Jackson Square

Description

Ah, Jackson Square – the beating heart of New Orleans’ French Quarter and honestly one of my favorite spots in the entire city. Y’know, I still remember my first time walking through this historic plaza, completely mesmerized by the artists displaying their work along the iron fence. The square itself is this gorgeous piece of history that dates back to 1721, when it was known as Place d’Armes. Today, it’s basically an open-air festival of culture that never really stops.

The St. Louis Cathedral towers over everything, and it’s absolutely stunning – especially when the sun hits it just right in the afternoon. I love how the square transforms throughout the day, from peaceful morning moments when local joggers pass through, to the bustling afternoon scene full of street performers, fortune tellers, and musicians who really know how to work a crowd.

Key Features

• St. Louis Cathedral – The oldest cathedral in North America, with its iconic triple spires
• Jackson Statue – The centerpiece bronze statue of Andrew Jackson on horseback
• Local Artist Colony – Dozens of artists showcase their work along the iron fence
• Street Performers – Musicians, dancers, and entertainers throughout the day
• Historic Architecture – The Pontalba Buildings, the oldest apartment buildings in the US
• Lush Gardens – Beautifully maintained greenery and walking paths
• Fortune Tellers – Traditional New Orleans psychics and tarot readers
• Street Musicians – Live jazz and traditional New Orleans music
• Historic Museums – The Cabildo and Presbytère flank the cathedral
• Outdoor Cafes – Perfect spots for people-watching and coffee sipping

Best Time to Visit

I’d say the sweet spot for visiting Jackson Square is either early morning (around 8-9 AM) or late afternoon (4-5 PM). Early birds catch the square at its most peaceful, perfect for photography and quiet contemplation. But if you’re after that classic New Orleans energy, afternoon visits are your best bet – that’s when the artists and performers are in full swing.

Spring (March-May) and fall (October-November) are absolutely perfect weather-wise. Summer can be pretty brutal with the humidity – trust me, I learned that lesson the hard way during my July visit! I’d suggest avoiding peak afternoon hours during summer months unless you’re really good with heat.

How to Get There

Getting to Jackson Square is pretty straightforward. If you’re staying in the French Quarter, you can easily walk there – it’s right in the heart of everything. The St. Charles streetcar can get you close if you’re coming from uptown. For folks taking the Canal Street streetcar, just hop off at Canal and walk a few blocks into the Quarter.

Driving? Well, I wouldn’t recommend it – parking near the Square is both expensive and scarce. But if you must drive, there are several parking garages within walking distance. I usually park at the Premium Parking lot on Decatur Street when I absolutely need to bring a car.

Tips for Visiting

Lemme share some hard-earned wisdom from my many visits to Jackson Square. First off, bring cash! Most street performers and artists prefer it, and you’ll definitely want to tip these talented folks. Also, don’t forget your camera – the photo ops are endless, especially during golden hour.

Watch your belongings – it’s generally safe, but it’s still a busy tourist area. I always keep my bag close and my wallet closer. And speaking of safety, wear comfortable shoes! Those historic cobblestones can be tricky to navigate in fancy footwear.

If you’re planning to get your fortune told, take some time to observe different readers first. They each have their own style, and prices can vary. Oh, and here’s a pro tip: some of the best photo spots are actually from the riverfront side looking back at the cathedral.

Don’t try to see everything in one go – the square deserves at least a couple of hours of your time. Take breaks at the nearby cafes, people-watch, and soak in the atmosphere. And if you’re visiting during summer, bring water and sunscreen – the New Orleans sun can be relentless!

Last but not least, try to visit on both a weekday and weekend if you can – it’s like two completely different experiences. Weekends are more crowded but also more lively with additional performers and artists. Weekdays offer a more laid-back vibe that’s equally charming in its own way.

Location

Places to Stay Near Jackson Square

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