New Orleans, a city celebrated for its distinctive blend of history, art, and an intriguing fascination with the macabre, now offers an exceptional way for both residents and visitors to immerse themselves in its vibrant culture: the 'Tiny Tombs' scavenger hunt. This imaginative endeavor transforms the city into an open-air gallery, where miniature replicas of historic cemetery tombs are discreetly placed in various locations. This novel approach to urban exploration provides an intimate, self-paced journey through the city's unique charm, allowing participants to uncover hidden artistic treasures while delving into its storied past.

The concept of the 'Tiny Tombs' emerged in 2017, conceived by local miniatures artist, Lady Delaney. Drawing inspiration from New Orleans' numerous historic cemeteries and its rich cultural tapestry, Delaney meticulously crafted 13 miniature tombs. Each piece is a unique creation, reflecting the city's diverse influences, and bears inscriptions honoring fictional departed individuals. These small artistic installations are strategically positioned in public spaces, turning ordinary city strolls into engaging quests. The scavenger hunt is entirely free and designed to be accessible to everyone, with new tomb locations periodically introduced or rotated to keep the experience fresh and dynamic.

To embark on this distinctive adventure, participants can sign up for Lady Delaney's exclusive email list to receive a comprehensive Site Guide. This guide provides essential details about the scavenger hunt, including the locations of the tombs. A key rule is that participants are encouraged to observe and appreciate the tombs without physical interaction, ensuring their preservation. Most locations, such as bookstores, hotel lobbies, and speakeasies, offer free access. However, a few tombs are situated within museums, like the Pharmacy Museum, which may require a small admission fee. Nonetheless, visiting these museums is considered a worthwhile experience, as they are integral parts of New Orleans' must-see attractions.

Adding an intriguing layer of mystery, some 'undiscovered' tombs are intentionally left without precise addresses, challenging participants to employ their detective skills to locate them. To aid in this quest, a crucial clue is provided: all tomb locations are conveniently situated within a 15-minute walking distance of the historic St. Charles Avenue Streetcar route. Riding this streetcar, itself a piece of living history, enhances the overall experience. Operating since 1835, it holds the distinction of being the oldest active interurban passenger rail line in the United States, offering a picturesque and historical journey that begins near the intersection of Canal Street and Carondelet Street, approximately a 20-minute drive from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.

This innovative 'Tiny Tombs' initiative offers a fresh perspective on exploring New Orleans, combining artistic appreciation with historical discovery. It transforms the urban landscape into an interactive museum, inviting individuals to uncover the city's multifaceted identity through a captivating and self-guided adventure.