Metairie Cemetery

Metairie Cemetery, at 5100 Pontchartrain Boulevard in New Orleans, is a peaceful place to walk among above-ground tombs, mausoleums and sculpted monuments. Founded in 1872 on the site of a former racecourse, it combines burial places with striking works of art. Take a self-guided walk through its sections and listen to short audio tour information along the way. The Weeping Angel is a notable sculpture to look for. Free parking is available on site, but getting here without a car can be difficult from some nearby transit stops.

A cemetery built on a racecourse

Metairie Cemetery was founded in 1872 on land that had been used as a racecourse. The site’s earlier history reaches back to 1838, when the racecourse was established. Today, its grounds bring together graves, mausoleums and monuments, with sculpted works of art set among the burial places.

The cemetery is known for its collection of marble tombs and distinctive markers. As you walk through its rows and sections, look at the different designs and the stories attached to the people buried here. Anne Rice is among the notable people whose graves are identified at the cemetery.

Walking the grounds

You can explore on your own and listen to short audio tour information as you go. The grounds are maintained, and oak trees provide shade in some areas. The Weeping Angel is one sculpture to seek out; its quiet, expressive figure offers a different point of focus among the tombs and memorials.

The cemetery is at 5100 Pontchartrain Boulevard and has free on-site parking. Reaching it on foot from nearby transit can be awkward, with some approaches lacking proper sidewalks or walkways. If you are not driving, consider arranging a ride. Comfortable shoes, water and sunscreen are useful, particularly on hot days.