As the oldest extant cemetery in the city, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is a visceral representation of New Orleans’ historical and cultural legacy. Located near the intersection of Basin and St. Louis Streets, the cemetery’s initial placement outside the marshy city limits has gradually transformed into modern New Orleans’ heartland. That means that St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is conveniently located eight blocks from the Mississippi River and one block beyond the French Quarter’s inland border, which makes it a prime spot to do some additional exploring of the city.
Either before or after your St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 Tour, check out these three places located just steps away from the cemetery itself. Whether you’re interested in some jazz history, Mardi Gras festivities, or a unique way to view the city, these three must-see attractions should be added into your New Orleans travel itinerary.
Louis Armstrong Park
Spanning 30 acres on N. Rampart Street, Louis Armstrong Park celebrates New Orleans’ musical legacy and contribution to the jazz art form. The park is located at the historic Congo Square, where enslaved Africans famously gathered for musical collaborations and other cultural exchanges. Designed by local architect Robin Riley, Louis Armstrong Park is also home to the New Orleans Municipal Auditorium, the Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts, and various New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park landmarks.
Within walking distance of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, Louis Armstrong Park continues to play an important role in hosting community events and preserving musical traditions that are indelibly part of New Orleans’ cultural makeup. The park itself is beautiful and intersperses greenery with statues of local musicians. With a namesake that recognizes one of the most influential jazz musicians of all time, Louis Armstrong Park encapsulates both New Orleans’ complex past and the city’s hope for the future.
Learn more about and plan a visit to Louis Armstrong Park here.
Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes & Culture
Located at 1010 Conti Street in the French Quarter, the Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes & Culture immerses visitors in the elaborate and colorful world of Mardi Gras tradition. The museum’s collection showcases authentic attire spanning decades of Mardi Gras Kings and Queens. Similarly, the establishment includes exhibits for feathered and beaded Indian suits, Carnival Krewe Tableau balls, Cajun Mardi Gras riders, and Walking Parade participants.
The Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes & Culture has an array of interactive activities that begin with an in-depth exploration of a Carnival costume closet. Dress up for some memorable photo ops and explore the celebration’s diverse traditions and how they have changed over time. You can also book a guided tour of the collection and attend a 45-minute Mardi Gras show complete with music and light effects!
Learn more about and plan a visit to the Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes & Culture here.
Vue Orleans Observation Deck
For a truly captivating attraction near St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, visit the immersive cultural extravaganza that is Vue Orleans. Located adjacent to the Mississippi River within the former World Trade Center, Vue Orleans allows visitors to watch nine original films, explore seven interactive exhibits, and experience New Orleans’ only 360° indoor and outdoor observation deck. Much more than just a way to get a bird’s eye view of the Big Easy, this attraction celebrates New Orleans’ heart and soul with an emphasis on cultural diversity and historical tradition.
After your visit to St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, grab a Hop On Hop Off New Orleans bus ticket and admission ticket to Vue Orleans with City Sightseeing New Orleans, board your ride at the Basin St. Station (which is right next to the cemetery), and disembark at Stop #18. From here, make your way to the left of the Four Seasons Hotel and up to the top of the building where Vue Orleans is located. Finish your day with a stunning view of the cityscape as it falls out like a rug before you.
Learn more about and plan a visit to Vue Orleans here.
Start Exploring New Orleans
With so much to see and do in New Orleans, identifying a single beginning and ending location is a great way to hit all your must-see sights while sticking to a loose itinerary. Let St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 be your exploration hub and consider a trip to Louis Armstrong Park, the Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes & Culture, and Vue Orleans. For more information on booking a tour of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, contact us here.
