French Quarter

The basics

The historic French Quarter—also called the Vieux Carré, or "old square"—is centered on Jackson Square, which is overlooked by St. Louis Cathedral. The busy area is best navigated on foot, and while you can of course wander around on your own, guided French Quarter walking tours are the best way to experience the quarter.

Learn about New Orleans' culinary and cocktail history on a food tour; take a haunted tour in the evening; or combine a visit to this area with a visit to another part of the city (such as the Garden District) or a cruise on the Steamboat Natchez in the French Quarter; ticket options include brunch, lunch, or dinner.

Things to know before you go

• The area is very pedestrian-friendly, so wear comfortable walking shoes.

• New Orleans loves parades, which occur on many holidays throughout the year and often march through the French Quarter.

• Hard-partying Bourbon Street is infamous, but it's not indicative of the whole French Quarter—and it's easy to avoid if it's not your scene.

• Much of the French Quarter is wheelchair accessible, although some historic buildings and attractions may not be. Just watch out for cracked or narrow sidewalks.

How to get there

The French Quarter runs from the Mississippi River northwest to Rampart Street and from Canal Street northeast to Esplanade Avenue. It's incredibly compact, and parking can be extremely difficult, so it's best to walk there if you can. Streetcars run along the riverfront, Canal Street, and Rampart Street. Most city tours pass through the French Quarter as well.

When to get there

New Orleans is exceptionally busy during major festivals such as Mardi Gras and the Jazz & Heritage Festival (usually in February and May, respectively). Like much of southern Louisiana, the weather is typically hot and humid throughout the summer months. The winter months are cool and comfortable, though there may be periodic downpours; hurricane season runs roughly from June to November.

History runs deep in the French Quarter

It's easy to think New Orleans is just a party town, but it has a rich history as well. The Pontalba Buildings are the oldest apartment buildings in the United States, while the French Market is the country's oldest public market; the quirky Pharmacy Museum is a treasure trove of medicinal history; and Tennessee Williams used a French Quarter house as the setting for A Streetcar Named Desire. Meanwhile, Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop is one of the oldest buildings in the city—and likely the oldest bar in the US.

Ways to explore

Guided walking tours are a great way to experience the French Quarter, though you can also join a cycling tour or take a horse-drawn carriage ride. The French Quarter is known for its great Creole and Cajun food and some mighty fine cocktails, and booking a food tour or cocktail crawl offers an introduction to the culinary scene. Fans of the supernatural will find plenty to do here, from ghost walks to voodoo-themed tours.

Accessibility

The French Quarter is flat, and while sidewalks are generally accessible, some historic buildings and narrow alleys are challenging for wheelchair users.

Age limits

The drinking age in the United States is 21, but some bars allow those 18 and over to enter (but not drink).

What to pack

Sunscreen, a refillable water bottle

What to wear

Choose comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestones, and breezy attire if the climate is humid.

Not allowed

Motor vehicles (with some exceptions)

Amenities

Restrooms in the French Market and at the Jean Lafitte Visitor Center

Address

The French Quarter is in the heart of New Orleans, sandwiched between the Central Business District (downtown) and the Marigny neighborhoods, between North Rampart Street and the Mississippi River.

Driving

It’s best to park outside the French Quarter and explore on foot. While you can bring your car in if you’re staying at a hotel with parking, be aware that the streets are narrow and most are one-way.

Public transportation

To get to the French Quarter from other areas in New Orleans, take the Riverfront Streetcar Line (Route 49), which travels along the banks of the Mississippi River, stopping near Jackson Square and the French Market.

Best times to visit

Evenings are ideal for partying and ghost tours, while mornings are best for sightseeing before the crowds. Thunderstorms are common in summer afternoons.

Best days to visit

The French Quarter is always bustling, but typically quieter on weekdays. Avoid Mondays, when many shops and attractions are closed.

Best months to visit

Visit during Mardi Gras for the full party experience, or come during the summer off-season when the weather is hot and humid, but crowds are smaller.

Special events

The biggest event in the French Quarter (and in the city) is Mardi Gras, which takes place just before Lent, typically in February or March.