Jackson Square - Jackson Square, possibly one of the most photographed spots in New Orleans. With the impending rain moving in, it gave the sky some character which is why I ended up snapping a photo.
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Jackson Square

4.7
·28k reviews·New Orleans, United States

A historic heart of New Orleans' French Quarter, alive with artists, musicians, and iconic architecture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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Jackson Square - Jackson Square, possibly one of the most photographed spots in New Orleans. With the impending rain moving in, it gave the sky some character which is why I ended up snapping a photo.

Jackson Square

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic heart of New Orleans' French Quarter, alive with artists, musicians, and iconic architecture.

4.7
(28k reviews)

"Good vibe and worth to spend some time exploring here."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Stroll & Soak It In

Wander through the square, enjoy the breeze, and take in the scenery. It's a beautiful park for a break.

🎨 Admire Local Art

Explore the works of talented street artists; you might find a unique souvenir.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

St. Louis Cathedral

St. Louis Cathedral

Overlooking Jackson Square

An iconic landmark with stunning architecture, offering a glimpse into New Orleans' rich history and spiritual heart.

Street Artists & Performers

Street Artists & Performers

Throughout Jackson Square

Witness vibrant local talent, from painters to musicians, showcasing the creative soul of the French Quarter.

Historic Buildings

Historic Buildings

Surrounding Jackson Square

Admire the charming architecture of the Pontalba Buildings and The Cabildo, steeped in centuries of New Orleans history.

Cafe Du Monde

Cafe Du Monde

Adjacent to Jackson Square

Indulge in world-famous beignets and cafe au lait at this quintessential New Orleans sweet spot.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Heat

New Orleans can be sweltering, especially in summer. Visit Jackson Square early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat and crowds. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends, offering a more relaxed experience with artists and performers. Reddit

Embrace the Local Vibe

Jackson Square is a hub of local culture, featuring street artists, musicians, and performers. While it's a popular tourist spot, take time to appreciate the authentic New Orleans atmosphere. Be aware of street vendors, especially those offering shoe shines, and engage respectfully. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light, lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
During festivals
Why
Vibrant energy, unique events
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

10/10 will be going back to experience more, this city is VIBRANT ✨ #neworleans #nola #traveltips #bourbonstreet #frenchmenstreet #louisiana #travel #traveltok
@disneywineclub
42.6K likes • 1.2M views

🚶‍♀️ Stroll & Soak It In

Wander through the square, enjoy the breeze, and take in the scenery. It's a beautiful park for a break. Reddit

🎨 Admire Local Art

Explore the works of talented street artists; you might find a unique souvenir. Instagram

I bet I know where you got them shoes…#hustle #streethustle #hustler #nola #shoehustle #neworleans #visitneworleans #louisiana #louisianatiktok #neworleanslife #frenchquarter #jacksonsquare
@nolalifestyle
17.7K likes • 614.9K views
𝐒𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐚𝐯𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐭𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐎𝐫𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐧𝐬 🤳⚜️ 📸 Check out my full list in the link in my bio ✨ •••• 📍Jackson Square 📍Cafe Beignet 📍Garden District 📍Armstrong Park 📍Rusty Rainbow Bridge 📍Botanical Gardens 📍St. Charles Street Car #neworleans #nola #neworleansfood #neworleansfoodie #neworleanslife #neworleansarchitecture #neworleansculture
eatingwithcaitt
1.4K likes • 51.4K views

🎶 Enjoy Live Music

Listen to talented street musicians who will tug at your heart. Instagram

☕ Beignets Nearby

Cafe Du Monde is just a 2-minute walk away for a classic New Orleans treat. Reddit

9 Places to visit in New Orleans ⬇️⬇️⬇️ 📍St. Louis Cathedral 📍Jackson Square 📍The Sazerac House 📍Saenger Theatre 📍The LaBranche House 📍Canal Street 📍Shops of the Colonnade 📍Louis Armstrong Park 📍Woldenberg Park Follow @adventure.awaits.19 for more must visit spots and travel inspiration! ✈️ 📸 Share this with someone you’d love to visit New Orleans with! 🙌 #neworleans #luisiana #nola #visitne...
adventure.awaits.19
161 likes • 2.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Stroll & Soak It In

Wander through the square, enjoy the breeze, and take in the scenery. It's a beautiful park for a break. Reddit

🎨 Admire Local Art

Explore the works of talented street artists; you might find a unique souvenir. Instagram

🎶 Enjoy Live Music

Listen to talented street musicians who will tug at your heart. Instagram

☕ Beignets Nearby

Cafe Du Monde is just a 2-minute walk away for a classic New Orleans treat. Reddit

🐴 Horse-Drawn Carriages

Consider a scenic ride through the French Quarter. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

New Orleans is humid; carry water, especially during warmer months. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(28k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Jackson Square for its vibrant atmosphere, rich history, and iconic landmarks like St. Louis Cathedral. The presence of talented street artists and musicians adds to its unique charm. While some find the garden area closes strictly at 6 PM, most enjoy the lively ambiance and proximity to other French Quarter attractions like Cafe Du Monde.

"Activity 5: Jackson Square & St. Louis Cathedral ⛪️

Post-dinner stroll = necessary.
We wandered into Jackson Square, home to one of the most iconic cathedrals in the U.S.

⏰ FYI: The garden area closes at 6PM sharp. People didn’t really care though until a security guard came in and loudly reminded everyone it was time to go.

You’ll also spot horse-drawn carriages lined up around the square, ready to take you on a slow, scenic ride through the French Quarter.

Good vibe and worth to spend some time exploring here."

Jenny L.

"Really small park but beautiful! Lots of people hanging out and taking pictures. There are benches to seat on but most people are either walking to Cafe Du Monde which is 2 minutes walk away or going to the water, or New Orleans sign which are all within walking distance. The Louisiana museum is the pictured building along the park."

Adati Tarfa

"What a beautiful park to take a break and relax. It was a stagnant, humid day and we ventured into this beautiful park by the museum. Great breeze, nice scenery and well manicured grass and trees.

Immediately adjacent a beautiful church and museum. Very peaceful."

Dr. Chris J. Collins

What People Like

Vibrant atmosphere
Street artists and musicians
Historic architecture

What People Dislike

Garden area closing time

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Jackson Square is centrally located in the French Quarter of New Orleans. It's easily accessible by walking if you're staying in the Quarter. Public transportation options include streetcars that run along nearby streets like Canal Street. Many visitors also opt for ride-sharing services or taxis. TikTok

Parking in the French Quarter can be challenging and expensive. There are several paid parking garages within walking distance of Jackson Square, such as the Decatur Street Garage or the French Market Garage. Street parking is limited and often metered. Instagram

Yes, Jackson Square is a short and pleasant walk from Bourbon Street, typically about 5-10 minutes. It's a great way to experience the atmosphere of the French Quarter as you make your way there. TikTok

Walking is the best way to explore Jackson Square and the surrounding French Quarter. You can easily access St. Louis Cathedral, Cafe Du Monde, and various shops and restaurants on foot. Reddit

Absolutely! Many guided tours of the French Quarter include a stop at Jackson Square, often highlighting its history and significance. You can find walking tours, ghost tours, and even culinary tours that incorporate this iconic location. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Jackson Square itself is a public park and is free to enter. You can wander freely, enjoy the atmosphere, and watch the street performers without purchasing a ticket. TikTokInstagram

Jackson Square is generally open to the public from dawn until dusk. However, the garden area has specific closing times, often around 6 PM sharp, as noted by visitors. Reddit

While St. Louis Cathedral is a place of worship and entry is generally free, donations are appreciated. You can explore the beautiful interior and admire its architecture. Reddit

There are no mandatory fees to watch street artists or performers in Jackson Square. However, it is customary and appreciated to tip them if you enjoy their work or purchase art. Instagram

Artists and vendors typically set up their stalls in Jackson Square throughout the day, especially during peak tourist hours. On weekends and during festivals, the square is usually bustling with activity. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The area directly in front of St. Louis Cathedral offers iconic shots. Also, capture the vibrant street performers and artists, and the charming architecture of the surrounding buildings like the Pontalba Buildings. TikTokInstagram

Yes, it's generally acceptable to take photos of street performers, but it's always polite to ask for permission first, especially if you plan to get close or use a flash. Tipping is also a good gesture if you're taking their photo. Instagram

The 'golden hour' shortly after sunrise and before sunset offers beautiful, soft light for photography. Midday can be harsh due to direct sunlight, but it's also when the square is most lively. Instagram

Drone usage is generally restricted in public parks and historic districts like the French Quarter to ensure safety and preserve the atmosphere. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone. Instagram

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both the wide views of the square and details of the art and architecture. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the grandeur of St. Louis Cathedral. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Cafe Du Monde, right next to the square, is famous for its beignets and cafe au lait. The French Quarter also offers numerous restaurants, from casual cafes to fine dining, serving Creole and Cajun cuisine. Reddit

Don't miss the beignets from Cafe Du Monde! You should also try other New Orleans specialties like gumbo, jambalaya, po'boys, and muffulettas from nearby eateries. TikTok

Yes, besides Cafe Du Monde, you can find more budget-friendly options like po'boy shops and casual cafes scattered throughout the French Quarter. Exploring a bit beyond the immediate vicinity of the square can yield good deals. TikTok

While you can't typically buy alcohol directly within the park, many visitors enjoy carrying to-go drinks from nearby establishments, like a frozen Irish coffee from Molly's, as they explore. Instagram

Cafe Du Monde is a bustling, open-air cafe known for its quick service and delicious beignets. Expect a lively atmosphere and a classic New Orleans experience. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Jackson Square offers a lively and engaging environment for families. Kids will be fascinated by the street performers, artists, and the grandeur of St. Louis Cathedral. The nearby Cafe Du Monde is a guaranteed hit for its delicious beignets. TikTok Consider a horse-drawn carriage ride for a memorable family outing through the French Quarter. Reddit

Keep in mind that New Orleans can be hot and humid, so plan your visit for cooler parts of the day and ensure everyone stays hydrated. The open space of the square allows children to move around, but always keep a close eye on them, especially near the street and crowds. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

Jackson Square is a fantastic destination for budget-conscious travelers as entry to the square and watching street performers is free. TikTokInstagram You can enjoy the atmosphere, admire the art, and listen to music without spending a dime. Grabbing a classic beignet and cafe au lait from Cafe Du Monde is an affordable treat that offers a quintessential New Orleans experience. Reddit

For more budget-friendly meals, explore the side streets of the French Quarter for local eateries offering po'boys or other New Orleans staples. Walking is the best way to get around, saving on transportation costs. TikTok

📸 Photographers & Art Lovers

Jackson Square is a photographer's and art lover's paradise. The iconic facade of St. Louis Cathedral, the vibrant street art, and the historic architecture provide endless opportunities for stunning shots. Instagram Capture the dynamic energy of the musicians and performers, or find a quiet moment to photograph the intricate details of the surrounding buildings. Instagram

Consider visiting during the golden hours for the best light. The square is also a great place to find unique, locally created art to purchase as a souvenir. Engage with the artists; many are happy to share insights into their creative process. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of Jackson Square

Jackson Square, originally known as the Place d'Armes, was established by the French in 1721. It served as a central gathering place and parade ground, witnessing pivotal moments in New Orleans' history, including public executions. Instagram After the Louisiana Purchase, it was renamed in honor of Andrew Jackson, the hero of the Battle of New Orleans. The square was redesigned in the mid-19th century with its iconic circular layout and central equestrian statue of Jackson. Today, it stands as a National Historic Landmark, preserving its rich past while embracing its vibrant present. Instagram

Surrounding the square are historically significant buildings that contribute to its charm and importance. The Pontalba Buildings, flanking the north and south sides, are the oldest apartment buildings in the United States, completed in 1851. To the east stands The Cabildo, a Spanish colonial building that was the site of the Louisiana Purchase transfer. Opposite these, to the west, is The Presbytère, which now houses exhibits on Louisiana's culture and history. These structures, along with the majestic St. Louis Cathedral, create a picturesque and historically rich backdrop for the square's daily life. Reddit

The transformation of Jackson Square from a military parade ground to a cultural hub is remarkable. It has evolved into a lively public space where artists, musicians, fortune-tellers, and performers gather, drawing locals and tourists alike. The square's enduring appeal lies in its ability to blend historical gravitas with a dynamic, artistic spirit, making it the true heartbeat of the French Quarter. TikTokInstagram

Experiencing the Art and Music Scene

Jackson Square is a canvas for New Orleans' vibrant artistic soul. Throughout the day, you'll find a diverse array of street artists displaying their paintings, sketches, and crafts. These artists often capture the unique essence of the city, from its iconic architecture to its lively street scenes. Many are happy to chat about their work, and purchasing a piece can be a meaningful way to take a tangible memory of your visit home. Instagram

Complementing the visual arts is the rich tapestry of live music that fills the air. Brass bands, jazz ensembles, and solo musicians perform regularly, creating an infectious soundtrack to your exploration. The spontaneous performances add an unparalleled energy to the square, making it a dynamic and engaging place to spend time. Whether you're enjoying a beignet or simply people-watching, the music provides an authentic New Orleans experience. TikTokInstagram

Beyond the formal performances, the entire square buzzes with creative energy. You might encounter tarot card readers, caricaturists, or even performers showcasing unique talents. This constant flow of artistic expression is a defining characteristic of Jackson Square and a major draw for visitors seeking an immersive cultural experience. TikTok

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