How much live oaks is enough?

Question

I love the live oaks and am really looking forward to seeing them on our trip next year. My husband isn't as interested in trees but generally pretty agreeable to whatever I plan. We plan on seeing the garden district for brunch, a stroll around the neighbourhood and to ride the streetcar. I'm wondering whether I should expect that my craving for the trees will be satisfied by this or if we should also be planning a visit to either city park or Audubon. It would be easy to get to Audubon in the same afternoon on the streetcar. I know that the really notable trees are located in these parks (singing oak, tree of life). But I'm wondering if it would feel like too much of the same for him.

Answer

The Garden District is a fantastic starting point for your live oak viewing. The streets are lined with beautiful historic homes and mature live oaks, so even a casual stroll will provide a satisfying glimpse of these iconic trees. Brunch followed by a streetcar ride around the neighborhood will give you both a relaxed way to enjoy the scenery without it feeling rushed.

However, if your goal is to see some of the most famous and distinctive live oaks, a visit to either City Park or Audubon Park is highly recommended. These parks feature remarkable specimens such as the “Singing Oak” and the “Tree of Life,” which are larger and more dramatic than what you’ll typically see on residential streets.

City Park: Offers vast open spaces with a high concentration of mature live oaks. It’s easy to spend an hour or two wandering the paths, and it’s a peaceful contrast to the bustling Garden District.
Audubon Park: Located uptown, this park features an impressive oak canopy along with beautiful walking trails. Since it’s accessible by streetcar, it’s convenient to pair with other Garden District activities.

Considering your husband may not be as excited about trees, you might plan the day so that the Garden District and brunch serve as the first part of the experience. If he’s enjoying the stroll, you could then continue to one park for a shorter visit rather than trying to do both. This keeps the day varied and enjoyable without feeling repetitive.

Option 1: Garden District + streetcar + Audubon Park in the afternoon. Gives you a mix of architecture, street scenery, and iconic oaks.
Option 2: Garden District + City Park later. Offers more open space and the chance to see particularly notable trees like the Tree of Life.
Option 3: Stick to Garden District for the morning and add a short park visit if he’s enjoying the scenery. You can always leave the other park for another day if desired.

Overall, the Garden District alone will provide a substantial live oak experience, but adding one of the parks ensures you see the most remarkable specimens without overdoing it for your husband.

How much live oaks is enough?

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