In short
- Entry is completely free if you explore on your own.
- Guided tours cost around $35 and offer deep historical context.
- Self-guided audio tours provide a middle-ground option for $9.99.
In this article
Metairie Cemetery is a massive 127-acre property with over 7,000 distinct family tombs. You can enter and walk the grounds for free, setting your own pace along the concentric ovals of the former race track. However, the site lacks informational plaques. A guided tour brings the stories of politicians, musicians, and soldiers to life.
Do you need a tour guide for Metairie Cemetery?
No, a tour guide is not strictly necessary. You can enter the cemetery for free and walk the grounds independently.
If you prefer flexibility, exploring on your own is a great choice. You can visit specific graves, like author Anne Rice or musician Louis Prima, without following a group timeline. Map & Navigation is highly recommended if you go solo, as the 127-acre layout can be confusing.
What are the benefits of a guided walking tour?
Guided tours provide historical context, architectural insights, and help you navigate the massive cemetery efficiently.
A local expert will guide you directly to the most notable monuments, such as the 60-foot tall Moriarty monument or the Brunswig Pyramid. You will hear detailed stories about New Orleans history, burial practices, and the famous figures interred here. Tours typically last about 2 hours.
How much does it cost to visit?
General entry is free. Guided walking tours usually cost around $35 for adults.
If you book a guided tour, you pay for the guide's expertise rather than admission to the cemetery itself. Prices for tours fluctuate by platform, but $35 is standard. There are also self-guided audio apps available for about $9.99, offering a cheaper alternative to a live guide.
Is a self-guided audio tour worth it?
An audio tour is a budget-friendly way to get context while maintaining flexibility, though technical issues can occur.
For about $9.99, an audio tour provides GPS-triggered commentary. It covers 35 minutes of stories about the architecture and history of the grounds. Just remember that you need a charged smartphone. Some travelers report issues with app downloads, so set it up before you arrive.
How long does it take to see Metairie Cemetery?
Plan for at least 1 to 2 hours to see the main highlights.
Walking the main ovals, including Millionaire's Row, takes about an hour. If you want to find specific graves tucked away in different sections, allocate more time. Guided tours run for a fixed 2 hours, covering a curated route of the most impressive tombs.
Should I book a tour in advance?
Yes, booking guided tours in advance secures your spot, especially during the peak cooler months from October to May.
Tours can sell out, so reserving your ticket early is smart. Most platforms offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour begins. This allows you to adjust your plans if the unpredictable New Orleans weather turns bad.
Questions travellers ask
Are dogs allowed on tours?
Yes, leashed dogs are permitted on the cemetery grounds. However, check with your specific tour operator before booking, as some groups may have their own pet policies.
Can I drive through the cemetery on my own?
Yes, you can drive through Metairie Cemetery. The streets follow the layout of the original race track. Free parking is also available on-site at the Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home lot.
What are the cemetery opening hours?
Metairie Cemetery is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. All visits, whether guided or independent, must take place during these hours.
