Jackson Square

The Basics

Jackson Square, originally known as Place d’Armes, is one of New Orleans’ most storied spots. Built in 1721, it is lined with historic buildings that have played an essential part in the development of the city. On one side, you’ll find the Cabildo, where the Louisiana Purchase (when the US bought the state of Louisiana from the French) was signed back in 1803. Next door is St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in North America, while in the center of the square, you’ll find a statue of the seventh US President Andrew Jackson, for whom the square is named.

For more than 50 years, local artists have sold their works in the square, and visitors love to browse the paintings and pick up a souvenir to take home. French Quarter walking, Segway, and carriage tours frequently stop at the square to explore the historic landmarks and learn more about New Orleans’ history.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The main entrance to the square is from Decatur Street, opposite the French Market.

• Keep an eye out for the Upper and Lower Pontalba apartment buildings, the oldest such complex in the United States.

• Carriage rides around the French Quarter leave from Jackson Square.

• To find out more about the history of the square and its buildings, you can join a guided New Orleans tour.

How to Get There

Jackson Square is bordered by Chartres, St. Peter, St. Ann, and Decatur streets and is just a short walk away from the Mississippi River. The square is a public park and easily accessible on foot or by public transport (the 5 and 55 bus lines stop at Decatur and St. Peter), or as part of a guided walking tour of the city.

When to Get There

Jackson Square is open seven days a week, from 8am to 7pm in summer and 8am to 6pm in winter.

Enjoy a Beignet and Coffee at Café du Monde

Just across Decatur Street, you’ll find the Café du Monde, a must-visit on any trip to the city. Open 24 hours, people flock here from all over the world to enjoy a sugar-dusted beignet (a fried pastry similar to a doughnut) washed down with a cup of chicory coffee.

Ways to explore

Jackson Square, originally known as Place d’Armes, is one of New Orleans’ most storied locales and a staple of city sightseeing tours. Join a walking tour of the French Quarter to learn more about the historic square, admire its beautiful buildings, and pose for photos by the distinctive bronze statue of Andrew Jackson.

For an alternative way to get around, mule-drawn carriage tours set out from the south end of the square, and bike tours and hop-on, hop-off buses also pass by the square.

Accessibility

The square is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, reusable water bottle, sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat

What to wear

Weather-appropriate clothing

Not allowed

Don’t forget to support the artists and street musicians on the square—it’s customary to tip, especially if you watch a performance or take photos.

Amenities

Benches, cafés, public restrooms (two blocks away on Decatur Street)

Address

Jackson Square is bordered by Chartres, St. Peter, St. Ann, and Decatur Streets and is just a short walk from the Mississippi River. It’s easy to reach the square on foot within the French Quarter or by public transportation.

Driving

With narrow lanes, heavy foot traffic, and almost no street parking, it’s best to leave the car behind, though rideshares are an option.

Public transportation

Take tram 49 to Toulouse or Dumaine Street, both just one block from the square.

Best times to visit

The square is most atmospheric from mid-afternoon through early evening, when it fills up with buskers, artists, and visitors.

Best days to visit

Weekdays are the best time to escape the crowds, but avoid Mondays if you want to visit the museums—both the Cabildo and the Presbytère are closed. It’s worth braving the weekend crowds to see the square at its liveliest; come around sunset to watch the live musicians.

Best months to visit

Avoid Louisiana’s sweltering summer months and visit in the spring (March–May) or fall (October–November) instead.

Special events

While the Mardi Gras parades don’t pass through Jackson Square, you can expect plenty of festivities in the square throughout Carnival. Jackson Square also comes alive during the annual French Quarter Festival (April) and often hosts live concerts on summer evenings and over the holiday season.