New Orleans, USA-nature-spots

Discovering the Natural Charm of New Orleans

New Orleans, a city known for its vibrant music scene, delicious Creole cuisine, and Mardi Gras celebrations. However, beyond the bustling streets of the French Quarter lies a natural beauty waiting to be explored. Get ready to venture into the great outdoors and experience the best nature spots in New Orleans!

1. City Park

  • Address: 1 Palm Dr, New Orleans, LA 70124
  • A tranquil oasis in the heart of the city, City Park offers over 1,300 acres of lush greenery, walking trails, and picturesque lakes.
  • Must-see attractions: Besthoff Sculpture Garden, a stunning outdoor sculpture garden featuring over 60 sculptures amidst beautiful gardens and walking paths.

2. Audubon Nature Institute

  • Address: 6500 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70118
  • A family-friendly destination that combines education with exploration, the Audubon Nature Institute features a zoo, aquarium, and nature center.
  • Highlights: The Audubon Zoo’s African Plains exhibit, home to giraffes, rhinos, and lions; the Aquarium of the Americas, featuring sharks, sea turtles, and stingrays.

3. Bayou St. John

  • Address: Various access points along Bayou St. John
  • A serene waterway that flows through the heart of New Orleans, Bayou St. John offers a chance to kayak or paddleboard through the city’s natural beauty.
  • Tips: Rent equipment from Bayou St. John Kayaks or take a guided tour to explore the bayou’s hidden gems.

4. Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

  • Address: 6588 Barataria Blvd, Marrero, LA 70072
  • Just outside New Orleans lies this national park, featuring over 20,000 acres of wetlands, forests, and waterways.
  • Must-do activities: Hike the trails, kayak through the bayous, or take a guided boat tour to spot alligators, birds, and other wildlife.

5. Lake Pontchartrain

  • Address: Various access points around Lake Pontchartrain
  • The second-largest inland saltwater lake in the United States, Lake Pontchartrain offers stunning sunsets, fishing opportunities, and water sports.
  • Tips: Take a scenic drive along the lake’s shoreline or rent a boat to explore its many coves and inlets.

6. New Orleans Botanical Garden

  • Address: 5 Victory Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119
  • A hidden gem in City Park, this botanical garden features over 2,000 plants, walking paths, and a serene atmosphere.
  • Highlights: The garden’s variety of native Louisiana plants, the tranquil setting perfect for picnics or relaxation.

7. Fontainebleau State Park

  • Address: 62883 Hwy 90, Slidell, LA 70458
  • Located just outside New Orleans, this state park offers a beach on Lake Pontchartrain, hiking trails, and historic ruins.
  • Must-see attractions: The sugar mill ruins, the sandy beach perfect for swimming or sunbathing.

Get Ready to Explore!

From kayaking through bayous to strolling through gardens, New Orleans offers a wealth of natural beauty waiting to be discovered. So pack your sunscreen, grab your camera, and get ready to experience the best nature spots in this vibrant city!