If you’re planning a visit to New Orleans and want a look beneath its lively surface, a tour of Metairie Cemetery’s Millionaires Row offers an eye-opening glimpse into the city’s eccentric past. This two-hour guided walk, led by a knowledgeable local author, combines history, architecture, and storytelling to bring the city’s most famous and intriguing residents’ final resting places to life.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the stunning grandeur of the tombs—from flamboyant mausoleums to jewel-stained glass windows—that showcase the wealth and eccentricity of local families. Second, the engaging narration that weaves together tales of governors, mob bosses, and Carnival Kings, making history feel personal and vivid.
One potential consideration? The tour involves about 2 miles of walking in outdoor conditions, so comfortable shoes and sun protection are advisable. This isn’t a quick peek but a leisurely stroll through history, making it best suited for those who enjoy architecture, stories of local characters, or a bit of the macabre.
Whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, or curious traveler, this tour offers value, authenticity, and a sense of New Orleans’ unique character.
- Key Points
- An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience
- The Setting: Metairie Cemetery
- The Guide: An Engaging Local Historian
- The Highlights: Tombs, Symbols, and Stories
- The Stories: From Mob Bosses to Mayors
- The Cost and Value
- Practicalities: What to Expect
- Reviews Highlighting the Experience
- Additional Perks and Tips
- Who Will Love This Tour?
- The Sum Up
- FAQ
- The Best Of New Orleans!
- More Tours in New Orleans
- More Tour Reviews in New Orleans
Key Points
- Expert-guided experience led by a local author and historian
- Approximately 2 miles of walking through the historic cemetery
- Highlights include the extravagant tombs, pyramid guarded by a sphinx, and Anne Rice’s final resting place
- Insightful stories about the diverse inhabitants, from politicians to mob bosses
- On-site entry included, with insider tips for local culture and food
- Wheelchair accessible and available rain or shine
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An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience
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The Setting: Metairie Cemetery
Your journey begins at the Law Enforcement Memorial, located to the right of the funeral home, where the guide welcomes you and sets the scene. As you step through the gates of Metairie Cemetery, established in 1872 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, you’re immediately struck by the shade provided by nearly 1,000 trees and the peaceful, almost park-like atmosphere. It’s a place where history and artistry blend, and you quickly realize this is more than just a cemetery—it’s an open-air museum of architectural styles, personal stories, and cultural symbols.
The Guide: An Engaging Local Historian
Our guide, Sally, receives glowing reviews for her vast knowledge and storytelling flair. As some reviews say, she offers “extensive knowledge of the inhabitants,” and her stories are not rote but drawn from interviews, local archives, and her own deep familiarity with the area. She tailors her talk to the interests of the group, making each tour unique.
The Highlights: Tombs, Symbols, and Stories
The tour visits several notable tombs, each with its own story. For example, you’ll see the extravagant mausoleums, which demonstrate the wealth of New Orleans’ prominent families. Among these is the tomb of Anne Rice, the author famous for her vampire novels. Many visitors find it a thrill to see her resting place—her work famously inspired the city’s Gothic vibe.
You’ll also stop at the pyramid, guarded by a sphinx, tied to Egyptian symbolism and perhaps a nod to the mystical side of New Orleans. The jewel-stained glass windows in some mausoleums reveal the craftsmanship and the pride these families took in their final homes.
Another stop takes you to a Limestone Islamic-inspired tomb, built by a Confederate general for his daughter—an example of the diverse influences and personal touches that make Metairie Cemetery a visual feast.
The Stories: From Mob Bosses to Mayors
What sets this tour apart are the stories about the people buried here. From influential city mayors and governors to mob bosses and ground-breaking journalists, each tomb has a story that humanizes the city’s history. As one reviewer notes, Sally “shared many entertaining stories about the cemetery, its inhabitants, and its visitors,” which makes the history come alive.
The Cost and Value
At $35 per person, the tour offers excellent value considering the depth of insight, the access to stunning architecture, and the personalized storytelling. It’s a two-hour experience that balances visual spectacle with informative narration—you’re getting a lot of bang for your buck.
Practicalities: What to Expect
The tour is designed to be relaxed and engaging. You’ll meet at the cemetery, walk through its shaded paths, and learn about each tomb’s significance. The group size tends to be manageable, fostering a warm, engaging atmosphere. Since it’s wheelchair accessible and will go rain or shine, planning for weather and comfortable shoes is wise.
Reviews Highlighting the Experience
Participants consistently praise the knowledge of the guide. One review states, “Sally was fantastic,” emphasizing her passion and depth of knowledge. Others mention how the stories elevate the experience, making it more than just a walk through graves—it becomes a journey into the city’s soul.
Additional Perks and Tips
Included in the tour are entry to Metairie Cemetery and Lake Lawn Metairie, saving you the hassle of separate arrangements. The guide also offers insider tips for exploring New Orleans further—local food, music, and culture recommendations that enrich your visit beyond the tour.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for travelers who appreciate history, architecture, and storytelling. If you enjoy learning stories behind historic sites, you’ll find this tour compelling. It also suits those interested in local culture, notable figures, and the symbolism of funerary art. Because it involves walking outdoors in warm weather, those with mobility issues should confirm accessibility options.
It’s less suited for travelers seeking a quick, superficial overview or those with limited interest in cemeteries or history. But for anyone curious about New Orleans’ eccentric personalities and artistic tombs, this tour offers genuine insight and memorable sights.
The Sum Up
The Millionaires Tombs of Metairie Cemetery Tour excels at transforming a cemetery visit into a captivating history lesson. Led by an engaging, well-informed guide, you’ll see some of the most spectacular tombs in New Orleans, all while hearing stories that connect these final resting places to the city’s vibrant, sometimes bizarre past. The combination of stunning architecture and storytelling makes it a worthwhile experience for those who enjoy a mix of history, art, and local flavor.
Given the affordable price, manageable duration, and high praise from previous visitors, this tour represents an excellent value for curious travelers. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path activity, it’s a solid choice that will leave you with a deeper understanding of New Orleans’ quirky spirit and its colorful inhabitants.
New Orleans: Millionaires Tombs of Metairie Cemetery Tour
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s appropriate for most ages, especially those interested in history and architecture. Keep in mind there’s about 2 miles of walking, so younger children should be prepared for some outdoor activity.
What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. The tour takes place rain or shine, so plan accordingly.
Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for visitors with mobility concerns.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s advisable to reserve your spot ahead of time. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.
Does the tour include entry to the cemetery?
Yes, your ticket covers entry to Metairie Cemetery and Lake Lawn Metairie, so you won’t have to worry about additional charges.
Can I join the tour if I’m not a native English speaker?
The tour is conducted in English; non-English speakers might want to check if translation options are available or consider a different experience.
This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of New Orleans’ distinctive burial traditions and colorful personalities. For history lovers, architecture fans, or those simply curious about the city’s darker, more glamorous side, it’s a memorable and worthwhile addition to any visit.
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