Just about everyone knows about the Botanical Gardens at City Park. They're certainly an enchanting attraction to spend an hour or two when you're looking to be surrounded by blooming flowers and lush greenery. But there's an underrated hidden gem that's hiding in plain sight and equally enchanting, and you need to visit it. When you're looking to step off the beaten path, these mesmerizing gardens in New Orleans are an absolute delight and worthy of an adventure.

You’ve probably passed by it a million times, but have you ever visited Longue Vue House and Gardens?

This is perhaps the most mesmerizing hidden gem in New Orleans. Both nature and history lovers will love taking a tour through this historic home and gardens.

Situated in the Lakewood neighborhood of New Orleans, Longue Vue is a world-class house museum nestled among eight acres of beautifully manicured gardens.

Both the home and the gardens were the dreams of Edgar and Edith Stern, who worked with architects and landscape architects for many years to make their dream home a reality. The home was completed in 1942, taking three years to build.

When you arrive at the house, you can’t help but be amazed by how spectacular the gardens are.

They’re the first thing that greets you when you walk up.

Depending on what’s in season, you could see several different flowers in bloom.

Landscape architect Ellen Biddle Shipman started designing the gardens in 1935 and continued until her death in 1950. Although the majority of the gardens were destroyed after Hurricane Katrina, The Garden Conservancy along with many other helpful hands (and green thumbs) worked tirelessly to restore the gardens to their original beauty using Shipman's original plans.

From the Goldfish Pond to the Wild Gardens, there’s so much to love about this little pocket of paradise.

One of the collaborators for the Wild Gardens was none other than Caroline Dorman, a nationally acclaimed naturalist and conservationist who was instrumental in helping to establish the Kisatchie National Forest. To read more, check out our previous article here.

There’s even a discovery center that the little ones will enjoy.

Established in 1998, this garden is both an educational and interactive activity suitable for children of all ages.

After you’ve strolled through the eight acres of mesmerizing gardens, take a seat and gaze out at the incredible views.

It’s the perfect spot to sit for a spell and just relax for a moment before leaving.

Longue Vue is available for tours seven days a week.

They are open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m.

Address: 7 Bamboo Road, New Orleans, LA, 70124

Be sure to check out their website and Follow them on Facebook for more information.

Have you ever visited Longue Vue House & Gardens? Let us know in the comments below!