French Quarter

The French Quarter, also known as Vieux Carré (Old Square), sits on a crescent of the Mississippi River atop some of New Orleans’ highest ground. It spans from Canal Street to Esplanade Avenue (12 blocks) and inland to Rampart Street (7–9 blocks).

Many French Quarter buildings predate the Louisiana Purchase. One of the oldest is the Ursuline Convent, built in 1734. The neighborhood showcases a mix of Spanish, French, Creole, and American architecture. Walled courtyards came from Spanish influence; the iconic cast-iron balconies are linked to the Baroness Pontalba, who included them in her fashionable row houses built in 1850 beside Jackson Square. After the fire of 1794, strict building codes led to the vibrant stucco exteriors seen today. Since the 1920s, preservation laws have protected historic structures. Any renovations or new construction must align with the area's historic style, helping maintain the unique character that defines the French Quarter and sets it apart from other U.S. neighborhoods.

The Quarter thrives as a walkable district blending residential and commercial life. World-class restaurants, antique stores, historic bars, and live music venues lie within easy reach. Step outside and you might find yourself in a second-line parade, at a jazz funeral, or passing through a garden centuries old. The mix of architecture, music, shops, and cuisine creates a daily feast for the senses.

The French Quarter has survived fires, wars, The Great Depression, developers, and Hurricane Katrina. New Orleans' 2018 tricentennial celebrated the enduring spirit of the city and its most beloved neighborhood.