French Quarter

Also known as the Vieux Carré (Old Square), the French Quarter covers a grid of some 98 square blocks stretching back from Decatur Street, which runs parallel to the Mississippi River. Dating from 1718, it is one of the oldest districts in the country, with superb 18th- and 19th-century architecture. Apart from the Ursuline Convent, which dates from 1745, the early French buildings were destroyed in two devastating fires in 1788 and 1794. The handsome buildings erected after this time, with their arches, fanlights and filigreed wrought-iron balconies, are actually Spanish in character.

The focal point of the French Quarter is Jackson Square, arguably the loveliest square in America, with its Louis XIV-style garden landscaping and the symmetry of the stately buildings flanking the square - the Pontalba Buildings, St Louis Cathedral, the Cabildo and Presbytère (see below). Artists, tarot card readers, mimes and tourists are returning, following the Katrina disaster; tourism is showing signs of booming again.

The other famous spot in the French Quarter is just north of Jackson Square - Bourbon Street, famous for its jazz clubs, bars and novelty shops. Other highlights to look out for in the French Quarter include historic tavern Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop and Madame John's Legacy, a house with unique West Indian architecture and early Creole-colonial home design, dating from 1788. All attractions in this area have reopened, but it is always wise to call first to verify hours and admission information.