The New Orleans French Quarter is one of the oldest districts in the U.S. Dating back to the 18th century, the French Quarter, known in French as the Vieux Carre, is known for its colorful history, distinctive architecture and, of course, the annual celebration of Mardi Gras. Follow these steps to take a tour of historic homes in the French Quarter.
Instructions
1. Tour individual homes. The Beauregard-Keyes House on Chartres Street, the Hermann-Grima House on St. Louis Street and the Gallier House on Royal Street offer daily tours. These are fine examples of New Orleans' stately homes.
2. See the gardens. New Orleans French Quarter architecture is famed for the courtyards and walled gardens of its homes. The Patio Planters, which is the garden club of the French Quarter, periodically offers tours of these gardens. Check the website for dates of the tours.
3. Take a special tour. Some tour companies and festivals offer tours of the historic French Quarter homes. During Christmas, the homes are decorated in Victorian finery, adding an extra special touch.
4. Consider other French Quarter structures. The French Quarter also boasts other distinctive historic buildings, including the Old Ursuline Convent on Chartres Street, the oldest building in the Mississippi River Valley, or St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square.
5. Leave the Quarter. New Orleans is much more than just the French Quarter. The historic Garden District, near the French Quarter, is the site of numerous historic mansions and homes. Commercial tours of stately New Orleans homes usually include both the French Quarter and the Garden District.
Tags: French Quarter, Chartres Street, Garden District, Orleans French, Orleans French Quarter