Jackson Square | New Orleans

Jackson Square is a historic park located in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana. It serves as a central gathering point and cultural hub within the city.

Visual Characteristics

The square is a 2.5-acre (1 hectare) open space paved with brick. It is bordered by wrought-iron fences and features a central equestrian statue of Andrew Jackson. Four smaller statues representing justice, temperance, prudence, and fortitude surround the central monument. The perimeter is lined with mature oak trees providing shade. The St. Louis Cathedral, a prominent white basilica with green shutters and three tall spires, forms the northern boundary of the square.

Location & Access Logistics

Jackson Square is situated in the heart of the French Quarter, bordered by Chartres Street to the west, Decatur Street to the east, St. Ann Street to the north, and St. Peter Street to the south. It is approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) east of the Central Business District. Parking is available in several paid garages within a 0.5 km radius, including the Jax Brewery Garage and the Omni Royal Orleans Hotel Garage. Public transportation options include the St. Charles Avenue streetcar line (transfer to bus or walk), and multiple bus routes that stop along Decatur Street and Rampart Street.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The area was originally the Place d'Armes, established by the French colonial government in 1721 as a military parade ground. It was renamed Jackson Square in 1815 following the Battle of New Orleans. The central statue of Andrew Jackson was completed in 1856. The surrounding buildings, including the St. Louis Cathedral, The Cabildo, and The Presbytère, were constructed in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe street performers, artists displaying and selling their work, and musicians. Horse-drawn carriage tours of the French Quarter depart from the perimeter of the square. Guided walking tours focusing on history and architecture are available. The St. Louis Cathedral is open for public viewing during specific hours. Cafes and restaurants line the surrounding streets, offering seating with views of the square.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Public restrooms are located on the east side of the square. Shade is provided by mature oak trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong within the square. Food vendors and restaurants are situated immediately adjacent to the square's perimeter.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM) offers softer light and fewer crowds. Late afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM) also provides favorable lighting conditions. The best months for weather are typically March through May and September through November, with average temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). Summer months (June-August) are hot and humid.

Facts & Legends

A local legend suggests that the ghost of Marie Laveau, the famous Voodoo Queen of New Orleans, can sometimes be seen wandering through Jackson Square at dusk. The Cabildo, located to the east of the Cathedral, was the site where the Louisiana Purchase was finalized in 1803.

Nearby Landmarks

• The Cabildo (0.1km East)
• The Presbytère (0.1km East)
• St. Louis Cathedral (0.1km North)
• French Market (0.3km Northeast)
• Jax Brewery (0.2km Southeast)