The French Quarter

The French Quarter is one of NOLA's most historic neighborhoods

Founded by the French in 1718, the Quarter is New Orleans’oldest neighborhood. Touched by centuries of influence from across the globe, the Vieux Carré tells ages-old stories of trade, pirates, voodoo and even vampires. This neighborhood’s history traces back to Europe and beyond, and these influences are lasting in today’s French Quarter culture. 

Discover a portal into New Orleans history by touring the homes, drawing rooms, gardens and courtyards of some of the nation’s oldest original French, Spanish and American architecture. Whether you’re visiting a Creole cottage in the Treme or a grand plantation home, these homes are living memories of lives lived and lessons left behind.

The buildings and architecture of New Orleans are reflective of its history and multicultural heritage, from Creole cottages to historic mansions on St. Charles Avenue, from the balconies of the French Quarter to an Egyptian Revival U.S. Customs building and a rare example of a Moorish revival church.

The city has fine examples of almost every architectural style, from the baroque Cabildo to modernist skyscrapers.