Discover the Magic of New Orleans City Park
New Orleans City Park, a captivating urban oasis, is a must-visit tourist destination. It spans over 1,300-acres and brings a unique display of culture and history. The park has several attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. From its enchanting oak trees adorned with Spanish moss to the diverse array of attractions, City Park is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed when exploring the Big Easy.
A Rich History in Urban Planning and Preservation.
Since 1854 the City Park has been a beloved part of New Orleans. It is one of the oldest parks in the country. The park occupies the site of the former Allard Plantation. During the Great Depression, The Works Progress Administration (WPA) made several infrastructure improvements in the park. They built new pathways, and bridges, and added art deco flair. The park is home to thousands of magnificent oak trees, some as old as 600 years. It is a habitat for bald cypresses, Southern magnolias, and other tree species which create a picturesque landscape for visitors.
Hurricane Katrina and Recovery
During Hurricane Katrina, nearby canals flooded and inundated more than 90% of the park in up to 8 feet of saltwater. Though the ground has recovered, many priceless trees were lost. However, the park's resilience and the community's dedication to restoration have ensured that City Park remains an essential part of New Orleans.
Attractions and Activities for the Whole Family
City Park offers a multitude of attractions and activities designed to entertain and educate visitors of all ages.
Just for Kids
Families love bringing their children to City Park, as the park offers several attractions created specifically with kids in mind. For young ones who love a good fairy tale, Storyland is a storybook-themed playground featuring over 25 giant sculptures from all your favorite bedtime stories.
The Carousel Gardens Amusement Park is another kid-friendly attraction, boasting over 15 different rides for kids of all ages. Don't miss the park's historic, handcrafted carousel, one of only 100 in the country!
Cafe Du Monde
The French Quarter favorite, Cafe du Monde, has found an additional home in New Orleans City Park. Before visiting the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) or enjoying a family-friendly day at Storyland, stop by Cafe du Monde for their famous beignets and coffee. With its serene setting amidst the park's magnificent trees, this location is perfect for a relaxing break from exploring.
Golf and More
New Orleans’ City Park is a golfer's paradise. It is a spacious 18-hole golf course and features a New Orleans-themed mini-golf course “City Putt”. City Putt features two 18-hole courses, one is New Orleans themed and the other is Louisiana themed. The park also boasts a Disc Golf course that takes players through scenic routes adorned with oak trees, lagoons, and bridges.
Botanical Garden
The New Orleans Botanical Garden has been City Park’s staple spot since the 1930s. The garden is open year around and spans over 12 acres, showcasing colorful flowers, greenery, and art. Don't forget to explore The Helis Foundation Enrique Alferez Sculpture Garden, an 8,000 sq. foot sculpture garden featuring works from Enrique Alferez.
Fishing and Boat Rentals
City Park offers visitors the chance to explore by land or water. With 11 lagoons located throughout the park, fishing enthusiasts can catch bass, catfish, and perch. Big Lake also provides bike and paddleboat rentals, allowing visitors to experience the park in unique ways.
The New Orleans Museum of Art
Nestled within the borders of City Park, the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) stands as the city's oldest art institution, holding famous works from all over America, France, Japan, and beyond. After exploring the museum, take a leisurely stroll through The Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden, a five-acre garden featuring over 60 unique sculptures displayed among 200-year-old oak trees.
The Festival Grounds
Opened in 2012, the Festival Grounds comprise a 50-acre space with sports fields, a bike path, an exercise area, wetlands, and other areas used for recreational activities year-round. During festival season, the Grounds become a popular spot for hosting springtime events, private parties, and live concert series.
A Park for All Seasons
New Orleans City Park hosts various events and activities throughout the year, ensuring that there's always something new and exciting happening within its borders.
Earth Day of Service
Every year on Earth Day, City Park Conservancy organizes a Park-wide volunteer event to combat litter and promote environmental awareness. This annual Earth Day of Service is a fantastic opportunity for community members to give back and help maintain the park's beauty.
Swing in the Oaks with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra
Each spring, City Park welcomes the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra (LPO) for a free community concert, Swing in the Oaks, at the Peristyle. This event brings music lovers together to enjoy beautiful melodies surrounded by the park's stunning scenery.
Heart of the Park Hat Luncheon
In partnership with the New Orleans Town Gardeners, a member of the Garden Club of America, City Park Conservancy hosts the annual Heart of the Park Hat Luncheon. This vibrant celebration and critical fundraiser support both organizations in their ongoing efforts to preserve and enhance City Park.
Celebration in the Oaks
City Park's largest fundraiser, Celebration in the Oaks, is a New Orleans holiday family tradition that began in the late 1980s. This spectacular light festival features over a million twinkling lights throughout the park and is vital to the Park's maintenance, care, and beautification year-round.
Volunteer Opportunities
City Park offers numerous volunteer opportunities, including planting, painting, mulching, flowerbed maintenance, trail maintenance, wetland grass planting, shoreline maintenance, and stringing holiday lights for Celebration in the Oaks. You can take New Orleans Bike tour to explore the city park and participate in these opportunities. Corporate groups typically donate $40-$60 per volunteer as a project supply fee. City Park has worked with groups of 10 to 900 people at a time, with work sessions lasting three hours.
Explore City Park Today
New Orleans City Park is a treasure trove of attractions, scenery, and history. With something for everyone to enjoy, this urban oasis offers countless memories and experiences for locals and visitors alike. Don't miss the chance to discover the magic of City Park during your visit to New Orleans. Our Beyond The French Quarter City Park Bike Tour is a fantastic way to explore City Park with friends and family alike!