A Local’s Guide to the Best Spots in the French Quarter

One of the most well-known neighborhoods in New Orleans, the French Quarter is the heart and soul of NOLA. With charming balconies, lively music, world-famous food, and rich history, it’s no wonder visitors keep coming back for more.

Whether you’re strolling down Royal Street admiring local art, grabbing a beignet at the world-famous Café du Monde, partying with a Hurricane on Bourbon, or soaking in the sounds of an impromptu jazz band playing on the corner, there’s always something special to experience.

But with so much to see and do, where do you start? That’s where this guide comes in! We’ll walk you through the best places to visit, eat, and explore, along with insider tips to help you make the most of your time in the Quarter.

What is the French Quarter?

Also known as the Vieux Carré, the French Quarter is one of the most iconic neighborhoods in the world, and certainly one of the most charming in New Orleans. In between Canal and Esplanade Streets, the French Quarter begins along the banks of the Mississippi River and extends until North Rampart.

The French Quarter includes Bourbon Street, but so much more, including the French Market, St. Louis Cathedral, and Jackson Square. Many of NOLA’s most historic landmarks and popular attractions are located in this neighborhood.

Best Things to Do in the French Quarter

Jackson Square 

Bursting with historic charm, Jackson Square is one of the most recognizable locations in New Orleans. Grab a coffee and stroll through the square’s 2.5 acres, where you’ll find displays of local art, live music, and street performers, as well as the iconic St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in North America. 

Royal Street 

Beginning at Canal Street and stretching all the way into the Marigny, Royal Street is the spot to go if you’re in search of art galleries, antique shops, and boutiques. You’ll also find cozy bars and delicious restaurants, making it a great place to spend several hours wandering and immersing yourself in the culture of NOLA.

The French Market 

One of our favorite places to shop for New Orleans souvenirs is the French Market. Spanning six blocks in the French Quarter, it’s an open-air shopping area full of local flavor, food, art, and crafts. Within the shops of the Upper Pontalba, the shops of the Colonnade, the Craft Bazaar, the Farmers and Flea Markets, Oscar Dunn Park, and the Moon Walk, you’re bound to find something to suit your fancy.   

Museums & Historic Tours

There are so many fantastic museums in New Orleans but some of our favorites in the French Quarter include The Cabildo and The Presbytère just off Jackson Square, The Historic New Orleans Collection, the New Orleans Jazz Museum, the New Orleans Voodoo Museum, and the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, which is America’s first licensed apothecary. 

Where to Eat & Drink in the French Quarter

From beignets to fine dining, the French Quarter offers an endless array of dining options, some of which have been around for more than 100 years. Begin your day at Café du Monde in the French Market, a must for their beignets, or head to Brennan’s, home to the original Bananas Foster, and treat yourself to a world-class breakfast. 

Later on, venture to Broussard’s, Galatoire’s, or Antoine’s for New Orleans fine dining. Or for a more casual vibe, try Coop’s Place or Napoleon House. 

French Quarter Nightlife & Live Music

When the sun goes down, the French Quarter gets even more lively. Strolling along Bourbon Street at night, you can expect a more rowdy crowd and risque behavior (visit Bourbon Street with kids during the day, not at night). 
Grab a hurricane from Pat O’Brien’s and cozy up at Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, one of the oldest bars in the U.S. Listen to jazz at Preservation Hall or The Spotted Cat. Then dance the night away at Razzoo Bar & Patio or Oz New Orleans, one of NOLA’s best gay bars, or try your hand at Karaoke at the world-famous Cat’s Meow. If the bar scene isn’t for you, there’s still plenty to do in the French Quarter at night, including nighttime carriage rides and ghost tours.

Getting Around the French Quarter

Aside from ride shares, biking, and good old-fashioned walking, our favorite way to get around the French Quarter is using the Streetcar. The Canal Street line travels along Canal from City Park and other points in the city to the river, then the Riverfront line will transport you across the French Quarter down to the French Market. Learn more about this iconic mode of transportation here. 

Where to Stay in the French Quarter

Visiting the French Quarter in New Orleans is a quintessential NOLA experience – and no matter how many times you visit, there’s always something new to discover. So take your time, explore, and let the spirit of New Orleans guide you. 
And if you’re looking for the perfect place to stay while you’re here, we’ve got you covered with our New Orleans vacation rentals – because the best way to experience the French Quarter is to live like a local. See you in NOLA!