Essential French Quarter Landmarks

St. Louis Cathedral

Anchoring the heart of the French Quarter, this iconic triple-spired basilica is the oldest continuously active Roman Catholic cathedral in the United States. Visitors can step inside to admire the intricate stained-glass windows, hand-painted murals, and soaring vaulted ceilings.

Jackson Square

A beautifully manicured, historic public square framed by iron fences, equestrian statues, and the open-air open galleries of painters and portrait artists. It is ideal for a morning stroll before the midday crowds arrive.

The Cabildo & The Presbytère (Louisiana State Museum)

Flanking St. Louis Cathedral on Jackson Square, these two Spanish colonial-era buildings hold immense historical significance. The Cabildo was the site of the Louisiana Purchase signing in 1803, while The Presbytère houses world-class, sophisticated exhibits detailing the rich history of Louisiana’s decorative arts, Mardi Gras traditions, and coastal heritage.

Café du Monde (Original French Market)

Located across from Jackson Square, this legendary open-air coffee stand has been serving warm beignets heavily dusted with powdered sugar alongside traditional dark-roast coffee and chicory café au lait since 1862.

French Market District

Spanning six blocks along the riverfront from Jackson Square to the Old U.S. Mint, North America’s oldest open-air public market features artisan crafts, local specialty foods, pralines, and historic colonnades.

Old Ursuline Convent Museum

Constructed in 1752, this is the oldest intact building in the Mississippi River Valley and the finest surviving example of French colonial architecture in the country. The serene grounds feature manicured parterre gardens and quiet historic exhibits.

Classic Citywide Attractions & Scenic Spots

The National WWII Museum

Consistently ranked as one of the top museum experiences in the world, this sprawling, state-of-the-art institution in the Warehouse District offers immersive exhibits, rare artifacts, and the expansive Beyond All Boundaries 4D cinematic experience narrated by Tom Hanks.

St. Charles Avenue Streetcar Ride

For a quintessentially historic tour of the city, board the green St. Charles Avenue Streetcar—the oldest continuously operating streetcar line in the world. The line runs from the edge of the French Quarter down oak-lined avenues, past grand historic estates, Tulane University, and Audubon Park.

Audubon Park & Woldenberg Riverfront Park

Audubon Park: A tranquil Uptown retreat featuring majestic canopy live oaks, lagoons, and walking paths designed by John Charles Olmsted.

Woldenberg Park: A paved riverfront promenade along the Mississippi River in the French Quarter, perfect for watching riverboats, tugs, and ships against the backdrop of the city skyline.

Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 (Washington Ave)

One of the city's oldest and most picturesque above-ground cities of the dead, framed by iron gates and historic family vaults. (Note: Gates may be closed for restoration, but the historic tombs and architecture are easily viewed from the surrounding perimeter streets).

National WW II Museum

Named by Tripadvisor as the #1 Attraction in New Orleans, The National WWII Museum tells the story of the American experience in the war that changed the world—why it was fought, how it was won, and what it means today.

Drinks & Dining Highlights - New Orleans is known as a foodie destination, with so many restaurants and cuisines including French Creole, Gulf seafood, southern classics and French cuisine.

Shaya: Award-winning modern Israeli cuisine with wood-fired pitas on Magazine Street. This is a MUST if you have time. Book early.

Café du Monde: Royal Street classic for chicory coffee and delish beignets.

La Petite Grocery (Uptown / Magazine Street) one of Isabel's favorites.

Located in a transformed historic 1800s grocery store, serving French-Louisianan cuisine, including blue crab beignets and pan-seared local fish.

Commander’s Palace (Garden District)

A landmark of Haute Creole cuisine in the Garden District, ideal for a traditional multi-course dinner or a lively weekend Jazz Brunch.

Brennan’s (French Quarter)

Famous for its historic courtyard, elegant dining rooms, and classic dishes like Eggs Hussarde and Bananas Foster flambéed tableside.

Apres Dinner Drinks:

The Sazerac Bar: Elegant Art Deco lounge inside The Roosevelt Hotel. (CBD).

The Lobby Bar & Pool at The Chloe Hotel (Uptown)

The Jewel of the South in the French Quarter