The French Quarter

Address:New Orleans, Louisiana

Like no other place in the South or even in the whole United States, the French Quarter is 78 square blocks of French, Spanish, Cajun and Creole influences all mixed up in an American melting pot. Visitors will find some of the best dining in the United States, especially if they enjoy spicy Cajun food. If not, the 200 restaurants offer a wide range of dining options. Jazz, blues, pop, rock, zydeco, folk and funk music are played at over 100 local music clubs.

Mardi Gras, in February, is the most popular event and an experience one never forgets, yet visitors will experience some of the energy and decadence, year round. Many of the bars never close and taking a drink out in the street as a "go-cup" is perfectly acceptable.

New Orleans' French Quarter took a battering during Hurricane Katrina, but the area is now back to its former glory. The quick restoration of the French Quarter was due in part to its designation as a National Historic District by the National Park Service. First, check out the lower part of the Quarter where things are a little sleepier. Most of the buildings in the French Quarter are of a distinct Spanish Colonial style from around the turn of the 18th Century. Jackson Square is one of the Quarter's major landmarks and a good starting point for visitors. North of here, things become more lively and you can expect more bright lights and big bars as you draw closer to Bourbon Street. Other attractions worth seeing include the old U.S. Mint, the Historic Voodoo Museum, and the French Market.

Arriving by car, follow signs to "Vieux Carre" (pronounced Voo Car-Ay) and then leave the car – this is no place for automobiles. The parking is scarce and the streets not only small but often closed.