous faces mean visitors often find themselves reading the headstones with curiosity and admiration.

Stories and Anecdotes

Our favorite part is how the guides weave stories about the families and individuals buried there. The reviews highlight that guides like Glenn are very knowledgeable and enthusiastic, sharing stories that give context and personality to the stones. One visitor raved, “Glenn was a very informative guide who clearly loves the history of cemeteries and New Orleans history,” and that warmth makes all the difference.

The Walk and Experience

The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes—a manageable length that allows plenty of time to absorb the sights without feeling rushed. The walk is easy and accessible, suitable for most visitors, including those in wheelchairs. You’ll explore 65 landscaped acres, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to enjoy the shade of live oaks and the quiet of the grounds.

The meeting point is at Metairie Cemetery, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd, starting at 10:00 am. The small group size means you’ll have plenty of opportunity to ask questions and chat with your guide. Since the tour is mobile ticket, it’s convenient to book in advance—most travelers book about 17 days ahead, according to data.

Value for the Price

At $35 per person, considering the level of expertise and the inclusion of a donation to preservation efforts, this tour offers fair value. It’s not just a sightseeing activity but also a way to contribute to the ongoing care of this historic site.

Authenticity and Impact

One of the most appealing aspects is that this tour is run by a non-profit organization, Save Our Cemeteries. When you purchase a ticket, you’re supporting restoration and preservation of these grand tombs and landscapes. Many reviews praise the passionate guides who love sharing their knowledge and keeping the history alive.

On top of that, the tour’s small group size ensures a more personal experience, allowing for questions and spontaneous stories. The positive reviews highlight Glenn and others’ enthusiasm and breadth of knowledge, making each visit a genuine, engaging experience.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This walking tour is ideal for history buffs, architecture lovers, and those seeking a quieter, reflective experience. It’s perfect if you want to stay out of the more tourist-heavy areas but still gain an in-depth understanding of New Orleans’ cultural fabric. It’s also a great choice if you’re traveling with someone who appreciates art and stories behind historic sites.

If you’re on a tight schedule or prefer guided activities with a focus on visual beauty and storytelling, this tour will likely be a highlight. Just remember, it’s outdoors—so good weather is a must, and comfortable shoes will make the walk more enjoyable.

The Sum Up: Why This Tour Is a Treasure

In a city filled with lively streets, jazz, and vibrant neighborhoods, the Lake Lawn Metairie Cemetery Walking Tour offers a peaceful, visually stunning, and educational break. The guides’ storytelling and enthusiasm make the history come alive, giving you a deeper appreciation for New Orleans’ unique past. The architecture and sculptures are impressive, and the fact that your ticket helps preserve this historic site enhances the experience’s value.

This tour is especially well-suited for travelers who love learning about history through stories and visuals, or those simply looking for a quiet, reflective walk among beautiful monuments. Its small-group format and knowledgeable guides ensure an intimate experience that’s both informative and memorable.

For a reasonable price, you get a chance to see the city’s most beautiful cemetery, learn about its famous residents, and support ongoing preservation—all in one enriching walk.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, providing enough time to enjoy the sights and stories without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Metairie Cemetery, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd and concludes back at the same meeting point.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for everyone.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your tour guide is included, and the ticket price supports non-profit preservation efforts.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers plan about 17 days ahead; booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s an educational experience suitable for those interested in history and architecture.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just seeking a peaceful stroll through one of America’s most beautiful cemeteries, this tour combines storytelling, stunning scenery, and a good dose of local color—all while supporting preservation. It’s a visit that adds depth and meaning to your trip to New Orleans.