Idyllically laid within the ambit of New Orleans' famous French Quarter district, Jackson Square is steeped in a rich history associated with the epoch-making Louisiana Purchase. An arsenal of historic landmarks, including the three-steepled St. Louis Cathedral, The Cabildo and the Presbytere stand amid vast landscaped gardens, with the bronze statue of the heroic Andrew Jackson forming a compelling centerpiece. Although now buried under layers of history, the square harks back to a fascinating past, when it was originally known as the Place d'Armes. An erstwhile site for public executions, this square saw a dramatic shift at the turn of the twentieth century. At the height of the Roaring Twenties, this National Historic Landmark became widely known for its association with the arts, allowing artists to gather and participate in the exchange of ideas. Through the years, Jackson Square has been touched by fleeting, yet enduring associations with tarot-readers, jugglers, street artists, and paraders, echoing the very unbeatable ethos that New Orleans is known for today.
Having started out as the nation's first sugar plantation, then an urban park, and finally renamed in 1886 as Audubon Park in tribute to John James Audubon who painted many of his famed "Birds of America" in Louisiana, the 350-acre (141.64 hectares) Audubon Park and Audubon Zoo is a place one can truly and peacefully enjoy New Orleans's old-world charm: fountains, statues, gazebos, lagoons, giant oak trees, and the occasional horse-back riders and carriages. There are also a golf course, tennis courts, and a extremely popular 1.8-mile-long (2.8 kilometers) paved jogging track. Do walk along the outskirts of the park and be wowed by the historic buildings of Loyola and Tulane universities, as well as many elegant mansions.
From the critter-filled swamps of Louisiana to the grasslands of Africa, you can explore some of the world's most intriguing habitats and the creatures that dwell within them at this world-class zoo. Rated one of the top zoos in the United States, Audubon Zoo New Orleans is home to a variety of nature's wondrous creations such as Louisiana Black Bear, Cougar, Bobcat, Macaw, Babirusa, and more. The marvelous aquarium houses beautiful moon jellies, clownfish, green sea turtle, and the much-dreaded piranha.
Established in the year 1961, Preservation Hall has become a haven for traditional jazz fans. Even if you are not a jazz lover, the unique old-school decor and the heady ambiance which is attributed to the stellar music performances will ensure you have a fantastic time here and may even become a fan before you leave. The interior of the club is sparse and does not feature much in the way of comfort, but comfort is easy to ignore with such great musical entertainment. They do not serve food or drinks here, however, feel free to bring along your own drinks to enjoy while you watch the show.
Built in 1789, Petit Theatre underwent major reconstruction work in 1960. Since 1916, it has been home to a community theater group that produces many plays each season, including several children's plays. It receives annual national attention as the home of the Tennessee Williams Festival. Admission by ticket during theater season, which runs from September-June.
It's just impossible to get bored of New Orleans' plush City Park. Sprawled over 1,500 acres, this welcoming oasis attracts hordes of people every day. You'll find lovebirds sharing some time together, children playing around, joggers doing their daily rounds and people absorbing the park's beauty. Camps, field trips and an amusement park are the facilities for children. Sports lovers can choose from golf, football, tennis and lots more. The park also provides the perfect setting for weddings, picnics, birthdays or other special functions. If you're a nature lover, you can volunteer to help protect this beautiful park.