New Orleans: Garden District and Lafayette Cemetery Tour

If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans and want a taste of its elegant architecture and storied past, a guided tour of the Garden District and Lafayette Cemetery offers just that—without the crowds and chaos of the French Quarter. This tour, offered by NOLA Historic Tours, promises a walk through one of the city’s most visually stunning neighborhoods, complete with majestic live oaks, historic mansions, and legendary film locations.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides bring the neighborhood to life with lively stories and historical insights. Second, the opportunity to see famous homes—including those connected to celebrities like Nicolas Cage and Trent Reznor—adds a touch of star power to your stroll. One possible consideration is that the Lafayette Cemetery is currently permanently closed, so if exploring cemetery tombs is a priority, this might be a disappointment. Still, this tour is best suited for travelers interested in architecture, film sites, and Southern charm, making it a balanced choice for history buffs and casual travelers alike.

Key Points

• Stunning Architecture: Discover a mix of Greek Revival, Italianate, Gothic, and Queen Anne styles.
• Celebrity Homes & Film Sites: See the former residences of the Manning brothers and the filming location of The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.
• Historic Landmarks: Visit the Buckner Mansion and the site where Jefferson Davis died.
• Convenient Meeting Point: Located inside The Garden District Book Shop, easily accessible via the historic St. Charles Streetcar.
• Authentic Insights: Guides offer entertaining stories, making history memorable.
• Value for Money: At $30, you get a comprehensive two-hour exploration with expert commentary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Garden District

Walking into the Garden District feels like stepping into a postcard. The streets are lined with towering live oaks, their branches forming a lush canopy over the wide, well-kept avenues. As you stroll here, it’s impossible not to feel transported to a different time—an era of plantation grandeur and antebellum elegance.

This tour offers more than just pretty sights. We loved the way guides animatedly explain the architectural styles—from the classic Greek Revival to the ornate Queen Anne—each reflecting different periods and cultural influences. You’ll learn how these styles mirror New Orleans’ complex history, including the Creole vs. American development conflicts.

Visiting Famous Homes and Landmarks

The tour highlights some of the most famous residences in the neighborhood. Among these are the homes of Peyton & Eli Manning, as well as the former or current homes of Anne Rice, Nicolas Cage, Trent Reznor, and Zion Williams’ mother. While these aren’t always open to the public, seeing their exteriors adds a layer of excitement for fans of celebrity culture.

One visitor noted, “Guide was excellent,” praising the guide’s knowledge and engaging storytelling. Another pointed out that despite the high value of the tour, it’s worth noting that some sites, like the Lafayette Cemetery, are no longer accessible — a common issue with historical sites that face preservation challenges.

Film and Literary Connections

A standout feature of this tour is the connection to Hollywood. The Buckner Mansion, known as Miss Robichaux’s Academy in American Horror Story, is a highlight for fans of the show. Also, the tour mentions the film site of The Curious Case of Benjamin Button starring Brad Pitt, offering film buffs a chance to picture the scene and imagine the magic of movie-making.

The St. Charles Avenue Streetcar

An iconic part of the experience is riding the St. Charles Avenue Streetcar, a historic streetcar line that gives you a scenic ride through the neighborhood. It’s a leisurely, authentic way to see the surroundings and is included as part of the tour’s meeting point. You’ll love the views of historic mansions and lush greenery during this short ride.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour begins inside The Garden District Book Shop at 2727 Prytania Street, at the corner of Washington and Prytania. From the French Quarter, hopping on the historic Saint Charles Streetcar is simple—just make sure to board at least 30 minutes before the scheduled start time. The tour lasts approximately two hours, making it a manageable option for most travelers.

Guides are conducted in English and provide lively commentary, making the experience both educational and entertaining. The group size typically remains comfortable, allowing for questions and interaction.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $30, you get a walking tour with a knowledgeable guide. No food or beverages are included, so plan to bring your own snacks or enjoy the local cafes afterward. The tour is flexible, with options for morning and afternoon sessions, and full refunds are available if you cancel 24 hours in advance—a nice perk for flexible planning.

What Travelers Say

While the reviews are limited, the overall rating is 4 out of 5 stars from four reviews. One traveler from the UK appreciated the “excellent” guide, and a fellow American found the guide “very informative.” However, the caveat about the cemetery being permanently closed is worth noting—if exploring graveyards is a priority, you’ll need to look elsewhere.

This tour offers a great balance of history, architecture, and pop culture without the crowds or high prices of other excursions. It’s best suited for those who enjoy strolling through beautiful neighborhoods and hearing stories about famous residents and historic landmarks. It’s a solid choice if you want an authentic, informative glimpse into the elegant side of New Orleans.

If you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or a pop culture fan, you’ll likely enjoy this tour quite a bit. It’s also suitable for someone looking for a short, accessible activity that packs in a lot of sights and stories in just two hours. Keep in mind, if cemeteries are a must-see on your list, this tour’s cemetery component isn’t currently accessible, so plan accordingly.

Final thoughts

For just $30, this guided walk offers a lively, insightful look at one of New Orleans’ most beautiful neighborhoods. The combination of stunning architecture, celebrity homes, and film locations makes it a well-rounded experience. While it’s not exhaustive—particularly with the cemetery closed—it delivers a genuine taste of the city’s elegant history and cultural tapestry.

The knowledgeable guides, engaging stories, and scenic streets make this tour a worthwhile investment—especially if you appreciate a mix of history, style, and a touch of Hollywood. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to the Crescent City, it’s a delightful way to spend an afternoon.

Is the Lafayette Cemetery included in the tour?
No, the Lafayette Cemetery is permanently closed for visits, so the cemetery component is no longer part of this tour.

How long does the tour last?
The walk itself lasts about two hours, with the meeting point conveniently inside The Garden District Book Shop.

Do I need to prepare anything before the tour?
It’s best to arrive at least 30 minutes early to catch your streetcar and settle in before the start. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is a leisurely walk, the content is more geared toward adults interested in architecture, history, and film sites. Children who enjoy stories and walking will find it engaging.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and beverages are not included. You should plan to bring snacks or explore local cafes afterward.

What’s the best way to get to the meeting point?
Take the Saint Charles Streetcar from the French Quarter, boarding at least 30 minutes before the tour. Exit at Washington Avenue near The Garden District Book Shop.

This Garden District and Lafayette Cemetery tour offers a compelling mix of architectural beauty, Hollywood charm, and local stories—all for an accessible price. It’s perfect for travelers who want a meaningful overview of New Orleans’ elegant neighborhoods without the hassle of navigating alone. The knowledgeable guides make it lively, the scenery is breathtaking, and the stories will linger long after you’ve returned home. If you’re looking for an engaging, authentic slice of the city, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: