Besthoff Sculpture Garden
An 11-acre free outdoor museum in New Orleans City Park, blending nearly 100 sculptures with lush landscapes and water features.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Iris blooms & pleasant weather
Besthoff Sculpture Garden
Best Time
Iris blooms & pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An 11-acre free outdoor museum in New Orleans City Park, blending nearly 100 sculptures with lush landscapes and water features.
"It's one of a kind, a truly magical place where art and nature coexist beautifully."
🚶♀️ Wander Freely
Explore the winding paths and discover art nestled within nature. Don't be afraid to get lost a little!
📸 Capture the Art
Bring your camera! The garden is a photographer's dream with unique sculptures and beautiful scenery.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Miffy Fountain
Near the entrance
A charming and whimsical fountain featuring the beloved Miffy bunny, perfect for a playful photo op.
Louisiana Iris Blooms
Throughout the garden
During spring, the garden bursts with vibrant Louisiana iris blooms, adding a splash of color to the art.
Diverse Sculptures
Across 11 acres
Nearly 100 thought-provoking sculptures seamlessly blend with nature, offering a unique artistic journey.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Free Admission
+1Navigate with a Map
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wander Freely
Explore the winding paths and discover art nestled within nature. Don't be afraid to get lost a little!
📸 Capture the Art
Bring your camera! The garden is a photographer's dream with unique sculptures and beautiful scenery.
🚫 Don't Touch the Art
Even if others do, avoid touching sculptures. Staff may sternly remind visitors.
🗺️ Grab a Map
Get a map at the NOMA for easy navigation of the 11-acre garden.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wander Freely
Explore the winding paths and discover art nestled within nature. Don't be afraid to get lost a little!
📸 Capture the Art
Bring your camera! The garden is a photographer's dream with unique sculptures and beautiful scenery.
🚫 Don't Touch the Art
Even if others do, avoid touching sculptures. Staff may sternly remind visitors.
🗺️ Grab a Map
Get a map at the NOMA for easy navigation of the 11-acre garden.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied paths, so wear comfortable footwear.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Besthoff Sculpture Garden for its beautiful blend of art and nature, and especially for its free admission. Many find it a peaceful escape and a unique New Orleans experience. Some minor issues have been noted regarding staff interactions and the lack of clear signage for artwork boundaries. +2
"The Sculpture Garden truly never gets old. I grew up here in New Orleans and City Park has always had a special place in my heart. It's such a wonderful treat to be able to bring my daughter here and see the new additions to the gardens. I'm truly in awe of the nature and the art. It's one of a kind."
Monique Jumonville
"Let me add to pile of good reviews on here. The grounds were lovely. The design pleasing and interesting incorporating the landscape. My only complaint…the staff that embarrassed us by sternly snapping to “stop touching the art.” Makes sense except that we had been walking in the park for a while interacting with the pieces as we had seen everyone around us doing. There were no barriers and no signs and we were the only one she spoke to in our vicinity. So, don’t touch the art even if everyone else is."
Sandy Moorman
"Amazing park to wander! A couple sculptures can be found in Celebrity Edge Class ships. Loved it! And its free!!!! Fyi, the docent we met was engaging to talk with."
Bonnie Centers
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the Besthoff Sculpture Garden by car, taxi, or even the streetcar from Canal Street, which takes about 20-30 minutes. It's located within New Orleans City Park, adjacent to the New Orleans Museum of Art.
Yes, there is parking available at the New Orleans Museum of Art, which is right next to the sculpture garden. Parking fees may apply.
While the primary access is through the New Orleans Museum of Art, there are also street access points within City Park. It's recommended to use the museum entrance for the most straightforward access and to pick up a map.
Yes, the streetcar is a convenient option for reaching City Park and the Sculpture Garden from areas like Canal Street.
The Besthoff Sculpture Garden is open seven days a week from 10 am to 5 pm.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The best part? Admission to the Besthoff Sculpture Garden is completely FREE! It's a wonderful way to experience art and nature without any cost. +1
No, tickets are not required for entry into the Besthoff Sculpture Garden as it is free to the public.
Yes, the Besthoff Sculpture Garden is an extension of the New Orleans Museum of Art and is located on its grounds.
The garden sometimes hosts events, like the Louisiana Rainbow Iris Festival, so it's worth checking the NOMA website for any upcoming activities.
Typically, pets are not allowed in sculpture gardens or museum grounds to protect the artwork and landscape. It's best to leave your furry friends at home.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged in the Besthoff Sculpture Garden. It's a popular spot for photographers to capture the art and nature.
The Miffy Fountain is a popular spot for cute photos. Many visitors also enjoy capturing the sculptures against the backdrop of lush greenery and water features.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to avoid large tripods that could obstruct pathways or other visitors, especially during busy times. Check with NOMA if you have specific professional photography needs.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in public parks and museum grounds to ensure safety and prevent disturbance. It's highly unlikely drones are permitted.
Late afternoon, during the 'golden hour,' offers beautiful, soft light that enhances the sculptures and the natural surroundings. Early mornings can also be lovely and less crowded.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the 11 acres of art and nature. You could easily spend longer if you want to relax and truly soak in the atmosphere.
The garden features a diverse collection of nearly 100 modern and contemporary sculptures by renowned artists, integrated into the landscape.
Yes, the garden incorporates water features, including ponds and streams, which add to the tranquil ambiance and artistic presentation.
Absolutely! It's a beautiful and peaceful setting for a date, offering a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy art and conversation together.
The garden has pedestrian paths that wind through the landscape, including some over and under bridges, making for an interesting and varied walking experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to explore the winding paths and discover the art hidden amongst the trees and water features. It's a great way to introduce them to art in a relaxed, outdoor setting. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for everyone and perhaps a small map to help navigate the 11 acres.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a picnic in City Park or explore other free attractions nearby. It's an excellent way to experience New Orleans' art scene and natural beauty affordably. Getting there via the streetcar is also a cost-effective transportation option.
📸 Photographers & Art Enthusiasts
+1Art enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse collection of modern and contemporary pieces. The garden's design itself is a work of art, seamlessly integrating the sculptures into the landscape. Don't miss the chance to capture unique shots of the Miffy Fountain or the seasonal iris blooms.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Art Meets Nature: The Besthoff Experience
+2Many visitors highlight the garden's ability to offer a peaceful escape from the city's hustle. The thoughtful placement of sculptures amidst mature trees, flowering plants, and water elements creates a serene atmosphere. It's not just about viewing art; it's about experiencing it within a living, breathing landscape. The garden is a testament to how art can enhance our connection with nature, and vice versa.
Recent additions and ongoing curation ensure the garden remains dynamic. Keep an eye out for seasonal blooms, like the Louisiana irises in spring, which add an extra layer of beauty to the outdoor exhibition. The free admission makes this exceptional artistic and natural setting accessible to everyone, solidifying its status as a must-visit New Orleans attraction.
+1Navigating the Garden: Tips from Visitors
Wear comfortable shoes! The garden features a network of pedestrian paths, some of which involve walking over bridges or along uneven terrain. This ensures you can comfortably explore every nook and cranny. Also, be mindful of the artwork; while it's an outdoor exhibition, touching the sculptures is generally discouraged, and staff may intervene if necessary.
For the best experience, consider visiting during off-peak hours. Weekday mornings or late afternoons can offer a more serene atmosphere, allowing you to fully appreciate the art and the natural beauty without large crowds. The garden is open daily, making it a flexible addition to any New Orleans itinerary.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit