Escape To Audubon Park For A Beautiful New Orleans Nature Scene

New Orleans’ beloved Uptown park has lived in the shadows of City Park’s fame since 1871, when the city purchased the land. Did you know that the original name for Audubon Park was "Upper City Park?"  Over the years, the 350-acre park has blossomed into one of the most popular urban parks in the country, home to countless ancient oaks and the iconic Audubon Zoo. You could easily spend an entire day here and still feel like you’ve only caught a glimpse of what Audubon offers. Luckily, this historic park is open daily, so you can get your nature fix on whenever you’d like.

When you want to escape the noise of the city, but you don't want to stray too far away, Audubon Park is the answer.

The 350-acre park is full of beautiful scenery and history.

Fun fact: The area was originally a plantation owned by Pierre Foucher, who fled to France just before the Civil War and was never seen in Louisiana again. The plantation deteriorated over the years, and was even used by both Confederate and Union soldiers during the war. The Union military used it as a military hospital for five years. For about ten years after the war, the space bounced back and forth in ownership between wealthy New Orleanians before the city finally purchased it in 1871.

Known for its alleys of ancient oaks, Audubon Park is a nature lover's paradise.

Speaking of oak trees, there's one oak in particular that's a must see, and that's the Tree of Life, the Grand Dame of Audubon oaks.

It's a bit of a rite of passage growing up in New Orleans to spend your childhood climbing all along these majestic branches. This beauty is roughly 500 years old and has survived countless hurricanes, flooding, and kids. If these branches could talk!

Three different playgrounds ensure the little ones will be entertained.

There's even a stable where you can learn to ride horses!

One of the biggest attractions to the park is the 1.5-mile walking path that circles around the park.

There are also several fitness stations peppered around the path, so you can get a full-body workout in.

Of course, there's nothing better than parking it on one of the many benches overlooking the waterways.

And at the end of your day, head over to the hidden gem of the park, Riverside Park.

Located within Audubon Park, this little slice of paradise is more commonly known as "The Fly" and the sprawling green space is the perfect spot to kick back with your loved ones and catch a Crescent City sunset.

For more information, be sure to check out their website, and don't forget to give them a follow on Facebook.

What are your favorite memories from Audubon Park? Share them in the comments!