Find the Best Things to Do in French Quarter

By
Travel Expert

About French Quarter

The French Quarter is the oldest, most historical, storied and visited neighborhood in all of New Orleans. Referred to by locals simply as "The Quarter", the area has something for everyone. This is where to find the best party scene and restaurants, as well as experience early-era New Orleans culture. 

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See & Do

The French Quarter neighborhood is usually the main draw for tourists to New Orleans. For the family, a trip to the Audubon Aquarium can put a smile on the faces of the whole group, especially once you venture to the sea otter exhibit. If you want to get a look inside the deep tradition and culture of the city, while having the added edge of suspense and spookiness, check out one of the many ghost tours. 

Eat

Often times, a trip to the Big Easy is made mainly for the food alone. In the French Quarter, you can dine on local delicious oysters, shrimp and crawfish at one of the many fine dining establishments, such as Acme Oyster House. If you haven't heard of Po'boys, take a trip over to Mother's and see what all the fuss is about. For dessert and coffee, head to Cafe du Monde for cafe au lait and French doughnuts. 

Party

Bourbon street is party central in New Orleans. Here, you can enjoy everything the city does well, all on one strip. The drinking, eating, live music and shows never end. Grab a famous Hurricane at Pat O'Brien's before taking in a top notch burlesque performance at One Eyed Jack's. Come prepared to dance, shout for beads, sing-a-long to your favorite songs and meet some great people. Also, be prepared to not sleep. 

Stay

If you plan to spend most of your time in the French Quarter during your visit, reserving a hotel in the area is the way to go. You can choose to stay in authentic, vintage era hotels like the Hotel Monteleone, or somewhere more modern and ritzy like the Crowne Plaza Hotel. For you gamblers, the main casino in town (Harrah's), has their own recently built gem of a property

Shop

You have two predominant options for shopping in the French Quarter. The French Market is where to go for local vendors selling hand crafted goods. The experience is half the draw, as walking through the market you absorb the sounds of brass instruments and smells of fresh gumbo. Royal Street is the renowned shopping area of the Quarter, lined with boutiques and galleries. This is where to look for higher end art and vintage clothing. Antique shops are prevalent too, such as the famous Keil's.