Skip to main content
Top French Quarter activities
French Quarter trip ideas
Red old-style tram on the streets of New Orleans' French Quarter.

Things to do in  French Quarter

A living time machine

The French Quarter is New Orleans’ main tourist hub, with a dense concentration of hotels, restaurants, bars, and historic attractions. True to its name, the French Quarter looks more like a European neighborhood than anything you’d expect to find stateside. Its narrow streets are lined with elegant 18th-century structures and intricate wrought-iron balconies. Many of the things to do in New Orleans are located in and around the French Quarter, making it a great base for visitors wanting to be in the heart of the action.

Why you are seeing these recommendations

All about French Quarter

Local Currency
US Dollar ($)
When to visit

If you want to party, there’s no better time to visit the French Quarter than during Mardi Gras (in February or March), when the neighborhood is at its most festive. The weather is pleasant this time of year and remains so through the springtime. Summers are hot and humid, with a chance of tropical storms later in the season, which means fewer crowds and oftentimes cheaper hotel rates.

Getting around

Getting around the French Quarter is easy on foot, and renting a car is best avoided in this dense area. If you’re staying in a different part of town, such as the Garden District, you’re better off taking public transportation to the French Quarter and then relying on your own two feet. Renting a bike is also an option, and many French Quarter cycling tours are available.

Traveler tips

It’s not easy to choose where to eat in New Orleans—there are many delicious options. In the French Quarter, head to the back room of the Erin Rose bar on Conti Street. This compact space is home to the original Killer Poboys restaurant, which serves up innovative takes on the traditional NoLa sandwich on crisp, flakey baguettes. If you’re under 21 or just don’t feel like going to a bar, visit Killer Poboys’ second location at 219 Dauphine Street.

en
3e46f301-2bb0-4537-9f7d-021b3d8470ee
attraction_list
People Also Ask
Q:What are the must-visit attractions and landmarks in the French Quarter?
A:

Top attractions in the French Quarter include St. Louis Cathedral and adjacent Jackson Square. Bourbon Street is the most popular attraction if you’re looking for the party scene, while the French Market is the place to shop and try out local snacks.

Q:Are there any guided walking tours that explore the French Quarter’s history and architecture?
A:

Yes, there are lots of guided walking tours that explore the history and architecture of the French Quarter. You can choose among tours that focus purely on history, as well as those that mix history with tales of ghosts and the supernatural, or visits to area restaurants.

Q:What are the best restaurants and cafés to try authentic Creole and Cajun cuisine in the French Quarter?
A:

The French Quarter is full of restaurants and cafés where you can try Creole and Cajun cuisine, and many are popular stops on food tours. Try jambalaya at Coop’s Place on Decatur Street, sample gumbo at Dooky Chase Restaurant, or head to Deanie’s Seafood for crawfish étouffée.

Q:How do I get from the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport to the French Quarter?
A:

Getting to the French Quarter from the airport is easy. The RTA’s 202 Airport Express bus goes directly to Elk Place on Canal Street, while taxis and rideshare vehicles can take you to your hotel. You also can save time by prebooking a private transfer from the airport.

Q:Are there any ghost tours or haunted attractions in the French Quarter?
A:

Yes, there are lots of haunted attractions and ghost tours in the French Quarter. Some of the most popular spots to visit include Jackson Square and the LaLaurie Mansion. Many New Orleans tours focus on the supernatural and often combine topics such as local hauntings, vampires, and voodoo.

Q:Is it safe to walk around the French Quarter at night?
A:

Yes, it is safe to walk around the French Quarter at night, and there are usually lots of people out late. If you ever feel unsafe or uncomfortable, it’s wise to dip into the closest hotel or restaurant that you see and ask the staff for help.

Things to do near French Quarter

Popular on Viator