Roads of History
Featured view of Jackson Square in New Orleans, Louisiana

Colonial America

Jackson Square

New Orleans, Louisiana

The ceremonial heart of the French Quarter, where the 1803 transfer of Louisiana to the United States is remembered amid an iconic landscaped public square.

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Overview

About Jackson Square

Jackson Square is a 2.5-acre historic public square in the center of New Orleans' French Quarter, framed by St. Louis Cathedral, the Cabildo, the Presbytère, and the Pontalba Buildings. Known during the colonial period as the Place d'Armes and later the Plaza de Armas, the square served as an important civic and ceremonial space under both French and Spanish rule. On December 20, 1803, the formal transfer of Louisiana from France to the United States took place here, giving the square a direct connection to one of the largest territorial expansions in American history.

Today the landscaped square is centered on an equestrian statue of Andrew Jackson and remains one of the most recognizable public spaces in New Orleans. Visitors can walk the paths, view the surrounding historic architecture, and use the square as a starting point for nearby museums and landmarks. Artists, street performers, and musicians are commonly found around the square's perimeter, while the interior park provides a quieter setting for viewing the cathedral and surrounding buildings.

Visitor Essentials

Plan Your Visit

Hours

Open daily. Winter hours are 8:00 AM–6:00 PM. During Daylight Saving Time, hours are 8:00 AM–7:00 PM.

Admission

Free

Hours and admission prices may change. Confirm current details on the official website before visiting.

Historical Connections