French Quarter Travel Guide

A detailed guide to French Quarter in New Orleans including a list of top attractions, hiking/biking routes, activities, food and drink scene, where to stay and what to buy, local culture and customs, safety and health, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to French Quarter

French Quarter, a historic neighborhood in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a top destination known for its vibrant nightlife, rich cultural heritage, and stunning architecture. Founded in 1718 by the French explorer Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville, the French Quarter, also known as Vieux Carré, has a mix of Spanish, French, and American influences that come together to create a unique experience for visitors. From world-famous jazz clubs to beautiful parks, from historic museums to delicious food and drink, French Quarter is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the rich history and culture of the South.

List of Places to Visit in French Quarter

French Quarter has a diverse range of places to visit for travelers, which includes culturally important attractions, natural attractions, hiking/biking routes, the best things to do, accommodation options, where to buy souvenirs, the local culture and customs, and nearby destinations to explore.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

French Quarter is home to several cultural institutions and landmarks that bear testimony to its rich history. One such place is the Louisiana State Museum, which houses a wealth of exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Louisiana. Other must-visit museums include the Historic New Orleans Collection, the New Orleans Museum of Art, and the National WWII Museum.

The French Quarter also has several landmarks with significant historical importance, such as the St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in the United States. The architecture of the cathedral is awe-inspiring, and its stained glass windows are beautiful. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cathedral to learn more about its history and architecture.

Natural Attractions of French Quarter: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

French Quarter has several natural attractions that visitors can explore, which includes parks, gardens, and waterways. One such place is the Jackson Square, which is a beautiful green space in the historic heart of French Quarter. The square is surrounded by historic buildings and features a stunning statue of Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the United States.

Visitors can also enjoy a stroll or bike ride through the Woldenberg Park along the Mississippi River, which offers a beautiful view of the river and the New Orleans skyline. Another popular natural attraction is the Audubon Park and Zoo, which has several exhibits and interactive activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy.

Hiking/Biking Routes of French Quarter

French Quarter is a pedestrian-friendly destination, so visitors can explore the neighborhood on foot or by bike. One popular route is the Lafitte Greenway, which is a 2.6-mile trail that connects the French Quarter to City Park. The trail is paved and has several park benches and water fountains along the way. Another route is the Crescent Park, which is a 1.4-mile linear park that offers a stunning view of the Mississippi River and the New Orleans skyline.

Best Things to Do in French Quarter: Activities and Tours

There are several things to do and explore in French Quarter that can keep visitors busy for several days. Jazz music is an integral part of the local culture, and visitors can enjoy live performances at several venues, including Preservation Hall, The Spotted Cat Music Club, and The Carousel Bar.

Visitors can also take a walking tour of the French Quarter to learn more about its history and architecture. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who provide an insight into the rich cultural heritage of the neighborhood.

For a unique experience, visitors can take a food tour of the French Quarter, which offers a chance to try local specialties such as beignets, gumbo, and po’boys. Cocktail tours are also available for those looking to explore the local drink scene.

Week-Long Itinerary for French Quarter

Here’s a week-long itinerary for visitors to explore French Quarter:

Day Activity
1 Visit the St. Louis Cathedral and take a guided tour
2 Explore the Louisiana State Museum, the Historic New Orleans Collection, and the National WWII Museum
3 Take a walking tour of the French Quarter and learn about its history and architecture
4 Enjoy a jazz performance at Preservation Hall or The Spotted Cat Music Club
5 Take a food tour of the French Quarter and try local specialties
6 Spend the day at the Audubon Park and Zoo
7 Take a bike ride along the Lafitte Greenway and Crescent Park

Food and Drink Scene of French Quarter

The food and drink scene in French Quarter is one of the city’s biggest draws. Visitors can try several local specialties, including:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Beignets: Deep-fried doughnut-like pastry topped with powdered sugar. Must-try at Cafe Du Monde.
  • Jambalaya: A spicy Creole dish made with rice, vegetables, and meat or seafood.
  • Gumbo: A thick stew made with seafood, meat, and okra.

Local Beverages

  • Sazerac: A classic cocktail made with rye whiskey, absinthe, bitters, and sugar.
  • Hurricane: A fruity cocktail made with rum, passion fruit juice, and grenadine.

Where to Stay in French Quarter: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

French Quarter has several accommodation options to suit all budgets, from upscale hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses.

Some of the best luxury hotels in the French Quarter include the Windsor Court Hotel, the Ritz-Carlton New Orleans, and the Hotel Monteleone.

For budget-friendly options, visitors can consider staying at the India House Hostel or the IHSP French Quarter House.

Where to Buy in French Quarter: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can buy several unique souvenirs and local products to take home from French Quarter. Some of the popular options include beignets from Cafe Du Monde, pralines from Southern Candymakers, and hot sauce from Louisiana Hot Sauce.

Local Culture and Customs of French Quarter

French Quarter has a unique blend of Spanish, French, and American cultures that has evolved over the years. Visitors should be respectful of the local customs and traditions, such as honoring the dead during the Mardi Gras season. It is also important to dress appropriately when visiting places of worship or attending a formal event.

Best Time to Visit French Quarter

The best time to visit French Quarter is during the fall and winter months (October to February), when the weather is mild and pleasant. Spring and summer months (March to September) can be hot and humid, with occasional thunderstorms.

Do’s and Don’ts of French Quarter

Do:

  • Do try local specialties like beignets, jambalaya, and gumbo.
  • Do take a walking tour of the French Quarter to learn about its history and architecture.
  • Do enjoy live performances of jazz music at local venues.
  • Do respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter in public spaces.
  • Don’t disrupt the peace in the neighborhoods by creating noise pollution.
  • Don’t wear revealing clothing in places of worship or formal events.

Safety and Health

Safety in French Quarter

Visitors to French Quarter should exercise common sense precautions to keep themselves safe, such as avoiding dimly lit streets at night, staying alert, and not carrying too much cash or valuables on their person.

Health in French Quarter

Visitors should drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during the summer months when temperatures can get high. It is also important to wear sunscreen and insect repellent to protect against sunburn and mosquito bites.

Getting to French Quarter: Transportation Options and Logistics

French Quarter is easily accessible by several modes of transportation, including:

Airports Near French Quarter

  • Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY): Located about 15 miles from French Quarter.

Bus Stations Near French Quarter

  • Greyhound Bus Station: Located about 2 miles from French Quarter.

Other Options

  • Taxis and ride-sharing services: Available throughout the city.
  • Public Transportation: The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) operates buses and streetcars that serve French Quarter and the surrounding neighborhoods.

How to Get Around in French Quarter

Exploring the French Quarter on foot or by bike is the best way to experience its unique charm and beauty. Taxis, ride-sharing services, and public transportation are also available for longer trips or when visitors need a break from walking.

Where to Go Next from French Quarter: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

French Quarter is located in the heart of New Orleans, so visitors can easily explore other nearby attractions and beautiful destinations. Some popular options include:

  • Garden District
  • City Park
  • Audubon Zoo
  • Swamp Tours

Conclusion

French Quarter is a vibrant and exciting destination that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, music, food, and drink. With its beautiful architecture, natural attractions and landmarks, delicious cuisine, and rich cultural heritage, French Quarter should be at the top of the list for any traveler looking to explore the South.

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