Top Things to Do in the New Orleans French Quarter

The French Quarter is NOLA’s oldest neighbourhood. For many people, the place is synonymous with Bourbon Street. This is the party hub of most tourists. But the French Quarter isn’t just about Bourbon Street. It has so much more to offer. From stunning architecture to great food and music, the place never gets boring. Needless to say, the Quarter is a must-visit neighbourhood. If you want to experience NOLA’s history and culture, there’s no better place than this. You can keep exploring the compact area for days.

This blog will cover the best things to do in New Orleans’ historic neighbourhood.

Take a Photo at LaBranche House

The famous LaBranche House is known for its stunning iron balconies. Do you know that it is one of the most photographed buildings in the Quarter?! The house’s Creole-style architecture is adorned with lush greenery. The building is celebrated for its well-maintained facades and detailed ironwork. LaBranche truly embodies the elegance of the French Quarter.

You can take tons of photos here. But remember that you cannot go inside as it’s a private residence. So, only exterior shots are permitted. The best spots for photos are the corner of Royal and St. Peter Streets. We recommend going there during the golden hour for perfect lighting for photos. This means the time just after sunrise or before sunset.

Take a Food Tour

The food of any place tells the story of its history and tradition. The same is true of the French Quarter. There’s no better way to experience the historic neighborhood than by tasting its food. Tastebud’s Flavors of the French Quarter tour will have you eating your way through the streets of the Quarter. As you savor each bit, the tour guides will tell you about fun historical facts about the place and the food you are eating. 

This tour will take you through some of the famous restaurants in NOLA. These include:

Tujague”s

Tujague is where brunch was born. It’s home to the oldest stand-up bar in the U.S. The place is steeped in food folklore. In your visit, you’ll relish the chef’s selected items.

New Orleans Creole Cookery

The cookery works with one mission. It is to serve people with the distinct, historic culinary heritage born from NOLA’s past. The eatery is at the heart of the French Quarter. This place is wrapped in a rich culinary tradition. The tour takes you to this place, where you can savor the real.

Laura’s Pralines and Candies

This restaurant makes a fresh batch of Creole pralines and hand-dipped chocolates daily. Their recipes go back to the 18th century! It’s the oldest candy store in NOLA that is still flourishing. 

Visit the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum

Transport yourself to the 19th-century world of medicine with a visit to the Pharmacy Museum. The vibe here is completely different from the typical Bourbon Street. In fact, many visitors describe the museum ambiance as eerie and historic.

Here’s why you should definitely explore the place.

Historic First

It’s housed in the building of Louis J. Dufilho, Jr. He was the first licensed pharmacist in the U.S. So, you get an authentic piece of American pharmaceutical history.  

Quirky and Creepy Collections

See surgical tools, bloodletting devices and early anesthetics. You’ll learn about strange remedies like live leeches! There are also many displays of early cosmetics and perfumes.

Evolution of Medicine

A visit to the museum makes you understand how medicine and pharmacy have drastically changed. The earliest known remedies came from herbs. Sometime later, tobacco treatments became popular. Then came the early surgical treatments. 

Beyond the Pharmacy

Explore exhibits on 19th-century midwifery and optometry. You’ll learn about how early Black pharmacists lived in New Orleans.

Explore the Pirate’s Alley

Pirate’s Alley is known for its novel blend of history and gorgeous views. It has literary links to William Faulkner. It is said that he wrote here. The street has quaint shops like the Faulkner House Books. Here are the key attractions and experiences that Pirate’s Alley offers:

Literary History

See the building where William Faulkner penned his first novel. Now, it is home to Faulkner House Books.

Pirate Legends

Listen to the stories of pirates like Jean Lafitte and other smugglers. Find how they used the alley as a secret passage. This greatly enhances the place’s mystery. 

Iconic Architecture

Admire the historic buildings like the St. Louis Cathedral. There’s also Cabildo or the Old Spanish Governor’s Mansion with impressive architecture.

Art & Culture

Go to events like the Pirate Alley Art Show to discover local art. 

Visit St. Louis Cathedral at Jackson Square

Connect with New Orleans’ French  heritage by visiting the St. Louis Cathedral. It’s the oldest active Catholic cathedral in America. Once again, the place has a rich history and a calming atmosphere. 

Here’s why this place is a must-visit spot.

Historic Significance

The roots of the cathedral go back to the 1720s. The place has seen major historical events.

Iconic Architecture

Admire its unique triple towers and gorgeous stained glass. There are historic paintings everywhere.

Prime Location

The cathedral is at the core of Jackson Square. Thus, it offers beautiful views of the vibrant French Quarter.

Spiritual & Cultural Hub

St. Louis Cathedral is a place of worship and a museum. It’s a cultural landmark in the Quarter. Those wanting a moment of peace from busy schedules often come here. 

Free & Accessible

You can attend a mass here or just enjoy the serene interior and exterior.

Enjoy the Street Performers and Local Artists

Street performances and local artwork lie at the heart of the Quarter. The numerous streets of the place offer lively performances and unique art. Here are the best locations for art and music.

Jackson Square

This is the hub of it all. You can find tarot readers, caricaturists, painters, and more here. They will be present near the St. Louis Cathedral.

Royal Street

The street is famous for its glorious architecture. Antique shops fill up the city and are a treat for tourists and locals. The place also hosts innumerable musicians and art vendors. The best time to experience its offerings is during the day. This is the pedestrian-only time and so you can properly enjoy the street performances and arts.

Frenchmen Street

Frenchmen Street is just outside the Quarter. It’s a must-visit place for live music. There are multiple bars and clubs featuring jazz. You can hear the music spilling onto the sidewalks. 

French Market

This historic market is known for its variety of crafts and food. You’ll also see musicians playing outside. 

Take a Riverfront Walk

A riverfront walk in the Quarter offers mesmerizing Mississippi River views. It’s your perfect chance to see city life. The Mississippi River has a big place in American identity. A riverfront walk lets you experience the river with its bustling activity. 

Here are all the reasons why this is a great activity.

Iconic Views

See the mighty Mississippi River up close. You’ll be amazed at its natural splendor.

Public Art

Discover famous sculptures. These include John Scott’s “Ocean Song” and Robert Schoen’s “Old Man River”.

Historic Spots

Walk past the Spanish Plaza, a gift from Spain. You’ll also come across the Woldenberg Park, featuring memorials.

Atmosphere

A riverfront walk lets you completely immerse yourself in the city’s energy. Watch the steamboats and feel the city’s pulse.

Visit the French Market

The French Market is an open-air bazaar offering art, food, and souvenirs. Visitors can sample local delicacies, buy handmade crafts, and enjoy live music. The market has operated since the 1790s, providing a historic shopping experience. Tourists often combine a market visit with Jackson Square exploration.

Shopping Tips

• Arrive early to avoid crowds and find the best unique items.
• Taste local specialties like pralines, hot sauce, and beignets.
• Ask vendors about their craft for personalized shopping experiences.
• Bring reusable bags for convenience and sustainability.

Attend Seasonal Events and Festivals

The French Quarter hosts numerous festivals, including Mardi Gras, French Quarter Festival, and Jazz & Heritage events. These celebrations offer music, food, and cultural experiences unlike anywhere else. Visitors can enjoy street parades, live performances, and authentic local cuisine. Seasonal events often feature interactive activities and family-friendly attractions.

Festival Tips

• Check event schedules in advance for planning purposes.
• Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and standing.
• Explore less crowded side streets for unexpected performances or crafts.
• Combine festivals with nearby tours for a full cultural immersion.

Summing Up

The New Orleans French Quarter offers a rich combination of history, culture, and culinary delights. Visitors can enjoy iconic landmarks, food tours, street performers, and riverfront walks. Each experience provides memorable moments and authentic interactions with the city. Whether exploring St. Louis Cathedral, LaBranche House, or tasting local Creole dishes, the French Quarter ensures every visitor leaves with lasting memories and unique stories.

FAQs

• What do locals do in New Orleans?

Locals stroll Bourbon Street, visiting bars at night and exploring souvenir shops during the day. Jackson Park is another more frequented place. Locals come here to watch the musicians and explore local art.

• What is so special about the French Quarter?

The neighbourhood is known for its French/Spanish colonial history. It also has majestic architecture and a thriving jazz scene. Restaurants here serve world-class food and the whole place has a non-stop energy to it.

• What to do in New Orleans for the first time?

First-timers should explore the streets of the French Quarter. Places like the Royal Street and Frenchmen Street give you a real taste of the Quarter. Here you’ll find live music, local artwork and great food.

• What are the must-try foods in the French Quarter?

Beignets, gumbo and étouffée are must-try delicacies. The best way to savor them is through a guided food tour. The tour takes you through the most iconic restaurants, ensuring that you taste the best that the place offers in food. 

• What not to miss in the French Quarter?

You must not miss a visit to the St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square. Experience live jazz in Frenchmen Street and browse unique art on Royal Street.