New Orleans Cemeteries: Walking Tour & Katrina Memorial Stories

Summary

Stories of New Orleans’ tombs, local legends and the Katrina Memorial

You’ll walk through three historic New Orleans cemeteries with a local storyteller who brings burial traditions and city history to life. Taste the humid air, hear stories at the Katrina Memorial, and notice details most visitors miss. This tour leaves you with more questions than answers—in a good way.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t know what to expect when we stepped into St. Patrick Cemetery #2 — maybe just rows of old stone, but it was quieter than I thought, almost heavy. Our guide, Marcus, had this way of pausing in front of a tomb like he was introducing us to an old friend. The air smelled faintly of moss and something sweet I couldn’t place (jasmine? or maybe just the city’s humidity). He told us about how families used to gather here for picnics, which honestly surprised me. People actually eating among graves — that’s New Orleans for you.

Walking between those above-ground tombs felt strange at first — some were cracked open a little at the corners, and you could see how time had worn them down. Marcus pointed out symbols on the stones: crosses for Catholics, odd markings for Masons. He even let us try saying one of the French family names; Li laughed when I tried it (I definitely butchered it). There was this moment where we all stood quietly while he talked about yellow fever epidemics — you could almost feel how scared people must’ve been back then.

The last stop was the Katrina Memorial at Charity Hospital Cemetery. It’s not fancy — just rows of white markers and a wall with names. Marcus didn’t sugarcoat anything when he told us about the thousands buried there after hurricanes and epidemics. Some people in our group got teary-eyed. I kept thinking about how much history is packed into these places most folks drive right past. The sun came out for a second and lit up the marble; it looked almost hopeful, if that makes sense.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore New Orleans historic cemeteries

• Walk through St. Patrick Cemetery #2
• Explore cemeteries near City Park
• Visit Katrina Memorial at Charity Hospital Cemetery

Top questions

How long is the New Orleans cemetery walking tour?

The tour lasts between 1.5 to 2 hours.

Which cemeteries are visited during this tour?

You’ll visit St. Patrick Cemetery #1, St. Patrick Cemetery #2, and the Katrina Memorial at Charity Hospital Cemetery.

Is there a guide on this cemetery tour?

Yes, a master storyteller guides you throughout the tour.

Can I bring my own drinks on this walking tour?

Yes, you may bring your own beverages along.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?

The terrain can be challenging; guests with mobility concerns should book accordingly.

Are service animals allowed on this cemetery tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed during the tour.

Does this cemetery walking tour include public transportation options nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the starting point.

What will I learn about on this New Orleans cemetery tour?

You’ll hear about burial customs, Masons and Catholics in New Orleans, and stories from yellow fever epidemics to Hurricane Katrina victims.

What’s included

Your day includes a guided walking tour led by a master storyteller through three historic cemeteries near City Park—including entry to St. Patrick Cemetery #1 and #2 plus time at the Katrina Memorial—with plenty of chances to ask questions or pause for your own beverage along the way before heading back into town.