French Quarter
New Orleans, LA
The oldest neighborhood of New Orleans, with Creole townhouses, wrought-iron balconies, jazz clubs and Jackson Square at its heart. Explore on foot in the morning before the crowds, and park outside the Quarter.
The French Quarter, also known as the Vieux Carré, is the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans. Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville founded the city in 1718, and its core developed around a central square. Two fires, in 1788 and 1794, destroyed about 80 percent of the city's buildings. The Spanish authorities then required brick buildings with stucco instead of wood, which is why many of today's houses date from that time. Cast-iron balconies became widespread mainly after the Pontalba Buildings were built (1849 to 1851). The district has been a National Historic Landmark since 1965.
The heart of the neighborhood is Jackson Square with St. Louis Cathedral. Bourbon Street is considered the center of the nightlife, and jazz clubs and historic restaurants can be found throughout the Quarter. The Quarter is both residential and touristy, and it is easy to explore on foot. Walk the streets in the morning, when it is less crowded. If you have an RV or a large vehicle, it is better to park outside the Quarter.
- Nearest town
- New Orleans, LA
- Category
- History & culture
- GPS
- 29.9584, -90.0644
- Editor's pick
- ★
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually March–April and October–November. Still fine, with some compromises, in May, September and December–February. Hot in June–August. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Sources
Nearby
Campsites nearby
- Motorhome stopover · New OrleansMotorhome stopover2 mi from French QuarterMotorhomesFree
- Group Camping AreaCampsite7 mi from French Quarter
- Bayou Segnette State Park CampgroundCampsite8 mi from French QuarterTentsCaravansElectricityDrinking waterWi-Fi
- KOA KampgroundMotorhome stopover10 mi from French QuarterMotorhomes
- St. Bernard State Park CampgroundCampsite12 mi from French Quarter · 51 pitchesTentsElectricityShowersWaste disposal
- Airline Trailers of KennerMotorhome stopover13 mi from French QuarterMotorhomes
All campsites in Louisiana · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is French Quarter?
French Quarter is in New Orleans, LA, at GPS 29.9584, -90.0644. It is about 43 mi from Vacherie.
Can you camp near French Quarter?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Group Camping Area, about 7 mi away; within 25 mi there are 13 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
What is there to see near French Quarter?
Places worth a stop nearby: Café du Monde (0 mi), The National WWII Museum (1 mi), Jean Lafitte National Historical Park – Barataria Preserve (12 mi) and Whitney Plantation (35 mi).
When is the best time to visit French Quarter?
The most pleasant months are usually March–April and October–November. Still fine, with some compromises, in May, September and December–February. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)