Explore the Lafitte Greenway: Your Ultimate Guide to New Orleans’ 2.6‑mile Urban Trail
New Orleans is a city rich with parks and public spaces amidst its urban setting. The Lafitte Greenway is a 2.6-mile linear park running from Mid-City to the foot of the French Quarter. When traversing the trail by foot or on two wheels, you’ll run into restaurants and retail shops, exercise groups and designated play areas, farmers markets and green spaces. Experience the greenway in New Orleans with our guide below.
Lafitte Greenway Plaza
One of the newest additions to the greenway is the plaza located right off the banks of Bayou St. John. The new pedestrian plaza features a small stage for entertainment along with public art. The space is also home to the weekly Mid-City Farmers Market (held on Thursday afternoons) and will host future events to come. A respite spot along the greenway, the plaza offers a relaxing environment in an ideal setting.
Food & Drink
If you get hungry or thirsty on the greenway, you’re in luck – the path is lined with coffee shops, breweries and nearby restaurants. French Truck and HEY Coffee Co. are two great options for coffee and a snack along the greenway. Second Line Brewing, Wrong Iron and Bayou Beer and Wine Gardens offer ample outdoor seating and delicious craft beers options. Sample flights of beer, cocktails on tap and food from pop-up vendors and food trucks at these locations. Venture just off the greenway for an upscale dining experience at Rosedale or Ralph’s on the Park.
Recreation
There are plenty of options for rest and recreation along the greenway. The New Orleans Recreation Department has a variety of facilities open for public use, including playgrounds, fitness parks, tennis courts, basketball courts, a swimming pool and sports fields. Fitness programming and classes, including yoga and boxing, have shaped up along the greenway as well. Check out what’s on the fitness schedule here. The greenway itself provides an opportunity for all to get some exercise in, whether it be by running, biking, rollerblading or simply walking. The Lafitte Greenway is ADA accessible.
History & Culture
Running through the historically Black neighborhood of Tremé, the greenway is next door to culturally rich museums and historic sites. Check out our guide to the Tremé neighborhood. The greenway itself ends at the foot of the French Quarter (or begins, depending on which way you’re traveling). It opens to one of New Orleans’ best public spaces: Louis Armstrong Park and Congo Square. The combined 32-acre space serves as a ground for festivals and picnics, an urban oasis that contrasts the nearby hustle and bustle of the French Quarter. You’ll also find the Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts within the park, named for the late singer and Civil Rights activist of the same name.
For more information and a map of the Lafitte Greenway, click here.
