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Jackson Square
Jackson Square
French Quarter
view websiteDecatur Street
New Orleans, LA 70116
Good-for-Kids Rating
Babies
Toddlers & Pre-KSchool-Age KidsPre-Teens & Teens
Jackson Square Description
The open plaza at the heart of the French Quarter facing onto the Mississippi River, Jackson Square is a relaxing place to stroll around and look at the arts and crafts displayed along the high iron fence along the pedestrian walkway. Take time to peak inside St. Louis Cathedral, the stately Presbytere, now a state history museum, and the Cabildo, also a museum. Check out the antique cannon used in the battle of New Orleans, and visit The 1850 House, one of the famously picturesque Lower Pontalba buildings, which is furnished as though a middle-class 19th century family had just stepped out for a walk. Kids will love seeing the toys, clothing, furnishings and other household goods a prosperous New Orleans family would have used.
There are almost always multiple bands playing and street artists performing, often including children's jazz bands and tap-dancing troupes, which kids love to watch. This is the easiest place to catch a carriage ride, and it's fun to look at the long line of carriages and horses, each horse wearing a slightly different straw hat.
Scenic Landmark
Boutique
Bazaar
Kid Tips
Babies: Great for stroller wandering.
Toddlers & Pre-K: Keep an eye on curious eyes when it comes to the paintings; the artists take their work seriously and don't like sticky fingers.
Pre-Teens & Teens: Older kids may want to buy a painting as a souvenir.
Planning Notes
- This is definitely a day trip. The park is closed after dark, and is most festive in the mornings or late afternoons.
Just the Facts
Hours: Open daily, year round.
Fees: Free
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