Metairie Cemetery self-guided tour

Question

I will be in town for a business meeting in August. I'll have a small amount of time for quick sightseeing before returning home. One of the things I would like to do is a cemetery tour. It seems most of the cemeteries are exposed and so not pleasant to tour in August, but Metairie Cemetery has more trees so isn't too bad in the morning. I can't find a group tour that aligns with my availability and the private guides have a minimum of two people (I'll be alone). Which led to me wondering about a self-guided tour. I've found a few comments in TA reviews and forum posts about the onsite offices having an audio guide, but those comments were at least 5 years old. Does anyone know if they are still providing an audio guide? Does anyone know what hours the office is open? Thanks!

Answer

Metairie Cemetery is a fantastic spot to visit for a self-guided tour, especially since it offers shade from the trees and a unique look at New Orleans' above-ground tombs. While you may not find a group tour that fits into your schedule, there are still ways to explore this historic site on your own. Here’s what I found:

Regarding the audio guides: As of my last update, Metairie Cemetery does not have a formal, regularly available audio guide program like some other cemeteries might. The comments you’ve found from about 5 years ago are likely referring to a previous, informal offering, but currently, the cemetery doesn’t appear to have a stand-alone audio guide service available directly through the office. However, you can still enjoy a rich self-guided experience using online resources or apps.

Online Apps & Guides: While not provided directly by the cemetery, some visitors have used apps or websites that feature guided tours or maps of the cemetery. Websites like New Orleans Cemeteries or even general travel apps like TripAdvisor sometimes have self-guided tour options, and they can be a good supplement to your visit.
Printed Maps: The office at Metairie Cemetery may offer printed maps or guides for visitors. While it’s not guaranteed, it's worth stopping by to check if they have any updated materials available. You can contact the cemetery ahead of time or stop by when you arrive to inquire.
Books: Another option is to pick up a book about New Orleans cemeteries, such as “The Cemeteries of New Orleans” by Richard Campanella. These books often have detailed walking tours and histories of the graves, which can guide your exploration of Metairie Cemetery.

Regarding the office hours: The cemetery office is typically open during normal business hours, from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday to Friday. However, it's always a good idea to call ahead or check their website for up-to-date information, as hours might change or be adjusted for holidays or special events.

In summary, while the audio guide might no longer be available, you can still have a great experience at Metairie Cemetery with a self-guided tour using online resources, printed materials, or a book. Enjoy your visit to this beautiful and historic site!