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New Orleans, Orleans Parish / History

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1

The oldest and most historic cemetery in New Orleans, famous for its iconic above-ground vaults and the resting place of Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau.

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St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
cemeterytourneworleans.com, og_image_cemeterytourneworleans.com

What is St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 known for?

It is the oldest and most historic cemetery in New Orleans, famous for its elaborate above-ground tombs and intricate ironwork. It is the resting place of notable figures such as Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau, Bernard de Marigny, and Paul Morphy.

Can I visit the cemetery on my own?

No, the cemetery is closed to the general public and is accessible only through authorized, reservation-only tours or family passes.

What are the visiting hours?

The cemetery is generally open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 3:45 p.m., though it is closed on Mardi Gras Day.

How much does it cost to visit?

Admission is free with a reservation, although some guided tour pricing may vary seasonally and by day.

Where is it located?

It is located on Basin Street, one block outside the French Quarter. Tours typically depart from the Basin St. Station Visitor Information Center at 501 Basin Street.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is the oldest and most historic cemetery in New Orleans, serving as one of the city's most recognizable cultural landmarks. Established in 1789, this hallowed ground opened after the older St. Peter Cemetery could no longer sustain the growing population of the city. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the Louisiana African American Heritage Trail. The site is world-renowned for its elaborate above-ground tombs and intricate ironwork, which are hallmarks of New Orleans burial architecture. These vaults were constructed to address the city's unique geography and burial traditions. The cemetery's funerary architecture creates a striking landscape of stone and metal that defines the local aesthetic. Among the many residents are some of the city's most colorful and notable figures. Visitors often seek out the tombs of Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau, Paul Morphy, and Bernard de Marigny. These figures represent the diverse social and cultural history of the region, from political leaders to occult legends. Since March 1, 2015, the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New Orleans has closed the cemetery to the general public. Access is now strictly controlled through authorized reservation-only tours. These guided experiences typically last between 45 and 55 minutes and focus on the tombs of the city's most famous historical figures.

Visitor tips

  • Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time to check in at the Cemetery Tours Desk.
  • Tours depart from the Basin St. Station Visitor Information Center at 501 Basin Street.
  • Note that the cemetery is closed on Mardi Gras Day.
  • Check for reservation requirements in advance, as the site is not open for general public walk-ins.

Nearby context

Located on the north side of Basin Street, the cemetery sits just one block beyond the inland border of the French Quarter. It is positioned approximately 8 blocks from the Mississippi River, placing it at the edge of the city's most historic residential and commercial core.

Sources

Evidence and links