Audubon Park ended up being one of my favorite places to wander in New Orleans. It's a beautiful green space filled with massive live oaks, lagoons, and shaded walking paths, but it also has a lot of attractions-the Audubon Zoo, the Butterfly Garden and Insectarium, an 18-hole golf course, fountains, playgrounds, and plenty of open lawns to relax on. It feels less like a city park and more like a destination where you could easily spend an entire afternoon. Audubon Park strikes a great balance between being an active public space and a peaceful escape from the city. read more

Audubon Park - Views - Parks Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

Audubon Park is easily one of the most beautiful green spaces in New Orleans and has become my go-to spot for getting outdoors. The main feature is a 1.8-mile paved loop that routes you under gorgeous ancient live oaks and past peaceful lagoons (you might even catch a glimpse of the swans!). For those looking for a softer foot strike or a good trail run, there's a 2.2-mile dirt path around the perimeter--just a heads up that it gets pretty muddy after it rains. Budgeting about an hour is perfect if you just want to soak up the scenery and wildlife. Alternatively, there is a beautifully maintained golf course right in the center. Whether you're logging miles, taking a meditative stroll, or playing 18 holes, this park is an absolute must-visit. read more

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Audubon Park is truly one of the most beautiful and peaceful spots in New Orleans. I love walking and running on the track beneath the stunning oak trees with their hanging moss -- it's such a calming, picturesque experience. The exercise stations along the way are a great bonus for a full-body workout. Parking on Magazine Street or St. Charles Avenue is convenient, and the park's location near Loyola and Tulane Universities makes it easily accessible. There are water stations available, and the ponds and duck-watching areas are always a treat. The loop is about 1.67 miles, and I enjoy going around twice for a great workout. The park is always well maintained and kept in beautiful condition. A true NOLA gem! read more

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If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy nature with picturesque paths of mature oak trees to shade you head to Audubon Park. Not only to do they have multiple connecting parks with running paths, a splash zoo and regular zoo, but it is also a photographer's canvas to explore chiaroscuro elements. I smile as I look back to our visit because it was humorous that we were laying on the landing by the lagoon taking in sunrays and a bird approached us looking bewildered. I asked it to walk around so I can take pictures and I do not know if it understood but it struck a few poses before it hopped back in the water then flew to a shaded area across the lagoon. Be carful not to park in the parking lot near the golf clubhouse. If you prefer the scenic view from the city, hop on the St. Charles streetcar. Get off at the Tulane/Loyola stop and you will be at the front entrance. read more

Audubon Park - Parks Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

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Audubon Park is absolutely beautiful -- the kind of place that instantly makes you feel calm. The giant oak trees, the peaceful walking paths, and the open green spaces make it perfect for a morning walk, a family picnic, or just taking a break from the city. It's clean, relaxing, and so picturesque. You can walk, bike, or simply sit and enjoy the view. The park has such a welcoming vibe, and every corner feels like a little escape. If you want a quiet, gorgeous spot to unwind in New Orleans, this is it. read more

Audubon Park - Parks Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

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Audubon is definitely my favorite park to walk and cycle around in New Orleans. The track is nearly 2 miles around and it's well maintained by the institute. There's a beautiful course for golfers (I'm not one) but basically there's something for everyone. I love the pond that wraps around so much of the park because there's all kinds of wildlife that rely on it for survival. During certain times of year you'll see 30 or more species of birds, many turtles, etc. It's also adjacent to the zoo and the Fly which is the river front park that I grew up visiting regularly with my family. read more

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Beautiful spacious park off Magazine Street in uptown New Orleans. You can't help but relax among the aging oak trees. Audubon park is the ideal place for a stroll, picnic, or workout. It features an 1.8 mile jogging path, playgrounds, Olmsted lake, fountains, gazebos, picnic shelters, soccer fields, restrooms, and more. If you have time to spare, I recommend checking out the Audubon zoo. read more

Audubon Park - Parks Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

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In an effort to build stamina, soak in vitamin D, and wear out my dog, we've been making the Audubon Loop a weekly excursion. Our best time is doing the 1.8 mile path in 28 minutes just walking fast. There are water fountains for people and pets on opposite sides of the track and ample spots of sun and shade while making the trek. If we keep this up, hoping to shed some pounds too! read more

My husband and I got married in New Orleans (Antoine's) and we return every year to celebrate our wedding anniversary; while in town we always try new restaurants and bars but we also make sure we visit some of our favorite places; including Audubon Park. We normally will talk a very long walk along the length of Magazine Street and then a nice walk through Audubon Park. We enter the park thru Magazine Street (near the Zoo) and walk along the pedestrian only roadway (very wide path) and enjoy all the loveliness of the park. The path is loaded with people taking walks and getting exercise but then also I love seeing the occasional dog walkers with many, many dogs; but the best of the park is the landscaping (love all the handing moss) and the birds (SOOOOO many birds). And some statutes and nice light poles and sitting areas; it's all gorgeous. read more

Audubon Park - Parks Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

One of the most beautiful lovely places in New Orleans. There's lots to do: Audubon Zoo, golf, clubhouse cafe, horse stables, fishing, lots of birds, multiple playgrounds, walking paths and a big asphalt track/loop for walking, cycling, skateboard, roller blading, etc. Find a spot for a picnic, play frisbee with your friends, take your dog on a trail jog, this place is spectacular. It gets crowded on nice days when everyone wants to be out enjoying the weather. Before Mardi Gras, you can find the walking crews out practicing. There are places to refill water bottles, use the restroom, and get your puppy a drink as well. read more

A large park that included magnificent oak trees, green space, biking trails, walking/jogging trails, children playgrounds, lakes, golf course, and a zoo. Mrs and I visited during beautiful weather. We leisurely walked a loop trail and enjoyed all the sceneries nature provided. It was a soothing walk. read more

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Such a lovely park. An easy loop to jog, walk or bike. Plenty of families out walking their dogs here or gathering for a picnic. Very peaceful for bird watching. Easy access from public transportation. It was clean and well taken care of. Check it out if you have the time. read more

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Beautiful, relaxing park to walk through with a couple of bridges, and scenic ponds. A must-see park in NOLA. read more

Audubon Park - One of the ponds/small lakes at the park. - Parks Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

Fancy a walk in the park? An utterly idyllic walk in the park is to be had Uptown at Audubon. It's not over crowded... at least it doesn't seem to be, ever, likely because it's large, but not large in the way that City Park is sprawling over miles. No disrespect to City Park, but it's a little more manageable to walk Audubon Park. There's fitness and bike and walk paths, yes. There's ducks galore (an entire bird island and you can read all about it). There's shelters that you can reserve for your family picnic. There's bathrooms. There are plenty of benches in pretty areas, many of them more on the private side. And the oak trees are simply gorgeous. My favorite thing to do, however, is to stroll past those dreamy homes on the edge of it, reminding me that there's another type of New Orleans living that may be out of reach for most of us, but it inspires me to dream big. read more

We took the St. Charles street car the whole way from the FQ. On the way back, got off at Audubon Park. Walked across the street to check out Tulane University grounds, then did the loop in the Park, actually walking past the zoo to the Mississippi River then back. Lots of birds (swans, geese, Mallards, Munk parakeets, and others I can't remember), lots of turtles, laughed at the way the squirrels patted and jumped on the dirt over and over to make sure their goods were secured. Saw the tree of life, wow! read more

Beautiful, serene park that we walk the furbabies regularly at (and we DO pick up after!). We were married here, because of the proximity to Tulane University (across the street), so it holds a very special place for us. There are sidewalks and pathways throughout. Plenty of places to sit and picnic, and simply enjoy the moment. There are public loos-although we don't utilise those, so I have no comment. Gorgeous green space, a zoo, golfing, in the middle of Uptown, so we think it's perfect! read more

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I'm putting aside my absolute, unbridled, and passionate hatred of golf and anything related to golf in giving Audubon Park a five star review. If the land that the golf course was on was either swallowed up by the Earth or returned to something that served some discernible use (and allowing nature to reclaim it would be entirely legitimate), then I'd happily give Audubon Park a sixth star, and possibly even a seventh. In all seriousness: Audubon Park is one of New Orleans' jewels. It is well cared for and has always felt safe to us. Despite the "g" word, there are plenty of hiking and walking trails with natural beauty and a lot of architectural charm in the form of fountains, gardens, etc. Audubon Park is also approved by His Furredness a great place to mark his presence. read more

Absolutely gorgeous! I've never seen such a nice clean park! The trees are breathtaking taking! Loved visiting the tree of life !! Make this part of your trip! read more

Audubon Park - An amazing oak tree with Spanish moss. Gorgeous - Parks Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

Beautiful large park with huge trees and so much water. Great place for a picnic. It's a very large park so if you really wanted to stroll the whole thing it'd probably take the afternoon (strolling speed). Cool bridges to admire, stand and watch the water. Many turtles in the water and other birds and wildlife. The University students are lucky it's across the street from their campus. You can take the Trolly to the park. read more

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Still one of my favorite parks to jog BUT it does get dark in some areas. Some places on the trail have little lighting. Other than this, I do like the playground for my little one, and I do enjoy the scenery read more

Walk through this large park and enjoy the open air and the wide gravel walkways (see photo). Big enough place that you almost could get lost in, but the signs are helpful to prevent that. Some people (not us) were stopping at some of the exercise places where iron bars are mounted in the ground to assist in various forms of light strength exercises. Quite a pleasure that the City of New Orleans has kept such a large park on the outskirts to enjoy. Yes, it is on a trolly car route, so there is the ease of getting there from the city center. Come join the great outdoors and enjoy the large oak trees, the bushes, the flowers, the people. read more

Audubon Park - Parks Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

We read on several blogs that this is the prettiest park in NOLA and it is also located next to several other tourist draws including The Tree of Life, the zoo, and the Mississippi River. If you are looking for a relaxing way to spend an afternoon, it wouldn't be a bad idea to head out this way and enjoy snacks and then spend some time going through the zoo. There are a whole host of great family activities conveniently located in and around the park. As mentioned you can go see the giraffes at the zoo (or peak at them from climbing on the Tree of Life and looking over into their sanctuary), the aquarium as well as a butterfly garden and insectarium are all part of Audubon, there's a nature center, golf course, and even a family pool. We were here during winter and it was a little less busy and nowhere near as lush and green as the pictures show it in full bloom. The pictures of the park in summer are really breathtaking with beautiful swampy tree canopies, ponds and lagoons with ducks, and various flowering bushes. In winter it was a little less worth the extra trip to this side of NOLA, but I have no doubt it would be more than rewarding at other times of year. We still enjoyed walking along the Mississippi and visiting the massive oak known as The Tree of Life. read more

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A park outside then busy and bustling packed quarters of the French quarters? Lemme at em! Decided I had one way too many drinks and snacks so I wanted to hunt for something a bit more hands or;... errr I mean feet on. This place has ample parking and a ton of space for you to do picnics and just take the kids and elderly folk out for a nice walk. Every 1/4 or 1/2 of a mile, they had little work out stations to kind of make it feel like you can do more than just walk and run. Water fountains for the puppers, kiddos, and hoomans are also nicely spaced out. Make sure you bring a bottle so you can keep hydrated. Stay Healthy and Hydrated Nola! read more

Beautiful park with lots of animals and old trees to take in. The walking path is nice. We saw a swan and multiple turtles in the water. There are plenty of seating options. read more

Audubon Park - Parks Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

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Absolutely my favorite public park! Today I was going there for a bike ride which I often do because the biking/walking path is gorgeous. It's shaded by giant oak trees and has views of birds and turtles and fountains and willow trees and gazebos. Honestly what could you want that isn't at Audubon. It has two playgrounds to bring your kids to play as well as restrooms and water stations. Today I saw helpful signs advising people to be careful due to the extreme heat of the summer which was very considerate. read more

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So happy to live near Audubon where it's perfect to go for a run or take a stroll, sit on one of the benches, or simply get lost in my own thoughts. There's a few marked trails to get your fitness on but the park is perfect to just unwind and clear your mind. What makes me happy about the park is the close proximity it has to not only the Zoo, the Fly, but a few local food spots as well. Grab a spread from Picnic, a pizza from Reginelli's, or bring any of your fave foods and beverages and just lounge out for a bit. Nothing like a proper way to decompress and embrace nature all at the same time. read more

This was a great area to run. A runner has several options... Inside the park Immediately outlining the trail Tree line route outside the main entrance As a visitor I felt safe running, as there were running in all options! This was a great experience... The only thing I wish they had posted was a map indicating the possible mileage within and without the trails. read more

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Audubon is a long streetcar ride from the quarter, but it's a MUST visit while you're in town. Audubon Park is to New Orleans as Cherokee is to Louisville (KY). This park is AWESOME! Its a giant walk in/running/biking path (1.8 miles) circling a golf course, small ponds and open fields. The path is lined by trees of every variety and sand. There are established fitness stations every quarter mile or so. Just off the path you'll also find gazebos and meditation stations. The wildlife it what you'd expect to find in the south - large beautiful white birds in addition to the typical park birds and squirrels. The park is near the end of the St. Charles Streetcar. It's clearly labeled on the line. It's just across the street from Tulane College. The park also stands between the Streetcar and the Zoo. The breeze is great and if you're here to run, it's an easy, flat path with plenty to look at. It's also a great place to take pictures. Lots of fountains, low hanging branches and statues. The water fountain closest to St. Charles wasn't working, but there is another by the main entrance across from the Zoo. (That's where the parking lot is). After my run, I found a bathroom and water fountain on the golf course. The water was super cold and refreshing. Staying in the quarter and only bringing my headphones and myself, I appreciated the water stop before catching the street car back to the quarter. I will be back, every time I'm back in NOLA. I miss this park when I'm away. read more

This was definitely a worthwhile stop for us while we were visiting NOLA. Great views, well maintained, and some nice walking trails. If you need a break from the crowds or a means of burning off some of those extra food and drink calories it's definitely worth a stop. read more

What a wonderful shady park. Walk, picnic, feed the ducks. The walking path is long and mostly shaded by oak trees. There are benches, play areas for kids, wildlife to look at and excersize spots. The walking path goes around the golf course and is edged by old fancy homes. This is a very safe area to be. Accessible by street car and car. There are also spots to have a picnic or gathering of any size. This is such a romantic area. Audubon Zoo is here as is the tea room. I love to come here on nice days to walk. The walking path also allows for bicyclists, and there always seems to be people roller skating along the way. Free parking, free walking, free people watching. What could be better? Come and enjoy this little slice of heaven. read more

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If I only remember one thing from my years living in New Orleans -- and there might only be one, thanks to liquor -- it definitely wouldn't be Bourbon Street. It wouldn't be Jazzfest, Voodoofest, the French Quarter Festival, Tulane University, or even the amazing food you can find from one end to the other. (It certainly wouldn't be Mardi Gras, as I seem to have forgotten everything about that.) If I only remember one thing when I'm old and grey, it will be the magnificently gnarled oaks stretching across the sky in the afternoon sunlight, their branches splayed out in every direction, some heavy enough to brush the ground. And although these ancient, gorgeous trees can be found all over the city, it's worth taking a trip uptown just for the Tree of Life. This majestic oak is the centerpiece of Audubon Park, and there is nothing better than a lazy afternoon spent in its shade.* Even without the Tree, Audubon has plenty to offer. With squirrels running to and fro and quiet fountains emptying into peaceful ponds teeming with fish, ducks, swans, turtles and more, you can easily get your nature fix. If you're into exercise, runners and bikers seem to enjoy themselves, and there's even golf for you to play, or golfers if you just prefer someone to poke fun at. Family fun is in abundance; kids run around excited about the prospect of the zoo, and there probably isn't a better spot for a BBQ than the Fly. The Fly represents what life should be like all the time. It's the huge grassy area next to the Mississippi where life is absolutely paradisiacal on sunny days. It's made for kegs and crawfish, lacrosse and soccer, frisbee, daiquiris and procrastination. You can play, eat, drink, watch the river flow by or just fucking sit there and have a fantastic time. It's where doing nothing is everything you thought it could be. No matter your age, occupation or state of mind, Audubon Park is worth a visit. _______________ * Hallucinogenics optional. So I hear. read more

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The roads are pretty sketchy around here, but the park itself has a lot to offer. A walking and biking trail rings the golf course, and there's a few big outdoor meeting spaces and picnic areas as well. Speaking from ample experience, even with the shade, it is pretty intolerable to be outside here during peak summer heat. Get there early. You'll see an abundance of Spanish moss and birds, as well as the streetcar rumbling by the park's northern edge. It's pretty artificial, but it's one of the largest green spaces in the city, and is relatively safe (though I was harassed once). It's also notable for being close to the zoo and the riverside, so you can definitely make a day out of it. read more

Step away from city life and partake in nature's breathtaking beauty at Audubon Park, located near Tulane and Loyola in Uptown. Take a leisurely stroll or jog/run/bike through the park on the wide looping trail, which is a little less than 2 miles long. Whether visiting on your own or with family and friends, there is indeed something for everyone here. Magnificent old oak trees stand tall, with Spanish moss flowing in the wind. Even on warm days, the trees provide ample shade from the sun. Stop by one of the many ponds/fountains to watch the turtles, birds, ducks, or swans. Squirrels are running around the trees in their own game of "tag you're it." Admire the lush greenery and colorful landscape, attend an outdoor weekend activity, walk your dogs, or even people watch. Such wide, open spaces make the park a great picnic spot. Words cannot capture the spectacular beauty of this well-maintained park. You'll have to visit and see for yourself! Audubon Park is easily one of my favorite places to visit in New Orleans when I feel the need to escape and relax. read more

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What beautiful place to get away from the craziness of New Orleans for an afternoon. Whether it's marveling at the Tree of Life, feeding the turtles swimming near the fountain or just in the mood for a leisurely nature stroll, Audubon Park provides something for anyone looking to spend some time outdoors. read more

Audubon Park - Parks Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

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About a 20 minute ride on the streetcar or a 15 minute bus ride from downtown. Totally different world and a great change from the French Quarter. Sizable park with trails (both dirt and asphalt), a big pond, fountains, a stone bridge, big trees, wildlife, and quite nice homes bordering the park. Plenty of places to sit and enjoy. The public bathroom facilities were better than most. People were picnicking here, playing frisbee, walking, jogging, and some sprawled out to nap in the sun! On one side is Tulane University. On the other is the Mississippi River (or the zoo and stables are between the park and the river). The surrounding neighborhood is impeccable. Great place to get away from it and relax - very close to the central city. read more

Audubon Park - The ducks in the large pond - Parks Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

I have loved Audubon Park since we moved to New Orleans in 1979. I used to jog from our place on Valmont Street and then do a loop or two around the park. My first child, who was born in New Orleans, played on the playground there and fed the ducks in the lagoon. We had picnics there. My wife went to law school at Tulane just across the street and road her bike home through part of the park. Audubon Park was and is the jewel of New Orleans. Beautiful, serene, an oasis in the heart of Uptown. On a recent return to New Orleans for business, and a little vacation, of course we took the street car (still only $1.25) from the CBD to Audubon Park. Our first stop was to get a sno ball at a moveable stand parked beside the park. Little did we know that earlier that morning a jaguar had escaped from the Audubon Zoo (also wonderful) and killed about nine zoo animals.I'm sorry for the alpacas, foxes and other animals that the jaguar killed, but hooray for the jaguar, which was only being what he is and deserves to go back to the rainforests of Belize, Guatemala or wherever it's from. read more

This park definitely fails short next to City Park, while it is beautiful it boasted many less free amenities such as swings, fountains, or gardens. It's also definitely less lush and more dry than City and seems to be a favorite of local photographers to bring the families for pictures. We ended up walking around, realizing the Tree of Life wasn't a free attraction (it's located within the zoo) then headed back to City Park later in the day. Audubon Park was cute but definitely less comfortable than City Park, which I'd choose any day of the week over Audubon. read more

I love birds and I love parks, and this was the perfect place to experience both -- I wouldn't expect anything less from a place called Audubon Park. It's a quiet, fairly large oasis in the area of New Orleans that feels more residential and academic (lots of nice houses nearby, and immediate proximity to Loyola and Tulane). There's a great set of walking/bike paths and plenty of benches near the lake and under trees to watch people and wildlife go by. I spent a few hours here on a weekday, and everyone from teenagers practicing dance moves to college students on a date to elderly birdwatchers and exercisers of all stripes crossed my path. I sat by a waterfront bench for a long time and saw an amazing variety of animals: tons of small squirrels, all different sorts of turtles, three kinds of ducks, swans, two types of geese, some blue jays, and a bunch of other birds I couldn't identify (full disclosure: I was completely obsessed with birds as a child). The birds here seem to be fairly tolerant of people, and there are also some really beautiful old trees all around. There's a golf course right in the middle of the park, which I found a little distateful, but I guess they need to make money somehow to maintain this place. The public bathroom facilities were totally fine and even a little better than I expected for a park, and this seems to be a nice place to picnic as well. If you're in New Orleans, take a ride on the #12 St. Charles streetcar to get here -- totally worth it! read more

Audubon Park - A mama duck and her raft of ducklings - Parks Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

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Lovely escape from the narrow, vehicle-filled asphalt transportation veins in NoLa. You can reach the park by the street car of St. Charles, by foot, by bike or by car via the boundary roads like St. Charles and Magazine. There is a golf course within the park, but most people are here to bike, walk, run or enjoy the greenery. There is a cool bird watching area where water fowl congregate, like ducks, swans, egrets and some bird that looks like a cormorant. I also saw plenty of turtles and a heron. As you stroll, you can partake in the set of metal exercise equipment for things like pull ups and sit ups, balancing and climbing, and maybe some good stretching. The path around the park leads you to some covered gazebos, benches for viewing and relaxing, some artistic pieces and just an enjoyable time over all. It is also conveniently split for cyclists on one side, and people on foot on the other. There are more people on foot, so that may be why that side is larger. If in the area and in need of some green sanctuary, this is a great choice for 15 min to a couple of hours. read more

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I love Audubon Park. It is simply a great public park. It has a trail that goes around the park with gorgeous views of New Orleans trees and even some waterways. You will often see if filled with families and students. There is plenty of space to spread out and have a picnic or play spike ball. There is a beautiful garden near the St. Charles entrance that attracts butterflies. read more