New Orleans City Park
Ancient oaks. Breathtaking gardens. Endless discoveries.
Just a streetcar ride from the French Quarter, New Orleans City Park is one of the nation’s largest and most beautiful urban parks. Spanning more than 1,300 acres, it’s home to centuries-old live oaks, winding lagoons, world-class museums, gardens and family attractions. Whether you’re traveling with children, looking for a peaceful escape or simply want to experience another side of New Orleans, City Park easily fills an afternoon or even an entire day.
Stroll Beneath Ancient Live Oaks
Some of the park’s magnificent oak trees are hundreds of years old, creating shady avenues that are perfect for walking, biking or simply relaxing. The lagoons, bridges and quiet pathways make City Park one of the city’s most photographed spots.
City Park for Kids
City Park is one of the city’s top family destinations. Children love Storyland, where favorite fairy tales come to life, the historic Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, City Putt miniature golf and the Louisiana Children’s Museum.
Wander the Botanical Garden
The New Orleans Botanical Garden features beautifully landscaped gardens, tropical plants, seasonal blooms and the charming Train Garden, making it a favorite stop for visitors of all ages.
Get Out on the Water
Rent a pedal boat, kayak or bicycle and explore the park’s scenic lagoons and miles of paved pathways. It’s a relaxing way to experience one of New Orleans’ most beautiful green spaces.
Explore the New Orleans Museum of Art
Adjacent to the sculpture garden, NOMA houses an impressive collection spanning 5,000 years of art, from European masters to African, Asian and contemporary works. It’s one of the South’s premier art museums.
Visit the Besthoff Sculpture Garden
Even if you’re not a museum person, don’t miss the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden. This free outdoor gallery features more than 90 sculptures by artists including Henry Moore, Louise Bourgeois and Jaume Plensa, all beautifully displayed among reflecting pools, pines and live oaks. It’s one of our favorite places in the city.
Visit During the Holidays
If you’re visiting between late November and early January, don’t miss Celebration in the Oaks, one of the country’s premier holiday light displays. Millions of lights transform City Park into a spectacular winter wonderland that’s become a New Orleans tradition.
Our Tip
This is a side of New Orleans many visitors never see but we consider it a must. If you take the streetcar, get out and explore Metairie Cemetery on the way there or on the way home.