New Orleans: Historic Cemetery Walking Tour & Katrina Memorial

Three Cemeteries, One Afternoon: New Orleans' Stories Above Ground

You walk through three historic New Orleans cemeteries with a guide who knows the burial traditions, Masonic history, and stories of those lost to disease and disaster. The 1.5–2 hour tour includes St. Patrick #1 & #2 and the Katrina Memorial, with no entry fees or transportation to arrange separately. Bring water and comfortable shoes for uneven ground.

Step-by-step itinerary

Explore New Orleans historic cemeteries

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

The experience

You're standing in front of St. Patrick Cemetery #2, and the air feels different here, quieter, older. The tombs rise around you like a small city of the dead, and your guide is already pointing out the way the heat and humidity shaped how New Orleans buries its people. The above-ground vaults aren't just practical. They're part of the city's identity, and for the next 1.5 to 2 hours, you're walking through that identity with someone who knows how to tell it. This historic cemetery walking tour moves through three sites: St. Patrick #1, St. Patrick #2, and the Katrina Memorial at Charity Hospital Cemetery, each one a different layer of the city's past.

The storytelling is the real draw here. Your guide walks you through the maze of tombs and explains the burial customs that took root in New Orleans: why the vaults sit above ground, how the Masons and Catholics left their marks on the cemeteries, and what the records tell you about who lived and died here. You'll hear about Yellow Fever, hurricanes, and the thousands buried behind the Katrina Memorial. It's not morbid. It's reverent. The guide doesn't rush you through. They pause at the details that matter, the inscriptions, the family plots that span centuries.

The walk covers ground. You're moving between cemeteries near City Park, so wear shoes that grip uneven terrain. The paths aren't smooth, and New Orleans' humidity will catch up with you, but that's part of why the guide's pacing and knowledge matter. You can bring your own beverages, which most people do. Service animals are welcome. The tour doesn't require a car. Public transportation stops are nearby, so you can get yourself to the start and back to wherever you're staying without arranging extra transport.

What’s included

• Your tour includes a guided walking experience led by a master storyteller through St.
• Patrick Cemetery #1, St.
• Patrick Cemetery #2, and the Katrina Memorial at Charity Hospital Cemetery.
• The guide covers burial customs, Masonic and Catholic history in New Orleans, and the stories of those buried in each location.
• Entry to the cemeteries is included.
• You're welcome to bring your own beverages.
• The walk takes 1.5 to 2 hours and covers uneven terrain near City Park.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 11:00

Book up to1h before

AgesAdult (6 and older) · Child (under 6)

GroupUp to 10

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends at a different place from where it starts.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Moderate physical effortPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Witches Brew Tours

Is this one for you?Right for travelers who want to understand New Orleans' history through its cemeteries and burial traditions without arranging separate transportation or paying additional entry fees: the guide's knowledge and the fixed route mean you get the full story in one afternoon.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (under 6).

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How long is the New Orleans historic cemetery walking tour?

The tour runs 1.5 to 2 hours and covers three cemeteries: St. Patrick #1, St. Patrick #2, and the Katrina Memorial at Charity Hospital Cemetery.

What's included in the cemetery tour?

A guided walking tour led by a master storyteller who covers burial customs, Masonic and Catholic history, and the stories of those buried in each cemetery. Entry to the cemeteries is included.

Can I bring food or drinks on the tour?

Yes, you can bring your own beverages. Food is not mentioned, but water is recommended given the walking distance and New Orleans' heat.

Are the cemeteries accessible for people with mobility issues?

The terrain in historic New Orleans presents challenges. While the operator does their best to accommodate guests with mobility concerns, the uneven ground and paths between cemeteries may be difficult. Contact the operator before booking if you have specific mobility needs.

Do I need to arrange transportation to the tour?

No. Public transportation options are available near the cemeteries, so you can reach the starting point on your own.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are welcome on the tour.

What should I wear?

Comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good grip are essential, as the paths are uneven. The tour is outdoors in New Orleans' heat and humidity, so light, breathable clothing is recommended.

What is the Katrina Memorial?

The Katrina Memorial is located at Charity Hospital Cemetery and honors those lost to hurricanes, Yellow Fever, and other disasters. It's one of three stops on the tour.