local spotlight
City Park: New Orleans’ Green Escape
Family-Friendly Attractions
Families can enjoy the historic Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, which features a variety of rides, including the beloved antique wooden carousel, dating back to 1906. This classic hand-carved carousel, affectionately known as the “Flying Horses,” is one of the oldest in the U.S. and a favorite among both children and adults.
During the holiday season, City Park transforms into a winter wonderland with Celebration in the Oaks, an annual festival that features millions of dazzling lights, illuminated displays, and festive holiday cheer spread across the park’s gardens and amusement areas.
Dining and Relaxation
After a day of exploration, visitors can grab a bite at Morning Call, a charming café that serves up New Orleans’ famous beignets and café au lait in a relaxed, open-air setting. Picnic areas throughout the park also provide the perfect spot for a casual meal under the shade of ancient oaks.
Why Visit City Park?
Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat into nature, an active day outdoors, or a cultural experience, City Park offers a unique blend of history, recreation, and beauty that captures the essence of New Orleans. It is a place where locals and tourists alike can immerse themselves in the city’s lush landscape, rich history, and vibrant community.
Don’t Miss:
✔ Besthoff Sculpture Garden – Stunning outdoor art installations
✔ Storyland – A fairytale-themed playground for kids
✔ Carousel Gardens Amusement Park – Featuring an antique hand-carved carousel
✔ New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) – Home to world-class exhibitions
✔ Celebration in the Oaks – A magical holiday light display
From biking beneath the oaks to paddle boating along the bayou, City Park is truly a green escape in the heart of New Orleans, offering something special for everyone.
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Spanning 1,300 acres, City Park is one of the largest and oldest urban parks in the United States, offering a breathtaking blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and cultural attractions. Nestled in the heart of New Orleans, the park is home to centuries-old live oak trees, scenic waterways, and a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages.
A Natural Wonderland
One of City Park’s most iconic features is its majestic live oak trees, some of which are over 600 years old. These ancient trees draped in Spanish moss create a picturesque and serene atmosphere, making the park a favorite destination for photographers and nature lovers alike. The Couturie Forest and Arboretum, a hidden gem within the park, provides a peaceful retreat with native plants, walking trails, and a hill offering one of the highest natural elevations in New Orleans.
Outdoor Activities and Recreation
City Park offers something for every outdoor enthusiast. Visitors can:
- Stroll or bike along the Scenic Big Lake and its Festival Grounds, enjoying lush landscapes and open spaces.
- Paddleboat or kayak on the park’s tranquil bayous and lagoons, which are home to ducks, turtles, and local wildlife.
- Explore walking and jogging trails that weave through gardens, woodlands, and waterfront views.
- Play golf at the Bayou Oaks Golf Course, a championship-level course perfect for golf lovers.
- Take kids to Storyland, a fairytale-themed playground filled with larger-than-life sculptures of classic storybook characters.
Arts and Culture in the Park
For those looking for a cultural experience, City Park is home to the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA), one of the premier art museums in the South. The museum’s Besthoff Sculpture Garden is a must-visit, featuring more than 90 sculptures set amidst lagoons, walking paths, and lush landscaping. This open-air museum beautifully integrates art with nature, providing a tranquil yet inspiring setting.
