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Greenwood sign
Photo by Alice Daniels

The Greenwood Cemetery and Mausoleum

  • Attraction Name: Greenwood Cemetery and Mausoleum
  • Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
  • Brief Overview: Greenwood Cemetery and Mausoleum is a historic cemetery in New Orleans, known for its above-ground tombs, elaborate architecture, and rich history dating back to the 19th century.
  • Why Visit Greenwood Cemetery and Mausoleum: It offers a unique glimpse into New Orleans’ burial traditions, showcases stunning funerary art, and provides a peaceful setting to explore the city’s history and culture.

Exploring Historic Greenwood Cemetery New Orleans

  • History and Background: Established in 1852, Greenwood Cemetery is one of New Orleans’ oldest cemeteries. It was designed to address the city’s challenges with below-ground burials due to the high water table. The cemetery features a mix of above-ground tombs and mausoleums, reflecting various architectural styles popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
  • Key Highlights:
    • Historic above-ground tombs and mausoleums
    • Elaborate funerary art and sculptures
    • Resting place of notable New Orleans figures
deer at Greenwood Cemetery and Mausoleum, New orleans Louisiana
Photo by ALice Daniels

Experiences & Activities at Greenwood Cemetery

  • Visitor Experience: Visitors can explore the cemetery grounds, admire the architectural details of the tombs, learn about local history and burial customs, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
tombs
Photo by ALice Daniels

Practical Information and Visitor Tips

  • Admission Fees: This is a free cemetery to visit.
  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon can offer cooler temperatures and better lighting for photography.
  • Duration of Visit: Plan for 1-2 hours to explore the cemetery thoroughly.
  • What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, water bottle, sunscreen, thermal camera for your phone, and a camcorder.
Holiday inn Gretna la red lights on circle hotel
Photo by Alice Daniels

Where to stay?

  • Hilton has options in the heart of the action or away from the hustle and bustle
  • IGH offers Hotels in the French Quarter, on Magazine Street, and more
  • Choice Hotels offer hotels at a friendly price
  • Sonder
French Quarter

Road Trip Owl’s Recommendations

broke tomb
Photo by ALice Daniels

FAQ

Can you tour Greenwood Cemetery on your own? Yes, Greenwood Cemetery is one of New Orleans’ cemeteries that allows free self-guided visits. While some historic New Orleans cemeteries require paid guided tours, Greenwood Cemetery welcomes visitors to explore its grounds independently at no cost.

What famous people are buried in Greenwood Cemetery? John Kennedy Toole, Young Marshall Moody, Thomas M. Scott, Lawrence, Abial Daily Crossman,  Joe Martina, George “Bo” Strickland, William Bruce Mumford, William J. Behan, Brevet Major General William Plummer Benton, and Oramel H. Simpson and more.

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