Few American cities have more of a sense of place than New Orleans does, and part of that magic is undoubtedly centered in the French Quarter. This iconic section of the city is a mere 0.66 square miles and measures about 13 by six blocks, but it holds so much history, architecture, shopping, gastronomy and fun!
Many visitors start their exploration of the French Quarter in Jackson Square, facing the Mississippi River. Front and center is the famed St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest continuously active Roman Catholic cathedral in the country. Entry is free during its posted open hours.
The streets of New Orleans' dynamic French Quarter. (Photo Credit: Paul Broussard)
For museum lovers, there are several options in the Quarter. The Historic New Orleans Collection (520 Royal Street) boasts one of the most photographed courtyards in the city, as well as an exhibit on the neighborhood’s history. There are also rotating exhibits on topics such as jazz, Carnival and Creole architecture.
At the Pharmacy Museum (514 Chartres Street), located in the former shop of the country’s first licensed pharmacist you can see surgical instruments, apothecary jars and a soda fountain. Or the New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint (400 Esplanade Avenue) is in a building that minted currency for the U.S. and the Confederacy.
Bourbon Street sign in the French Quarter. (Photo Credit: Jeff Anding)
Another fascinating stop is St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, New Orleans’ oldest surviving cemetery, established in 1789. Visiting the cemetery takes a bit of advance planning, as visitors are required to enter with a licensed tour guide or an archdiocese-approved tour.
Food is always a great option in the Quarter, and many well-loved restaurants here are housed in historic buildings. Some options include Café Du Monde, Antoine’s, Tableau, Muriel’s Jackson Square, Arnaud’s and Napolean House.
Having cocktails in New Orleans' French Quarter. (Photo Credit: Zack Smith)
For music, check out the incredible Preservation Hall, located in an 1817 building at 726 St. Peter Street, where nightly jazz shows have run since 1961. It’s well worth booking tickets in advance, as the theater is small and can sell out quickly. There’s also a nice selection of vinyl albums to purchase here.
And if quieter times are desired, check out the tomes at Faulkner House Books, where William Fualkner wrote his first novel back in 1925.
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