Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden Tours and Tickets

There are plenty of ways to experience the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• New Orleans Small-Group City and Cemetery Tour with Hotel Pickup

• New Orleans City and Cemetery Bus Tour

• New Orleans Private City and Cemetery Tour - Up to 24 Passengers

It’s free to visit the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden on your own—no tickets or reservations are required. For a deeper experience, consider a tour. Small-group city tours that stop at the garden start at around US$55, while private art or architecture-focused tours with hotel pickup and drop-off will cost more.

Yes, free parking is available along Lelong Drive near the entrance to the sculpture garden. Additional parking is available throughout New Orleans City Park. Arrive early on weekends or during special events, as spots can fill up quickly—especially near the New Orleans Museum of Art—so it’s always a good idea to plan ahead.

The Besthoff Sculpture Garden is open daily from 10am to 6pm, with extended hours during select events. The sculpture garden is closed on major holidays. Hours may vary slightly by season or weather conditions, so it’s a good idea to check the official website before your visit.

No, picnicking is not allowed at the Bestoff Sculpture Garden. But, the good news is you’ll find plenty of shaded benches and seating areas for relaxing. For a picnic-style break, nearby areas within City Park—including Big Lake and the Great Lawn—offer open green space just a short walk from the garden.

Plan to spend 2–3 hours exploring the Besthoff Sculpture Garden at a relaxed pace. With more than 90 works of art set among winding paths, live oaks, magnolias, and pines, the experience feels more like a journey than a gallery visit. Take your time—this is a place meant to be savored.