Adventure brief
Tour of the Historic Pitot House and St. Louis Cemetery No. 3
Discover New Orleans' rich past on a guided outing to the Pitot House and St. Louis Cemetery No. 3. This unique urban tour blends architecture, local legends, and evocative burial grounds just off Esplanade Avenue.
Set just off Esplanade Avenue in New Orleans, Louisiana, the tour offered by Save Our Cemeteries presents an immersive dive into two iconic local landmarks: the Pitot House and St. Louis Cemetery No. 3. This experience weaves together architecture, cultural heritage, and hauntingly beautiful burial grounds, positioning itself as a distinctly reflective outdoor adventure within the urban fabric of New Orleans.
The journey begins at the Pitot House, a rare surviving example of West Indies-inspired design in Louisiana, constructed in 1799 by Spanish merchant Bartholome Bosque. Its raised wooden structure and wide gallery reflect a time when climate and trade shaped architecture. Inside, visitors step through layers of history marked by eleven different family residencies and later use by the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart as a convent.
Preservation efforts highlight the home’s significance, making it a crucial parcel of the city’s material heritage. Next, the tour shifts to St. Louis Cemetery No. 3, near the peaceful waters of Bayou St.
John. This Catholic cemetery is less frequented than the more famous St. Louis No.1, lending a quieter, contemplative atmosphere to stroll among above-ground tombs and ornate crypts.
Here, guide-led stories reveal burial customs unique to New Orleans, alongside the lives of notable figures like architect James Gallier, photographer E.J. Bellocq, and culinary legends Leah Chase and Paul Prudhomme. The intertwining of personal histories with the city’s complex cultural tapestry offers visitors more than sightseeing—it connects them with the pulse of New Orleans’ soul.
Unlike typical outdoor recreation, this tour embodies a crossroads of history, architecture, and local lore, making it a rare entry in the landscape of urban heritage adventures. For those drawn to underscored narratives and the stories etched into New Orleans’ historic spaces, Save Our Cemeteries provides a distinct gateway just beyond the beaten path.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Book Early to Secure Your Spotessential
Tours require a minimum of four guests 12 hours before departure to avoid cancellation.
- 02Wear Comfortable Walking Shoesinfo
The tour involves walking across uneven terrain and through cemetery grounds.
- 03Respect Site Etiquetteessential
Both Pitot House and St. Louis No. 3 are historic and sacred; observe all posted rules and guidelines.
- 04Bring Water and Sun Protectionwarning
Tour occurs outdoors with limited shade, so prepare for the Louisiana sun.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Comfortable walking shoes
Essential for navigating uneven surfaces at the historic sites.
EssentialSun hat or cap
Protects from sun exposure during outdoor portions of the tour.
spring|summer|fallEssentialReusable water bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially in warmer months.
EssentialLightweight rain jacket
Useful for sudden showers common in New Orleans throughout much of the year.
spring|summer|fallLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
The nearby Bayou St. John waterfront offers tranquil spots rarely visited by tourists., The architectural details on lesser-known 19th-century houses along Esplanade Avenue.
Local fauna
Flocks of local songbirds frequent the trees surrounding the cemetery., Occasional sightings of turtles near the Bayou St. John waterline.
Historic heritage
The Pitot House is one of the few remaining Spanish colonial residences in Louisiana, reflecting the region's complex colonial past and cultural evolution.
Mindful exploration
Save Our Cemeteries actively supports preservation efforts, promoting respectful visitation and stewardship to maintain these historic sites for future generations.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Front veranda of the Pitot House, Main avenue through St. Louis Cemetery No. 3, Bayou St. John views adjacent to the cemetery
- Subjects
- Historic architecture, Ornate tombstones and crypts, Natural surroundings with local flora and water features
- Best times
- Morning light, Late afternoon, Overcast days for softer shadows
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately two hours, covering both the Pitot House and St. Louis Cemetery No. 3.
Are there any age restrictions?
This tour is suitable for all ages with no minimum age required.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Due to uneven terrain and historic structures, it may not be fully accessible for wheelchairs.
Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, photography is allowed, but please respect other visitors and site rules, especially in the cemetery.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and dress according to the season, with sun protection recommended.
Is this tour offered daily?
Tour availability varies; check with Save Our Cemeteries for specific dates and times.