Are New Orleans’ Cemeteries Safe?
One of the biggest questions I get is – Are New Orleans’ cemeteries safe? Overall, yes. But some are safer than others. Generally, the most populated and active cemeteries in the city tend to be the safest.
The Grim Reaper in St. Vincent De Paul Cemetery
Saint Louis No. 3 has an office on the grounds and a guard at the front during working hours.
Metairie Cemetery is also very active and has gravediggers and landscapers on the grounds.
The cemeteries off Canal Street (Greenwood, Cypress Grove, St. Patrick’s No. 1, etc.) are heavily populated and busy during the day.
St. Roch No. 1 also tends to have staff on or near the grounds.
If you are concerned about safety in the cemeteries, here are some tips.
Check the city’s crime map. It’s very easy to navigate. You type in the address and can view any crimes that occurred in that area. They have symbols to represent burglary, assault, car theft, etc.
Bring a friend. Safety in numbers!
Check to see if the cemetery is visible from the street. A few cemeteries have extremely high walls and once you enter its impossible for anyone from the street to see you.
Except for St. Louis No. 1, you do not need to pay to enter any open cemeteries. This might change when Lafayette No. 1 opens back up as the city is considering charging people to enter. The Catholic Church and the city employees should always be wearing a uniform.
In all the years I have been researching cemeteries in New Orleans, I have never had a problem. I have found people sleeping off benders on tombs, people trying to charge me to enter, and occasionally people panhandling, but those are rare. In fact, I’ve met many amazing people in cemeteries!
If you want to find out more about our city’s beautiful and unique cemeteries, TAKE A TOUR!