The Garden District might be just a short streetcar ride from the French Quarter, but it feels like a world away thanks to its collection of gardens, parks, canals and fountains. Perhaps New Orleans' prettiest place to stroll, the Garden District was built on plantation land in the early part of the 19th century. Newly arrived Yankees, who were excluded from Creole society, created their own city, building beautiful antebellum mansions surrounded by magnificent gardens. Now this is one of New Orleans’ most desired neighbourhoods and has been beautifully preserved in a Historic Landmark District. Although most homes are not open to the public (though there are occasionally tours on offer through the local tourist office), it's most definitely worth a walk through the neighbourhood to enjoy a peaceful break from more raucous areas of New Orleans.

Away from the beautifully preserved mansions in the Upper Garden District, some of the neighbourhood's cottages and small homes nearer the river retain original 19th-century architecture and have been turned into antique shops, boutiques and cafés. There are also plenty of attractions such as George Washington Cable House on Eighth Street. Washington was a writer who portrayed early Creole life. Visitors should also head to the above-ground tombs at Lafayette Cemetery No. 1. The graveyard has been in continual use since 1833 and is considered one of the most beautiful in the city.

Souvenir hunters should make a bee-line for Magazine Street, near the southern border of the district, while St. Charles Avenue to the north has fashionable restaurants and bars.

The Garden District is a wonderful place for a stroll, and tours are often available. The Garden District is easily accessible by car, streetcar, and city bus, or on foot from the CBD or Uptown. It's easy and free to park your car on any side street.