Jackson Square is New Orleans’ most magnetic stage. Under swaying palms, street musicians strum guitars, vintage carriages roll by, and the central monument stands silent through storms of time. Morning coffee mist blends with evening jazz—sit a while, and let the city breathe right beside you.






Everything you need to know about Jackson Square
Lafayette Square Hotel is a top choice, located directly across from Jackson Square with a 2-minute walk to the plaza. This historic boutique hotel blends French Colonial architecture with modern comforts, offering rooms with views of the St. Louis Cathedral dome. Guests enjoy complimentary breakfast and guided tours, perfect for exploring nearby jazz bars and antique markets. Just a 5-minute stroll to the French Quarter, it’s ideal for immersing in local culture and nightlife.
Jackson Square is the heart of New Orleans’ French Quarter, with major sites like St. Louis Cathedral, Preservation Hall, and jazz clubs within walking distance. Opt for electric bike rentals or a guided walking tour along Royal Street and Bourbon Street to dive into local art and cuisine. For transit, the Streetcar stops at Decatur Street Station, reaching the Mississippi Riverfront in just 10 minutes—ideal for scenic views and river cruises.
Don’t miss the daily afternoon jazz performances in front of St. Louis Cathedral, where local musicians showcase the city’s authentic jazz spirit. Join a French Quarter walking tour to explore 18th-century colonial architecture and hidden Voodoo culture sites. For crafts lovers, the Jackson Square weekend market features over 50 independent artisans selling hand-painted ceramics and vintage clothing, perfect for unique souvenirs.
Lafayette Square Hotel is a top choice, located directly across from Jackson Square with a 2-minute walk. This boutique hotel blends historic charm and modern luxury, offering rooms with stunning views of the Louisiana State Capitol and St. Louis Cathedral. Complimentary premium coffee and local guided tours enhance the guest experience, making it easy to explore nearby jazz bars, antique markets, and renowned restaurants.
Another standout is Perry House Inn, nestled in the heart of the historic French Quarter. This beautifully restored 19th-century property features elegant architecture, private courtyards, and exceptional service—perfect for immersing in authentic New Orleans culture. Both hotels are within walking distance of major attractions, including the Mississippi Riverfront and Bourbon Street.
Convenience is key: multiple bus lines, taxi stands, and bike rental stations surround the square, ensuring seamless access to downtown and riverfront destinations.
Jackson Square itself is the epicenter of New Orleans’ history, surrounded by three iconic structures: St. Louis Cathedral, Louisiana State Capitol, and Presbytère. Start your tour from the southern edge of the square, walking along Chartres Street to reach St. Louis Cathedral, whose Gothic and Baroque façade is breathtaking. Inside, you’ll find rare religious art and a rich cultural legacy.
For colonial history, head to the Presbytère, now home to the New Orleans Historical Museum, which showcases exhibits on urban development, slavery, and cultural fusion. The Louisiana State Capitol, the only 18th-century building still used as a government office in the U.S., features a striking red-brick facade and central dome—ideal for photography.
Accessibility is excellent: clear signage, multilingual plaques, and guided walking tours (e.g., "Ghost Tours" or "Jazz History Walks") provide deep context. Bike rental stations and electric trolleys also offer efficient ways to cover more ground while exploring the French Quarter’s rich heritage.
Must-try experiences near Jackson Square include daily midday jazz performances on the open-air stage, where local musicians bring the soul of New Orleans to life with vibrant brass and swing rhythms. On weekends, the market stalls feature local artisans, food vendors, and antique dealers—sample authentic fare like Cajun hot sauce, Creole fried chicken, and banana pudding.
For deeper cultural immersion, join a guided bus tour visiting historic Creole homes, underground cemeteries, and Voodoo cultural centers—revealing the city’s mystical side. A standout option is the nightlight walking tour, where expert guides illuminate the architectural beauty of St. Louis Cathedral and the State Capitol under dramatic lighting.
Other unique activities include graffiti workshops (family-friendly), Creole cooking classes (learn to make jambalaya), and riverboat cruises along Mississippi tributaries, offering panoramic views of historic waterfront buildings. All these experiences are within walking distance, blending culture, cuisine, and interaction for a truly immersive New Orleans adventure.
See what other travelers say about Jackson Square

Staying at Place d'Armes Hotel was an absolute delight. Located just steps from St. Louis Cathedral in the heart of the French Quarter, every morning began with a peaceful walk through the charming streets of New Orleans. The hotel’s elegant ambiance and beautifully landscaped courtyard offered a perfect retreat after a day exploring the city. I loved relaxing in the garden with a book or a coffee—such a serene escape right in the middle of the bustling quarter. The rooms were spotless, well-appointed, and incredibly comfortable. From the warm welcome to the thoughtful touches throughout, this place truly delivered on every level. If you're visiting New Orleans, don’t miss this gem—it’s a top-tier choice for both location and experience.

Staying at Alder Hotel Uptown New Orleans was an absolute delight! The location is perfect—just a short walk from the city's best restaurants, bars, and attractions. The staff at the front desk were incredibly friendly and helpful, offering great recommendations and making check-in a breeze. The room was clean, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed, with a cozy bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. I especially appreciated how easy it was to get around using public transit. Overall, this hotel offers a fantastic balance of comfort, convenience, and hospitality. Would definitely return and recommend it to anyone visiting New Orleans.

The staff at Hotel St. Marie were incredibly friendly and always eager to help—whether it was recommending local spots or just offering a warm smile. The rooms were spotless, comfortable, and well-appointed, making for a relaxing stay. Best of all, the location is unbeatable: steps away from great restaurants, lively streets, and must-see attractions in New Orleans. I loved being able to explore on foot and even caught a street performance right outside the door. It’s rare to find such charm, cleanliness, and convenience all in one place. This hotel truly exceeded my expectations—definitely a top pick if you're visiting the city.

Staying at French Market Inn was an absolute highlight of my trip to New Orleans. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of the French Quarter, steps away from bustling French Market and all the vibrant street life. The quirky charm of the hotel stands out immediately—unique decor, cozy corners, and a welcoming vibe that makes you feel right at home. The staff went above and beyond with their friendliness and local tips, even helping me book a table at a popular nearby restaurant. Clean, comfortable, and full of character, this place truly delivers on every level. I’d stay here again in a heartbeat.

Staying at Prince Conti Hotel was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The room was immaculately clean and professionally cleaned every single day—something that made a real difference during our trip. Even with the humid weather outside, the air conditioning kept the room refreshingly cool and comfortable throughout our stay. The hotel’s central location in New Orleans made exploring the city effortless, whether walking or using public transit. It's clear that attention to detail and guest comfort are top priorities here. Highly recommend this gem for anyone visiting the area.

Staying at The Brakeman Hotel was such a unique experience—this place used to be an old train station, and the atmosphere is absolutely one-of-a-kind. I loved the industrial-chic design throughout the property, from the lobby to my room. The afternoon front desk staff was super friendly and had great energy—made the check-in process feel more like a chat with a local than a transaction. Location-wise, it's literally steps away from the French Quarter, so everything you’d want—restaurants, bars, street music—is right at your doorstep. My room was spacious and quiet, perfect for unwinding after a day exploring. The only small downside? No breakfast included, but there are several excellent nearby cafes and bakeries offering quick, delicious options. Overall, this hotel offers a fantastic mix of charm, convenience, and comfort. Highly recommend it for travelers looking for something different in New Orleans.

Staying at The Lafayette New Orleans by Kasa was an absolute delight. The staff were incredibly friendly—especially the front desk attendant who went out of her way to check us in early when we arrived ahead of schedule. That little touch made a huge difference! The property itself is spotless and well-maintained, with a prime location just steps away from CVS, supermarkets, and a variety of great restaurants. Walking to the French Quarter is effortless and takes less than ten minutes. What really stood out was how much value you get for the price—excellent service, clean rooms, and unbeatable convenience all rolled into one. If you're looking for a comfortable, central, and well-run stay in New Orleans, this place is absolutely worth every penny. Highly recommended!

Staying at the Holiday Inn Express New Orleans Downtown - FR Quarter Area was a fantastic experience. The hotel is perfectly located in the heart of downtown New Orleans, making it super convenient to explore nearby attractions, restaurants, and the French Quarter on foot. The room was clean, spacious, and well-maintained with modern amenities. What stood out most was the included breakfast—offering a great variety of hot and cold options, all freshly prepared and very satisfying. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful throughout our stay, always ready to assist with recommendations or local tips. The overall value for money was excellent, and the location made everything so easy. I’d definitely recommend this hotel to anyone visiting New Orleans—it’s a smart, comfortable choice for travelers looking for convenience and quality.

Staying at Lamothe House Hotel was an absolute delight. The location is perfect—just steps away from the heart of the French Quarter, where the vibrant culture of New Orleans truly comes alive. From lively street music to authentic Creole cuisine, everything you’d expect from this iconic neighborhood is within easy reach. The hotel itself is cozy and quiet, offering a peaceful retreat after a day exploring. The interior design has such character—warm, inviting, and full of charm. It’s a real gem tucked away in the city, and I couldn’t recommend it more for travelers who want to experience the soul of New Orleans without the noise and hassle. A standout stay!

Absolutely perfect! From the moment I walked in, the staff made me feel right at home with their warm smiles and genuine hospitality. The Eliza Jane truly captures the soul of New Orleans—elegant yet effortlessly cool, with a vibe that’s both sophisticated and inviting. Located just steps from the heart of the city, I was able to explore vibrant neighborhoods, incredible local eateries, and live music scenes without needing to travel far. My room was spacious, beautifully designed, and incredibly comfortable—great bed, excellent lighting, and thoughtful touches like premium toiletries. Every detail felt intentional, from the curated artwork to the ambient music in the lobby. It’s not just a hotel; it’s an experience. If you’re visiting New Orleans, this is the place to stay. Unforgettable, and well worth every penny.

The location is absolutely perfect—just a short walk from downtown New Orleans attractions and surrounded by great local eateries and shops. The staff went above and beyond with their friendly and attentive service, even upgrading my room without hesitation. My room was clean, modern, and comfortable, with a cozy bed and excellent air conditioning. The bathroom was well-maintained and functional. It’s rare to find such a great balance of comfort, convenience, and value—all at a fantastic price. I’ll definitely be coming back.

Staying at Moxy New Orleans Downtown/French Quarter Area was an absolute highlight of my trip! The room was modern, clean, and incredibly comfortable—especially the bed, which made for a restful night's sleep. Located just steps away from the French Quarter, I could easily walk to restaurants, live music venues, and local shops without needing transport. The staff were friendly and efficient during check-in and check-out, making the whole experience smooth. What really stood out was the vibrant, youthful atmosphere—the perfect vibe for a fun, relaxed getaway. With great value for money and unbeatable location, this hotel is definitely worth considering if you're visiting New Orleans. I’d happily come back again!
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