New Orleans isn’t always well known for its natural beauty–but it should be. There are plenty of places to explore in New Orleans, many of them some truly gorgeous natural areas that will allow you to soak up the sun and all of the beautiful wildlife that make New Orleans what it is.

Are you ready to soak up all of the natural wonders near New Orleans?
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We think you are going to love this road trip and see New Orleans in a new light.
1) Bayou Sauvage
Bayou Sauvage, New Orleans, LA 70129, USA
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Did you know that New Orleans has the largest wildlife refuge within city limits? And it's one of many really cool places to explore in New Orleans. You'll love the hiking and exploring options offered by the wetlands here. Learn more about what you can expect from Bayou Sauvage.
2) Lake Pontchartrain
Lake Pontchartrain, Louisiana, USA
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Whether you visit Breakwater Point, Lakeshore Drive, or Pontchartrain Beach, there is always a beautiful place to enjoy soaking up the sunsets and sunrises you can spy over the lake here at this natural wonder in Louisiana. Find out more about why Lake Ponchartrain is so special.
3) City Park Bayous
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I had to put two photos of City Park here because it's just that beautiful. When it comes to exploring New Orleans, this has to be on your list.
Wander around the epic beauty found throughout the bayous and streams that will cradle you through.
City Park, New Orleans, LA, USA
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It's a totally gorgeous natural wonder near New Orleans. Read further about the beauty of City Park.
4) City Park Botanical Gardens
City Park, New Orleans, LA, USA
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And don't forget to see the Botanical Gardens. Gardeners here have been hard at work for years to create a gorgeous space for visitors to enjoy. And there are lots of rare plants you'll be able to enjoy at this splendid place to explore in New Orleans. Get more details on the flowers of City Park.
5) Bayou St. John
Bayou St. John, New Orleans, LA 70119, USA
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Another great place for exploring New Orleans, head on down to this bayou area, where the historic bridges frame one of the most beautiful waterways in New Orleans. I love all of the birds that call Bayou St. John home. Learn more about what you can do at Bayou St. John.
6) Longue Vue House and Gardens
Longue Vue House & Gardens, 7 Bamboo Rd, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA
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Private gardens in a hidden corner of New Orleans--what more could you want? You will be swept away by the charm and beauty found here. Discover more about this natural wonder in Louisiana.
7) Tree of Life / Audubon Park
Audubon Park, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA
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Here is one of the best parks in New Orleans. And it's not surprising that this tree, the tree of life, has quickly become one of the biggest attractions and best natural wonders near New Orleans. Get yourself more acquainted with Audubon Park.

How many of these natural wonders in Louisiana have you visited? Do you have a favorite? What do you suggest for further exploring New Orleans? Let us know in the comments below!

Have you worked up an appetite while exploring? Check out these award-winning New Orleans restaurants.

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More to Explore

Exploring New Orleans

Rachel Raimondi | February 07, 2023

What are the most popular foods in New Orleans?

Part of visiting any area is the food. Check out some of the most popular foods in New Orleans: 

Crawfish Etouffee: This Cajun seafood dish consists of crawfish, onions, peppers, and Cajun seasonings. Try it at a New Orleans eatery or attempt the recipe at home.

Red Beans and Rice: Although you can have it any day of the week that you like, it’s traditional to have this Creole dish on Mondays. Make your own or get it at a New Orleans restaurant.

New Orleans King Cakes: A standard during Mardi Gras, this sweet cake consists of a coffee cake filled with fruit and cream cheese and topped with icing. Find a New Orleans bakery to order one.

What is New Orleans known for? 

Wondering what NOLA is all about? Check out what New Orleans is known for:

Bourbon Street: Certainly the most famous street in the city, and probably one of the most famous streets in the US. This French Quarter 13-block-long street is known for its abundance of fantastic nightclubs and bars and is one of the most walkable streets in New Orleans.

Jazz Music: Originating in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in New Orleans, today it is still the prime spot to hear some of the best jazz in the country. There is even an annual New Orleans jazz festival.

What are the best restaurants in New Orleans?

There are about 1,400 restaurants in all of NOLA. Here are some of the best restaurants in New Orleans:

Commander’s Palace: This haute Creole restaurant on Washington Avenue dates all the way to 1893 as a saloon. It was updated and expanded in 1969 and today, you can choose from an assortment of delicious dishes like pecan-crusted Gulf fish and Mardi hog.

Arnaud’s Restaurant: Located on Bienville Street, this 1918 restaurant serves up some of the best Creole around. Be sure to try the oysters or shrimp Creole. Or if you can, check out the Sunday jazz brunch.

Dooky Chase’s Restaurant: This traditional Creole eatery is located on Orleans Avenue. It was opened up back in 1939 as just a corner shop and evolved into a full-fledged restaurant, offering such dishes as crawfish etouffee and Southern fried chicken.

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