How Long is the French Quarter?

New Orleans is a vibrant and culturally rich city located in the southeastern region of Louisiana, USA. It is home to many architectural masterpieces and historical landmarks that are famous worldwide. Among them is the French Quarter, the oldest and the most charming neighborhood in New Orleans. If you are planning a trip to the Crescent City, it is essential to know the exact length of the French Quarter to plan your itinerary efficiently. In this post, we will discuss the size and layout of the French Quarter, including the streets that define its boundaries.

What is the French Quarter?

The French Quarter, also known as Vieux Carre, is a historic neighborhood located beside the Mississippi River in New Orleans. It was founded in 1718 by the French explorer Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville and is the oldest part of the city. The French Quarter is known for its well-preserved architecture, historic landmarks, unique shops, and world-renowned restaurants. It is also famous for its vibrant nightlife and festive atmosphere, with iconic jazz clubs, street performers, and annual celebrations such as Mardi Gras.

Size and Boundaries of the French Quarter

The French Quarter is a relatively small neighborhood, covering only 78 blocks or approximately 0.66 square miles (1.7 km²). It is located on the Mississippi River’s north side and is bounded by Canal Street to the south, Rampart Street to the north, Esplanade Avenue to the east, and the Mississippi River to the west.

Canal Street

Canal Street is one of the French Quarter’s southern boundaries, stretching from the Mississippi River to the intersection with Elk Place, where the Central Business District begins. It is a major commercial thoroughfare in New Orleans, with numerous shops, hotels, and restaurants. Canal Street separates the French Quarter from the Central Business District, which is known for its skyscrapers and modern architecture.

Rampart Street

Rampart Street is one of the French Quarter’s northern boundaries, running parallel to Canal Street from the Mississippi River to Esplanade Avenue. It is a vital street in New Orleans history and culture and is home to several notable landmarks, including Armstrong Park, the Mahalia Jackson Theater of the Performing Arts, and the historic Treme neighborhood. Rampart Street separates the French Quarter from the Treme neighborhood.

Esplanade Avenue

Esplanade Avenue is one of the French Quarter’s eastern boundaries, running from the Mississippi River to the outskirts of Bayou St. John. It is one of New Orleans’s most scenic streets, lined with live oaks, historic homes, and small businesses. Esplanade Avenue separates the French Quarter from the Faubourg Marigny and the Seventh Ward neighborhoods.

The Mississippi River

The Mississippi River is one of the French Quarter’s western boundaries, and the neighborhood extends to the river’s edge. The Mississippi River is one of the world’s most significant waterways, and it played a crucial role in New Orleans’s development, commerce, and culture.

Conclusion

The French Quarter is the heart and soul of New Orleans, a charming and historic neighborhood that embodies the city’s unique culture and traditions. It is easily accessible by foot, and visitors can explore its rich history, architecture, and landmarks in a few days. Knowing the French Quarter’s size and boundaries is essential for planning your itinerary, and we hope this post has been helpful in answering the question, ‘how long is the French Quarter.

An Insider’s Guide to the French Quarter of New Orleans

If you are looking for a destination that is a perfect combination of history, culture, and nightlife, then New Orleans’ French Quarter has everything you could want and more. Located in the heart of New Orleans, the French Quarter is one of its most famous neighborhoods and is a must-see for any visitor to the city. Here is everything you need to know before you visit the French Quarter:

Attractions

The French Quarter boasts a number of iconic attractions that are worth visiting, including:

– Jackson Square: This historic square is the centerpiece of the French Quarter and is home to St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in the United States.

– Bourbon Street: Famous for its nightlife and party scene, Bourbon Street is always bustling with activity, from musicians and street performers to bars and restaurants.

– French Market: This open-air market is the oldest in America and is a great place to find unique souvenirs, local art, and delicious food.

– Preservation Hall: A historic jazz venue, Preservation Hall is one of the best places to experience traditional New Orleans jazz.

Dining

New Orleans is known for its unique cuisine, and the French Quarter is the perfect place to sample some of its most famous dishes. Here are a few dining spots you should check out:

– Café du Monde: This famous café is known for its beignets and café au lait, which are a must-try for any visitor to New Orleans.

– Brennan’s: This fine dining restaurant is famous for its brunch and is a New Orleans institution.

– Central Grocery: Home of the famous muffuletta sandwich, Central Grocery is a great spot to grab a quick bite to eat.

– Coop’s Place: This casual restaurant is known for its Cajun and Creole dishes, including jambalaya and gumbo.

Cultural Experiences

The French Quarter is steeped in history and culture, and there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in both. Here are a few cultural experiences you should consider:

– New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum: With exhibits on voodoo history, rituals, and traditions, this museum offers a unique and fascinating look into the city’s past.

– National World War II Museum: Located just outside of the French Quarter, this museum is one of the best in the country and offers a comprehensive look at the United States’ involvement in the war.

– New Orleans Historic Collection: This museum focuses on the history and culture of New Orleans and is a great place to learn about the city’s past.

Local History

The French Quarter has a long and storied history that is worth exploring. Here are a few historic sites you should check out:

– The Cabildo: This historic building was the seat of the Spanish government in Louisiana and is now a museum that tells the story of New Orleans’ history.

– The Presbytère: Built in 1791, this building was originally used as a courthouse and is now a museum that explores Louisiana’s history and culture.

– Ursuline Convent: This historic building was built in 1752 and is the oldest building in the Mississippi Valley. It is now a museum that tells the story of the first Ursuline nuns to arrive in New Orleans.

Off the Beaten Path

While the French Quarter is a popular tourist destination, there are still plenty of off-the-beaten-path spots worth exploring. Here are a few suggestions:

– Frenchmen Street: This street is home to some of the best live music venues in the city and is a great place to experience New Orleans’ famous jazz scene.

– Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve: This park, located just outside of the French Quarter, offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city and is a great place to go for a hike or picnic.

– Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop: This historic building is said to be the oldest structure in the United States to have been used as a bar and is a great spot to grab a drink and soak up the atmosphere.

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nightlife, or cuisine, the French Quarter of New Orleans has something for everyone. From iconic attractions to off-the-beaten-path spots, this neighborhood is full of surprises and is a must-see for any visitor to the city.