You can have a complete and satisfying vacation without ever leaving the French Quarter. All that’s New Orleans is available here–history, food, music, shopping, nightlife, celebrations, parades, festivals, and tours. Although the French Quarter has long been considered to be an adults-only destination, there’s plenty of family entertainment and activities to fill days and evenings.

Jackson Square

On Jackson Square, the daily influx of musicians, artists, fortune tellers, and mimes will entertain and delight you. As you watch, a portrait artist will capture your spouse or child in a pastel remembrance of your visit. Be amazed by the mimes as they stand posed as still as statues. Let the fortune teller read your palm. Find refreshment at one of the places that surround the square or a café au lait and a beignet at the famous Café du Monde as you take in the sights at this center of the French Quarter.

What Else Is There?

Street entertainers make their way to Royal and Bourbon Streets too, especially when they are closed to vehicle traffic on week-ends and holidays. All of the Quarter is a shopping destination, for the little one-of-a-kind boutiques, art, antique shops, jewelers, specialty, and souvenir shops. You’ll be welcome as you browse and shop.

The French Market

Don’t miss the French Market. Right across the corner from Jackson Square, it begins at Café Du Monde, home of the beignet and chicory coffee. The French Market is both a farmers’ market and a flea market where bargain hunters can find their bit of New Orleans to take home. Buy something at one of the market’s specialty shops, munch on a praline, or have a bite accompanied by more music in one of the open air cafes. This farmer’s market is the oldest continously operating market in the United States.

Out on the River

The Natchez Steamboat cruises from the French Quarter, departing from behind JAX Brewry. It offers daily jazz and evening dinner cruises. You can also just sit on the benches along the river and watch the river traffic.