How long does it take to walk the Mid-City cemeteries?

The main cluster of cemeteries in Mid-City takes about 2 to 3 hours to explore thoroughly. This includes time for walking between sites like Cypress Grove and Greenwood, as well as spending time at the Katrina Memorial.

Is it worth visiting cemeteries in New Orleans?

Yes, New Orleans cemeteries are world-famous for their above-ground tombs and unique funerary art. They offer a deep dive into the city's Catholic roots, its struggles with disease, and its diverse cultural heritage.

Are the cemeteries in Mid-City free to enter?

Most of the cemeteries in this specific route, such as Cypress Grove and Greenwood, are free to enter during their public hours. However, some others in the city, like St. Louis No. 1, require a fee or a specific type of access.

Is a guided tour New Orleans cemeteries necessary?

While some prefer a group setting, a self-guided audio walk offers a more personal and flexible experience. You can listen to the history of the Odd Fellows or the Katrina Memorial without the distraction of a large crowd.

Can I take the streetcar to the cemeteries?

Absolutely. The Canal Streetcar 'Cemeteries' line (Red Car) runs directly from the French Quarter and CBD to the gates of these historic sites, making it very easy to reach the start of the walk.

What is the best time of day to visit?

Morning is the best time to visit, as the temperatures are cooler and the cemeteries are guaranteed to be open. Most gates close by mid-afternoon, around 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM.

Are these cemeteries accessible for people with mobility issues?

The terrain is mostly flat, but because these are historic sites, the paths can be uneven, cracked, or covered in gravel. People using wheelchairs or strollers should stick to the main paved paths where possible.

Mid-City Cities of the Dead: A Cemetery Trail | Self-Guided Walking Tour

About This Guided Walking Tour

In New Orleans, the dead do not rest beneath the earth; they reside in grand architectural cities that rise above it. This self-guided walk through the Mid-City cemeteries offers a profound look into the city's unique relationship with mortality, heritage, and the high water table that necessitated above-ground burial. While many visitors flock to the French Quarter, a walking tour New Orleans enthusiasts recommend often leads to the foot of Canal Street, where a massive cluster of 'Cities of the Dead' stands as a testament to the city's diverse history. On this neighborhood stroll, you will explore a collection of distinct burial grounds, each with its own story to tell. You will encounter the Irish heritage of St. Patrick Cemetery No. 1, the grand Egyptian Revival gates of Cypress Grove, and the somber, modern reflection of the Katrina Memorial. This route is more than just a look at monuments; it is a journey through the social fabric of New Orleans. You will see how fraternal organizations, benevolent societies, and immigrant communities cared for their own in life and death. The architecture here ranges from humble wall vaults, known as 'ovens,' to the massive, ornate tumuli of the Elks Lodge. The experience concludes with a thematic extension to the Dispersed Memorial Park, bridging the gap between the 19th-century epidemics and the modern resilience of the city following Hurricane Katrina. This audio walk allows you to explore at your own pace, taking the time to read the inscriptions and appreciate the quiet beauty of these historic landscapes without the pressure of a group. It is a must-do for history buffs, architecture lovers, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the spiritual heart of the Crescent City.

Tour Highlights & Things to See

The grand Egyptian Revival gateway of Cypress Grove Cemetery
The moving Katrina Memorial dedicated to unidentified victims
The massive bronze elk statue at the Greenwood Cemetery tumulus
Historic Irish heritage at St. Patrick Cemetery No. 1
The unique fraternal society tombs at Odd Fellows Rest
Stunning examples of 19th-century funerary architecture

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour.

Tour Stops & Points of Interest (6)

1

St. Patrick Cemetery No. 1

Established in 1841, St. Patrick Cemetery No. 1 was created primarily for the city's growing Irish Catholic population. During the mid-19th century, New Orleans was a major port of entry for Irish immigrants who often faced harsh conditions and frequent yellow fever outbreaks. This cemetery reflects that history through its dense collection of family tombs and wall vaults. As you walk through, notice the emphasis on religious iconography, particularly the Celtic crosses and statues of the Virgin Mary. The layout is typical of the 'city' style, with narrow paths resembling streets. It serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by immigrant communities and their dedication to maintaining their cultural and religious identities even in the face of tragedy.

2

Cypress Grove Cemetery

Cypress Grove is often cited as one of the most architecturally significant cemeteries in the city. Founded in 1840 by the Firemen’s Charitable and Benevolent Association, it was the first cemetery in New Orleans built specifically for a volunteer organization. The entrance is impossible to miss—a massive Egyptian Revival pylon gateway that symbolizes the eternal nature of the soul. Inside, you will find grand tombs belonging to prominent families and civic leaders. The 'Firemen's Cemetery,' as it is often called, features beautiful ironwork and marble carvings. Look for the tomb of Irad Ferry, a hero of the volunteer fire department, which stands as a central focal point of the grounds.

3

Katrina Memorial at Charity Hospital Cemetery

This stop is a modern and deeply moving addition to the historic landscape. The Katrina Memorial is located on the site of the old Charity Hospital Cemetery, where many of the city's indigent and unidentified dead were buried for over a century. This specific memorial is dedicated to the victims of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, particularly the 85 individuals whose remains were never identified or claimed. The design of the memorial features winding paths that mimic the shape of a hurricane when viewed from above. It is a place of quiet reflection, honoring the lives lost during one of the city's greatest tragedies and serving as a reminder of the community's ongoing process of healing and remembrance.

4

Odd Fellows Rest

Odd Fellows Rest is a fascinating example of the role fraternal organizations played in New Orleans' history. Established in 1849 by the Grand Lodge of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, this cemetery was designed to provide a dignified burial for members of the order. The tombs here are known for their Gothic and classical influences, often featuring the 'Triple Links' symbol representing Friendship, Love, and Truth. The cemetery is walled, which was a common practice to protect the tombs from the elements and grazing animals in the 19th century. Although it is smaller than some of its neighbors, the density of history and the unique society tombs make it a vital stop on this trail.

5

Greenwood Cemetery

Located just across from Cypress Grove, Greenwood Cemetery was established in 1852 and is one of the largest in the city. It was designed to accommodate a vast number of burials during a time when New Orleans was suffering from devastating yellow fever epidemics. One of the most famous sights here is the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks tumulus, which is topped by a life-sized bronze elk standing on a grassy mound. The cemetery's vast rows of white stone tombs create a striking visual effect, truly living up to the name 'City of the Dead.' As you wander, you will see a wide variety of styles, from simple wall vaults to elaborate miniature cathedrals.

6

Dispersed Memorial Park

The final stop on this route, Dispersed Memorial Park, requires a transition from the Mid-City cluster to the Lower 9th Ward, representing the wider reach of the city's memorial landscape. This site commemorates those lost during the catastrophic flooding following the breach of the Industrial Canal levees in 2005. Unlike the stone cities you have just walked through, this park is a living memorial, focusing on the concepts of loss, recovery, and the 'dispersal' of a community. It serves as a contemporary bookend to the historic cemeteries, showing that while the methods of burial and remembrance have evolved, the city's commitment to honoring its past remains a central part of its identity.

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Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided walking route through the Mid-City cemeteries is one of the most authentic ways to experience the city's history. It allows you to explore the 'Cities of the Dead' at your own pace, focusing on the unique architecture and immigrant stories located at the end of the Canal Streetcar line.