St. Louis Cathedral is easily one of the most beautiful and iconic sights in New Orleans…read more The cathedral is stunning from the outside, especially with its location overlooking Jackson Square, but it's absolutely worth taking the time to go inside as well. The interior is beautiful, peaceful, and filled with history. Even if you're not religious, there's plenty to appreciate here simply from an architectural and historical perspective. It's also one of those landmarks that feels inseparable from the French Quarter. Seeing the cathedral towering over Jackson Square is such a classic New Orleans view, especially in the evening when the whole area takes on a different atmosphere. Admission is free, so there's really no reason to skip it if you're already exploring the French Quarter. Just remember that it is an active place of worship and be respectful when visiting. An essential New Orleans landmark and an easy five stars from me.

The oldest continuously active Roman Catholic cathedral in the United States and a must visit for…read moreall Catholics to the Crescent City. While its exterior face may not stand out aside from its massive size on the end of Jackson Square, its interior is beyond impressive and fulfills its task of both capturing the attention and commanding the reverence of its visitors through its visuals all pointing towards proper worship of the Lord.

Jackson square is alittle piece of Europe in the heart of NOLA! Bonjour, La Nouvelle-Orléans!…read moreWhat a beautiful combination of history, architecture, art, music, and that unmistakable French joie de vivre! Jackson Square has such a charming European atmosphere! Something about its beautiful architecture, lively surroundings and historic character reminded me of the elegant squares in Paris, the vibrant plazas of Barcelona, and even the famous Grand-Place in Brussels. Different cities, different characters , but that same wonderful feeling of being surrounded by history, culture, and everyday life! This place is origin ally known as Place d'Armes, Jackson Square dates back to 1721 and witnessed some of Louisiana's most significant historical moments like the ceremonial transfer of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. Later renamed in honor of Andrew Jackson(the 7th president of USA) for his military victory at the battle of NewOrleans in 1815, the square still features his impressive bronze equestrian statue right in the center.And the ARCHITECTURE! MAGNIFIQUE! The stunning St. Louis Cathedral, with its three elegant spires, creates an absolutely beautiful backdrop. On either side stand the historic Cabildo and Presbytère, while the charming red-brick Pontalba Buildings, with their beautiful iron balconies, add so much character. The combination of French and Spanish colonial influences makes this square truly special. Almost like stepping into a European postcard! But the real magic is the ATMOSPHERE! Artists displaying their paintings along the historic iron fences, jazz musicians filling the streets with music, talented performers entertaining the crowds, and even tarot readers adding a little mystery! There's always something happening, and every corner seems to have its own personality. C'est la vie à la Nouvelle-Orléans! I loved wandering around, admiring the artwork, taking photos, listening to the music, and simply enjoying the energy of the square. There's something wonderful about standing in a place with more than 300 years of history while watching modern-day NOLA come alive around you.And of course, Café du Monde is just steps away! Fresh, powdered-sugar-covered beignets and a café au lait make the perfect little French-inspired break. Un vrai plaisir! MY ADVICE: Don't rush through Jackson Square just to take a picture of the cathedral! Walk around, explore the local artwork, enjoy the street performances, and appreciate the architectural details. Daytime is wonderful for photography, while the surrounding streets have a completely different energy in the evening. Parking can be challenging, so walking is probably your best option. The square is FREE to visit, and between the gorgeous architecture, fascinating history, live music, and local art, it's easily one of the best experiences in the French Quarter!so Jackson Square is more than just a beautiful landmark. It's where history, culture, art, and the unmistakable spirit of New Orleans come together. Un petit coin d'Europe au cœur de la Louisiane! A little corner of Europe in the heart of Louisiana! ABSOLUTELY CHARMING! À NE PAS MANQUER!

Disappointing Treatment of a Service Animal at Jackson Square…read more I recently visited Jackson Square with my service dog and was approached by an employee who informed me that dogs were not allowed. I politely asked whether that restriction also applied to service animals. In an incredibly condescending tone, he responded, "Sir, are you telling me that's a service animal?" I confirmed that he was, explaining that my dog is individually trained to detect the presence of tree nuts in my food to help protect me from a potentially dangerous allergic reaction. This is particularly important when traveling and frequently dining at unfamiliar establishments. Despite my explanation, the employee questioned me a second time about whether my dog was actually a service animal. At that point, I told him, "You know what? I don't care about your park. I'll leave. This conversation is ridiculous." The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) recognizes the rights of individuals with disabilities who rely on trained service animals. A blanket no-pets policy does not override those protections. I have the employee's name and intend to contact the City of New Orleans and the organization responsible for overseeing Jackson Square. I also intend to consult my attorney regarding this incident and whether my rights under the ADA were violated. Jackson Square is one of New Orleans' most recognizable public landmarks. Its employees should understand the distinction between pets and service animals and treat visitors with disabilities with professionalism and respect. I have no objection to reasonable questions about a service animal's status. What I object to is being treated with suspicion and condescension after explaining that my dog is a trained service animal. No visitor should be made to feel unwelcome for relying on an animal that performs an essential disability-related task.

Was walking the paved path by the river and found the love locks ...it's not a bridge more a pier…read moreand theres a locked gate. I've seen this sort of thing in other areas ... the first being Paris. The concept is you put a lock on the this and your love will last forever. Most sign or put initials and or the date. The sign that says love wins has faded ... all the paint is off so its just wood and not easy to read. statistically speaking half these locks are going to have to come off but its a cute romantic concept. This isn't fair from Cafe du Monde,

No you're not in Paris or Tahiti…read more New Orleans has its own locks for love gate. Many in scripted with names and dates honoring special occasions. All shapes all sizes, put there to share their love with the world. Located on Waldenburg River Park walkway, this fun landmark makes for a nice pic along our mighty Mississippi. My favorite is a heart shaped lock embodied with a skull, perhaps Jean Lafitte put it there? or a relative perhaps?

What I will remember the most about the French Quarter was the parts of it that you don't see on…read moresocial media. The parts where people actually live. Believe it or not there is a residential part of the French Quarter. I saw actual schools in the French Quarter that are there for the little kids who live there. I never would've known that if I hadn't went off the beaten path in the French Quarter. There are little markets and little community sports bars that are 100% filled or used by locals, not a tourist in sight. The architecture in those sections of the French Quarter are a little beat up in comparison to the more popular parts like Bourbon Street or Jackson Square. But the buildings still look pretty awesome. So my recommendation would be if you find yourself in the French Quarter, take a walk away from the touristy parts and venture off to the hidden part of the French Quarter-it's pretty awesome.

What can be said about the French Quarter that hasn't already been written a thousand times?…read more Plenty--once you see it the right way. If you've never been, skip the chaos of Mardi Gras and visit during the quieter stretches of mid-spring, preferably during the day. That's when the Quarter reveals itself. The crowds thin just enough to let you move at your own pace, to look up at the wrought-iron balconies, to hear the music before you see the musician, and to take it all in without fighting your way through it. History here isn't something you read about--it surrounds you. Spend time at Jackson Square, anchored by its iconic statue of Andrew Jackson, and framed by the stunning St. Louis Cathedral. Artists line the square, musicians fill the air, and street performers remind you that this city doesn't separate culture from daily life--it lives it. And then there's the food and music--both deeply rooted, unapologetically bold, and unmistakably New Orleans. Yes, the flavors can lean spicy, but the kitchens here know their audience. Just speak up, and they'll meet you where you are. But here's the truth: no photograph, no movie, no travel piece ever quite captures this place. The French Quarter isn't something you observe--it's something you experience. And once you do, you'll understand why people keep coming back, trying to put into words what is, at its core, impossible to fully explain.

Had an absolutely wonderful experience and tour during the staged Victorian mourning period at the…read moreGallier House. It's so informative and educational, and the home is absolutely spectacular. Would 100% recommend the tour while in New Orleans.

Everything I hoped it would be and more. Our guided tour was thorough and had so much detail but…read morenever overwhelming. Our guide went through not only the design details of the historic spaces but also their day to day uses and how the family spent time in each room. She gave us time to ask questions after each room as well. I was so impressed with the state of the house- not overly pristine or fake but in a state of preservation, which is what I hope to see in a historic home. Our guided tour was kind enough to tell me and another set of guests about how the home was used for AMC's Interview With The Vampire and how the set designers worked with the museum to recreate a set version. I was unsure of my 13 year old would enjoy herself but she really enjoyed soaking up the spaces and all of the detail our guide gave of how the home was used.

The massive white columns and Greek Revival architecture make it one of the most striking homes in…read morethe neighborhood. This is the titular exterior of Miss Robichaux's Academy in American Horror Story: Coven! Definitely worth a photo while exploring the Garden District.

The Buckner Mansion is an incredible place to see if you're visiting New Orleans. I really enjoyed…read moreseeing it in person since it was featured in American Horror Story Season 3. The mansion looks amazing and is definitely worth stopping by.

This statue is located in the middle of the street. You can get to it easily from the cross walk…read more Located across from Cafe Du Monde, Near the French Market This is a pretty cool landmark with tons of history as do most things in NOLA Each year on January 6th, the Krewe de Jeanne d'Arc honors St. Joan and the French heritage of New Orleans with a celebration. "As the first day of the carnival season, that date suggests renewal-the awakened sprite carrying the battle flag from the dead of winter toward the light of Spring. Joan has given us hope. Once more she is called to battle." -Errol Laborde

What is not to Love about Joan of Arc, Patron Saint of France, and defender of the French.read more

This romantic spot in Bayou St John is perfect to have a picnic, watch the sunset or enjoy…read morefestivals or fireworks from. Located in a residential area, it is a lovely spot that is a landmark with the charm of an earlier time and place. Once upon a time, it did carry cars, alas it is for pedestrians only now. Kayaking is a popular activity on Bayou St John, and as this bridge is quite close to the water, I would warn to be cautious when traversing the waters. This is a magical place perfect to make memories come true.

A pretty blue bridge on the bayou that is basically a park of its own. Keep walking and you'll get…read moreto Pitot House and then City Park. A perfect route for touristing or running.

Easy to get tickets, loved the tour. I had my first Mint Julep yum! Grounds are both stunning and…read moreeducational. The information regarding the slaves along with the homes brought history to life. We learned about the sugar cane industry from back in the day as well. The gift shop was well stocked, with samples to boot!!!

I'm really surprised I didn't write about this place on my last visit to NOLA. Now granted, this…read morewas back in 2021, so it's been a while since my last visit, but still...I really enjoyed my experience learning more about Oak Alley while in NOLA. As their website states, this sugar plantation has over 200 years of history. It's a massive estate that has become a National Historic Landmark. I learned so much about sugar plantations from doing the tour and the history behind it. The grounds is well kept and the tour guides were very informative, keeping the experience engaging. If you're looking for an educational aspect while in NOLA, take the drive and learn about the history here at Oak Alley.