Deep within the lush expanse of Audubon Park stands a botanical giant that has witnessed centuries of Crescent City history. Known formally as the Étienne de Boray Oak, this massive live oak is more affectionately dubbed the "Tree of Life" by the locals who have sought shade and adventure beneath its sprawling canopy for generations.
Its thick, gnarled limbs reach out like weathered arms, some dipping low enough to touch the earth before sweeping back toward the sky.
Why It Stands Out
While New Orleans is famous for its historic architecture, this tree is a living monument. It was named for the city's first mayor, a man instrumental in establishing the local sugarcane industry, though the tree likely predates his plantation.
The Live Oak Society, which recognizes the most significant specimens in the region, estimates this particular tree could be anywhere from 100 to 500 years old. What truly sets the Tree of Life apart from other historic oaks is its status as a community hub.
It is a premier destination for tree climbers, featuring sturdy branches often equipped with makeshift ropes or handles left behind by previous visitors. Its dramatic, drooping silhouette makes it a sought-after backdrop for wedding photography, but the most whimsical secret lies just past its trunk.
The tree sits directly against the boundary of the Audubon Zoo. If you time your visit correctly and find a high enough perch among the branches, you can look right over the enclosure wall to find yourself eye-to-eye with the zoo’s giraffes.
It is one of the few places in the world where you can climb a tree and find a safari waiting on the other side.
Before You Go
The tree is tucked away in a quieter section of Audubon Park. To find it, navigate toward the intersection where Annunciation Street terminates.
From there, look across the grassy patch near East Drive. The tree is accessible during park hours, but if you are hoping to catch a glimpse of the giraffes, your best bet is during the daylight hours when the zoo animals are most active in their outdoor habitats.
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