Step into the enchanting world of New Orleans’ Metairie Cemetery, where the city’s elite have found their final resting place. Join the captivating ‘Millionaire’s Tombs of Metairie Cemetery Tour’ and uncover the extravagant mausoleums that line the historic Millionaire’s Row. Led by local author and historian Sally Asher, this two-hour walking experience promises to transport you through the city’s rich legacy, revealing the stunning architecture and intriguing stories behind the grand monuments that guard the graves of governors, Carnival royalty, and even infamous mob bosses. A journey unlike any other, this tour offers a glimpse into the opulent world of those who shaped New Orleans’ past.
Key Points
- The 2-hour guided walking tour at Metairie Cemetery in New Orleans explores the extravagant tombs on Millionaire’s Row, led by a knowledgeable local author and historian.
- Key highlights of the tour include the sphinx-guarded pyramid, Anne Rice’s tomb, and Al Copeland’s tomb, providing insights into the lives of influential figures.
- The tour offers an immersive experience, showcasing the diverse architectural styles and cultural influences reflected in the cemetery’s mausoleums and monuments.
- Visitors can discover the stories of governors, Carnival royalty, and notorious mob bosses, gaining a deeper appreciation for New Orleans’ rich and colorful history.
- The tour is accessible to wheelchair users, ensuring an inclusive experience, and includes tips from the guide on local eateries and cultural offerings.
Tour Overview and Details
The Millionaire’s Tombs of Metairie Cemetery tour provides a captivating 2-hour guided walking experience, transporting visitors through the opulent memorials and rich history of this iconic New Orleans landmark, priced at an affordable $35 per person.
Participants will explore the cemetery’s National Register of Historic Places status, discovering extravagant tombs along the renowned Millionaire’s Row.
Led by a knowledgeable local author and historian, the tour delves into the stories of notable figures, from governors and Carnival royalty to mob bosses and journalists, culminating in visits to significant sites like Anne Rice’s tomb and a sphinx-guarded pyramid.
Accessible to wheelchair users, the tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the city’s captivating past.
Tour Experience and Highlights
On the guided walking tour, visitors can expect to discover the extravagant tombs lining Millionaire’s Row, learning about the cemetery’s history and the notable inhabitants who made it their final resting place.
Led by a local author and historian, the tour transports guests back in time as they explore the unique architecture of the tombs, from stained-glass windows to Islamic-inspired designs.
Highlights include the sphinx-guarded pyramid and the tombs of famous figures like Anne Rice and Al Copeland.
Along the way, the guide weaves captivating stories of the cemetery’s past, bringing to life the legacies of governors, Kings of Carnival, mob bosses, and journalists who now rest eternally in this National Register of Historic Places site.
Meeting Point and Directions
Visitors convene at the Law Enforcement Memorial, situated to the right of the funeral home, where ample parking is available nearby in the lot.
From there, they may enter the cemetery through any of its grand gates to begin their journey through Metairie’s hallowed grounds. The gates, adorned with intricate ironwork, stand as sentinels, beckoning guests into the serene landscape.
Once inside, the winding paths lead past towering obelisks, ornate mausoleums, and manicured gardens, inviting exploration of the cemetery’s rich history and architectural marvels.
With the memorial as the designated meeting point, guests embark on a captivating exploration of the Millionaire’s Row, uncovering the stories that lie within Metairie’s storied past.
Included in the Tour
For the Metairie Cemetery Tour, guests receive entry to both Metairie Cemetery and Lake Lawn Metairie, allowing them to fully enjoy the captivating history and architecture of these hallowed grounds.
Plus, the knowledgeable tour guide provides insider tips on the best local eateries, live music venues, and cultural experiences to further enrich their New Orleans adventure.
With these inclusions, the tour promises a well-rounded exploration of the city’s renowned Millionaire’s Row and the stories that have shaped its legacy.
Visitors can expect to be captivated by the extravagant tombs adorned with stained-glass windows and Islamic-inspired architecture, as well as the opportunity to visit the final resting places of notable figures from New Orleans’ past.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
Travelers rave about the Metairie Cemetery Tour, giving it an impressive 5-star rating based on 8 reviews.
Visitors consistently praise the knowledgeable guide, Sally Asher, for her captivating storytelling and deep understanding of New Orleans’ rich history.
Many highlight the tour’s ability to immerse them in the cemetery’s architectural splendor, from the stained-glass windows adorning extravagant tombs to the Islamic-inspired design elements that transport them back in time.
Reviewers note the tour provides:
- Insider tips for exploring the local food, music, and culture
- Assistance navigating the cemetery, a helpful perk for those who may need it
- The opportunity to visit significant sites like Anne Rice’s tomb and a sphinx-guarded pyramid
Exploring Millionaire’s Row
The grand monuments that line Metairie Cemetery’s Millionaire’s Row evoke a sense of opulence and extravagance, each tomb a testament to the wealth and status of those interred within. Sphinxes, obelisks, and Greek-inspired architecture adorn the resting places of New Orleans’ most influential figures, from politicians to mobsters. As you stroll along the meticulously manicured walkways, you’ll encounter a veritable who’s who of the city’s history, their lives immortalized in stone. The tour guide’s stories bring these larger-than-life characters to life, painting vivid portraits of their triumphs, scandals, and legacies. It’s a captivating glimpse into the ostentatious world of New Orleans’ elite.
| Tomb | Style | Notable Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Al Copeland | Pyramid | Fried chicken magnate |
| Anne Rice | Ornate | Gothic fiction author |
| Governor John McEnery | Obelisk | Louisiana’s 21st governor |
| August Bellocq | Sphinx-guarded | Legendary journalist |
| Judge John Ferguson | Stained glass | Infamous corruption trial judge |
Architectural Wonders of the Cemetery
Beyond the sprawling expanses of Millionaire’s Row, the Metairie Cemetery showcases a captivating array of architectural wonders that pay homage to the diverse cultural influences shaping New Orleans’ history.
From the striking Islamic-inspired architecture of the Newcomb Tomb to the elegant stained-glass windows adorning select mausoleums, the cemetery is a true feast for the senses.
Visitors can marvel at:
- A sphinx-guarded pyramid, its enigmatic presence evoking the mystique of ancient civilizations.
- Ornate tombs adorned with intricate carvings and decorative motifs, each a testament to the skill of local artisans.
- Mausoleums featuring unique architectural styles, blending classical elements with modern sensibilities to create truly one-of-a-kind structures.
Uncovering Noteworthy Inhabitants
Amidst the grandeur of Metairie Cemetery‘s Millionaire’s Row, visitors uncover a treasure trove of stories woven into the ornate tombs and memorials that dot the landscape, each one a testament to the remarkable lives that have graced this hallowed ground.
From the resting place of Anne Rice, the renowned Gothic novelist, to the tomb of Al Copeland, the flamboyant fast-food magnate, these monuments serve as windows into the past, revealing the triumphs, tragedies, and eccentricities of New Orleans’ elite.
The tour guides bring these stories to life, transporting guests through time as they recount the exploits of governors, Carnival kings, and notorious mob bosses, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich and colorful history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the Millionaire’s Tombs tour. The guide must maintain a focused, historical experience for all guests. Visitors are encouraged to leave their furry companions at home and fully enjoy the cemetery’s captivating stories and architecture.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
There are no age restrictions for the tour – visitors of all ages are welcome to explore the captivating Millionaire’s Tombs. The cemetery tour offers an engaging and educational experience for families, providing insights into the area’s rich history and architecture.
Is There a Discount for Senior Citizens or Students?
The tour doesn’t explicitly offer senior or student discounts, but visitors are encouraged to check the operator’s website or contact them directly about any special pricing options that may be available. The tour’s focus is on the cemetery’s rich history and architectural wonders.
Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?
Yes, guests are encouraged to take photographs during the tour. The guide will point out the most photogenic tombs and architectural features, allowing visitors to capture the extravagant and ornate elements of this historic cemetery.
Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour to Run?
The tour requires a minimum of 2 participants to run. This ensures an engaging group experience and allows the guide to provide personalized attention. The tour proceeds rain or shine, so visitors can explore the cemetery’s extravagant tombs regardless of weather.
Recap
The Millionaire’s Tombs of Metairie Cemetery Tour offers an unparalleled glimpse into New Orleans’ rich history and the opulent resting places of its elite.
Strolling through the tranquil grounds, visitors are captivated by the stunning architectural wonders and the fascinating tales of the city’s most prominent figures, from governors to Carnival royalty.
This immersive journey through the cemetery’s storied past leaves a lasting impression, cementing Metairie as a must-visit destination for those seeking to uncover the hidden treasures of New Orleans’ legacy.
