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New Orleans, Orleans Parish / History

The Garden District

A National Historic Landmark renowned for its opulent 19th-century mansions, oak-lined streets, and lush greenery, representing the legacy of New Orleans' early American elite.

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The Garden District
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What is the Garden District known for?

The Garden District is known for its opulent historic mansions, tree-lined avenues, and abundant green spaces. It is also recognized for the St. Charles streetcar, shopping on Magazine Street, and its proximity to Audubon Park and Zoo.

What is the history of the Garden District?

Originally platted as Faubourg Livaudais in 1832 and laid out by Barthelemy Lafon, the area became the City of Lafayette in 1833 before being incorporated into New Orleans in 1852. It was established by English-speaking American elite in the late 1840s and developed primarily between 1832 and 1900.

Is the Garden District a historic site?

Yes, it is designated as a National Historic Landmark and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. It is considered one of the best-preserved collections of historic mansions in the Southern United States.

Where exactly is the Garden District located?

It is a neighborhood in New Orleans, Louisiana. Its boundaries are defined by St. Charles Avenue to the north, 1st Street to the east, Magazine Street to the south, and Toledano Street to the west.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Garden District is a prestigious neighborhood in New Orleans, Louisiana, recognized as a National Historic Landmark and listed in the National Register of Historic Places. This area was originally platted as Faubourg Livaudais in 1832 from the Livaudais plantation and was later laid out by the architect and surveyor Barthelemy Lafon. While the French Quarter was the domain of Creole settlers, the Garden District was established by English-speaking Americans who arrived in the early 19th century. Developed primarily between 1832 and 1900, the district served as a luxury suburb for the city's American elite in the late 1840s. It briefly existed as the City of Lafayette in 1833 before being incorporated into New Orleans in 1852. Travel writers began using the name "Garden District" as early as 1852 to describe this bastion of architecturally notable residences. Today, the neighborhood is celebrated for housing some of the best-preserved collections of historic mansions in the Southern United States. While its name suggests a focus on botany, the area is now more famous for its opulent architecture than for its gardens alone. The district is bounded by St. Charles Avenue to the north, 1st Street to the east, Magazine Street to the south, and Toledano Street to the west. Beyond the grand homes, the district is characterized by abundant green spaces and tree-lined avenues. It remains a vibrant community, home to over 2,000 families and attracting millions of visitors annually who come to admire the stately residences nestled in lush grounds.

Visitor tips

  • Walk along St. Charles Avenue to experience the iconic streetcar views.
  • Explore the southern boundary at Magazine Street for local shopping.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the district's beauty is best seen on foot through its residential streets.
  • Allow at least two hours to properly wander through the historic boundaries.

Nearby context

The Garden District is situated in the Uptown area of New Orleans. It is bordered by the commercial hub of Magazine Street and is located near major attractions including Audubon Park and the Audubon Zoo.

Sources

Evidence and links