Graveyards of New Orleans

Exploring the Most Famous Cemeteries in New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans, honey, is a city like no other—mouth-watering food, iconic music, and celebrations unlike anywhere else in the world. But tucked between all the jazz and jambalaya, there’s another side of this spirited town that’s just as intriguing: its cemeteries. These above-ground burial sites, with their intricate tombs and quiet beauty, are home to stories that date back centuries. And yes, many are believed to be haunted. Here’s a little tour through some of the most famous graveyards of New Orleans, where history, architecture, and a bit of the supernatural come together.

St. Louis Cemetery Number 1

501 Basin Street, New Orleans, LA 70112

If there’s one cemetery in New Orleans that’s made a name for itself, it’s St. Louis Cemetery Number 1. Established way back in 1789, this place is the final resting spot for some mighty important folks, like the famed Voodoo Queen, Marie Laveau. There’s a rumor that if you draw three X’s on her tomb and make a wish, she might just grant it—if she’s in the mood, that is! Visitors have reported all sorts of spine-tingling experiences here, from cold spots to whispers in the wind. Some folks swear they’ve even seen Marie Laveau’s ghost wandering among the tombs. Whether you believe in the supernatural or not, the eerie atmosphere of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 will leave you with a sense of wonder—and maybe a little chill.

Now, this cemetery isn’t open to the public. To visit St Louis Cemetery No. 1,  you’ll need to book a tour through the New Orleans Catholic Cemeteries organization.

Lafayette Cemetery No. 1

1427 Washington Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130

Nestled right in the heart of the charming Garden District, Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 is a favorite of locals and tourists alike. Opened in 1833, this cemetery is full of stunning above-ground tombs and beautifully crafted mausoleums, reflecting the unique burial customs of the city. It’s a peaceful place to wander, but don’t be surprised if you feel like you’re not alone. Ghostly tales abound here—some say they’ve seen the spirit of a woman in a white gown, roaming the cemetery in search of her lost child. Visitors have also reported strange sounds, like whispers or footsteps, echoing through the graves, and some even say they’ve seen shadowy figures vanish before their eyes.

Metairie Cemetery

5100 Pontchartrain Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70124

If you're looking for grand monuments and mausoleums that’ll take your breath away, Metairie Cemetery is a must-see. It’s one of the largest cemeteries in New Orleans, and it’s home to many of the city’s most influential figures. People come here not just for the history, but for the ghost stories too. Some claim to have seen a wealthy businessman’s ghost pacing near his mausoleum, still tied to the life he once led. Others have heard unexplained noises—disembodied footsteps or whispers—especially around the older sections. One spooky tale involves a ghostly procession of figures in period clothing, walking among the graves at dusk.

St. Roch Cemetery

1725 St. Roch Ave, New Orleans, LA 70117

Tucked away in the Bywater neighborhood, St. Roch Cemetery is a little-known gem worth seeing. Founded in 1875, it’s known for its ties to the Catholic faith and its connection to St. Roch, the patron saint of plague victims. Visitors say there’s a special kind of energy here—many leave offerings for St. Roch, and some claim to feel a protective presence. And if you’re lucky (or unlucky, depending on how you feel about spirits), you might even spot the ghost of a priest who spent his life helping the needy. There’s a tale of a spectral figure in a cassock who walks the grounds at night, offering comfort to those in need. Others have reported feeling a warm, reassuring hand on their shoulder—only to turn around and find no one there.

St. Louis Cemetery No. 3

3421 Esplanade Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119

Now, if you’re looking for something a little quieter and off the beaten path, St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 is where you want to go. Established in 1853, this cemetery is filled with beautiful art, intricate mausoleums, and peaceful oak trees. It’s not as well-known as some of the other cemeteries, but it has its own share of ghostly tales. Some folks say they’ve seen mysterious lights flickering among the tombs at night, or heard soft whispers in the breeze. The serene atmosphere and beautiful statues add to the otherworldly feel of this hidden treasure.

Above-Ground Burial in New Orleans: A Tradition Like No Other

In New Orleans, burying folks above ground is more than just a quirky tradition—it’s a necessity, thanks to the city’s low-lying, swampy landscape. With the water table so high, traditional burial practices simply don’t work here. When the city first started developing, the people of New Orleans quickly realized that if you buried bodies in the ground, they’d be more likely to end up floating back up during a heavy rain or flood! So, the folks in the Crescent City got creative and began building beautiful above-ground tombs and mausoleums that still stand to this day.

These tombs aren’t just practical—they’re works of art. Many are ornately designed, with intricate carvings, iron gates, and stately columns that reflect the city's rich culture and history. And it’s not just for the wealthy; above-ground burial became the norm for everyone, from the famous to the everyday folks, and you’ll see them in cemeteries all over the city.

Some of these tombs even have a special feature: when a body is first placed inside, it’s not always immediately buried. Instead, the body is allowed to rest for a while, and over time, the heat and humidity help the remains break down. Once that happens, the bones are collected and stored in the back of the tomb, leaving room for the next family member to rest in peace. It’s a unique, practical approach to burial, and one that gives New Orleans cemeteries their distinct charm and mystery.

Cemetery Etiquette

`Exploring New Orleans' cemeteries is a way to step back in time and experience a piece of history that’s uniquely tied to the city’s culture. Each cemetery has its own charm and character, from the grand monuments of Metairie to the haunting beauty of St. Louis Cemetery No. 3. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, or someone just curious about the ghostly legends that float through the air, these cemeteries are a must-see.

While you’re here, it’s always good to remember to be respectful of the space and the memories it holds. These cemeteries aren’t just places of rest—they’re landmarks that tell the story of New Orleans and the people who made this city what it is.

The local non-profit organization Save Our Cemeteries is dedicated to the preservation and restoration of New Orleans gravesites. More information about Save Our Cemeteries can be found here.

Discover an Above Ground Cemetery of New Orleans

The cemeteries of New Orleans are as much a part of the city’s identity as its music and cuisine. They offer a chance to reflect on the past and learn about the lives that helped shape this remarkable place. And for those who like a little thrill with their history, the ghost stories are an added bonus. So the next time you find yourself in the Big Easy, take a walk through these hallowed grounds and let the stories—both real and supernatural—unfold before you. You never know what you might discover in the cemeteries of New Orleans!

If you're curious about spooky cemetery stories, we can customize a guided tour for you and your guests.  We’ll help you learn more about the above-ground burial traditions of New Orleans and the ghostly tales that surround these historic sites.

Ready to explore the spirits of New Orleans? Book a Private Cemetery Tour with us today!