The Garden District has been created from the former plantation lands and is now designated a Historic Landmark District. Based on the original 1806 design by New Orleans architect Barthelemy Lafon, it encompasses lavish mansions and spectacular gardens, pretty cottages and ornately decorated villas, set amongst verdant parkland dotted with canals and fountains.
Many of the original 19th-century buildings are preserved, designed in the Greek revival style, and several of the streets are named after Greek muses. The smaller homes have been turned into delightful shops or bed-and-breakfast accommodation, while notable landmarks include the Anshe Sfard synagogue, Lafayette Cemetery No.1 and a historic skating rink now converted into a shopping mall with a difference.
George Washington Cable House commemorates one of Louisiana’s most influential writers, whose accounts of early Creole life have ensured this important era in the history of the state has been chronicled for posterity. His home on Eighth Street is now a national monument. The Commander’s Palace dates from the 1880s and has a long-standing reputation as one of the finest dining establishments in the whole of America.
Magazine Street is a haven for shopaholics, offering everything from local souvenirs and crafts, antiques and collectables to gourmet products, while stylish boutiques line St. Charles Avenue to the north. Stay in one of the charming bed and breakfasts on this fashionable avenue and wake up to the sound of traditional trams trundling past your window.
The Garden District is transformed every October by the quirky Zombiefest parade, when the undead take over the streets in a fancy-dress frenzy that channels the dark arts of Voodoo. The annual bake-off competition in July is an altogether cosier affair, showcasing the authentic taste of Southern hospitality.
Buses and trams serve the Garden District, and there is plenty of on-street parking. Take a leisurely stroll around this beautifully preserved neighbourhood, or join a tour to discover the history behind its manicured lawns and elegant facades.
Garden District Travel Guide
Popular places to visit
Lafayette Cemetery
Step back in time at this atmospheric testament to New Orleans’ long and diverse history.
Bourbon Street
The birthplace of jazz is a vibrant city boulevard where the history and music of New Orleans comes to life.
Canal Street
Get to the heart of New Orleans through Canal Street.
Port of New Orleans
Explore the waterfront in New Orleans with a trip to Port of New Orleans. Experience the acclaimed art galleries and fascinating museums in this walkable area.
Mercedes-Benz Superdome
Catch an event at Mercedes-Benz Superdome during your trip to New Orleans. Discover the top-notch restaurants and great live music in this walkable area.
Tulane University
Enjoy the student vibe around Tulane University, a top university in New Orleans. Discover the lively bars and acclaimed art galleries in this walkable area.
Activities
New Orleans Garden District and Lafayette Cemetery Tour
New Orleans Delicious Donut and Beignet Adventure & Walking Tour
New Orleans: Explore the Garden District with Storytelling
Walking Tour in New Orleans Garden District
New Orleans Small Group Garden District History and Architecture Tour
Discover Garden District in New Orleans
Our pick of the best Garden District Hotel Deals
Reviewed on 29 Apr. 2024
Reviewed on 28 Apr. 2024
Reviewed on 28 Apr. 2024
Reviewed on 26 Apr. 2024
Reviewed on 27 Apr. 2024
Reviewed on 28 Apr. 2024
Other neighbourhoods around Garden District
Irish Channel
If you're spending some time in Irish Channel, Magazine Street and Mississippi River are top sights worth seeing.
Central City
Consider a visit to A.L. Davis Park and take some time to enjoy the abundant dining options during your time in Central City. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at St. Charles at Felicity Stop or St. Charles at Euterpe Stop.
Lower Garden District
Travellers love Lower Garden District for its beautiful gardens, and you can see more of New Orleans by jumping on the metro at St. Charles at St. Andrew Stop or St. Charles at Josephine Stop. You might spend time checking out top sights like Port of New Orleans and Magazine Street.
Arts/Warehouse District
Known for its abundant dining options and interesting museums, there's plenty to explore in Arts/Warehouse District. Top attractions like Confederate Memorial Hall Museum and National World War II Museum are major draws, and you can catch the metro at St. Charles at Julia Stop or Saint Charles at Saint Joseph Stop to see more of the city.
Uptown Historic District
Known for its abundant dining options and colourful gardens, there's plenty to explore in Uptown Historic District. Top attractions like Audubon Park and Audubon Zoo are major draws, and you can catch the metro at St. Charles at Jefferson Stop or St. Charles at Valmont Stop to see more of the city.
New Orleans Central Business District
Known for its fantastic nightlife and great live music, there's plenty to explore in New Orleans Central Business District. Check out top attractions like Canal Street and Mercedes-Benz Superdome, and jump on the metro at Carondelet at Poydras Stop or Poydras Street Stop to see more of the city.
- Places of interest
- Hotels Near New Orleans, Louisiana
- Which hotel chains are in Garden District?
- More holiday ideas