Review: New Orleans Garden District in 45 Minutes – A Quick Tour

So, if you have got hardly any time but want to experience the serene loveliness of New Orleans’ Garden District, is that even doable? Apparently, very much so. I recently tried squeezing a visit in between appointments and, actually, found that with a little planning, you can soak up quite a bit in about 45 minutes. Let’s just call it a “whirlwind wander,” rather than a detailed examination, but you’ll still get a fantastic feel for this elegant neighborhood.

Getting There and Starting Smart

Okay, so first things first: getting to the Garden District quickly. The St. Charles Avenue Streetcar is, obviously, an option. This, really, gives you a scenic introduction, though depending on where you’re coming from, you will want to budget travel time. For speed, a taxi or rideshare app might be a better bet. Have your driver drop you at the intersection of Washington Avenue and Prytania Street. From there, you could explore on foot.

A little bit of pre-planning helps a bunch, too. Search online for a simple map highlighting a few key houses and architectural styles. Maybe, take a screen shot on your phone. Then, you have got it handy. Believe me, so this little prep makes the best use of your limited time.

A Speedy Stroll Down Prytania

Start walking down Prytania Street. You may want to take in the beautiful mansions that line the road. In a way, is that each house almost seems to compete with the next in terms of ornate ironwork and grand columns. You will want to really pay attention to the architectural styles, very. You might notice Greek Revival, Italianate, and Queen Anne styles often mixed together. See those broad porches? Obviously, so they are perfect for sipping a cool drink and watching the world go. So, you get an insight into that relaxed southern lifestyle.

Specifically, admire the detail on these homes. Look for cornices, brackets, and the overall symmetry that define classic architecture. As a matter of fact, the homes here have stories to tell, reflecting the history and culture of New Orleans.

Turning onto First Street: Literary Landmarks

So, after a short stroll on Prytania, turn onto First Street. Basically, you find literary history right here. The Edgar Degas House, where the French Impressionist painter stayed, might be one highlight (though, that is said, a proper tour does require more time). What you could, maybe, admire is the exterior and the general ambiance of the street. Anyway, is that many famous writers and personalities have either lived or visited the homes here.

Very quickly spot the Louise S. McGehee School. The buildings there have an appeal, anyway. The structures definitely represent New Orleans architecture.

Washington Avenue: A Glimpse of Lafayette Cemetery No. 1

Turn right onto Washington Avenue. A key highlight awaits – Lafayette Cemetery No. 1. Still, that 45 minutes don’t allow for a proper wander inside. You might sneak a peek through the gates. What is easily visible are the above-ground tombs and the slightly eerie vibe of this Cities of the Dead. By the way, the cemetery showcases some interesting monument architecture and serves as a reminder of the city’s complex history. Be that as it might, admire the setting from the street.

Back to Prytania: A Final Flourish

As you turn back toward Prytania, is that you will see Commander’s Palace restaurant on the corner. Even if, apparently, there isn’t enough time for a leisurely meal (or even a quick turtle soup), the building itself is a stunner. Usually, what people tend to admire is the bright blue-and-white façade. See if that captures the essence of Garden District elegance. So, take another moment to appreciate the surrounding homes. Those homes stand like proud sentinels, basically.

Reflections on a Flash Visit

So, clearly, is that 45 minutes is hardly enough to really “do” the Garden District. You kind of get a nice taste, a preview, actually, to see if you want to return. As a matter of fact, I definitely left wanting more. The great homes, so full of historical resonance. Plus, is that Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 is now calling for a proper tour another day. Maybe, if your time is short, basically, you can still enjoy this historic New Orleans neighborhood. Anyway, with planning, that neighborhood can still enchant and intrigue, in fact.