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.

Things to Do in New Orleans | City Park Activities Guide