A New Riverside Park in the French Quarter: Goldring Woldenberg Riverfront Park
The French Quarter just gained one of its most beautiful new destinations, and we couldn't be more thrilled to have it as a neighbor. Goldring Woldenberg Riverfront Park—16 acres of sprawling green space stretching between the Mississippi River and the historic French Quarter—is now fully open, and it's a wonderful new reason to explore the riverfront during your stay at Jean Lafitte House.
A Green Escape Along the Mississippi
Goldring Woldenberg Riverfront Park was designed with a simple but lovely purpose: to give everyone beautiful, easy, and enjoyable access to the riverfront. Spanning 16 acres along the water, it's a place to escape, unwind, and soak in the unique atmosphere that only New Orleans can offer.
The park's riverside jogging path has quickly become a favorite among city dwellers, whether for a morning run, a leisurely stroll, or simply a scenic walk with the Mississippi rolling by. Throughout the grounds, you'll find sculptures and artwork that add a distinctly New Orleans creative flair. And in true Crescent City fashion, don't be surprised if your visit includes the sights and sounds of a strolling band, an impromptu second line, or even a bustling festival.
Amenities and Things to Do
The park has been developed in phases, and both are now complete—meaning visitors have the full experience to enjoy:
A 90-foot linear water feature – Set in front of Audubon Aquarium, this striking feature is open during Aquarium business hours (weather permitting). On steamy summer days, it's a destination for kids to run through and cool off, and in the evenings it comes alive with five varying light shows for events on the plaza.
Spectacular river views – The park opens up sweeping views of the Mississippi River and the city that hadn't been visible for generations, greatly enhancing the riverfront experience.
A Louisiana marsh-themed playground – A creative, region-inspired play space that's perfect for families traveling with children.
The NOLA Front Porch – An open-air covered venue that captures the welcoming spirit of a classic New Orleans porch.
Shaded seating and cooling misters – Thoughtful touches that make relaxing outdoors comfortable, even in the Louisiana heat.
Expanded green space and new park areas – Room to spread out, picnic, relax, or simply enjoy the fresh plantings and enhanced landscaping.
The park is also flanked by two of the city's most popular attractions—Audubon Aquarium and Audubon Insectarium—both adjacent to the grounds. You can easily begin or end your walk with a visit to either, making for a full and memorable day along the river.
A nice piece of history worth noting: when the Aquarium first opened in 1990, supporters donated commemorative bricks to the plaza. During the park's renovation, those bricks were carefully removed and have now been returned to the plaza—so keep an eye out as you stroll; you may spot a piece of the city's collective memory underfoot.
Planning Your Visit
A few helpful things to know before you go:
Hours: The park is open daily starting at 6 AM—until 10 PM Sunday through Thursday, and until midnight on Friday and Saturday. That early opening makes it perfect for a sunrise jog along the river, while the weekend late hours are ideal for an evening stroll to catch the water feature's light shows.
Come on foot: One of the joys of staying in the French Quarter is leaving the car behind. Rather than hunting for riverfront parking, you can simply walk from the hotel and arrive relaxed—a scenic route through the Quarter delivers you right to the green space.
Pair it with the Aquarium or Insectarium: Since both sit right alongside the park, it's easy to combine a riverside walk with a visit indoors. Restrooms are available inside the Aquarium and Insectarium lobby.
A Wonderful Addition to Our Neighborhood
What makes Goldring Woldenberg Riverfront Park such a welcome addition is how perfectly it complements everything that already makes the French Quarter special. It's a place to catch your breath between adventures, a scenic spot to watch the river traffic drift past, a playground for the kids, and a stage for the spontaneous music and culture that define New Orleans—all in one beautifully designed space.
From Jean Lafitte House, the park makes for a lovely destination: a scenic walk through the heart of the Quarter brings you right to the riverfront, where you can spend an hour or an afternoon enjoying this new green oasis before heading back to explore more of the neighborhood.
Stay at Jean Lafitte House for Prime Access to the French Quarter
Goldring Woldenberg Riverfront Park is just one of the countless treasures within easy reach of Jean Lafitte House. From our historic property on Esplanade Avenue, you're perfectly positioned to explore the very best of the French Quarter—its riverfront parks, world-class museums, legendary music venues, iconic restaurants, and centuries of history, all just steps from our door.
When you stay with us, you're not just booking a room—you're planting yourself in the heart of one of America's most vibrant and walkable neighborhoods, with new discoveries like Goldring Woldenberg Riverfront Park waiting around every corner.
Ready to explore the riverside oasis and everything else the French Quarter has to offer? Book your stay at Jean Lafitte House today, and let us be your home base for an unforgettable New Orleans experience.
