Explore Woldenberg Park- Next to the Mighty Mississippi River (New Orleans, LA)

The Mighty Mississippi River is truly America’s cultural identity and a cultural treasure. From history to literature, it has been the backdrop for countless American stories.
 

 
When in New Orleans, easily experience the Mississippi River in all its natural splendor and historical significance along the riverfront area next to the French Quarter. Visitors can enjoy comprehensive views, various activities, and public art along the park and walkways. Within the riverfront area is a beautiful park called Woldenberg Park. The 16 acres of sprawling green space stretches between the French Quarter and the river.

 The park was named after philanthropist Malcom Woldenberg who sponsored the development of the park. It used to be an industrial area with a port and storage, but was transformed into a park along the river. The park opened to the public in 1984, but construction of the park did not finish until the early 1990s.

 
 The site of today’s Woldenberg Park used to be floodwalls, industrial docks, warehouses. The area’s transformation into a park with lush greenery, bricked walkways, and public art helps it attract around 7 million people each year.

 Next to the Mississippi River is the “Moonwalk,” a paved riverside path named for former New Orleans mayor Maurice “Moon” Landrieu. The path remains popular with joggers, bicyclers, and others wanting a relaxing stroll with a great view of the river. Visitors can find a seat on several benches, grassy areas, or even nearby rocks and watch the busy river traffic of barges, tugboats, tankers, freighters, and cruise ships making their way up and down the Mississippi.

 
Woldenberg Park has a collection of sculptures and other artwork that bring beauty and culture into the green area. Notable objects include a bronze statue of Malcolm Woldenberg and “Ocean Song,” a stainless steel sculpture created by a local artist to symbolize the motion of water. Other noteworthy objects in the park include “Monument to the Immigrant,” “Old Man River,” and the city’s Holocaust Memorial. Located outside the nearby IMAX theater and Audubon Aquarium of the Americas are a number of other sculptures that depict marine life.

A new 90-foot water fountain opened in Woldenberg Park in front of the Aquarium in 2015. The fountain makes the perfect place for kids to cool off while running around on a hot summer day. Depending on the weather, the fountain is usually open during the Aquarium’s operating hours. During nighttime events on the plaza, it is enhanced with 30 different light shows.

 
The beautiful park is a popular setting for weddings and wedding photo shoots, with the Mississippi River in the background. The park is often crowded with people walking or jogging or watching live performances that are held during the day. The park entertains many people, whether they are exercising or just relaxing. If you are looking for a less crowded jog or quiet stroll, visit the park in the morning, which also happens to be one of the best times for watching the fog roll off the Mississippi.
 
The Park hosts a number of events and festivals throughout the year. Most famous is the French Quarter Fest, held each April. Smaller and more intimate concerts are held at the park’s outdoor amphitheater.

 
Woldenberg Park begins at Canal Street and the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas and is situated between the Mississippi River and the streets of the French Quarter. It stretches down the river past Jackson Square and the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park to around St. Philip St.

 
The Holocaust Memorial stands in memory of all the Jewish people who were killed during the Holocaust. Other attractions within vicinity of the park include Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, Entergy Giant Screen Theater, and Audubon Zoo.