Garden District New Orleans
Explore New Orleans' opulent Garden District, a historic neighborhood famed for its stunning antebellum mansions and lush, manicured gardens.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for walking
Garden District New Orleans
Best Time
Pleasant weather for walking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore New Orleans' opulent Garden District, a historic neighborhood famed for its stunning antebellum mansions and lush, manicured gardens.
"A living museum of Southern architecture and charm, the Garden District is a must-see for its grandeur and history."
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to admire the architecture!
📅 Book Walking Tours Early
Essential for understanding the history and stories behind the mansions.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Mansions
Throughout the district
Marvel at opulent antebellum mansions, each with unique architectural styles and sprawling gardens. A feast for the eyes!
Lafayette Cemetery No. 1
Washington Ave & Prytania St
Explore this historic above-ground cemetery, a fascinating glimpse into New Orleans' unique burial traditions. Guided tours are recommended.
Commander's Palace
1403 Washington Ave
Dine at this iconic, award-winning restaurant known for its Creole cuisine and elegant atmosphere. Reservations essential!
Boutique Shops & Cafes
Magazine Street & surrounding areas
Discover charming boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafes perfect for a leisurely afternoon browse or a coffee break.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Stroll: Walking is Key
Book Tours & Dining in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to admire the architecture!
📅 Book Walking Tours Early
Essential for understanding the history and stories behind the mansions.
📸 Capture the Details
Don't just focus on the grand exteriors; look for unique architectural details and garden features.
🍽️ Reserve Dining Spots
Popular restaurants like Commander's Palace fill up fast.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to admire the architecture!
📅 Book Walking Tours Early
Essential for understanding the history and stories behind the mansions.
📸 Capture the Details
Don't just focus on the grand exteriors; look for unique architectural details and garden features.
🍽️ Reserve Dining Spots
Popular restaurants like Commander's Palace fill up fast.
📚 Visit the Garden District Book Shop
A charming, magical bookstore with a sweet store dog named Pete!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Garden District for its breathtaking architecture and serene atmosphere, offering a beautiful escape from the bustle of the French Quarter. The historic mansions and lush gardens are a major draw, with many recommending guided tours to fully appreciate the area's rich history. Some find parking challenging and note that many mansions are private residences.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way is to take the St. Charles Avenue streetcar, which offers scenic views as it passes through the district. You can also use ride-sharing services or taxis for a direct route.
Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends. Street parking is available but often metered and can be competitive. Consider using ride-sharing or the streetcar if possible.
It's a significant walk (about 45-60 minutes), and while doable, it's more practical to use the St. Charles streetcar or a taxi/rideshare to save time and energy for exploring the district itself.
Walking is by far the best way to experience the Garden District. The streets are beautiful and perfect for leisurely strolls.
The St. Charles streetcar line runs along the edge of the Garden District, providing easy access to and from other parts of the city. Within the district, walking is the primary mode of transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Garden District itself is a public neighborhood and free to explore. However, specific attractions like Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 may require a guided tour ticket for entry.
Yes, numerous guided walking tours are highly recommended to learn about the history and architecture. Many companies offer these tours, and booking in advance is advised.
Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 is typically open during daylight hours, but access is often restricted to guided tours only. Check with tour operators for specific times.
Prices vary depending on the tour company and duration, but expect to pay anywhere from $25 to $50 per person for a guided walking tour.
Most of the historic mansions are private residences and cannot be entered. However, some may be open for special events or tours, and Commander's Palace offers a dining experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the stunning historic mansions, Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, Commander's Palace for dining, and the charming shops along Magazine Street.
The Garden District is generally considered a safe and affluent neighborhood. However, as with any urban area, it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially after dark.
Focus on capturing the grandeur of the mansions, the intricate details of the architecture, and the lush gardens. Early morning or late afternoon light offers the best photographic conditions.
Consider a guided history tour to learn about the famous residents and architectural styles, or enjoy a fine dining experience at Commander's Palace. The Garden District Book Shop is also a unique stop.
Expect a serene, elegant, and historic atmosphere with tree-lined streets, grand architecture, and a sense of old-world charm. It's a stark contrast to the bustling French Quarter.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Commander's Palace is a legendary choice for fine dining. For more casual but excellent options, consider restaurants along Magazine Street like Coquette.
You'll find a strong emphasis on Creole and Southern cuisine, with many restaurants offering refined takes on these traditional dishes.
Yes, several charming cafes and restaurants offer delicious brunch options. Commander's Palace is famous for its Jazz Brunch, and other spots along Magazine Street provide great alternatives.
Dining can range from moderately priced cafes to high-end fine dining. Commander's Palace is a splurge, while other establishments offer more budget-friendly options.
For popular spots like Commander's Palace and Coquette, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekend brunch.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire district is photogenic! Focus on the grand mansions, intricate ironwork, lush gardens, and the St. Charles Avenue streetcar.
Early morning or late afternoon 'golden hour' provides the most flattering light for capturing the architecture and gardens. Midday sun can be harsh.
Generally, photography is allowed on public streets. However, be respectful of private residences and avoid intrusive photography. Some cemeteries may have specific rules.
No, as most mansions are private residences. Photography is typically not permitted inside unless it's a specific tour or event that allows it.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide architectural shots and details. A wide-angle lens can be great for the grand exteriors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for cafes with outdoor seating where kids can move around a bit more. While the mansions are private, the sheer scale and beauty can still impress younger visitors. A visit to the Garden District Book Shop might also be a hit, with its charming atmosphere. Keep in mind that extensive walking is involved, so plan for breaks and perhaps pack some snacks.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Pack your own snacks and water to avoid frequent purchases from cafes. While dining at Commander's Palace is a splurge, you can find more affordable eats along Magazine Street or opt for a picnic in a nearby park if available. Skipping paid tours and opting for self-guided exploration using online resources can also save money.
🥂 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Indulge in a romantic dinner at Commander's Palace or a cozy meal at a charming restaurant on Magazine Street. The ambiance of the district, especially in the evening, is perfect for creating lasting memories. For a unique stay, look into boutique hotels or bed and breakfasts within or near the Garden District for an intimate experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvels of the Garden District
Many of these homes were built in the mid-19th century by wealthy American merchants and cotton magnates who sought to live apart from the older, French and Spanish-influenced Creole neighborhoods. This resulted in a distinct architectural character that sets the Garden District apart. Exploring these homes offers a glimpse into a bygone era of opulence and Southern grandeur. While most are private residences, their exteriors alone tell compelling stories of history, design, and the evolution of New Orleans.
For a deeper understanding, consider a guided walking tour. Local guides can point out specific architectural features, share anecdotes about famous residents, and explain the historical context behind the district's development. This is often the best way to truly appreciate the nuances and stories embedded within each magnificent structure.
A Stroll Through History: Lafayette Cemetery No. 1
The cemetery is a labyrinth of marble and granite structures, each with its own story. You'll see tombs of various sizes and designs, some grand and imposing, others more modest. It's important to note that the cemetery is a historic site and is often only accessible via a guided tour. This is not only for preservation but also for visitor safety and to ensure you gain the most informative experience. Guides can explain the symbolism, the history of prominent families buried there, and the unique burial customs.
When visiting, remember to be respectful of the site and its inhabitants. Wear comfortable shoes as the paths can be uneven. While exploring, keep an eye out for the tomb of the legendary voodoo queen Marie Laveau, though its exact location is debated. The cemetery offers a powerful connection to New Orleans' past and its enduring cultural heritage.
Culinary Delights in the Garden District
Beyond Commander's Palace, the nearby Magazine Street offers a vibrant culinary scene with a diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and bars. Coquette is a highly recommended spot, known for its inventive menu and intimate setting, with attentive service that enhances the dining experience. Whether you're seeking a formal dining experience or a more casual yet delicious meal, the Garden District and its surrounding areas provide ample opportunities to savor the rich flavors of New Orleans.
When planning your culinary adventures, it's wise to make reservations, especially for dinner and weekend brunch, as these establishments are popular with both locals and tourists. Exploring the food scene here is an integral part of the Garden District experience, offering a taste of the city's renowned gastronomic heritage.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit