Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
conglomeration of nature attractions. With its vast array of exotic animals,
the zoo is well worth a separate visit.
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Around the 1-mile point, you'll have to cross a railroad track to get to the
south side of the park. The Riverview is commonly known as The Fly, a ref-
erence to a butterfly-shaped river-viewing shelter built in the 1960s and de-
molished in the 1980s. The area is an ideal spot for picnicking, kite-flying,
Frisbee-tossing, or relaxing with a good book. Benches line the riverfront,
giving visitors an up-close view of barges and ships traveling to and from the
Port of New Orleans.
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Make your way around The Fly, past the soccer and baseball fields, and turn
north onto Exposition Boulevard, which will take you to the southeast corner
of the park, past the tennis courts. Exposition eventually turns into East
Drive, where one of the first sites you'll see on the left (near Annunciation
Street) is the magnificent Tree of Life, one of the park's oldest trees and an-
other popular wedding venue. Although no signs identify the tree, its massive
roots and limbs, many of which droop to the ground, make it difficult to
miss. Stop at the tree and take in its beauty before continuing down the road-
way to The Labyrinth, a meditative space with a formal entry arch, walking
trail, and benches. Adjacent to the The Labyrinth are the Cascade Stables, a
state-of-the-art riding facility that offers lessons, show training, and 2-mile
guided rides around the park.
