





Longue Vue House and Gardens is an internationally recognized historic house museum and eight-acre gardens, offering a stunning example of Classical Revival architecture and diverse horticultural artistry in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Longue Vue House and Gardens is an internationally recognized historic house museum and eight-acre gardens, offering a stunning example of Classical Revival architecture and diverse horticultural artistry in New Orleans, Louisiana. This exceptional estate, once the residence of philanthropists Edith and Edgar Stern, provides a unique glimpse into early 20th-century American grandeur and a deeply integrated indoor-outdoor living experience. It's a testament to the collaborative vision of its owners, renowned landscape architect Ellen Biddle Shipman, and architects William and Geoffrey Platt.
The eight acres of gardens are a masterpiece of design, showcasing multiple distinct "garden rooms" like the Spanish Court with its fourteen fountains inspired by Spain's Alhambra, the vibrant Yellow Garden, and the tranquil Wild Garden. Visitors can explore a collection of over 3,500 Louisiana irises, winter-blooming camellias, native wildflowers, and carefully curated botanical displays designed to offer beauty year-round. The estate also features an interactive Discovery Garden, specifically designed to engage children with nature and gardening.
Longue Vue is more than just a beautiful estate; it's a living museum where nearly every room of the grand manor provides a view of the enchanting gardens outside. The house itself is filled with original furnishings, English and American antiques, European art, and technological marvels of its era, offering an immersive journey into the past. It's a memorable destination that seamlessly blends architectural elegance, horticultural diversity, and a rich historical narrative, inviting guests to explore, learn, and find tranquility. Eager to name that creature? Identify any animal you find during your visit using the Snappit app.
Longue Vue House and Gardens was born from the vision of Edgar and Edith Stern, prominent New Orleans philanthropists. The Sterns acquired the property in 1921 and initially built a smaller home. However, inspired by their extensive travels through Europe and Africa in the 1930s, particularly the house-and-garden sites in Spain, they decided to create a grander estate. The current Classical Revival style house, designed by architects William and Geoffrey Platt, was constructed between 1939 and 1942, while the gardens were meticulously shaped by renowned landscape architect Ellen Biddle Shipman from 1935 until her death in 1950. The Sterns were intimately involved in every phase of development, ensuring a cohesive design where the house and gardens flowed seamlessly together. The estate was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2005. Edith Stern actively sought to preserve Longue Vue for public enjoyment, establishing the Longue Vue Foundation in 1965 for educational purposes. The gardens first opened to the public on a limited basis in 1968 while Mrs. Stern still resided there, and the house itself opened as a nonprofit historic house museum in 1980, a year after her passing. Longue Vue continues its mission to preserve and share this legacy of design, community, and lifelong learning.
Take a guided tour of the house to appreciate its architecture, art, and the Stern family's story. Stroll through the various garden rooms, each offering a distinct aesthetic and plant palette. Engage with the interactive elements in the Discovery Garden. Look for the Goldfish Pond, an early landscaped area perfect for reflection and wildlife observation.
Spring: Peak bloom for camellias and Louisiana irises.
Summer: Lush green foliage, vibrant tropical plantings, and opportunities for children's activities in the Discovery Garden.
Fall: Cooler temperatures make for pleasant walking, and seasonal changes in some plant displays.
Winter: Winter-blooming camellias provide color. The structured beauty of the gardens remains, and the house tours offer a cozy indoor experience.
Longue Vue is committed to ensuring access for all, offering features such as handicapped accessibility. The property is generally traversable, though some garden paths might be gravel. Visitors are encouraged to contact the venue for specific accessibility needs.
Explore 20 rooms filled with original furnishings, English and American antiques, European art, and contemporary collections, including pieces by artists like Pablo Picasso. Marvel at early 20th-century technological innovations like the central air conditioning system.
This formal garden, inspired by the Generalife at the Alhambra, features distinctive reflecting pools and 14 fountains, offering a serene and picturesque setting. Keep an eye out for Lin Emery's kinetic sculpture, "Arabesque," within this garden.
A unique and historic space, one of the only remaining "Wild Gardens" designed by Ellen Biddle Shipman, showcasing native Louisiana plants, wildflowers, and a collection of over 3,500 Louisiana irises. It also features the Pigeonnier, a charming focal point.
An interactive children's garden designed for hands-on learning and play, with pollinator plants, seasonal edibles, and jumbo lawn games.
Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.
Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be walking across eight acres of gardens, including some gravel paths.
Plan your visit
Consider taking a guided house tour (tours begin at scheduled times) and then exploring the gardens at your own pace.
Check the events calendar
Longue Vue hosts various workshops, wellness classes, and family events; check their website for current offerings.
Visit the Discovery Garden with kids
It's a fantastic hands-on area designed to engage younger visitors.
Bring water and snacks
Especially during warmer months, staying hydrated is important. Some areas are perfect for a picnic.
Allow for quiet contemplation
Many garden spaces, like the Goldfish Pond or the Loggia in the Spanish Court, are designed for peaceful reflection.
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Massachusetts, US
You might spot Virginia Bluebells and Great Golden Digger Wasp.
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Maryland, US
You might spot White-Tailed Deer and Japanese Knotweed.
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Illinois, US
You might spot White Mulberry, House Finch, and Scissor Grinder.
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Maryland, US
You might spot Great Blue Heron, Eastern Bluebird, and White-Tailed Deer.
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