City Park, New Orleans (must see)

Founded in 1854, City Park is a vast 1,300-acre oasis located just two miles from New Orleans' bustling French Quarter. Despite its proximity to the city center, it feels like a world apart, offering visitors a tranquil escape within an urban setting. This beautiful park features 11 miles of tranquil lagoons and is adorned with majestic live oaks draped in Spanish moss, some of which are over 600 years old, making it home to the largest collection of live oaks in the world.

City Park's natural majesty is enhanced by its enchanting art-deco benches, fountains, bridges, and ironwork, many of which are remnants of a 1930s Works Progress Administration (WPA) refurbishment, adding to the dreamy and picturesque atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy activities like boating and biking while taking in the park's stunning surroundings.

Within City Park, you'll find a variety of attractions and amenities, including the New Orleans Museum of Art, the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden, the New Orleans Botanical Garden, the family-friendly Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, a golf course, an equestrian stable, sports facilities, and numerous picnic areas. Check the website for information on seasonal activities and special events, such as music festivals, the annual Easter egg hunt, and the enchanting Celebration in the Oaks, a dazzling holiday lights display held between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day.

For those craving a taste of New Orleans, the Morning Call coffee stand, located behind the Sculpture Garden, serves hot beignets and café au lait 24/7. While most of the park's offerings are free, some of the venues may charge separate admission fees.

Why You Should Visit:
Sprawling and well-maintained, with a wide array of activities to enjoy. The presence of ancient oak trees offers ample natural shade, and the Botanical Garden, with its beautiful sculpture garden, is worth the admission fee.