Crescent Park in New Orleans was a project six years in the making. The results, unveiled in 2014, were worth the wait. Enter at the Piety Street Bridge in Bywater if you want the full transporting effect of crossing over an artfully oxidized arch designed by Tanzanian architect David Adjaye. From the ground, it looks like nothing could possibly be on the other side of this rusted-out rail yard. Then you cross over the bridge and, like ✨magic✨, you’re plunked into 20 acres of lush greenery, blooming flowers, biking and jogging paths, and sweeping views of the mighty Mississippi. The landscaping runs from Elysian Fields Avenue to Mazant Street, but this segment in particular feels like a secret garden. (If you’re in the Bywater area, treat yo’self right and hit up some of our favorite eating and drinking establishments: Pizza Delicious, N7, and Red’s Chinese chief among them.)

1008 N. Peters St., New Orleans, LA; 504-522-2621.