The focal point of New Orleans’ fabled music scene is the French Quarter, a collection of historic and ramshackle streets in the heart of the city, which is the spiritual home of authentic New Orleans jazz.
This life-affirming music was brought here by the slaves who moved into the ancient settlement between Canal Street and the Mississippi. Freed from working in the sugar and cotton plantations, the families gravitated towards the city and began to establish their own community. Over the years, as immigration brought new cultural influences, the raw sounds of the cotton fields evolved into something more refined and unique. Jazz, as it was called, became synonymous with the city and the authentic New Orleans sound is still recognised and performed the world over.
The French Quarter pulsates with life all year round, but if you can, time your visit to coincide with one of the jazz parades that regularly transform the narrow streets into one huge, noisy, colourful party. However, there’s also a darker side to the area, as you will learn on a visit to the LaLaurie House on Royal Street. said to be haunted by the ghosts of tortured slaves. The St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is also part of the city’s spookier side and it contains the bones of the queen of Voodoo, Marie Laveau. Many superstitious people visit her grave to leave a gift and make a wish, hoping her restless spirit will bring them luck.
A romantic way to appreciate the area’s colonial architecture and historic landmarks is by taking a ride in a traditional horse-drawn carriage, which can be hired from Decatur Street, followed by a candle-lit dinner at one of the stylish French restaurants that have sprung up in some of the city’s oldest and most atmospheric buildings. Alternatively, catch a taxi, bus or tram to explore this compact quarter on foot, making sure you leave time to enjoy a spicy Creole snack or catch a live band pumping out red-hot jazz in one of the teeming bars – a time-honoured way to experience the authentic flavour of old New Orleans.
French Quarter
Popular places to visit
Bourbon Street
The birthplace of jazz is a vibrant city boulevard where the history and music of New Orleans comes to life.
Jackson Square
Chill out Southern-style in this freewheeling park with a fascinating past.
Café du Monde
During your visit to New Orleans, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Café du Monde. Discover the top-notch restaurants and renowned jazz scene in this walkable area.
Audubon Aquarium
Interesting hands-on learning experiences are just one part of this wonderfully well-equipped aquarium, home to around 15,000 different fascinating creatures.
Royal Street
During your trip to New Orleans, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Royal Street. Discover the top-notch restaurants and great live music in this walkable area.
Saint Louis Cathedral
The oldest church in Louisiana is one of New Orleans’ best loved landmarks.
Things to do
Daytime Riverboat Jazz Cruise
New Orleans: Cemetery Bus Tour At Dark with Exclusive Access
Swamp & Bayou Tour w/ Transportation from New Orleans
New Orleans: Cocktails & Brunch Crawl in the French Quarter
New Orleans: French Quarter Sightseeing Carriage Ride
Dining at Hard Rock Cafe New Orleans
Top hotels in French Quarter
Reviewed on Sep 24, 2024
Reviewed on Sep 24, 2024
Reviewed on Sep 27, 2024
Reviewed on Sep 24, 2024
Reviewed on Sep 24, 2024
Reviewed on Sep 25, 2024
Other neighbourhoods around French Quarter
Tremé
Tremé is noteworthy for its live music, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Mahalia Jackson Theater and Louis Armstrong Park.
Faubourg Marigny
Known for its abundant dining options and live music, there's plenty to explore in Faubourg Marigny. Top attractions like Bourbon Street and Frenchmen Street Jazz Clubs are major draws, and you can catch the metro at Saint Claude at Elysian Fields Stop or Saint Claude at Pauger Stop to see more of the city.
New Orleans Central Business District
Known for its fantastic nightlife and great live music, there's plenty to explore in New Orleans Central Business District. Check out top attractions like Canal Street and Caesars Superdome, and jump on the metro at Carondelet at Poydras Stop or Poydras Street Stop to see more of the city.
Arts/Warehouse District
Known for its ample dining options and fascinating museums, there's plenty to explore in Arts/Warehouse District. You can visit top attractions like National World War II Museum and Lafayette Square, and jump on the metro at St. Charles at Julia Stop or Saint Charles at Saint Joseph Stop to see more of the city.
Bywater
Live music, bars, and historic sites highlight some of the noteworthy features of Bywater. Make a stop by Decatur Street or Mississippi River while you're exploring the neighborhood.
Mid-City District
While you're in Mid-City District, take in top sights like Fair Grounds Race Course or Mahalia Jackson Theater, and hop on the metro to see more the city at Canal at White Stop or Canal at Salcedo Stop.
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