Frenchmen Street
Search results
Welcome to New Orleans — and the French Quarter. This neighborhood was the original city of New Orleans, a literally walled city founded by the French so they could command commerce coming up and down the Mississippi River. Although this is the “French” Quarter — and is also known as the Vieux Carre (“Old Square”) — much of the ...
The French Quarter, also known as the Vieux Carré, is the oldest neighborhood in the city of New Orleans. After New Orleans ( French: Nouvelle-Orléans) was founded in 1718 by Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville, the city developed around the Vieux Carré ("Old Square" in English), a central square.
- 0.66 sq mi (1.7 km²)
- United States
- 1734
- Louisiana
Also known as the Vieux Carre. Often called the Crown Jewel of New Orleans, the French Quarter is one of NOLA's most historic neighborhoods. But you'll find plenty of new mixed in with the old. There’s a reimagined French Market, modern boutiques and artisan cocktails mix with beloved antique stores and old restaurants.
Dec 4, 2023 · From restaurants to attractions, shopping and landmarks, there is an abundance of things to do and places to see in the historic French Quarter. We’ve rounded up our top 10 French Quarter spots you can’t miss during your New Orleans vacation.
- Patricia Doherty
- See a parade. Experience a parade or two put on by one of the local Krewes, organizations that host balls or parades during the Mardi Gras season. Get into the spirit with a costume, wear the Mardi Gras colors of purple, green, and gold, and get ready to catch some beads.
- Try king cake. If you visit during the Mardi Gras season, buy a king cake at one of the local bakeries, and if you get the piece with the baby, tradition says you host the next party.
- Visit The Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes & Culture. Visit the Mardi Gras Museum to see costumes, exhibits, and a themed show. The museum is open all year, so you can get a taste of the festivities whenever you visit.
- Cruise the Mississippi. Board the Steamboat Natchez or The City of New Orleans river boat and cruise on the Mississippi for sightseeing, dining, and traditional jazz entertainment.
About. A must-see for its high energy and rich history, the French Quarter is New Orleans’ heart and cultural center. Enjoy the lively atmosphere amid magnificent colonial architecture and skilled street performers—and don’t miss the finest galleries in the city and landmarks like the sumptuous St. Louis Cathedral.
Looking for what to do in the French Quarter? While must-dos include Jackson Square and at least a quick walk down Bourbon Street (see even more of our top picks here), there are tons of opportunities to go beyond and discover the rich history and culture of the city! From museums and guided walking tours to voodoo shops and perfume making ...
