Jackson Square
Jackson Square
4.5
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
About
This historic landmark in the French Quarter is the cultural center of the city, home to a vibrant and bustling open-air artist colony.
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The area
Address
Neighbourhood: French Quarter
A small and teeming network of laissez-faire living lounged out on the balmy banks of the Mighty Mississippi, the French Quarter has long been a port of call for folks in search of a good time and a great story. Perpetually inebriated Bourbon Street runs across its midriff like a strand of cheap ribbon tied around an otherwise rather pretty and impressively well-kept vintage dress. Throughout the rest of the Quarter, brightly colored Victorian homes and businesses, famously done up with wrought-iron features, provide a distinct and immediately recognizable backdrop for all varieties of fun. At any given moment in this historic riverside setting, some of America’s finest meals are being cooked, most potent cocktails are being mixed, and most engaging music is being performed.
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Restaurants
1,505 within 5 kms
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629 within 10 kms
See what travellers are saying
- Shey36 contributionsBeautiful but crowdedThe buildings, specifically the church, are stunning and offer gorgeous architectural views. The square is beautiful, and I'd be sad if we'd missed it. However, the square is very crowded by tourists (just like us), people selling things, singing, fortune telling, street shows, and unfortunately, lots of homeless individuals as well. It's a sad fact that smacks you in the face at every literal corner. I wish New Orleans had a better plan for these people in need.Visited January 2024Travelled with familyWritten 28 January 2024
- Dawna PLong Island City, New York33 contributionsA must stop in New OrleansThis is my fourth time on New Orleans and I never get tired of Jackson Square. The street musicians are always amazing and it is fun to see all the local artists at work (especially on the weekend when all sides are full). Of course the Cafe Du Monde is a must stop in New Orleans. Pro - tip- go mid week to avoid long lines. (Or to the City Park location). It is enjoyable to go up the stairs and downs the river walk as well.Visited March 2024Travelled with friendsWritten 1 March 2024
- Angela C267 contributionsDon't miss it!There is so much to see and do in the Jackson Square area. Carriage rides, Art sellers, Museums, Cathedral, souvenirs, Beignets, Mississippi river, statues, music, random weddings. Just don't miss it!Visited February 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 2 March 2024
- 83lovetotravel566 contributionsGreat hangout placeGreat spot to visit and explore. Find a close by parking garage and walk to this square. The famous cafe du Monde, Joan of arc statue, French market, boat rides are walkable distances from this square. Wear comfortable shoes and enjoy the live music that bands or individuals play to entertain folks. Do tip them.Visited March 2024Travelled with familyWritten 11 March 2024
- HeatherLas Vegas, Nevada1,575 contributionsA must seeJackson Square is a vibrant area with street performers and artists all displaying their talents (or lack there of) lol. At night the lamps and fog give spooky Anne Rice vibes. It's surrounded by restaurants and within walking distance to most everything in the French Quarter.Visited March 2024Travelled soloWritten 17 March 2024
- Michael OLichfield, United Kingdom828 contributionsA great square with a great atmosphereThis square was part of the original city design renamed after Andrew Jackson who saved NO from the British in 1812. Some great places to pause at and some interesting art work on display. usually a smattering of entertainers after your money - in the nicest possible way...usually!Visited October 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 2 April 2024
- RobertPortland, Texas145 contributionsA vibrant square in the heart of the French Quarter.The square is a very picturesque area with St. Louis Cathedral as one of the more dominant features that overlooks the black wrought iron fenced Jackson Square Park. The square is a pedestrian area where many artists, street performers, and fortune tellers peddle their talents. It is common to see entertainers performing on street corners, or sidewalks. The rhythm of drums or the unmistakable style of jazz brings the area alive as people gather to listen. You can’t help but get into the New Orleans spirit and start moving to the beat. A couple of blocks around the square there are numerous stores, restaurants, and historical places. A lot are touristy and sell the usual items you find in any city, but there are a few interesting ones. One of the more unique things about New Orleans is their ties to voodoo. You can see voodoo signs everywhere. There are tales told about how voodoo has influenced the city and how it still does, and of course you can buy voodoo doll souvenirs from practically every store.Visited May 2024Travelled with familyWritten 4 June 2024
- Barbra SArvada, Colorado159 contributionsClassicClassic French Quarter vibe. The park outside the church is stunning and has a lot of spots to relax in the shade. Like any big city, be aware of your surrounding. Live music plays regularly outside the church. Inside, the church is worn down, but still worth a pop in. Walk across the street toward the Mississippi and sit on the steps to enjoy the breeze. Walk down the river walk to see the Natchez. No public bathrooms around so make sure to use one wherever you dine.Visited June 2024Travelled with familyWritten 7 June 2024
- Ginger B ROswego, New York534 contributionsInteresting part of townThis area is near the river and is where you can catch the horse and carriage rides. Cafe Du Monde is across the street, lots of shopping and restaurants nearby. The square itself is a pretty spot to walk around.Visited February 2024Travelled with friendsWritten 15 August 2024
- Bill BBel Air, Maryland20,237 contributionsa perfect summerlike day to enjoy the squareToday was a perfect summerlike day in November, so it was not surprising to see the square and the surrounding streets crowded with people. The sun shone off the cathedral and other historic buildings. Entertainers, food vendors, and artists abounded. A visit to this part of the French Quarter is always invigorating.Visited November 2024Travelled soloWritten 15 November 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
16,412 reviews
Excellent
10,089
Very good
5,058
Average
1,097
Poor
124
Terrible
44
Robbyremi19605
Reading, PA170 contributions
Jan 2020
Jackson Square, as often as I've been there, never disappoints me. The artists are talented, engaging, and no pressure. My wife and I enjoy sitting across the street in the little amphitheater and we watch the musicians and acrobats and comedians for hours. St Louis Cathedral is awe inspiring and a wonderful place for reflection and prayer. I have no clue what it's like at night. We always go around 10AM and stay til 3 or 4 and have never had any issues whatsoever. The carriage rides are well worth the time and money and stage right at the park.
Written 11 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Barbara M
Arlington, TX54 contributions
Feb 2020
Walking around the square can take all day as there is much to see and do from watching the artists and shopping their artwork, eating beignets and drinking delicious chicory coffee at the Cafe du Mond. The cathedral is gorgeous with a man to tell us all about it while listening to Gregorian chant. The museums, Hurricane Katrina and Mardi Gras, are next to the cathedral and many stores occupy the rest of the square with the park in the middle...grab a carriage ride when you get tired.
Written 14 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bacons on the Road
62 contributions
Mar 2020
This is a must-see if visiting NOLA. Jackson Square itself is beautiful with all of its green space and architecture. The surrounding streets are some of the most lively we have ever been on in our full-time travels. With countless artists and street performers, you truly could spend all day there. Be sure to bring money for tips if you plan to stay and watch performances. For many of these people, it is a full-time job.
Written 13 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sheryl G
Saint Paul, MN34 contributions
Feb 2020
A lovely square in the French Quarter. I could imagine what it would have been like there 300 years ago. At our visit there were fortune tellers everywhere surrounding the park; performers singing, dancing, telling stories. Lots and lots of people everywhere having a good time. It was very enjoyable.
Written 13 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
wendy L
Evanston, IL480 contributions
Dec 2019
When you see photos of New Orleans, this is often what is highlighted - the Cathedral, fountains and buggies out front. It is indeed a lovely, historic area on Decatur Street at the Riverfront in the French Quarter, and it is flanked by streets with wrought iron balconies, little shops, street performers and artists. It is a great location for photos, and some touristy stuff as well. It is also home to the original Cafe du Monde and crowds can be brutal on the streets around here. But it is classic NO, and worth a look if you want to say "been there, done that".
Written 4 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kathryn O
9 contributions
Aug 2020
Why would you want to hang out in a park across from Cafe du Monde, surrounded by artists, mule carts, palm readers and fronted by the glorious St. Louis Cathedral? Why wouldn't you? Sit on a bench or in the grass and just BE in the heart of the French Quarter.
Also, my baby liked chasing the birds.
Currently it seems to be closed due to COVID but we normally stop by multiple times per visit.
Also, my baby liked chasing the birds.
Currently it seems to be closed due to COVID but we normally stop by multiple times per visit.
Written 7 August 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MICHELLE F
Bertram, TX124 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
Just Beautiful! Must see. You can spend hours in this one spot. Go into St. Louis Cathedral, you will not be disappointed. The street artists are amazing weather you watch them paint, listen to them sing, or watch a majic show. Lots to do.
Written 2 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kate49002
Portage, MI12 contributions
Oct 2019
Walking through the park was pleasant but just out side of the park along the streets is where you can meet many artists of music. I was very impressed by one man who was playing a electric violin. HE WAS AMAZING! Not sure why he was not in a recording studio as he should have been. I think the park draws all kinds of people there and if you are not in a hurry to go somewhere they will tell you history about New Orleans just to have conversation and you may get lucky and be able to listen to beautiful played music.
Written 4 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
tisforturtles
Las Vegas, NV11 contributions
Feb 2020
Park was very beautiful and looked even more wonderful sitting in front of the Cathedral -- incredibly beautiful and well-maintained statues as well. Lots of unique street performers doing shows constantly; however the main downside to the street performers is how they hassle you for money or "donations" constantly throughout their show. Lots of homeless people are also lurking about asking for money and they try to make you feel bad if you don't give them any, so that ruins the ambiance.
Written 28 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
christa m
Fort Worth, TX135 contributions
Mar 2020
Jackson Square is full of life. People of all ages were enjoying magicians, artists, entertainers, and the shops and eateries. We visited St. Louis Cathedral and the Presbytere, had a cool drink and snack at Monty’s On The Square. Just a terrific place to spend time in New Orleans.
Written 18 May 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I am considering going on the first week of May. Would you recommend? (Not really into the party scene) going mostly for the Voodoo, Beauty and Budget. :-)
Written 22 September 2024
Of course you should go, good food beautiful city and interesting people.
Written 27 November 2024
foodmanJackson_NJ
15,823 contributions
Where is the best store or place in Jackson Square to get the best price for bottle water and soda and snacks ( chips , pretzels... )?
Written 5 June 2024
How much time is needed to get the Jackson square “experience “
Written 17 April 2021
Closest, decent-priced parking to French Quarter during a weekday? for at least 1/2 day?
Written 11 June 2019
There are plenty of parking lots. If you do a bing map search for lots close to your location or you can park further out and take the trolley cars in.
Written 12 June 2019
There are many options: research city guide online or any travel website. Ask your hotel for suggestions. There are many tourist information spots throughout the area too. Good luck
Written 7 March 2019
Visiting in January pre cruise for a day and a half, and looking for recommendations for goof family things to see and do with kids aged 13, 11 and 7.
Written 12 December 2018
For young people, the difference in tastes between 13 years and 17 years is large so it is difficult to give you a definite recommendation. There are many activities in the Square itself, from jugglers, palm readers, musicians, that could suit the many tastes for the wide You could visit the cathedral and the Cabildo or good get a beignet in the Café du Monde (but the long lines may deter you). You could walk along to the French Market and the Jazz museum and stop by the many stalls on the way (about half a day).
A 3 hour tour of New Orleans could give you an overview of the the history and then you can continue the visit yourself . You could also take the Saint Charles streetcar to Uptown and eat in one of the districts restaurants.
Written 12 December 2018
How much are the horse and carriage rides?
Written 9 October 2018
BretH_13
Greenbelt, Maryland
It’s $20 per person for a shared ride, but $100 for a private carriage for 30 minutes. We had a group of 4 so went ahead with the private ride, and were extremely happy we did. Highly recommended!
Written 4 January 2019
Is there a certain time that it's open?
Written 24 July 2018
Is there a certain time that it's open?
Written 24 July 2018
The square itself is open everyday, 8am to 7pm. Most shops and restaurants around the square are open much later.
Written 25 July 2018
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