In short
- Best months: October through May for cooler weather.
- Opening hours: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
- Pack for heat: Bring water and sunscreen year-round.
In this article
Metairie Cemetery is open year-round, but the season dictates how comfortable your walk will be. Spanning 127 acres with limited shade, the grounds are best explored when humidity is low. Knowing when to go helps you avoid the worst of the summer heat and make the most of your visit.
When is the best time of year to visit New Orleans cemeteries?
The ideal months are October through May.
During this period, temperatures are cooler and humidity drops. You can walk the vast grounds comfortably without rapidly overheating. October is especially popular for visitors wanting a seasonal cemetery experience.
Is it too hot to visit in the summer?
Summer brings high heat, intense humidity, and mosquitoes.
If you visit between June and September, go early in the morning. Shade is intermittent along the paths. Bring plenty of bottled water because there are few facilities once inside.
What are the opening hours?
Metairie Cemetery is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
The gates close promptly at 5:00 PM. Give yourself at least two hours to walk the main ovals. Guided tours typically take two hours and run during the morning or early afternoon.
What time of day is best for photography?
Morning and late afternoon offer the best lighting and cooler temperatures.
Morning light highlights the elaborate marble tombs on Millionaire's Row. The sun can be intense midday, washing out details on white marble monuments. Commercial photography requires prior permission from the cemetery office.
How does the weather affect the paths?
Rain is unpredictable and can happen year-round in New Orleans.
Pack an umbrella or rain jacket regardless of the daily forecast. The paved paths follow the concentric oval layout of the original race track. Wear comfortable walking shoes to handle the 127-acre site safely.
Do I need to book a guided tour based on the season?
Tours operate year-round, but booking ahead secures your spot.
Tours during October and the cooler spring months fill up quickly. A guide helps you navigate the massive cemetery efficiently. Independent entry is free if you prefer to walk on your own.
Questions travellers ask
Are dogs allowed in Metairie Cemetery?
Yes, leashed dogs are permitted on the cemetery grounds. Visitors must maintain a respectful demeanor and clean up after their pets.
How much does it cost to enter?
Entry is completely free for independent visitors. If you prefer a guided walking tour, tickets typically cost around $35 for adults.
Is it easy to get lost?
Yes. The cemetery streets still follow the concentric oval layout of an old horse racing track. Bring a smartphone with GPS to help you navigate the 127 acres.
