What is the French Quarter of New Orleans Like?

The French Quarter of New Orleans is one of the most iconic and celebrated districts in the United States. The Quarter, which dates back to the late 1600s, is both a tangible connection to New Orleans’ past and a must-see destination for visitors to the city. By understanding more about the French Quarter and its attractions, visitors will have a better experience when they visit the district.

What to Expect in the French Quarter

The French Quarter, located southeast of the Mississippi River and referred to as the Vieux Carré by the locals, is the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans. It spans both the north and south sides of Canal Street and is bordered by St. Louis, Magazine and Decatur Streets. Visitors will find a variety of historic attractions in this area, including colonial-style buildings, architectural landmarks, and parks.

The best way to explore the French Quarter is on foot. In addition to all of the attractions, the quarter is known for its music, nightlife and bar scenes. Visitors will find incredible jazz music coming from bars and courtyards throughout the area.

Shopping in the French Quarter

The French Quarter is a great area for shopping in New Orleans. Antiques and art galleries are abundant, as well as stores selling clothing, jewelry and home décor. Shoppers can easily spend a day strolling the streets and browsing the distinct boutiques. Vendors selling handcrafted souvenirs around Jackson Square are also worth a visit.

Other shopping spots worth mentioning are Royal Street, with its art galleries, gift shops and antique markets; the collection of independent shops on Chartres Street; and The Collection at Plaza de Armas, which houses clothing stores, souvenir shops and a farmers market on Saturdays.

Tourist Attractions in the French Quarter

Not surprisingly, the French Quarter is filled with attractions and noteworthy sites to explore. Here are some of the highlights:

• Audubon Zoo: Home to over 2,000 animals representing 350 species, this Zool has been ranked one of the best in the US.
• Aquarium of the Americas: This interactive aquarium is known for its hands-on activities and touch pools.
• Jackson Square: Located at the center of the French Quarter, Jackson Square was once part of the French colonial city.
• Lafitte Greenway: A reclaimed stretch of urban green space that is perfect for enjoying an afternoon stroll.
• Frenchmen Street: A hub of jazz music, with lively bars and live music every night.

The atmosphere in the French Quarter is truly one-of-a-kind and hard to replicate anywhere else in the world. You cannot help but feel transported back in time to an era gone by when you submerge yourself into this precious part of New Orleans. From souvenir shopping to getting lost in alleyways whose secrets date back centuries, there is something special that keeps people coming back to this remarkable area, long after they have said goodbye upon their visit.

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

When it comes to exploring the vibrant city of New Orleans, there is no better place to start than the historic French Quarter. Bursting with culture, history, and flavor, there is truly no other place like it in the world. Here’s an insider’s guide to everything you need to know about exploring the French Quarter of New Orleans.

Attractions to Visit in the French Quarter

The French Quarter offers a wealth of attractions that you will never forget:

• Take a leisurely stroll along the legendary Bourbon Street, famous for its bars and music clubs.
• Visit Jackson Square, a historic park where you can see street performers, artists, and feel the magic of the French Quarter.
• Discover the unique architecture of the city by taking a self-guided walking tour to see the colorful Creole-style houses and buildings.
• Experience the local voodoo culture by visiting the Voodoo Museum.
• Visit the French Market, one of the oldest public markets in the country, where you can find everything from fresh seafood to handmade crafts.

Where to Dine and Drink in the French Quarter

No trip to the French Quarter would be complete without experiencing the local cuisine and nightlife. Here are a few suggestions to check out:

• For traditional Creole cuisine, head to the iconic restaurant, Antoine’s, which dates back to 1840.
• If you are looking for a great breakfast spot, check out the historic Brennan’s, famous for its breakfast cocktails and eggs Benedict.
• Grab some oysters and cocktails at the landmark Acme Oyster House, which has been serving up fresh seafood since 1910.
• For live jazz music and a classic cocktail, visit the legendary Preservation Hall, an intimate music venue that has been around since 1961.
• Stop by Pat O’Brien’s for the famous Hurricane cocktail and a live piano sing-along session.

Cultural Experiences to Enjoy in the French Quarter

The French Quarter is a haven for cultural enthusiasts. Here are some ways to immerse yourself in the culture:

• Visit the New Orleans Jazz Museum to take a deep dive into the history and legends of jazz music in the city.
• Take a ghost tour to learn about the haunted history of the French Quarter and the city at large.
• Learn about the history of the area by visiting the Historic New Orleans Collection museum.
• Watch a live performance at the famous Saenger Theatre, where you can catch Broadway shows, concerts, and more.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions in the French Quarter

For those who want to venture off-the-beaten-path, here are some hidden gems that are worth exploring:

• Take a guided tour of the hidden alleyways and courtyards of the French Quarter for an insider’s view of the architecture and history of the city.
• Visit the Museum of Death to get a unique perspective on the history of death and dying.
• Check out the Axeman of New Orleans walking tour to learn about the unsolved mystery of a serial killer who terrorized the city in the early 1900s.
• Visit Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo for a more authentic voodoo experience than the Voodoo Museum and learn about the powerful Voodoo priestess, Marie Laveau.

As you can see, the French Quarter has so much to offer, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler to New Orleans. From local cuisine to cultural attractions, nightlife, and more, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So, explore the French Quarter and let the spirit of the city enchant you.