Vieux Carré Historic District (French Quarter)

The Vieux Carré Historic District, better known as the French Quarter, is the historic core of New Orleans. Founded with the city in 1718, the district occupies the area between Canal Street, North Rampart Street, Esplanade Avenue, and the Mississippi River. Its street plan, courtyards, balconies, townhouses, religious buildings, and commercial architecture reflect layers of French, Spanish, Creole, Caribbean, and American influence. The district was designated a National Historic Landmark in recognition of its exceptional architectural and cultural importance.

Visitors can explore the neighborhood on foot, including Jackson Square, the Mississippi riverfront, historic streets such as Royal and Chartres, and numerous museums, restaurants, shops, and preserved buildings. Because the French Quarter is an active neighborhood rather than a single enclosed attraction, experiences vary from block to block. The National Park Service French Quarter Visitor Center at 419 Decatur Street is a useful starting point for learning about the area's history before exploring the district.