Garden District Walking Tour (Self Guided), New Orleans

It may come as a surprise, but New Orleans’ Garden District is known for its architecture more than for its gardens. The city’s elite residential neighborhood since the 19th century, when wealthy newcomers built opulent structures, it is considered one of the best-preserved collections of historic mansions in the South, and certainly one of the most picturesque. You can see why this is the setting for so many novels.

Take a walking tour of the district to see most of its majestic homes, including that of bestselling author Anne Rice or that of sugar baron Bradish Johnson. The Women’s Opera Guild House is your only chance to get an interior look, and still contains many period furnishings. Reservations aren’t necessary and the women who provide the tours always give great insight into the home and past/current New Orleans society.

Along with these and numerous other heritage sites, you’ll get to discover the famous time-worn tombs of Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, as well as the Commander's Palace – one of the best restaurants in town since it opened back in 1880. After you've checked all of these off the list, you may as well walk down to nearby Magazine Street for a great mix of shopping and eateries.

For a great day out in the fabulous Garden District, pick a day with nice weather and follow this self-guided walking tour.