When needing an escape from the fast pace of Groundwater Week 2025 and downtown New Orleans, Louisiana, head to the Garden District, an historic section of the city.
The charming area is lined with oak trees and filled with grand homes, fun shops, delicious restaurants, and a classic cemetery. It’s a step back in time and a perfect way to spend a quiet afternoon.
Getting there can be done in style. The historic green Saint Charles Streetcar goes there, and the ride winds past famous homes, the Central Business District, and Audubon Park.
The Garden District is bound by St. Charles Ave., Magazine St., Jackson Ave., and Louisiana Ave. It is a walkable area that contains a mix of single-story cottages and historic mansions, all featuring New Orleans’ classic architecture.
Spending the afternoon walking the streets is a treat. Along with the homes, there are boutiques, antique shops, fine-dining restaurants, cafes, and coffee shops on and near Magazine St.
One of the fine-dining spots is New Orleans institution, Commander’s Palace. Established in 1874, it is among the city’s most noted spots for dinner and famous for their 25-cent martinis at lunch.
The Lafayette Cemetery is worth exploring too. It is filled with ornate, 19th-century tombs, and browsing the names lets you visit generations and generations of families.
The area is easy to maneuver on your own, but there are some excellent and affordable guided walking tours. The expert guides provide an in-depth history of the district, the homes, and the cemetery.
Groundwater Week 2025 takes place in New Orleans December 9-11 and is co-locating with the Irrigation Association. Register today at GroundwaterWeek.com, and when you’re there, escape to the Garden District.