Have you completely delved into everything in Nawlins’? It’s easy when you live in the city to take all that it has to offer for granted, but this place is full of natural wonders. By exploring New Orleans on this exciting road trip, it will remind you of all the wonderful places to enjoy in The Big Easy.

This little road trip covers just under 42 miles. Plan to spread it out over a weekend in order to thoroughly explore all the wonderful places here.
Google Maps
Here you'll find a map and directions to get you started!
1. Louis Armstrong Park
dumbfun/flickr
First up on this exploring New Orleans adventure are the water features at Louis Armstrong Park. Although they are man-made, they make a beautiful natural spot for picnicking and playing.
2. Bayou St. John
Kevin O'Mara/flickr
There's nothing like Bayou St. John for a relaxing evening. This beautiful waterway is a historic part of the city and truly one of the most captivating Louisiana natural wonders.
3. The Chime Tree, City Park
City Park, New Orleans, LA, USA
Joel Shapiro/Google Maps
The Chime Tree at City Park (sometimes called "The Singing Oak") is a wonderful blend of natural beauty and man-made wonder. Lie under this tree and listen to the tinkle of dozens of chimes. Beautiful.
4. Couterie Forest, City Park
Heather A./Google Maps
This 60-acre forest right in the middle of City Park is an oasis in New Orleans. Plan to spend an hour or two exploring the hiking trails here. If you’re searching for natural wonders in New Orleans, this definitely fits the bill!
5. Breakwater Park, Lake Pontchartrain
Breakwater Park, 7901 Breakwater Dr, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA
Edward Cannon/Google Maps
Just past the Southern Yacht Club, you'll find "The Point," which is the perfect place for a little stroll. It is one of the most beautiful waterfront spots around The Big Easy.
6. Longue House and Gardens
Longue House and Gardens/Facebook
Another one of the places to explore in New Orleans is the Longue House and Gardens. The gardens at this estate are simply stunning. Take a look at the eight acres here, and visit the mansion during your visit, too.
7. Bird Island at Audubon Park
Gabrielle Travels/TripAdvisor
Right in the center of Audubon Park, you'll find Bird Island, which is home to hundreds of birds.
8. Tree of Life at Audubon Park
Kaz Y/TripAdvisor
This beautiful, old tree in Audubon Park is another New Orleans icon.
9. Barataria Preserve
Stephen/flickr
You'll want to plan on spending several hours at this beautiful nature preserve. You'll see alligators, turtles and snakes, right from the walkways here.

We’ve identified nine of the best natural wonders in New Orleans for our road trip. Have you ever been to any of these places? If so, which were your favorites? What else would you add to this trip? We’d love to hear from you and read about your experiences in the comments section below!

While you’re exploring New Orleans, take a look at these 8 playgrounds that will make you feel like a kid again.

If you love to eat, check out the late Anthony Bourdain’s New Orleans recommendations for food and drink in this video:

 

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More to Explore

Adventures in New Orleans

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | February 05, 2023

What are some other great attractions in New Orleans?

  • Jackson Square is an iconic spot in the city and a great place for people watching.
  • The Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden adjacent to the New Orleans Museum of Art in City Park features stunning sculptures and is free to the public.
  • The New Orleans Pharmacy Museum is fascinating and provides insights into old-time pharmacies back-in-the-day.

Read on to learn more about other great attractions in New Orleans.

 

Where are some of the best places to eat in New Orleans?

  • 1000 Figs offers a unique twist on Mediterranean cuisine and is a city favorite.
  • Galatoires has been a city fixture for decades. Folks come from all around the world to eat this fantastic French restaurant.
  • Commander's Palace is known far and wide as the best restaurant in New Orleans. And its architecture and setting are simply gorgeous.

Read on to learn more about some of the best places to eat in New Orleans.

 

Where can we find other natural wonders around Louisiana?

  • Driskill Mountain in Bienville offers spectacular views from the summit, which is also the tallest natural summit in Louisiana.
  • Lake Located near Breaux Bridge is situated within the Cypress Island Preserve and offers hiking and kayaking opportunities,
  • Grand Isle in the Gulf of Mexico is Louisiana’s only inhabited barrier island, attracting beach combers, fishing enthusiasts, and bird watchers from all over the state.

Read on to learn more about the many natural wonders around Louisiana.

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