12 Fun & Unique Things to Do in the French Quarter, New Orleans

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The second I stepped onto Bourbon Street, the energy smacked me in the face. Jazz music pouring from every bar, the smell of fresh beignets from Café du Monde floating through the air, and those beautiful iron balconies stretching as far as I could see. Within minutes, I knew New Orleans had me hooked.

Ready to discover all the awesome things to do in the French Quarter? Trust me, this neighborhood is something else. From sipping hurricanes at Pat O’Brien’s to watching artists and musicians do their thing in Jackson Square, every corner here tells a story. Let me show you exactly why this wild slice of New Orleans stole my heart (and trust me, it wasn’t just the beignets).

Must-See Attractions in the French Quarter

Looking for the coolest things to do in the French Quarter? Visit Historic Jackson Square, shop at the French Market, stroll down the iconic Bourbon Street, and immerse yourself in music history at the New Orleans Jazz Museum. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or local flavor, here are the top attractions to visit in the French Quarter.

1. Historic Jackson Square

Jackson Square is the heart of the French Quarter, where New Orleans’ energy, artistry, and history come together in full color. Facing the iconic St. Louis Cathedral, this public square is filled with street performers, local painters, and live music. It’s where locals sell handmade art, tarot card readers set up shop, and musicians play everything from jazz to folk. 

I wandered through here on a warm afternoon and ended up staying for hours. A nearby food cart was serving spicy boudin, and I grabbed some before finding a bench to watch a brass band play under the oaks. If you’re visiting for the first time, don’t rush through. Jackson Square is best experienced slowly—take your time, soak it all in, and enjoy the people-watching from one of the green benches lining the walkways.

2. French Market

Walking through the French Market feels like entering a mini festival that never ends. This open-air market, located along Decatur Street, has been around since 1791 and is still buzzing with energy. You’ll find rows of vendors selling everything from handmade jewelry to voodoo dolls and hot sauces. The food stalls are a highlight—serving up Creole favorites like crawfish étouffée, gator sausage, and beignets dusted in powdered sugar.

I stopped for a cold mango lemonade before picking up a hand-carved mask made by a local artist. The mix of flavors, colors, and sounds is constant, with live jazz floating in from nearby performers. The market is open daily, and no two visits are ever the same. It’s a casual, fun spot to browse, eat, and get a feel for the culture that makes New Orleans so unique.

3. Bourbon Street

Bourbon Street is chaotic, loud, and totally unforgettable—and that’s exactly why people love it. This legendary strip is packed with neon lights, balconies draped in beads, and music blasting from every doorway. You’ll pass bars like Pat O’Brien’s, where the famous Hurricane cocktail was born, and the Old Absinthe House, which dates back to the early 1800s. The party here doesn’t stop, and for better or worse, it’s a must-experience.

I ended up on Bourbon late one night, squeezed between a brass band and a guy walking a giant snake. It was wild, but surprisingly friendly. If you want to experience it at a slower pace, go during the day and check out the historic buildings and small shops tucked between the clubs. Whether you’re into dancing or just soaking up the spectacle, Bourbon Street delivers something unforgettable every time.

4. New Orleans Jazz Museum

Tucked inside the Old U.S. Mint, the New Orleans Jazz Museum is a must for anyone curious about the city’s musical roots. This spot showcases the legacy of jazz through a mix of historic instruments, rare recordings, and exhibits on legends like Louis Armstrong and Jelly Roll Morton. You’ll find everything from vintage horns to listening booths where you can hear how the genre evolved.

When I visited, there was a live performance happening upstairs—free with admission—and the room was filled with both locals and tourists swaying to the beat. It was a great reminder that jazz here isn’t just history—it’s still alive. The museum is compact, so it won’t take all day, but it’s packed with stories and sounds. If you want a deeper appreciation for New Orleans’ music scene, this is the place to start.

5. Café du Monde

Café du Monde is iconic for a reason. Located across from Jackson Square, this open-air coffee stand has been serving powdered sugar–coated beignets and chicory coffee since 1862. It’s casual, quick, and absolutely essential to the New Orleans experience. There’s no fancy menu—just beignets, coffee, and a whole lot of powdered sugar on your clothes by the end.

I showed up early to avoid the line and ended up staying longer than planned, just people-watching and enjoying the breeze off the Mississippi River. The beignets come in threes, always hot and crispy, and pair perfectly with a creamy café au lait. Street performers often play nearby, adding to the atmosphere.

Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, a stop at Café du Monde is like a bite of New Orleans itself. It’s truly sweet, messy, and unforgettable!

6. Historic New Orleans Collection

If you’re even slightly interested in New Orleans history, the Historic New Orleans Collection is worth a visit. Located on Royal Street, this museum and research center dives deep into the city’s past through interactive exhibits and beautifully preserved artifacts. Topics range from Mardi Gras traditions to the city’s French and Spanish colonial roots.

The layout makes it easy to move through at your own pace, and I appreciated how approachable the exhibits were—even for someone who’s not typically into museums. One gallery focused on early jazz posters, while another detailed how the city’s architecture evolved over centuries. Guided tours are available, but I found plenty to explore on my own.

It’s the kind of place that adds context to everything else you’re seeing in the Quarter. Best of all, admission is free, making it an easy choice for your itinerary.

7. Royal Street

A stroll down Royal Street is a completely different vibe from nearby Bourbon. Here, things are quieter, classier, and a lot more photogenic. The street is lined with antique shops, fine art galleries, and elegant Creole townhouses with wrought-iron balconies and hanging plants. It’s the kind of place where window-shopping turns into actual shopping without realizing it.

I ducked into a small gallery on a whim and ended up chatting with the owner for half an hour. There’s no pressure, just genuine interest in art and conversation. Street musicians often set up on corners, playing jazz or blues to small, appreciative crowds.

If you’re looking to slow things down while still soaking up the French Quarter charm, Royal Street is your go-to. It’s perfect for an afternoon walk, whether or not you’re in the market for antiques.

8. Preservation Hall

Preservation Hall keeps traditional New Orleans jazz alive in the most unfiltered, intimate way possible. Located just off Bourbon Street, this unassuming venue doesn’t have a bar, a sound system, or even air conditioning—but it absolutely delivers on atmosphere. The focus is 100% on the music.

The night I went, we packed into a dim room with wooden benches and waited as the Preservation Hall Jazz Band set up just feet away. When they started playing, it was electric. The acoustics in that small space are unmatched, and the musicians played with so much heart, it felt like time stood still.

Shows run nightly and tickets can sell out, so plan ahead if you want a seat. You don’t need to be a jazz expert to enjoy this place—it’s about feeling the music, not just hearing it.

9. Haunted Ghost Tours

Haunted Ghost Tours are one of the most entertaining ways to explore the French Quarter after dark. With its history of voodoo, pirates, and tragic events, New Orleans has no shortage of eerie tales. Most tours start around Royal or Bourbon Street and wind through alleyways and historic buildings that supposedly house lingering spirits.

I joined a night tour on a whim and didn’t expect to be so intrigued. Our guide, a great storyteller, shared local legends and real events that gave the stories more weight. We stopped at the infamous LaLaurie Mansion, heard about the Yellow Fever epidemics, and even got a quick lesson on voodoo practices. It was spooky but fun—more atmospheric than scary.

If you’re curious about the city’s darker side and enjoy a good ghost story, this is a unique way to see the French Quarter from a different angle.

10. Voodoo Museum

The New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum is small but packed with artifacts and stories that give context to a religion often misunderstood. Tucked away on Dumaine Street, it offers a quick but fascinating look into the roots of voodoo and its role in local culture.

Walking through the museum feels like stepping into another world. Walls are lined with altars, ceremonial items, and portraits of Marie Laveau, New Orleans’ famous Voodoo Queen. I appreciated how the exhibits explained the connection between voodoo and Catholicism, and how it’s more spiritual practice than superstition.

It was a much-needed break from the typical tourist stops, and I left feeling like I actually learned something. If you want to dig a little deeper into New Orleans’ cultural layers, this museum adds an interesting dimension to your trip.

11. St. Louis Cathedral

The St. Louis Cathedral is the heart of Jackson Square and one of the most recognizable buildings in the city. With its white facade and triple spires, it’s both a spiritual and visual landmark. It also happens to be the oldest continuously active Roman Catholic cathedral in the United States.

I stopped inside for a few quiet minutes one morning and was surprised by how peaceful it felt compared to the buzz outside. The stained-glass windows and ornate altar are beautiful, and there’s a small gift shop if you’re interested in religious items or souvenirs.

Even if you’re not religious, the building itself is worth seeing for its architecture and role in the city’s history. Whether you snap a photo from the square or step inside to sit a while, the cathedral is a cornerstone of the French Quarter experience.

12. Garden District

Just hop on the St. Charles Avenue streetcar, and in under 20 minutes, you’ll be in the Garden District—a completely different side of New Orleans. It’s quieter than the French Quarter, but the architecture alone makes it worth the trip. Think grand Greek Revival and Victorian mansions surrounded by oak trees and ivy-covered fences.

I spent an afternoon wandering the neighborhood with a coffee in hand, stopping at Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, where many local legends are buried. The houses are stunning and the streets feel cinematic. You can take a guided walking tour if you want the backstory on the homes, or just explore on your own like I did.

With small boutiques and cafés tucked into side streets, it’s easy to spend a few hours here soaking up the vibe. It’s a refreshing change of pace that shows New Orleans’ softer, more elegant side.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Best Thing to Do in the French Quarter

Looking for more content on the top things to do in the French Quarter? Here are some popular questions (and answers) I get that will help you plan your trip to French Quarter:

What is the best time of year to visit the French Quarter?

The ideal time to visit the French Quarter is during the spring months, from February to May. This period offers pleasant weather and is packed with vibrant events like Mardi Gras and the Jazz Fest. Fall, especially October and November, is another great choice for its mild climate and thinner crowds.

Are there family-friendly activities in the French Quarter?

Yes, the French Quarter offers numerous family-friendly activities. Families can enjoy carriage rides, visit the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, explore the Louisiana Children’s Museum, and be entertained by street performers at Jackson Square. Many historical tours and riverboat cruises are also suitable for children, making it a diverse destination for family fun.

How can I experience the music scene in the French Quarter?

To immerse yourself in the French Quarter’s music scene, visit iconic venues like Preservation Hall for traditional jazz or explore the diverse array of live music on Frenchmen Street. Street musicians also add to the area’s charm, offering spontaneous performances that embody the musical soul of New Orleans.

What are some must-try foods in the French Quarter?

When in the French Quarter, don’t miss out on beignets at Café du Monde, savor gumbo and jambalaya at local Creole eateries, enjoy the fresh seafood, and grab a po’boy sandwich from a street vendor. Also, try a muffuletta sandwich and end with a sweet praline for dessert.

Is the French Quarter safe for tourists?

The French Quarter is generally safe for tourists, especially during the day. Standard safety measures should be followed, such as staying in well-lit, populated areas and being mindful of personal belongings. Caution is advised at night, particularly on less crowded streets, to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Is the French Quarter worth seeing?

Absolutely, the French Quarter is a must-see. It’s the heart and soul of New Orleans, brimming with rich history, stunning architecture, vibrant music, and culinary delights. Every street tells a story, from the lively Bourbon Street to the serene Mississippi Riverfront. It’s a unique blend of cultures and experiences that you won’t find anywhere else.

What is the most famous corner in the French Quarter?

The most famous corner in the French Quarter is the intersection of Bourbon Street and St. Louis Street. This iconic spot epitomizes the lively spirit of New Orleans. It’s a bustling hub of activity, known for its vibrant nightlife, jazz clubs, and historic bars. This corner is a quintessential stop for experiencing the energy and excitement of the French Quarter.

Closing Thoughts on Exploring French Quarter

Exploring the French Quarter is an experience that leaves a lasting impression, especially when you stay in New Orleans. This historic neighborhood, with its blend of cultures, history, and vibrant energy, offers something for everyone. From the lively jazz music echoing through the streets to the exquisite Creole cuisine, the French Quarter is a feast for the senses.

Strolling through the cobblestone streets, you’ll encounter architectural wonders, charming shops, and friendly locals, each adding to the unique character of the area. Whether you’re soaking up the lively atmosphere on Bourbon Street, delving into the rich history at the museums, or simply enjoying a beignet by the riverside, the French Quarter always delivers memorable moments.

A visit to the French Quarter isn’t just a trip; it’s an immersion into the heart of New Orleans culture. It’s a place where every corner has a story, and every visit is an adventure.