What is there to do in the French Quarter of New Orleans?

The French Quarter of New Orleans, also known as the Vieux Carré, is considered the cultural heart of the Big Easy. Founded by the French in 1718 on the banks of the Mississippi River, it is undoubtedly one of the most vibrant and historic areas in America and should definitely be part of any visit to New Orleans.

The French Quarter of New Orleans is filled with attractions, from its picturesque architecture to its unique selection of fine dining, from its renowned music scene to its lively nightlife. Within its colourful cobblestone streets, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, there’s no shortage of things to do in the French Quarter.

History, Culture & Architecture

The French Quarter is the oldest and most famous section of New Orleans. With its ornate balconies, classic Creole cottages, and classic architecture, it’s no wonder the area was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1960. Visitors can learn about the area’s history by taking a walking tour of the area’s iconic buildings and cultural landmarks with a guide from French Quarter Walking Tours.

The area is also known for its art galleries and museums. Among the most popular is The Historic New Orleans Collection, which has a wealth of artifacts and exhibits about the city’s distinctive culture and history, as well as its renowned jazz and hospitality. Other notable attractions include the Musee Conti Wax Museum, theRipley’s Believe It or Not!, and the Hermann-Grima House.

Shopping, Food & Drink

Stroll down Royal Street and visitors will find a vibrant selection of stores, antiques shops, boutiques, and art galleries. For shoppers looking for something truly unique, head to the open-air French Market and enjoy its festive atmosphere while picking up souvenirs like Cajun spices and local crafts.

When it comes to food, the French Quarter proudly displays its Creole and Cajun influence. Try local favorites like gumbo and po’boys, grab classic N’awlins dishes like beignets at Café du Monde, or sample some tasty oysters at Felix’s Restaurant. Wash it down with drinks from classic watering holes like Pat O’Brien’s or take a haunted pub crawl of the Quarter with a guide from Haunted History Tours.

Entertainment & Music

No visit to New Orleans would be complete without experiencing some live music and entertainment. Bourbon Street is home to some iconic nightclubs like The Cat’s Meow, which offers nightly karaoke and other events, as well as places like Preservation Hall and The Spotted Cat Music Club where live jazz can be enjoyed every night of the week. Meanwhile, House of Blues is a classic venue for both locals and out-of-town guests to enjoy live music in an intimate setting.

For more low-key entertainment, visitors can enjoy a leisurely horse-drawn carriage ride through the French Quarter with a guide from Steenee’s Equestrian Carriage Tours. After your tour ends, stop by one of the many eclectic bars located around Jackson Square for a signature New Orleans cocktail like an absinthe frappe or a Sazerac.

No matter what kind of experience travelers are looking for, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the vibrant French Quarter of New Orleans. From its historical landmarks to its classic Creole cuisine, the French Quarter is where old world charm meets Southern hospitality – making it the perfect place for visitors to get lost exploring all that it has to offer.

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring New Orleans: The French Quarter

If you are looking for a city with an abundance of history, culture, architecture, music, and delicious food, New Orleans should be at the top of your list. Fondly referred to as the “Big Easy”, New Orleans is the perfect example of southern hospitality and charm. The city is divided into neighborhoods, each unique for its own specific charms. The French Quarter, also known as Vieux Carre, is the oldest and most vibrant section of New Orleans. With its narrow streets, gas lanterns, iconic balconies, and charming architecture, it attracts tourists from around the world. In this insider’s guide to the French Quarter, we will give you a comprehensive list of things to do, see, eat, and experience in this charming neighborhood.

Explore the Historical Sites

One of the best ways to explore the French Quarter is on foot. Prepare yourself for a visual treat with the colorful architecture that will take you back in time. The historic landmarks in the area are worth exploring, including the charming Jackson Square, where you can experience numerous street performers while relaxing under the shade of trees. Other notables places are the Old Ursuline Convent Museum, which dates back to 1752, the 200-year-old St. Louis Cathedral, and the infamous LaLaurie Mansion. A visit to these historical landmarks will give you an insight into the fascinating history of the city.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots

To get a more authentic and unique experience of the French Quarter, there are several less touristy spots that you can explore. Explore the French Market, where you can find an assortment of goods ranging from souvenirs to handmade jewelry and street food. Take a stroll down Royal Street, filled with art galleries, antique shops, and hidden gardens. Visit the Louisiana Music Factory, the home of New Orleans music, where you can find a range of Jazz, Blues, and Cajun music albums and live performances.

Indulge in the Local Cuisine

The food scene in New Orleans, especially in the French Quarter, is unparalleled. The local cuisine is a fusion of African, Caribbean and French flavors with a sprinkle of Cajun spice. Some of the must-try dishes include the famous po’ boy, gumbo, jambalaya, beignets, and crawfish etouffee. For a taste of traditional Creole cuisine, head to Antoine’s or Galatoire’s. If you are looking for some of the best seafood in New Orleans, try out the Acme Oyster House or Felix’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar. Don’t forget to grab a Café au Lait and a beignet at the iconic Cafe du Monde.

Experience the Nightlife

New Orleans’ nightlife is legendary. Explore Bourbon Street, the iconic spot filled with bars, music, and raucous parties. For a more relaxed experience, visit the Frenchmen Street, where you can find live jazz music venues and bars. The Spotted Cat Music Club, Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro, and d.b.a. are popular jazz bars in the neighborhood. You must also try out the live music, cocktails, and craft beers at the famous Pat O’Brien’s Bar.

Enjoy the Unique Festivals

New Orleans is a city that loves to celebrate, and it hosts many festivals and events throughout the year. The French Quarter enjoys some of the most unique festivals in the world, such as Mardi Gras, which takes place in late winter and is a colorful, vibrant celebration of parades, costumes, and music. Other popular festivals in the French Quarter include the French Quarter Fest, the Satchmo Summerfest, and the New Orleans Wine and Food Experience. With so much to see and do, don’t forget to book your accommodation in advance to ensure a pleasant stay.

In conclusion, the French Quarter of New Orleans is a vibrant and charming neighborhood that offers visitors an unforgettable experience filled with history, culture, food, music, and festivals. With this insider’s guide, you are now equipped to plan your itinerary and experience the best of what the French Quarter has to offer.