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Mid-City, New Orleans Tours

What is Mid-City?

Mid-City is a residential part of New Orleans that boasts some of the best spots in the city. With a mix of green spaces, historic architecture, and even its very own bayou, Mid-City is a unique New Orleans neighborhood with some great hidden gems. In this blog, we take you through the great features of the one and only Mid-City.

City Park

Nestled amongst New Orleans neighborhoods and buildings is City Park: A green oasis in the Big Easy. The iconic City Park is arguably one of the better New Orleans recreational areas. The park spans 1,300 acres and offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park has something for everyone, it is very kid and dog friendly so it’s a perfect place to bring your family and friends. If you want more of a solo experience, the park is a great place to sit under an oak tree and catch up on that book you have been meaning to get to. City Park is also way more than just a park, within its 1,300 acres is NOMA (New Orleans Museum of Art) and Big Lake (literally a big lake). There is also a cultivated sculpture garden in the park so there really is something for everyone. Be sure to check it out if you find yourself looking for new things to do in New Orleans.

New Orleans Museum of Art

Also located in City Park is the New Orleans Museum of Art, otherwise known as NOMA. The museum originally opened in 1911, making it the city’s oldest fine arts institution. Years of cultivation has grown this impressive museum home to over 50,000 artworks. NOMA’s collection is a mixing pot of French and American art, photography, glasswork, and African and Japanese cultural pieces as well. Additionally, right outside of NOMA is the twelve-acre Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden which is one of the most prominent sculpture installations in the United States with over 90 sculptures. NOMA is a must-see and a classic staple of Mid-City experiences.

Mid-City Art Scene

It’s no secret that New Orleans has one of the most diverse and cultured art scenes in the United States. The city is peppered with new studios, galleries, and pop-up art installations, and Mid-City is just another part of the city to explore unique art. The thriving art scene of Mid-City is full of new galleries and installations so be sure to look up what is going on in the art world when you visit. Some of the best studios are found through an aimless stroll around the Mid-City neighborhoods.

Historical Gems

Like the rest of New Orleans and its 400-year-old history, Mid-City is rich with lore. Some of the oldest sites in the city are located in Mid-City such as the famous Lafayette Cemetery or the Fair Grounds Racecourse (Fun Fact: this is where New Orleans hosts Jazz Fest). See another side of New Orleans history by exploring the cemetery through a guided tour where you can find out about New Orleans’ unique burial traditions.

Neighborhood Festivities

New Orleans knows how to have a good time. With over 130 annual festivals a year, it’s a no-brainer that Mid-City would be home to some of those festivals. There is a wide variety of festivals in Mid-City that happen throughout the year, but one of the most popular ones is the annual Mid-City Bayou Boogaloo which is a music and arts festival that happens on the banks of Bayou St. John. The entire neighborhood and surrounding New Orleanians come together for a celebration of great food and funky music. If you happen to be in New Orleans during the time of Bayou Boogaloo, be sure to head to Mid-City to enjoy this fun-filled festival.

Culinary Spotlight

As you may know, New Orleans has one of the most unique (and tasty) food scenes in the entire country. From Creole cuisine to Cajun delights, there is something for everyone to try in the Big Easy. To make things a bit easier for you, here is a detailed list of the best eats in Mid-City.

• Blue Oak BBQ: This Barbecue joint is a must-visit restaurant if you are in Mid-City,  Blue Oak offers a diverse selection of perfectly smoked meats, with a laid-back family friendly environment. We recommend the spicy chicken sandwich or the brisket plate. P.S. The sides steal the show, especially with their brussels sprouts and deliciously creamy creole mac and cheese.
• Cafe Degas: A French-creole fusion restaurant, Cafe Degas is an elegant dining experience that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. The ambiance of this restaurant is enchanting with a charming courtyard should you want an outdoor dining experience. Be sure to check out this Mid-City gem.
• Parkway Bakery and Tavern: Opened in 1911, Parkway Bakery and Tavern is a New Orleans classic. You’d have a hard time finding a more authentic po-boy than anywhere other than Parkway.
• Mid-City Pizza: If you want a more casual dining option, head over to Mid-City Pizza for a casual slice and an ice-cold beer. Mid-City Pizza offers a unique variety of pizzas with creative topping options and a hefty selection of craft beers.
• Katie’s Restaurant and Bar: Katie’s is a creole-Italian fusion restaurant that provides hearty and generous portions, signature craft cocktails, and an endearing neighborhood vibe.

Just Another Reason to Visit New Orleans

Between food, fun, friends, and festivals, Mid-City is just another amazing neighborhood in the unforgettable New Orleans. Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll in City Park, check out the art scene at NOMA, get funky at Bayou Boogaloo, or unleash your inner foodie at some of the most iconic New Orleans restaurants, Mid-City has it all. The eclectic neighborhood will be sure to show you a good time with all of its diversity and good old southern hospitality. Mid-City truly captures the lively spirit of New Orleans and is not a place to gloss over when you visit. Your journey to the Big Easy would not be complete without a tour of Mid-City so be sure to check it out and until next time, laissez les bon temps rouler! Our New Orleans city tours are a great way to see some of Mid-City’s best gems.