Louis Armstrong Park

The basics

Louis Armstrong Park sits in the Tremé neighborhood of New Orleans, known for its African American and Creole heritage. It is easy to visit during a day of sightseeing, especially with its proximity to other attractions such as St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 and St. Louis Cathedral. Several city tours—such as Segway tours, walking tours, and jazz tours—include the park.

One of the park’s best-known attractions is Congo Square. Listed on the US National Register of Historic Places, the open space was once a gathering point for both enslaved and free Black people, where they could socialize, sell goods, and make music together. Other points of interest in the park include the Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts and the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park.

Things to know before you go

• The park is bordered by Rampart, St. Philip, St. Peter, Basin, and North Villere streets.
• The main entrance is where St. Ann Street meets Rampart Street.
• There is a bike-share station on Rampart Street—a great way to get around town.

How to get there

You can walk from the French Quarter—just across Rampart Street—or take one of the city bus lines that stops on Rampart Street.

When to get there

The park is open from dawn to dusk. Events take place throughout the year, such as food and music festivals, concerts, Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebrations, and weddings.

Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts

Named for renowned gospel singer Mahalia Jackson, who grew up in New Orleans, this theater has been a cultural center since 1973, and underwent major renovations after being damaged during Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Still the city’s leading venue for live performances, the theater is home to Broadway shows, opera, ballet, the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, and the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra, as well as touring musicians and comedians.

Ways to explore

Louis Armstrong Park is located within New Orleans’ Tremé neighborhood. It is easy to visit during a day of sightseeing, thanks to its proximity to other key attractions such as St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 and St. Louis Cathedral. Several city tours feature a stop at the park on their itineraries, including walking and bike tours. Many tours focus on a specific theme, such as ghosts, crimes, or the city’s musical heritage and jazz scene. The park’s connection to New Orleans’ music scene makes it a great place to stroll through between visiting nearby attractions, plus it hosts occasional live performances and public art.

Accessibility

Many of the paths in the park are wide, flat, and wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Bottled water, snacks, power bank

What to wear

Comfortable footwear, layered casual clothing

Not allowed

Littering, climbing on statues

Amenities

Restrooms, picnic areas, walking paths

Address

Louis Armstrong Park is in the Tremé neighborhood, just north of the French Quarter. It’s an easy walk from downtown New Orleans and is also accessible by streetcar, rideshare, or guided walking tours of the area.

Driving

If traveling to Louis Armstrong Park by car from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, follow the I-10 E for around 20 minutes. Parking can be limited, so a rideshare may be a better option.

Public transportation

If traveling by public transportation, there are multiple stops nearby, such as the N. Rampart Street at St. Ann Street stop, which is served by tram line 46 or buses 8, 55, and 91.

Best times to visit

The park typically becomes busier throughout the day, so arrive in the morning for a more peaceful experience.

Best days to visit

Aim for a weekday to experience fewer crowds and more space to enjoy the paths, parks, and picnic spots.

Best months to visit

The spring months of March through May are best for the weather. If you want fewer crowds, plan a trip for October or November.

Special events

Festivals and special events: There are year-round events at the park’s Congo Square, including The Congo Square Rhythms Festival (typically in March).