What is the best walking tour in the Garden District?

The best way to see the district is via a self-guided audio walk which allows you to move at your own pace. This route covers iconic spots like the Buckner Mansion, Commander's Palace, and Lafayette Cemetery No. 1.

Can you go inside the mansions in the Garden District?

Most of the famous mansions, like the Buckner Mansion and Anne Rice’s former home, are private residences and are not open to the public. You can admire their stunning architecture and gardens from the public sidewalks.

Is the Garden District walking route safe?

Yes, the Garden District is one of the safest neighborhoods in New Orleans for pedestrians. It is a well-lit, affluent residential area, though it is always best to explore during daylight hours.

Is Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 open to the public?

As of recently, the cemetery has been closed to the public for structural repairs and conservation. However, the tombs are very close to the perimeter fence, so you can still see the major sights from the sidewalk.

What is the best time of day to visit the Garden District?

The best time is early morning, around 9:00 AM. You will beat the humid New Orleans heat, avoid the largest crowds near the cemetery, and get the best lighting for architectural photography.

Are there places to eat along the walking route?

Yes, Commander's Palace is a famous high-end option, but requires reservations and a dress code. For something casual, The Rink has small cafes, and Magazine Street (two blocks away) is lined with local eateries.

Is this walking route accessible for strollers or wheelchairs?

The terrain is flat, but the sidewalks are very uneven due to tree roots. It is possible with a sturdy stroller, but those using wheelchairs may find some sections difficult and might need to navigate on the street level.

Where do I start the Garden District walk?

The most convenient starting point is the corner of Jackson Avenue and Chestnut Street, near the Buckner Mansion. It is easily accessible via the St. Charles Streetcar line.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Step into a world of Southern opulence and moss-draped mystery with this self-guided walking route through the New Orleans Garden District. Developed in the 19th century as a suburb for wealthy American newcomers who sought to distance themselves from the Creole elite of the French Quarter, this neighborhood remains one of the most well-preserved collections of historic mansions in the United States. As you explore independently, you will witness the evolution of American architectural styles, from the grand Greek Revival pillars to the ornate Victorian gingerbread trim that defines the 'Gilded Age.' This neighborhood stroll is not just about bricks and mortar; it is a journey through the literary and cinematic soul of New Orleans. You will stand before the former residence of Anne Rice, where the atmosphere served as the perfect backdrop for her Gothic tales, and see the towering mansion featured in the 'American Horror Story' series. The route also navigates the hauntingly beautiful 'Cities of the Dead' at Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, where above-ground tombs tell the story of the city's unique relationship with its geography and its ancestors. This walking tour New Orleans offers is a feast for the eyes, from the vibrant turquoise of the iconic Commander's Palace to the intricate ironwork of Colonel Short’s Villa. Whether you are a fan of 19th-century history, a photography enthusiast, or a literary buff, this self-guided walk provides the freedom to linger under the massive live oaks and soak in the quiet grandeur of a bygone era. Discover why this district remains a premier example of urban planning and luxury, and see how the residents of the past created an enclave that still captures the imagination of travelers today. This walking tour New Orleans experience is designed for an easy, flat pace, allowing you to appreciate the neighborhood’s distinct charm without the pressure of a group schedule.

Highlights

The iconic Buckner Mansion, featured in American Horror Story: Coven

The former residence of legendary Gothic author Anne Rice

Commander's Palace, a world-renowned landmark of Creole cuisine

The historic Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 and its above-ground tombs

The famous 'Cornstalk Fence' at Colonel Short’s Villa

A relaxing finish at The Rink, a historic 19th-century skating rink

Tour Stops (7)

Buckner Mansion

Start exploring with Zigway at the magnificent Buckner Mansion, one of the most photographed homes in the city. Built in 1856 for cotton magnate Henry S. Buckner, this Greek Revival masterpiece was designed to outshine the homes of his rivals. With its 48 fluted Ionic and Corinthian columns and expansive galleries, it represents the peak of antebellum wealth. While it served as a prestigious school for girls for decades, modern audiences recognize it as Miss Robichaux's Academy from 'American Horror Story: Coven.' Take a moment to admire the scale of the verandas, which were designed to catch the breeze in the humid New Orleans summers before the advent of air conditioning.

1239 First St

Continue your neighborhood stroll to 1239 First Street, the former home of the late Anne Rice. This Greek Revival mansion, known as the Rosegate House, played a starring role in her 'Lives of the Mayfair Witches' series. Rice lived here for many years, and the house’s ironwork, looming oaks, and slightly eerie atmosphere deeply influenced her writing. Notice the cast-iron galleries and the lush vegetation that seems to press against the fence—a classic Garden District aesthetic. This stop highlights the deep connection between the neighborhood's physical beauty and the literary legends that have called these streets home.

Commander's Palace

As you approach the intersection of Washington and Coliseum, you cannot miss the vibrant blue-and-white striped facade of Commander's Palace. Established in 1893, this is more than just a restaurant; it is a culinary institution that helped define modern Creole cuisine. Legend has it that the distinctive 'Commander's Blue' paint was chosen to match the sky on a clear New Orleans day. While the interior is a maze of elegant dining rooms, the exterior is a perfect example of Victorian architecture with a playful, turreted design. It has been the training ground for legendary chefs like Emeril Lagasse and Paul Prudhomme, making it a cornerstone of the city's food history.

Lafayette Cemetery No. 1

Directly across from Commander’s Palace lies Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, one of the oldest city-operated cemeteries in New Orleans. Because the city is below sea level, burials take place in ornate above-ground tombs, earning these sites the nickname 'Cities of the Dead.' Established in 1833, the cemetery contains the remains of immigrants from over 25 different countries. Look through the gates to see the rows of family tombs and society vaults. This site has been a filming location for numerous movies, including 'Interview with the Vampire' and 'Double Jeopardy.' Note that access to the interior can vary, but the view from the perimeter offers a hauntingly beautiful perspective on New Orleans history.

Colonel Short’s Villa

A short walk brings you to Colonel Short’s Villa, famous for its incredible 'Cornstalk Fence.' This Italianate-style mansion was built in 1859 for Colonel Robert Short. The story goes that Short’s wife was homesick for her native Iowa, so he bought her a fence that reminded her of the cornfields back home. Look closely at the ironwork to see the intricately detailed ears of corn and morning glory vines. During the Civil War, the house was seized by the federal government and used as a residence for the Union governor. It remains one of the most distinctive and whimsical examples of ironwork in a city known for its metal craftsmanship.

The Rink Shopping Center

Take a break at The Rink, located at the corner of Washington and Prytania. This building has a fascinating history: it was originally constructed in 1884 as the Crescent City Skating Rink for the World's Industrial and Cotton Centennial Exposition. Today, it has been converted into a charming small shopping center. It is a great place to find local books, especially at the Garden District Book Shop, which often hosts signings for famous local authors. The high wooden ceilings and original structural elements provide a cool, quiet respite from the sun and a glimpse into how historic spaces can be repurposed for modern life.

Prytania Street

Conclude your self-guided adventure by wandering along Prytania Street. This thoroughfare is lined with some of the most impressive residential architecture in the South. From the Gothic Revival 'Women's Guild' house to the sprawling estates with manicured gardens, Prytania represents the ultimate evolution of the Garden District. The street is shaded by ancient live oaks whose roots often heave the sidewalks, a reminder of nature’s power in this swamp-adjacent city. As you finish your walk, take a moment to appreciate the quiet, residential feel that has been preserved here for over 150 years, far removed from the neon lights of Bourbon Street.

Frequently Asked Questions

A typical self-guided walk takes between 90 and 120 minutes. The route covers roughly 1.5 miles at a leisurely pace, including time to stop for photos and read historical markers.