22 Interesting Things To Do In French Quarter (New Orleans)

If you are wondering what a clearer definition of beauty is, you should take a trip to the French Quarter!

The French Quarter in New Orleans is the oldest neighborhood city in Louisiana, United States.

Also known as the Crown Jewel of New Orleans, the French Quarter is one of the most beautiful districts in New Orleans.

For a lot of travelers, the magic in this city is second to none!

This city was founded in the year 1718 and is wildly popular for its romantic, mysterious, and jazzy music.

Moreover, its Bohemian charm, Jackson Square history, and Steamboat cruises highlight it.

If you are looking for a fun vacation spot in the United States, this city has all the thrills!

Take your time to go through our list of some of the best and most fun things to do in the French Quarter.

Things To Do In French Quarter, New Orleans

1. Jackson Square

Are you an artist or looking for a place in French Quarter where you can draw, paint and sell?

Look no more Jackson Square has everything to make a creator’s experience perfect!

Widely known as one of the French Quarter’s most recognizable landmarks, Jackson Square is an artist’s park in the center of the French Quarter. 

This 2.5 acres of park draws over 2 million visitors and locals each year.

Also, it hosts a variety of city events, celebrations, weddings, and photography sessions. 

What’s more interesting, Jackson Square has been a popular feature in several films and television shows. 

Additionally, Jackson Square earned its name from the bronze statue of Andrew Jackson, located in the center of the square.

Jackson Square is an open space artist colony, where artists display their work. 

Visitors or tourists here have the opportunity to see the artists at work.

Moreover, a lot of seasoned talents deliver excellently drawn portraits.

You can get your portrait done if you want.

While touring here, you can spare time to grab coffee and beignets from Cafe du Monde around here.

Furthermore, you can explore their informative “Xplorit Virtual Tour”.

With this, you get to explore Jackson Square with one of the best interactive virtual experiences in the world.

Address: 701 Decatur St, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States

2. Café Du Monde Mail Order

For coffee lovers, this is more than a creamy coffee shop, it is the home of coffee!

It is a legendary French Quarter coffeehouse.

Known widely for its tasty café au laits, chicory coffee, and beignets since 1862.

Café du Monde is an open space coffee shop situated in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana, United States. 

It’s a popular New Orleans landmark and a top tourist vacation spot.

Moreover, it is known for its tasty and creamy café au lait and beignets. 

Its coffee with chicory is also widely available in the United States.

Another fun thing about this place is, if you want, you can have your Cafe Du Monde Can Coffee, Beignet Mix, and Souvenir items delivered to your home or place of business. 

Also, they offer the services of sending New Orleans Gift Items by mail.

Without a doubt, this place is famous for so many reasons. 

And yes, there are lines and mountains of powdered sugar everywhere. 

However, everything is affordable and delicious. 

Obviously, if you go here for the beignets, you won’t regret it! 

If you can, make this a stop on your trip to French Quarter, and you will enjoy it.

Address: 1039 Decatur St, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States

3. Bourbon Street, French Quarter

Looking for somewhere to explore on a warm evening and see the streets of the French Quarter?

Bourbon Street is all and more you need!

Also known as the Heart of New Orleans’ French Quarter, Bourbon Street is a gem!

Bourbon Street is a very popular street in the heart of the French Quarter. 

It was named after a royal family in France and not the alcohol.

This Street is highly famous for its plenty of trendy bars and strip clubs. 

With over 17 million visitors in 2017 only, Bourbon Street is a main tourist attraction site in French Quarter. 

Also, the number of tourists has been growing yearly after Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

It provides rich and generous insight into New Orleans’ past. 

However, because of its many visitors, it can be noisy and extremely nocturnal. 

Besides that, it embodies the life of a party town for visitors. 

Also, the street is lit by neon lights, throbbing with music and decorated with beads and balconies. 

Many things may change in New Orleans, but the color and excitement of Bourbon Street never falter.

One of the most luxurious areas on Bourbon Street, The Royal Sonesta Hotel, opened in 1969. 

Furthermore, the nightlife is something fun every visitor should experience.

A peaceful stroll and walk in this street on a cool evening is one of the best things to do here.

Address: French Quarter, New Orleans, United States.

4. Preservation Hall, French Quarter

If you are a jazz lover, the Preservation Hall in the French Quarter is for you!

This hall in French Quarter, New Orleans, is a storied institution featuring jazz.

Preservation Hall is a jazz venue in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana. 

Its building is associated with a house band, a record label, and a non-profit foundation.

It is a historic place in French Quarter for jazz in a no-frills space with wooden floors.

The story behind this hall dates back to the 1950s at Associated Artists, a small art gallery. 

Since 1961, Preservation Hall has hosted nightly jazz performances seven days a week.

Also, it has sent several touring bands around the world and recorded dozens of tracks.

Undoubtedly, it is always a wonderful experience to watch professionals ply their trade.

Although this is a really small venue, it has an up-close connection to the artists and gives the best.

Additionally, the players change on a nightly basis. 

For outdoor lovers, this is a home bass town and the preservation hall is a regular gig.

Address: 726 St Peter, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States

5. Audubon Aquarium of the Americas

Want to experience gulf marine life while exploring penguins and parakeets in French Quarter?

Explore the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, French Quarter!

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, is a top and popular aquarium in French Quarter, New Orleans.

It is headed by the Audubon Nature Institute, which also supervises the Audubon Zoo. 

This Aquarium is located along the banks of the Mississippi River in the French Quarter. 

Moreover, since its opening on September 1, 1990, it has delivered excellent services.

In addition, this aquarium has been ranked and voted as one of the top five Aquariums in the country.

Also, in the USA Today “10 Best” reader poll, it is one of the top things to do in New Orleans. 

The Aquarium transports visitors to an underwater world from the Caribbean.

Also, to the Amazon Rainforest, the Mississippi River, and the Gulf of Mexico!

With over 3,600 animals on display, it is a gem!

Moreover, you will also find present, several endangered species, such as African penguins, and rare animals, such as white alligators. 

Without a doubt, the Aquarium offers you an experience you’ll never forget.

If you are a big fan of indoor plant observatories, you will find this place amazing. 

Furthermore, the sea creatures are really cool to see, and you can walk up and pet stingrays. 

However, there isn’t a shallower part of the tank, so you would have to stick your whole arm in the water.

Additionally, the food stand offers tasty and affordable meals so you can take a bite while at it.

Make out time to visit this place, if not for anything else, go to enjoy the great breeze.

Add to your basket list of things to do while in the French Quarter.

Address: 1 Canal St, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States

6. Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar

This is an 18th-century pub offering beer and daiquiris in the French Quarter of New Orleans.

It is a dimly lit atmosphere and one of the oldest bars in the French Quarter, serving beer and frozen drinks since the 1700s.

The Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop is a shop at the corner of Bourbon Street, French Quarter.

Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop was built as a house in the 1770s during the Spanish colonial period.

Literally, it is one of the oldest living structures in the French Quarter, New Orleans. 

According to legend, Jean Lafitte, also known as John Lafitte, owned a business here in the early 19th century. 

At a time, it was assumed to be one of the most haunted places in the French Quarter. 

However, the current business traces its roots to Roger ‘Tom’ Caplinger, who, in the mid-1940s, redeveloped this old abandoned shop into Café Lafitte. 

Without a doubt, this place is an awesome spot for entertainment and recreational purposes.

Moreover, there is live music and a piano bar in the back where you can actually sit and listen or even sing along with the player. 

The vibes and great energy flowing here are second to none.

Overall, you will meet great people. Although it is small, it has a lot of history.

Address: 941 Bourbon St, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States

7. Shops of the Colonnade

Looking for a historic setting in French Quarter to explore?

Check out the Shops of the Colonnade!

The Shops of the Colonnade features several quaint stores in a historic setting in the French Quarter of New Orleans.

Present in this area is the French Market.

French Market is a market and series of commercial buildings of over six blocks in the French Quarter. 

This outdoor area was founded as a Native American trading post.

It is also the oldest market of its kind in the United States. 

Moreover, it began at the spot where Café du Monde presently stands and has been rebuilt a number of times. 

Also, this market has made its way as one of Louisiana’s African American Heritage Trails. 

Presently, it has evolved into a cultural and commercial hub, dealing with ships and traders from all over the world.  

Besides, this area is a good place to shop for wares from local artisans and souvenir stands.  

Furthermore, upfront, there are food kiosks in the middle of the handicrafts section.  

If you pay attention and compare prices with the nearby brick-and-mortar shops, you can also save some money on the same merchandise.  

Otherwise, if you are not aware of nearby prices, you can pay more than you should. 

All in all, this place in French Quarter is worth at least browsing.

Address: 1008 N Peters St, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States

8. Steamboat NATCHEZ

Want to enjoy a jolly ride in a steamboat around the French Quarter?

Then explore the Steamboat NATCHEZ for river cruises with buffet dining and jazz.

This old-fashioned steamboat is a boat offering cruises with relaxation on a buffet dining, brunch, and jazz music.

It is the last original steamboat on the Mississippi River, and you can tour the engine room to see how it works.

An interesting part of this experience is that it offers two-hour cruises with optional food and beverage. 

Also, you get to see the workings of this major port and hear the live narration of the city and the port today and in the past. 

Additionally, you get to enjoy a traditional jazz trio on the day cruise and 5 pieces of New Orleans music band every evening. 

You can book this steamboat for private charters and public cruises in the morning, midday, and evening with narration.

Furthermore, you can also enjoy the calliope, the bar, optional food, and live band.

Overall, you will be able to experience a great tour of the city. 

It is also worth it to get lunch if you would like to try a little bit of New Orleans food. 

Then on the way back, you should check out the band that is playing towards the back of the boat. 

However, go on time as you wouldn’t want to get there when the seats are filled.

Address: 400 Toulouse St, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States

9. The Cabildo, French Quarter

This is a state museum located in an 18th-century building in the French Quarter.

The Cabildo was formerly the seat of the Spanish colonial city hall of New Orleans, Louisiana.

Currently, it is now the Louisiana State Museum Cabildo. 

It is situated along Jackson Square, close to the St. Louis Cathedral, French Quarter. 

If you want to understand and digest the history of New Orleans, then this museum is a must-see. 

Especially if you’ve always been confused about the Battle of New Orleans. A visit will clear your doubt.

Additionally, you will learn some anecdotes about Jackson’s personality. 

Other exhibitions you will be able to tour here include a generic presentation of New Orleans’ character.

Also, you will be able to find something about the Barataria pirates, especially the imagination surrounding them.

Undoubtedly, this place has a lot to learn about New Orleans’ history, although it is not a complete presentation of the city. 

Furthermore, there are a couple of interactive exhibits and some neat historical artifacts and paintings.

Moreover, the building itself is gorgeous, so anyone interested in the history behind New Orleans will find it amazing!

Address: 701 Chartres St, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States

Planning to see more of Louisiana cities? Why not check our list of things to do in Baton Rouge and things to do in Shreveport?

10. New Orleans Pharmacy Museum

This is a historic apothecary that is now a museum.

Formerly known as the Circa-1823 apothecary is now a museum with exhibits of early medicines and superstitious cures.

The New Orleans Pharmacy Museum is in the 1823 Creole townhouse and apothecary of Louis J. Dufilho, Jr.

Louis J. Dufilho, Jr is the first licensed pharmacist in America. 

It was open to the public in 1950.

While here, visitors can explore the two floors of exhibits on 19th Century pharmacy, medicine, and healthcare.

Also, therein you’ll find featured exhibits that demonstrate the impact medicine had on the culture of 19th Century New Orleans. 

Furthermore, visitors will also learn about controversial medical practices and herbal medicine.

Bloodletting, surgery, the history of epidemics, and a lot more are what this museum offers.

You can also explore on a self-guided tour that they had printed out or you could pull it up on your phone. 

On a tour, you will admire this unique and beautiful space. 

It’s likened to a glimpse into the past. 

Moreover, if you love antique furniture and glassware, you’ll also love it here. 

Its collection is overwhelmingly extensive, well organized, and kept with care. 

In addition, the building has a gorgeous courtyard with a fountain, lemon, and a sweet olive tree. 

There’s also a big bright second floor with even more treasures and a balcony that overlooks this courtyard. 

Without a doubt, it is an absolutely perfect stop in the French Quarter.

Conclusively, there is a nice courtyard area where you can sit and relax for a minute. 

Address: 514 Chartres St, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States

12. New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum

The New Orleans Historic Voodoo is a museum in the French Quarter with tiny rooms full of voodoo artifacts.

Although this is only a small museum, consisting of two rooms, it is one of the few museums in the world dedicated entirely to Vodoo art. 

There is also a voodoo priest on-site giving readings. 

Separately, the museum also hosts walking tours to the Marie Laveau tomb in the Saint Louis Cemetery and the Congo Square.

It has the history and folklores of rituals, zombies, gris-gris, Voodoo Queens, and all that jazz.

Literally, this museum is a permanent staple in New Orleans, and it is a must-do for visitors.

Touring this museum is one of the greatest experiences to undertake with family or friends.

Meanwhile, get ready to learn about the rich culture that shapes this unique city. 

Once inside, you can feed your eyes on historic voodoo relics, paintings, sculptures, and other artifacts.

Also, they offer cemetery tours for the brave-hearted.

Furthermore, the tour includes Congo Square and other features. 

However, a two-person minimum is normally required.

Moreover, if you want special services like psychic readings, consultations, special gris-gris, rituals, and ceremonies, this place is perfect. 

Overall, this place is generally informative and well versed in the history of Voodoo, its practitioners, and its origins. 

There is also a gift shop with various charms and goods you can buy for yourself or your loved ones.

Address: 724 Dumaine St, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States

13. Museum of Death New Orleans

The Museum of Death showcase funeral practices and criminal memorabilia in the French Quarter of New Orleans. 

Established in 1995 by J. Healy and Catherine Shultz, its goal is to make people happy to be alive. 

Owners of this museum would write to serial killers they were interested in and then show off the artwork once a year at a specialist show. 

In 1995, after a few years of exhibitions, the collection, and many other materials, were made into a museum. 

Additionally, In late 1999, the couple attempted to acquire a large number of materials from the Heaven’s Gate cult suicides. 

If you are a fan of the macabre and a collector of the disturbing, this is your place!

If you’re squeamish, sensitive, or easily offended, skip this place as it’s not for you.

Items owned or created by serial killers cover the walls. 

Documentation and uncensored crime scene photos from historical crimes are posted in glass cases everywhere. 

Furthermore, death masks top the walls like borders. 

There’s also a theater room to sit and watch a video documenting terrible deaths.

They also have a great shop of reasonable and pricey souvenirs, and the staff was friendly and helpful.

Be aware ahead of time, they allow no photos! 

Address: 227 Dauphine St, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70112, United States

14. New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park

The New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park is a park in the French Quarter. 

It was established in 1994 to celebrate the origins and evolution of jazz. 

Most of these historical park properties in this area consist of 4 acres of land. 

There is also a big visitor center and a concert venue several blocks away in the French Quarter. 

Primarily, this park provides a setting for sharing the cultural history of the people and places, which helps to shape the development and progression of jazz in the city. 

Also, National Park Service staffs present information on jazz, through interpretive techniques to educate and entertain. 

Don’t bother visiting this park unless there is for sure going to be a performance, otherwise, there isn’t much in terms of a historical park for you to check out.

Address: 916 N Peters St, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States

15. Pat O’Brien’s Bar, French Quarter

Pat O’Brien’s Bar is an outdoor pub dining with a flaming fountain on display.

This is a bar located in French Quarter, New Orleans, as a legal liquor establishment.

Established on December 3, 1933, it is a top trendy bar and spot in the neighborhood. 

The Pat O’Brien’s Bar is home to the original flaming fountain and the hurricane cocktail. 

Additionally, there is a piano bar featuring twin “dueling” pianos where local entertainers take song requests. 

Moreover, this dueling piano bar is said to be the first of its kind. 

Its hurricane cocktail was said to have been made in the 1940s. 

It is a must-go location in the French Quarter and also the oldest bar in New Orleans. 

There’s just so much character with the ceramic beer mugs hanging from the ceiling.

Also, the ladies’ room is like a club up the spiral staircase with beautiful tiles and couches. 

Without a doubt, this place is vast, and an easy place to make friends. 

Furthermore, its courtyard is stunning both day and night. 

The Champagne fountain also lights up this setting and has flames. 

Overall, the bartenders are so nice and funny that you’ll definitely want to return.

Address: 718 St Peter, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States

16. Central Grocery and Deli

Do you love Italian cuisine or want to try out different countries’ cuisine in the French Quarter?

Go dine at the Central Grocery and Deli!

This is a specialty market and popular muffuletta vendor site in the French Quarter.

The Central Grocery Co. is a small, Italian-American grocery store with a sandwich counter in the French Quarter. 

It was established in 1906 by a Sicilian immigrant, Salvatore Lupo. 

Popular as one of many family-owned, neighborhood grocery stores during the early 20th century, this site is a tourist attraction site. 

Although tourists are more common in Central now, it still has much of its old-world market feel. 

Not only does it sell sandwiches as take-out or eat-in, but it also sells the ingredients of the muffuletta.

Because of its famous muffuletta, Central Grocery was in the PBS special program Sandwiches That You Will Like show.

Also, it was featured on NBC’s The Today Show. 

Tourists here will have the opportunity to explore Italian, Greek, French, Spanish, and Creole delicacies.

However, look ahead of time so you know what items you want to buy. 

There are limited places to sit but you’ll still find a spot.

Address: 923 Decatur St, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States

17. Beauregard-Keyes House

This is a 19th-century home offering tours and a serene garden.

It is a historic house in the French Quarter, New Orleans, Louisiana. 

Presently, Beauregard-Keyes House is a museum focusing on some of the previous residents of the house.

The Confederate General Pierre Gustave Toutant Beauregard and American author Frances Parkinson Keyes are examples. 

Without a doubt, this place is a reflection of beautiful architecture and an amazing piece of history. 

Moreover, the guided tour is a great find.

Staff who will give you a tour around are very knowledgeable about the building, the city, and its vast history. 

Additionally, the garden and the patio are so serene and peaceful. 

Overall, this is a must-see place if you are visiting the French Quarter.

You can also voluntarily leave a donation to support this foundation.

Address: 1113 Chartres St, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States

18. Visit New Orleans

This is an area in the French Quarter featuring a swamp and music.

While here, you can ride the Riverboat and explore the CITY of NEW ORLEANS. 

On a tour, you can try your shot of Mardi Gras happiness. 

Also, while here you get to enjoy the two-hour cruise, narration, live music, and a delicious Mardi Gras Brunch. 

The Visit New Orleans is definitely a fun place to keep your spirit up!

Don’t just stop here, put your beads around your neck and upgrade with the Mardi Gras Party Package. 

Moreover, the mixologists here create very amazing themed cocktails that will thrill your taste buds. 

Fun, food, drinks, and music here are delightful!

Additionally, world-class musicians, especially the jazz musicians here, are great to experience.

You will also adore the blend of cultures and their people that are such fun.

Be sure to learn something about the past events that have contributed to present-day New Orleans.  

Address: 400 Toulouse St, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States

19. Musical Legends Park, French Quarter

This is a Petite park in the French Quarter hosting live music.

It also has statues of jazz legends decorating its environment and hosts live local bands daily.

You can stop over here for a simple lunch and a small picnic. 

They also have a band playing, and the music is nice. 

Although little, Musical Legends Park is a great outdoor place on the side of Bourbon Street.

Additionally, there is a little courtyard with a small restaurant, a band, and some historical statues.

There’s also a great little plaza to go in, have a drink, food, and listen to old blues music. 

Overall, it is just a very comfortable place to hang out and spend some time.

Address: 311 Bourbon St, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States

20. New Orleans School of Cooking

Are you looking for where to learn some cooking skills and techniques in the French Quarter?

Explore the New Orleans School of Cooking.

The New Orleans School of Cooking is a catering institution in the French Quarter, New Orleans.

In this institution, you’ll be able to learn the basics of Louisiana Cooking in a way you’ll never forget. 

Fun is the primary spicy ingredient in this kitchen! 

Moreover, their Cajun/ Creole experts will also teach you how to prepare some New Orleans specialties, such as Gumbo, Jambalaya, and Pralines.

They’ll also season them with history and humor.

Activities these catering offers are Cookery School and Professional cooking.

Also, they offer Birthday Party services and Chef Demonstrations.

Cooking Demonstrations, Group Classes, and Special Events are also engaging activities here.

If you come to New Orleans, this place is a must! 

Get ready to learn a lot about the food and get that authenticity! 

Address: 524 St Louis St, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States

21. Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes & Culture

The Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes and Culture is a museum in the French Quarter offering a private collection of Carl Mack.

Carl Mack, also known as The Xylophone Man, is an accomplished performer and an entertainment provider.

This Museum holds collections, collected by Carl Mack over many years.

It displays his love and dedication to the fanfare that makes Mardi Gras such a special event.

Also, the Mardi Gras show is 45 minutes engaging entertainment experience.  

You can host your own event at the museum. 

Moreover, you can bring a group for a fun day or night out or even rent the whole venue for your special event. 

They also have specific tour times, so that when you go inside, the guide provides you with information on the wealth of Mardi Gras. 

Additionally, you can purchase many things here as well, like dresses, hats, and wigs.

Address: 1010 Conti St, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70112, United States

22. 1850 House, French Quarter

The 1850 House is a 19th-century row house with period decor.

New Orleans State Museum’s 1850 House is an antebellum row house furnished to represent life in 19th century New Orleans. 

It is situated in the French Quarter. 

This house features a museum, a book, and gift store, and tour sales.

Additionally, it is a beautifully restored house, and going on a self-guided tour has lots of interesting information. 

If you are a bit tired of the crowds and loud music and want some peace, this museum is a great place for you to enjoy some quiet time.

Not only does it have a lot of interesting history about the French quarter, but it also has some in Jackson square. 

Also, the gift shop is superb and they have such a great collection of books. 

It’s worthwhile to spend some time there!

Address: 523 St Ann St #3318, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States

Final Remarks

An experience here will fully open your eyes to the beauty of the French Quarter.

What more are you waiting for?!

Take your time to explore this city while relaxing.

It’s going to be one of the best choices you ever make!

Jolly Travels!