Located in the city’s Garden District – which is itself a National Historic Landmark – Lafayette Cemetery is named after the original settlement on the banks of the Mississippi that was gradually swallowed up by its more dynamic neighbour, New Orleans. Step back in time as you enter the gates and start to explore the rows of tombs and crypts that line its peaceful avenues.
The cemetery, like the cosmopolitan city it serves, is a melting pot of denominations and nationalities, with immigrants from over 25 countries sharing their final resting-place with their fellow citizens. From simple “ovens” or wall vaults to ornate family tombs and flamboyant monuments, the graves are as varied as their occupants, with epitaphs that tell of plague and war and chronicle the city’s Creole past and multicultural present. Look out for the shared crypt of New Orleans’ destitute orphan boys and the memorial to the deceased woodmen of the world.
Lafayette has been the inspiration for the gothic novels of Anne Rice, as well as the setting of films such as Interview with the Vampire and Double Jeopardy. Notorious for ghostly sightings, sudden chills and strange scraping noises, it’s said to be one of the most haunted burial grounds in the USA, a reputation that attracts thousands of visitors every year. Over the years subsidence has caused some of the monuments to sink precariously into the ground, while ancient tree roots coil eerily around lichen-covered headstones, adding to the spooky feel.
Lafayette Cemetery and its sister site to the north are maintained by the Save Our Cemeteries Group, which runs one-hour tours every day except Sunday, when the cemetery is closed. The St. Charles tram stops nearby. Don’t forget your camera and be prepared for some surprises! Then head across the road to revive your spirits with a meal at Commander’s Palace, one of New Orleans’ favourite Colonial-style restaurants.
Lafayette Cemetery
Visit Lafayette Cemetery
Popular places to visit
Rink Shopping Center
You can search for that perfect souvenir at Rink Shopping Center during your visit to New Orleans. Experience the renowned jazz scene and great live music in this walkable area.
Lafayette No. 1
Step back in time and learn more about local history with a stop at Lafayette No. 1 in New Orleans. Discover the lively bars and acclaimed art galleries in this walkable area.
New Orleans Fire Department Museum and Educational Center
Rich with history, New Orleans Fire Department Museum and Educational Center is a cultural attraction worth visiting in New Orleans. Discover the lively bars and renowned jazz scene in this walkable area.
George Washington Cable House
Find out about the history of New Orleans when you spend time at George Washington Cable House. Discover the lively bars and renowned jazz scene in this walkable area.
New Orleans Fire Museum Fire Station
Rich with history, New Orleans Fire Museum Fire Station is a cultural attraction worth visiting in New Orleans. Discover the top-notch restaurants and great live music in this walkable area.
Brevard-Clapp House
Learn about the local history of New Orleans when you spend time at Brevard-Clapp House. Discover the top-notch restaurants and fascinating museums in this walkable area.
Top Hotel Deals
Check availability on hotels close to Lafayette Cemetery
- Holidays and getaways similar to Lafayette Cemetery
- Hotels Near Lafayette Cemetery, Garden District
- Hotels near popular New Orleans Attractions
- Choose Your Lafayette Cemetery Hotel Style
- Hotels near Bourbon Street
- Hotels near Canal Street
- Hotels near Port of New Orleans
- Hotels near Mercedes-Benz Superdome
- Hotels near Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
- Hotels near Smoothie King Center
- Hotels near Julia Street Cruise Terminal
- Hotels near Café du Monde
- Hotels near Mississippi River
- Hotels near Mardi Gras World
- Hotels near Saenger Theatre
- Hotels near Royal Street
- Hotels near Mardi Gras