The Best Guide To French Quarter New Orleans

The French Quarter district is where most visitors and travelers choose to stay in New Orleans because it is the city's center and one of its most well-liked areas. It gained its name right after the Louisiana Purchase owing to the French settlers in this area. Renowned for having a long history and is also known as Vieux Carré, this is New Orleans' oldest neighborhood.

Visit the French Market, browse gorgeous antique shops, eat at a local eatery while sipping a cocktail, or go to Bourbon Street to hear the greatest New Orleans jazz music at some of the best clubs and bars. There are also several fantastic Cajun restaurants in this area. Here are the top places to visit in the French Quarter, and also some must-do activities there.

Top 5 Places To Visit In French Quarter New Orleans

Bourbon Street

One of the most happening streets in New Orleans is the renowned Bourbon Street, famous for its bustling bars, rich historic buildings, and parties that rage throughout the night. Enjoy delicious French Creole food at the luxurious Galatoire’s Restaurant, enjoy delicious beignets at the famous Cafe Du Monde, or stroll through the neighborhood to take in the unique architecture. Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop and One Absinthe House are two of the most popular bars on the street and we highly recommend grabbing a few cocktails from these bars.

Jackson Square

This National Historic Landmark is a significant landmark that overlooks the Mississippi River and is located close to St. Louis Cathedral and The Cabildo, which was the old city hall. It was previously known as Place d'Armes in French and was renamed after Andrew Jackson who was a hero of the Battle of New Orleans. There has been a local artists' colony at the park for several years, where they display their artworks on the fence of the park, and it's a gorgeous sight to see.

Royal Street

A street that brings the past of New Orleans' French Quarter to life with its countless antique shops, ancient buildings, and rich culture, Royal Street was one of the first streets in the city. It dates back to the 18th century and influences of this time period are still evident in the street. Buy iconic crafted chandeliers, home decor, and art pieces, balk in the beauty of the song of street performers, stroll through the most stunning art galleries, dine in the most gorgeous hidden cafes, and truly dive into the history of the city. Don't miss out on trying the famous New Orleans Po-Boys at Verti Marte which is a local deli located here.

St. Louis Cathedral

St. Louis Cathedral is the oldest cathedral in North America that is still in continuous use. It was built in 1727 and was dedicated to King Louis IX of France, but it burnt down in 1794 and had to be rebuilt. It's a stunning sight to behold and is a must-visit for anyone traveling to New Orleans.

Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes And Culture

Mardi Gras is one of the most important celebrations that take place in New Orleans and if you have the chance to visit the city during the time of these celebrations, we would highly recommend doing so. This museum highlights the gorgeous and innovative costumes of Mardi Gras, and regularly hosts shows and programs that explain the significance of this festival, and we highly recommend visiting it to understand how New Orleans celebrates it.

Other Must-Do Things In The French Quarter

• Experience the most famous New Orleans food, Po Boys, at Johnny's Po Boys located on Louis Street.
• Take a tour of the 1850 house on Ann Street to experience an upper-middle-class home in the prime of New Orleans. We also recommend going to one of the many gay bars and clubs located here, like The Bourbon Pub.
• Enjoy listening to the street musicians play on Royal St, French Quarter.
• Take a ride on the iconic streetcar on Canal Street.
• Visit the iconic Louis Armstrong Park on North Rampart Street, and sip on some chicory cafe au lait at Mr. Gregory's.