Top 10 Things To Do, Activities and Attractions in French Quarter

We've collected top 10 mentioned things to do in French Quarter from other articles such as Atlas Obscura, Fodor's Choice, UpgradedPoints.com, including activities with kids, adult only attractions, cheap and free events

Top 10 Things To Do, Activities and Attractions in French Quarter

St. Louis Cathedral
St. Louis Cathedral
4.8 (3034 ratings)4.5 (7630 ratings)
Grand, spired circa-1700s church with stained glass, a painted ceiling & an active congregation.
615 Pere Antoine Alley, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
CathedralSights & LandmarksCatholic cathedralArchitectural BuildingsSacred & Religious SitesChurches & Cathedrals
Jackson Square
Jackson Square
4.7 (18499 ratings)4.5 (14267 ratings)
Artists & performers ply their trades in a park built in 1721 & lined with historic buildings.
701 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
Historical landmarkSights & LandmarksCity parkHistoric Walking AreasPoints of Interest & Landmarks
Mentioned by Lonely Planet Top Choices
Top things to do in New Orleans, USA
"Sprinkled with lazing loungers, surrounded by sketch artists, fortune tellers and traveling performers, and watched over by cathedrals, offices and shops plucked from a Parisian fantasy, Jackson Sq is one of America’s great town greens and the heart of the Quarter. The identical, block-long Pontalba Buildings overlook the scene, and the nearly identical Cabildo and Presbytère structures flank the impressive St Louis Cathedral, which fronts the square."
Preservation Hall
Preservation Hall
4.7 (3021 ratings)4.5 (5263 ratings)
Historic, all-ages place for jazz in a no-frills space with wooden floors & no air-conditioning.
726 St Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
Live music venueSights & LandmarksTheatersPoints of Interest & Landmarks
Mentioned by New Orleans 3 days itinerary
The Best New Orleans Itinerary: 3 Days in New Orleans
"It’s also an excellent place to people watch and where a number of New Orleans’ historical landmarks like The St Louis Cathedral, The Cabildo, and The Presbytère are located (with Preservation Hall and The Historic New Orleans Collection nearby). Tons of artists, musicians, and fortune tellers hang out in Jackson Square and in the spirit of disclosure, I spent most of my time here people-watching and eating beignets. However, if you want to be a little more cultured than I was, visit one or several of the above-mentioned landmarks for even more NOLA history."
Mentioned by Go Backpacking
7 Best Jazz Clubs in New Orleans
"I learned about Preservation Hall from a couple of locals while enjoying a drink at Jewel of the South, a bar in the French Quarter. Dating back to the 1950s, Preservation Hall has to be the most unassuming jazz club in the world. Every night, a line of hopefuls forms outside this venerable institution for the chance to spend an hour listening to the house band, The Preservation All Stars, perform traditional New Orleans jazz."
Mentioned by Yurview
48 Things to Do in New Orleans This Weekend
"If you’re a fan of live jazz performances, then you must make plans to attend an upcoming show at Preservation Hall. Situated in the heart of the French Quarter on St. Peter Street, the venue presents intimate, acoustic New Orleans Jazz concerts featuring ensembles from a collective of more than 50 local master practitioners."
Louis Armstrong Park
Louis Armstrong Park
4.5 (4516 ratings)4 (1003 ratings)
31-acre park that's home to historic Congo Square & hosts concerts, films & other events.
701 N Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
City parkNature & ParksPark
Mentioned by The Crazy Tourist
55 Best Things to Do in New Orleans (LA
"In the 1960s a big chunk of the Tremé neighbourhood, across Rampart Street from the French Quarter, was razed to make way for the 32-acre Louis Armstrong Park. Tremé had a crucial role in the development of African American music, and Congo Square, preserved in the park, was its epicentre. Slaves were given the day off on Sundays from 1724, and from 1817 until the 1850s this space was a gathering point where a multitude of African dances and musical styles collided with European genres and instrumentation."
Mentioned by Blake Hotel New Orleans
Top NOLA Parks for the Ultimate Spring Picnic
"This park pays tribute to one of the Big Easy’s most esteemed legends, Louis Armstrong. The park is all about art, jazz, and music, featuring different events throughout the year at the historic Congo Square. It’s only a block from the jazz-inspired Hotel St. Pierre; so grab your food and find a peaceful spot among the trees, or spread out a blanket along the banks of the lagoon."
Mentioned by New Orleans 3 days itinerary
The Best New Orleans Itinerary: 3 Days in New Orleans
"Just outside of the French Quarter is Louis Armstrong Park, a public space honoring the jazz musician it was named after. Inside, there are iconic sites like Congo Square, a historic meeting place for slaves in the 1800s. There are also sculptures, a duck pond and plenty of green space where you can relax after spending your morning walking around the city."
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
3.7 (447 ratings)4.5 (3450 ratings)
Burial site of voodoo queen Marie Laveau & other historical notables in 18th- & 19th-century vaults.
425 Basin St, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
CemeterySights & Landmarks
Mentioned by Curbed New Orleans
The 31 best things to do in New Orleans with kids
"The St. Louis Cemetery was founded in 1789 and is the oldest burial ground of New Orleans’ most illustrious residents. There, you’ll find the gravesite of Voodoo queen Marie Laveau, as well as actor Nicolas Cage’s future tomb. Book with Save Our Cemeteries to have an up close and personal look at an array of wall vaults and tombs just steps from the French Quarter—and don’t forget the sunscreen."
Mentioned by Hand Luggage Only
12 Very Best Things To Do In New Orleans
"Now, this might sound pretty macabre but give me a moment to explore. The New Orleans cemeteries have become something of a place to see whilst in the city, especially as they house some voodoo remnants from the people that rest there. You see, since New Orleans is actually built on a swamp."
Marigny
Marigny
4.5 (398 ratings)
The offbeat Marigny district is known for its Cajun bistros, bohemian bars and jazz clubs, especially along Frenchmen Street. Sidewalk musicians and brass bands add a block party vibe to the nighttime Frenchmen Art Market, which sells local artwork and handicrafts. Quieter spots include Washington Square where the lawns are shaded by old oak trees. The Marigny Opera House offers an eclectic program.
New Orleans, LA, USA
Sights & LandmarksNeighborhoods
Mentioned by New Orleans 3 days itinerary
The Perfect 3 Day New Orleans Itinerary
"Start the day with a bike tour of Marigny and Bywater The two neighborhoods this tour goes on is Marigny and Bywater. These are “coming up” areas, kind of a little hipster and definitely not the standard places to visit. You’ll go to the bike shop in the French Quarter to meet the tour instructor then ride off!"
Mentioned by New Orleans 3 days itinerary
The Perfect Itinerary for 3 Days in New Orleans
"After lunch take at least 15 minutes to explore the next few blocks of colorful homes in Marigny. There isn’t much else to do other take great photos and enjoy the neighborhood that has alot of character before heading back to the French Quarter."
Smoothie King Center
Smoothie King Center
4.6 (4347 ratings)4.5 (229 ratings)
Vast, state-of-the-art concert & sports venue & home of the New Orleans Pelicans basketball team.
1501 Dave Dixon Dr, New Orleans, LA 70113, USA
ArenaSights & LandmarksBanquet hallStadiumArenas & Stadiums
Mentioned by Yurview
48 Things to Do in New Orleans This Weekend
"Smoothie King Center is where you’ll catch many top indoor sporting events and concerts coming through New Orleans. The multi-purpose indoor arena sits adjacent to the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. It’s also the home of the NBA’s New Orleans Pelicans."
Audubon Park
Audubon Park
4.7 (6098 ratings)4.5 (1567 ratings)
Park with oak trees, jogging & bike paths, a lagoon, picnic shelters, tennis courts & playgrounds.
6500 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA
ParkNature & Parks
Mentioned by New Orleans 3 days itinerary
The Best New Orleans Itinerary: 3 Days in New Orleans
"Get your dose of nature at one of New Orleans’ two large parks.City Park is larger than Central Park in New York and is home to the New Orleans Museum of Art, as well as several gardens.Audubon Parkboasts the Audubon Zoo and is easily accessible by street car. Either way, both are excellent options for a relaxing afternoon."
Mentioned by Hospitality of New Orleans
Best Parks Around New Orleans
"Previously called Upper City Park, Audubon Park is located across from Tulane University. Audubon dates to the 1800’s. Audubon was originally part of the Bore Family Plantation."
Mentioned by Fodor's Choice
Sights in New Orleans
"Formerly the plantation of Etienne de Boré, the father of the granulated-sugar industry in Louisiana, this large, lush patch of greenery…"
Garden District
Garden District
4.5 (8094 ratings)
In the charming Garden District, oak-shaded streets are lined with a diverse mix of homes, from single-story cottages to the grand historic mansions and lavish gardens of St. Charles Avenue, on the Mardi Gras parade route. Leafy Lafayette Cemetery is filled with ornate, 19th-century tombs. Boutiques and antique shops sit alongside fine-dining restaurants, casual cafes and local bars on and around Magazine Street.
New Orleans, LA, USA
Sights & LandmarksHistoric Walking AreasNeighborhoods
Mentioned by New Orleans 3 days itinerary
The Perfect 3 Day New Orleans Itinerary
"Explore the Garden District and Buckner’s Mansion The Garden District is where you’ll find the epic mansions. You want to walk along here and take photos, even sign up for a tour if you’re interested enough. Buckner’s Mansion is where American Horror Story: Covent was filmed, so you can put that into your GPS."
Mentioned by New Orleans 3 days itinerary
The Perfect Itinerary for 3 Days in New Orleans
"You can’t miss the grand turquoise Victorian restaurant Commander’s Palace when you’re strolling through the Garden District and it shouldn’t be skipped!. Enjoy a fine Creole dining experience that makes you feel like you’ve gone back in time."
Mentioned by New Orleans 3 days itinerary
How to Plan a 3 Days in New Orleans Itinerary
"Another choice is to stay in the Garden District close to St. Charles Avenue. The streetcar makes it quick and easy to get to the French Quarter, not to mention how much quieter it is!"
Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve French Quarter Visitor Center
Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve French Quarter Visitor Center
4.6 (280 ratings)4.5 (902 ratings)
Center run by the National Park Service, with history exhibits, a gift shop & guided walking tours.
419 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
Visitor centerNature & ParksNational ParksNature & Wildlife Areas
Mentioned by Thrillist
Every Single Free Museum in New Orleans
"Marrero/French QuarterNamed after famed privateer Jean Lafitte (whose pirate treasure is still totally up for grabs, by the way), Lafitte National Park displays the beauty and complexity of the local ecosystem at its best. And by “ecosystem,” we of course mean “swamp.” As part of the National Park Service, it is free to the public. And though it may be only a 30- to 45-minute drive from the city to the park’s Barataria Preserve site -- spanning 23,000 acres -- entering the preserve is like being thrown into Jurassic Park."
Mentioned by Photography & Travel
Ultimate Instagram Guide to New Orleans (26 Top Photo Spots)
"Jean Lafitte National History Park, located about 30 minutes south of New Orleans, was a highlight of the trip for me. There are a couple boardwalks that go through the swamp that provide amazing scenery and a chance to encounter all kinds of wildlife. We saw snakes, lizards, toads, egrets and, of course, an alligator. If you are both lucky and brave (or a bad parent like us), you could even take a picture with a wild alligator."

Top Best French Restaurants in French Quarter

Cafe Sbisa
Cafe Sbisa
4.6 (385 ratings)
Storied venue offering French-Creole cuisine for brunch & dinner in an ornate 19th-century space.
1011 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA
Creole restaurantCajun restaurantFrench restaurantSeafood restaurant
Mentioned by Thrillist
Where to Eat in New Orleans Right Now
"The gist: The restaurant has been around since 1899, but chef and co-owner Alfred Singleton has breathed new life into Cafe Sbisa’s Creole menu after partnering with local businessman Craig Napoli. The food: Dig into New Orleans classics like crawfish beignets, crab cakes, shrimp and grits, barbecue shrimp, and delectable trout Eugene. They recently reopened after a pandemic-fueled hibernation, so swing by ASAP for dinner or Sunday brunch."
Mentioned by Eater New Orleans
The Essential French Quarter Dining Guide
"Originally opened in 1899, this classic French-Creole restaurant opened again under Dickie Brennan's talented alum Alfred Singleton, who is chef and partner. Cafe Sbisa’s menu is old-school compared to many of the restaurants currently opening in the city, and the crab cakes are some of the best in town. Dinner, brunch, and small plates."
Antoine's Annex
Antoine's Annex
4.2 (292 ratings)
This old-fashioned coffeehouse & sweets shop is an outpost of nearby historic Antoine's restaurant.
513 Royal St #2182, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
CafeCajun restaurantCoffee shopCreole restaurantEspresso barFrench restaurantRestaurant
Rib Room
Rib Room
4.4 (358 ratings)
Steakhouse in the Omni Royal Hotel with classic fare in a clubby space good for people-watching.
621 St Louis St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
Fine dining restaurantAmerican restaurantBarFrench restaurantSeafood restaurantSteak house
Mentioned by omnihotels.com
New Orleans Restaurants | Dining
"Located on the corner of St. Louis at Royal Street, the Rib Room has been the haunt of literary greats and the politically infamous for over 50 years. The Rib Room’s rotisserie remains a focal point of the menu of classic to contemporary dishes."

Best Bath Houses in French Quarter

7th Sense Wellness & Massage Therapy
7th Sense Wellness & Massage Therapy
4.7 (39 ratings)
4118 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115, USA
SpaMeditation instructorSpa and health clubThai massage therapist
Massage Envy
Massage Envy
3.6 (76 ratings)
5300 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70115, USA
Massage spaAromatherapy serviceFacial spaMassage therapistReflexologistSkin care clinicSports massage therapist
Mentioned by lyft.com
Top 10 Most Visited Spas in New Orleans
"Massage Envy provides massage, skin care and total body stretch services which are an integral part of total body wellness and a healthy lifestyle. Keep your body working with Massage Envy. Schedule an appointment today!"
Nola Bliss Massage
Nola Bliss Massage
4.7 (185 ratings)
322 Lafayette St #300, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
Massage therapistDay spa

Best Takeout Food Restaurants in French Quarter

Bonefish Grill
Bonefish Grill
4.2 (1059 ratings)
Contemporary grill chain offering a seafood-centric menu, plus steaks & cocktails.
4848 Veteran's Memorial Blvd, Suite B, Metairie, LA 70006, USA
Seafood restaurantAmerican restaurantBar & grillBrunch restaurantCalifornian restaurantCatererGluten-free restaurantTakeout RestaurantRestaurantWine bar
Conola Grill & Sushi
Conola Grill & Sushi
4.5 (199 ratings)
Laid-back locale serving brunch, sushi & down-home American entrees, plus colorful cocktails.
619 Pink St, Metairie, LA 70005, USA
Sushi restaurantBar & grillBrunch restaurantCajun restaurantTakeout RestaurantSouthern restaurant (US)Sports bar
Mentioned by Eater New Orleans
14 Top Spots For Sushi in New Orleans
"Don’t order sushi for lunch at Conola, only because it isn’t on the menu. But come dinnertime, and the sushi bar is rolling. It’s a bit of a disconnect, since this place is mostly a Creole/American restaurant, but co-chef/owners/spouses Will and Kinsey Varas make it happen."
Landry's Seafood House
Landry's Seafood House
4.1 (1211 ratings)
Family-friendly chain eatery offering steaks & Gulf Coast seafood in laid-back surroundings.
620 Decatur St Unit 1A, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
Seafood restaurantCreole restaurantFine dining restaurantTakeout RestaurantSteak house
Mentioned by OpenTable
Beste Restaurants mit dem Küchenstil Amerikanisch in New Orleans / Louisiana
"For a great seafood restaurant experience in New Orleans, visit Landry’s Seafood House in the French Quarter!. Located in the historic Jax Brewery building, enjoy scenic views of the Mississippi River and Jackson Square. Landry's Seafood House is a prime destination for a night out on the town or a...Mehr"
Mentioned by lyft.com
Top 10 Most Visited Seafood Restaurants in French Quarter, New Orleans
"The true flavor of Gulf Coast tradition is all about family, warmth and exceptional seafood. Landry's Seafood strives to bring all of those things together in each and every location, providing a fun-filled dining experience that will make you want to drop your anchor and never leave..."

Vacation Rentals, Airbnb, Hotels & Cabins near French Quarter

5.0 (23 reviews)
"Hillary Gardens" Hip Uptown/University Area Owner on Premises
Guest Suite · 2 Guests · 2 Bedrooms
$297 /night*
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4.6 (191 reviews)
Park View Historic Hotel
Hotel
$184 /night
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3.8 (6 reviews)
Irish Channel Home Only 10 Mins to French Quarter!
House
$123 /night
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* The displayed nightly rate may be estimated based on a future travel date. Narrow down your search with checkin and checkout dates to see the exact price.