Curious visitors can have a look at secret gardens of the French Quarter. For decades, visitors and locals alike have flocked to the Vieux Carre to discover magnificent private gardens and courtyards not generally accessible to the public.

French Quarter homeowners are collaborating with Patio Planters to open eight gardens and courtyards for viewing on a self-guided walking tour that reveals how designers and residents take advantage of small spaces, adorned with greenery and flora to provide cool hideaways suited to the New Orleans climate in styles of early Spanish and French architecture. Locations of featured gardens and courtyards will be specified on a map given to participants when tickets are picked up. The event is rain or shine. his treasured ritual, disrupted by the pandemic, is returning on Saturday, May 29, for one day only on Saturday, May 29, from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Online tickets may be purchased at patioplanters.net in advance for $20 each and may be picked up on the day of the event only between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. from Creole Delicacies, 533 St. Ann Street at Jackson Square. Day-of tickets may also be purchased there for $25 each, based on availability. Children under 12 are free; cash and/or credit cards may be used.

Advanced tickets or day-of sales will also be offered from May 12-May 29 at French Quarter Gem & Lapidary, 527 St. Philip Street, from 11 am-3 pm, via cash or credit cards. Due to social distancing mandates, a limited number of tickets will be sold and there is no guarantee that tickets will be available on May 29 at either location. Buying tickets online ensures access.

This outdoor tour includes gardens and courtyards only, with no access to homes or indoor spaces. Due to narrow entrances, maneuvering strollers or wheelchairs may be difficult.

For additional information about the tour or Patio Planters membership, contact [email protected].