The French Quarter

The French Quarter
or
Vieux Carre

The French Quarter, also known as Vieux Carré, sits on a curve or cresent in the Mississippi River and on some of the highest ground in New Orleans. Not only is this New Orleans' cultural hub, but its also a a very tight nit community where the resident's are very close and gladly welcome visitors.

Intimate, unique and intreging,the French Quarter is New Orleans oldest neighborhood.  It attracts people from all walks of life the young, the old, the wealthy, actors, writers, young professionals and retireies. Hollywood celebrities have joined the residential mix, keeping the glamour up-to-date, but it is the year-round local residents who keep the neighborhood vibrant.

French Quarter architecture is a mix of Spanish, French, Creole and American styles. Homes are constructed of brick, stucco and wood siding with an abundance of wrought iron accents.  Plastered walls and single chimneys reflect laws enacted after fire virtually destroyed the city in 1788 and 1794. Most of the homes have stunning court yards that act as secret gardens, perfect for French Quarter parties, and are a gift of the Spanish influence.

Cast iron balconies were added to many masonry buildings after 1850, when Baroness Pontalba included them on her fashionable row houses near Jackson Square. These lacy galleries, along with plentiful stoops and porches on younger buildings, make the Quarter a great place for people-watching-and every kind of person imaginable can be spotted on the sidewalks of the Quarter. Visitors can obtain an inside look at Vieux Carre's architectural gems by going on home tours offered throughout the year.
 
Besides its obvious architectural distinction the Vieux Carre offers visitors a plethora of different experiences. Around the bend of every corner you will find shopping, delicious restaurant, history museums, bars, art galleries or coffee shops . Browse through all of the different vendors at the French Market, shade yourself in Jackson Square, or just enjoy watching the boats pass on the river.

The French Quarer is a plathera of new and exciting experiences.  It offers something for everyone and cannot be described without experiencing it for yourself!