New Orleans French Quarter

History of the French Quarter

The French Quarter was built 200 years ago, and is the oldest area in New Orleans. It's been through more wind, fire, and water disasters than most and it has stood the test of time beautifully. Spanning over 78 square miles, this New Orleans neighborhood, also known to many as Vieux Carré, runs from Canal Street to Esplanade Avenue along the Mississippi River. It's easy to see the French, Creole, Spanish, and American touches on the timeless architecture that makes up the French Quarter as you tour it. When visiting the French Quarter in New Orleans there is plenty to do and see from exploring the Spanish Quarter and St. Louis Cathedral during the day to eating the perfect Seafood Gumbo while listening to the performances of local jazz musicians.

The French Quarter Sites

At the center of the French Quarter lies Jackson Square, a large park named after General Andrew Jackson. One side of Jackson Square in home to St. Louis Cathedral, the Cabildo, and the Presbytere, historic buildings from the 18th century.

The Cathedral was built for Pope Paul VI as a basilica and the other two buildings beside it are now both museums. The Cabildo is best known as the original destination for the signing of the Louisiana Purchase back in 1803. Another historical site that attracts many each year is that of Bourbon Street. Full of tourists during the day and bar hoppers at night, Bourbon Street is also the main location for the annually celebrated Mardi Gras.  

French Quarter Hotels

Situated right next to Jackson Square is Place D’ Armes Hotel. This elegant hotel shares the same French ambiance as the New Orleans French Quarter it resides in. Hotel St. Marie, located on Toulouse Street, is also a chic place to stay when visiting Vieux Carré. With beautiful views of the French Quarter’s streets below, the balconies that extend out from the rooms at Hotel St. Marie also allow its guests to take in the sights of the stunning courtyards. Bourbon Orleans Hotel is another place to enjoy a comfortable stay in one of the oldest cities in New Orleans. Its position on Orleans Street puts it in perfect walking distance to all the shops, restaurants, and museums one could want.

French Quarter Restaurants

New Orleans is known for its food, and the French Quarter has some of the best restaurants in The Big Easy. Desire Oyster Bar and Bistro offers a variety of classic New Orleans dishes such as seafood platters, Po’ boys, and traditional Louisiana Creole cuisine. On French Market Place, Fiorella's serves local, hearty, southern plates for lunch and dinner.

The southern-style fried chicken and gumbo are always a favorite among the locals. Of course there is more to the New Orleans French Quarter cooking than just seafood, Cajun, and southern-style dishes. Head over to Louisiana Pizza Kitchen for some traditional Italian delight. With items like Grilled Eggplant, Portabella and Shitake Mushroom, and Roasted Garlic pizzas, Louisiana Pizza Kitchen has a taste for everyone. 

Find out more about the historical areas in New Orleans like Bourbon Street.