New Orleans is the home of colorful, eclectic architecture along with the endless Mississippi River, murky alligator-filled swamps and sprawling city parks. That’s not to mention the bustling jazz that fills the town at all hours, the exceptional cuisine and the colorful parades that make this city a consistently popular tourist destination.
From the Creole and European architecture to the green swamplands and beyond, this guide will help you discover some of the best views in New Orleans.
1. Jackson Square
- For a great view of: St. Louis Cathedral, city life, a central park, historical architecture
Jackson Square is within the historical heart of New Orleans and it provides an iconic view of the city’s most famous church, the St. Louis Cathedral.
Since the square rests in the center of the French Quarter, you have views of both the gorgeous trees within the park along with the historical architecture from the adjacent boulevards.
Walk around or enjoy a picnic and simply soak in the bustling city. The Mississippi River is just a block away and you can also take a horse-drawn carriage deeper into town for some more excitement. Depending on the hour of your visit, you may hear some live jazz from within the park as well.
2. The Mississippi River
- For a great view of: The Mississippi River, New Orleans' skyline, adjacent parks
The iconic Mississippi River is one of the world’s largest rivers and it’s a landmark of American nature and culture.
While you can walk along the river for great natural views in any direction, you can also take a historical paddlewheel steamboat cruise for amazing skyline views.
These tours are available day and night, making it a wonderful way to explore the area at any hour. While the daytime will provide more clarity, the New Orleans skyline at night is also incredible with its endless lights and sprawling reach. This is a great outing for all types of travelers, from families to couples and groups of all ages.
3. New Canal Lighthouse
- For a great view of: Lake Pontchartrain, a historic lighthouse, New Orleans’ skyline
Originally built in 1838, but later partially rebuilt after hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the New Canal Lighthouse is a historical viewpoint and is one of the region’s most distinct lighthouses.
The unique design is more similar to a beach house than a traditional lighthouse and this makes for a great photo opportunity at any hour. With views of the massive Lake Pontchartrain along with the skyline in the opposite direction, you’ll find breathtaking views day or night in this unique location.
4. Audubon Park
- For a great view of: lush trees and fauna, expansive lagoons, nearby historical mansions, the Mississippi River, New Orleans’ skyline
Audubon Park is an expansive area in central New Orleans combining lagoons, lush trees, along with adjacent historical buildings right beside the Mississippi River.
It’s a wonderful place to visit throughout the day for endless photo opportunities and you can explore the numerous walking paths or simply relax and enjoy a picnic. While the views may dim at night, make sure to stay for sunset to watch the beautiful night sky come into view.
With flowing fountains, quaint stone bridges, plus endless natural beauty, Audubon Park is a great place for all ages to enjoy.
5. New Orleans City Park
- For a great view of: historical oak trees, stone bridges, art and sculptures, lakes, forests
New Orleans City Park is another great outdoor opportunity in town that offers exciting views of towering trees, gorgeous lakes and historical bridges among unique art and sculptures. The New Orleans Botanical Gardens is onsite, making this place one of the most beautiful natural areas in town.
6. Lafayette Square
- For a great view of: historical architecture, the downtown skyline
Lafayette Square is one of New Orleans' oldest squares and it houses the historical City Hall along with great views of classical buildings nearby. The square is often bustling with entertainment, from live music to BBQs and other exciting cultural events, making it a great place for a photo at any hour.
7. Crescent Park
- For a great view of: the Mississippi River, skyline, lush greenery
Crescent Park is a small but gorgeous park along the Mississippi River and it features a unique curved pedestrian bridge that goes over the historical railway. Due to the fact that the park's walking trail is only 1.4 miles long, this is a great place to quickly unwind and get away from the more hectic city life while enjoying great views of the skyline and river at any hour.
8. Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden
- For great views of: modern art, Spanish moss, oak trees
The Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden is a small but beautiful garden featuring modern sculptures among iconic oak trees dripping with Spanish moss. It makes for a great quick daytime excursion, and if you’re lucky the colorful magnolias may be in full bloom for an extra special photo opportunity.
9. Hot Tin Rooftop Bar
- For a great view of: the New Orleans skyline
Hot Tin is a popular 1920's-inspired rooftop bar that features craft cocktails, tasty meals and a sweeping view of the New Orleans' skyline. This restaurant is great for adult groups and couples looking for the best rooftop views in New Orleans today.
Whether you arrive day or night, the views here are breathtaking and allow you to see both the skyscrapers and smaller historical buildings nearby with perfect clarity.
10.Honey Island Swamp
- For a great view of: natural swampland, wildlife, alligators
Honey Island Swamp is one of the best preserved swamplands in America and it’s a staple of Louisiana culture and landscape. Enjoy a boat tour and ride along the green, murky water and take notice of the countless alligators along the way. The hanging moss is extremely atmospheric and along with alligators, you may also spot wild boars, turtles, otters and other local creatures.
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