Looking for things to do in New Orleans? City Park is 1,300 acres of outdoor adventure, cultural attractions, sports facilities, gardens, and family fun — right in the heart of the city. From free playgrounds and walking trails to world-class golf and the New Orleans Botanical Garden, there’s something here for every age, interest, and budget. The park is free to enter and open every day of the year.
Many of the best activities at City Park are completely free — no tickets, no reservations, just show up. The park grounds are open sunrise to sunset every day, and dozens of activities require nothing more than comfortable shoes.
City Park is home to several ticketed attractions that are among the best family destinations in New Orleans.
City Park offers more sport and recreation options than any other green space in the New Orleans region — from championship golf and 26 tennis courts to kayaking, cycling, and organized sports leagues.
City Park hosts dozens of events each year — from weekly farmers markets and family festivals to the iconic Celebration in the Oaks holiday light display. Check the events calendar to plan around what’s happening during your visit.
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What are the best free things to do at City Park?
City Park has dozens of free activities — the park grounds are free to enter and open every day. Top free options include the Sydney & Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden, walking and running trails, playgrounds for kids, disc golf, Couturie Forest, and fishing at Big Lake. The Botanical Garden is also free for Louisiana residents every Wednesday courtesy of The Helis Foundation.
Is City Park free to visit?
Entering City Park is completely free. The park grounds, trails, playgrounds, disc golf, and Sculpture Garden all cost nothing. Some specific attractions — including the Botanical Garden, Carousel Gardens, Storyland, and City Putt mini golf — charge separate admission. Most are very affordable, and children under 3 are free at the Botanical Garden.
What is there to do at City Park for families with kids?
City Park is one of the best family destinations in New Orleans. Kids can ride the 1906 carousel at Carousel Gardens, explore storybook sculptures at Storyland, play at four free playgrounds, putt through two 18-hole mini golf courses at City Putt, and visit the Louisiana Children’s Museum. The Botanical Garden’s Train Garden is also a hit with younger visitors.
How do I get to City Park from the French Quarter?
City Park is approximately 10 minutes from the French Quarter by car. Take Esplanade Avenue straight from the French Quarter and it leads directly into the park. Free parking is available throughout the park. The RTA also provides bus service to the park — check the RTA website for current routes and schedules.
What time does City Park open and close?
The park grounds are open every day from sunrise to sunset. Individual attractions have their own hours: the Botanical Garden is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10am–4:30pm (closed Mondays). Carousel Gardens and other ticketed attractions are seasonal — check the park’s events calendar or each attraction page for current hours.
Are dogs allowed at City Park?
Yes — leashed dogs are welcome on the park’s trails and open spaces. City Park is also home to NOLA City Bark, a dedicated off-leash dog park. A membership is required for City Bark; the rest of the park is open to leashed dogs at no charge.
