As the festive season draws near, the air in New Orleans becomes filled with an electric buzz of holiday excitement. Amidst the iconic streets and historic neighborhoods, there’s a unique and charming way to celebrate Christmas with the family: a Christmas tree scavenger hunt in the heart of downtown New Orleans.
This became a treasured holiday tradition for our family that we have enjoyed year after year. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the vibrant and spirited journey of navigating through the city’s festive landscape, seeking out beautifully adorned Christmas trees, and reveling in the unique cultural delights New Orleans has to offer during this special season. Get ready to uncover the best-kept secrets, hidden gems, and the most beautifully decorated trees that will surely ignite the holiday spirit in every member of your family.
Over the year friends would ask for a list of all of the hotels our family would visit. Several years ago I came up with a map to make it even easier for families to join in the fun. Let’s unwrap the details of this heartwarming and magical experience, as we explore the joy, wonder, and unity that comes from embarking on a Christmas tree scavenger hunt in the heart of downtown New Orleans.
Christmas Tree Scavenger Hunt Route
The Roosevelt Hotel – 130 Roosevelt Way – trees and a gingerbread house. This is the premier place in New Orleans for Christmas pictures. It is always beautifully decorated and just a sight to see as the entire lobby is covered in lights.
Ritz Carleton – 921 Canal Street – beautiful ceiling designs in the lobby (3rd floor) and outdoor décor. You can also walk through their gingerbread house and they have samples sometimes.
The Astor Crown Plaza – 739 Canal Street – we didn’t go in this one but it is on the route.
Canal Place – 333 Canal Street – Enormous multi story Christmas tree right outside of Saks.
Miracle on Fulton – 228 Poydras Street – Life Sized ornament to walk through and snow every 20 minutes.
The Loews Hotel – 300 Poydras Street – Gorgeous Gingerbread house and metallic trees.
Le Meridian New Orleans – 333 Poydras Street – take a picture on their fountain and tag them on social media
The Windsor Court – 300 Gravier Street – Always beautiful florals and you can stop for tea
The Sheraton – 500 Canal Street – Don’t miss out on the secret Rodrigue gallery. Let me know if you can find it!
What to do after…
After the exhilarating Christmas tree scavenger hunt in downtown New Orleans, there are plenty of wonderful ways to continue the festive celebrations with your family. Here are some fantastic ideas:
Luna Fete – Coming Back in 2026
Luna Fête is a dazzling, immersive celebration of lights that enchants New Orleans each December and it is simply one of my favorite events. The event will be hosted by the Ernest Morial Convention Center this year on the pedestrian parkway. Visitors are invited into a realm where traditional holiday lights meet cutting-edge technology, creating a mesmerizing spectacle for all ages.
NOLA Christmas Fest
This is one of the boys favorite Christmas events and they ask to go each year. This enchanting indoor winter wonderland is held completely indoors. From the awe-inspiring holiday displays including a Gingerbread Village, Giant Wreath and Tree to a newly designed ice-skating rink, exciting Carnival rides, and delightful holiday entertainment, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
Celebration in the Oaks
Celebration in the Oaks will be taking place this year from November 23rd through December 30th. City Park’s largest fundraiser, Celebration in the Oaks, is THE New Orleans holiday family tradition. This incredible light festival has enchanted Park visitors since the 1980s and is vital to the Park’s maintenance, care, and beautification year round. Make memories with your loved ones in City Park this holiday season.
Audubon Zoo Christmas Lights
I keep this event on the list because I truly hope they will bring it back in the next few years.
Happy holidays and may the magic of this Christmas tree scavenger hunt in downtown New Orleans continue to brighten your family’s memories for years to come!
XO,
Tiffany
Looking to join in on all the holiday fun check out our Holiday Guide!
{Editors Note: This post was updated on 11/28/20 – 11/16/19}
This is beautiful! Would love to be able to do this with you guys maybe next year!