The Old US Mint is the only building in the United States that was used to manufacture money for the United States and Confederate government. Architect William Strickland designed the Greek Revival building which opened in 1835. During the Civil War, the mint was captured by Confederate troops and used to make their money. Once Federal troops arrived in New Orleans, the mint was returned to the United States government and production of American currency resumed. In 1966, the building became property of the state of Louisiana and was opened to the public as part of the Louisiana State Museum. Today, the museum holds several exhibits such as the Jazz Exhibit, the Newcombe Pottery and Crafts Exhibit, and the Mississippi and the Making of a Nation Exhibit. In addition, the first floor of the museum has a series of displays that honor the buildings monetary beginnings. The Jazz Exhibit tells the story of Jazz from its inception until modern times. Visitors will be able to view the instruments, sheet music, and other memorabilia of the many artist. The Newcomb Pottery and Crafts Exhibit presents the pottery, paintings, metalwork, and book bindings of students from the H. Sophie Newcomb College at Tulane University. The Mississippi and the Making of a Nation Exhibit features displays based on the National Geographic book of the same name. The Louisiana Historical Museum, which is also a part of the building, is open to researchers Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday 10 am 12 pm and 1 pm to 4 pm. The Old US Mint is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am to 4:30 pm. They are closed Monday and state holidays.

The Old French Market was a major food market for 180 years in New Orleans. People came from far and wide to enjoy the delicious and fresh foods, aroma, and atmosphere. It is one of the oldest public market buildings in America.

The original market was located at the Café du Monde site near Jackson Square and was constructed by the Spanish during colonial times to provide a safe and clean place to purchase food. In 1811, a new building was constructed only to be destroyed by a hurricane the next year. The current building was rebuilt in 1813 and survives to this day, albeit several modifications.

Often called Halle des Boucheries, or the Meat Market, by the locals, the shopping center was the only place where meat could be legally be purchased. The French Market became so popular that it eventually contained a vegetable market, fruit market, a dry goods emporium, and a coffee stand.

The market almost came to an end in the 1970s when the City removed most of the produce from the site. The French Market Corporation rebounded by illustrating its glorious past while opening clothing stores, gift shops, and restaurants. One of the best features of the market is the flea market that is open daily from 7 am to 7 pm where clothing, jewelry, arts, crafts, and other items are sold.

The Old Ursuline Convent is one of the oldest buildings the Mississippi River Valley. The building is also known as the Archbishop Antoine Blance Memorial Complex and is considered the treasure of the archdiocese. The convent is located on Charles Street. The convent is named after the Sisters of the Ursula Order, who came to Louisiana in 1727 to start a school an orphanage for girls. Construction started on the building in 1733 and was completed in 1734. Ignace Francois Broutin designed the original structure and Michael Seringue built it. In 1745, another building was constructed and completed in 1751. When the nuns moved into a larger building in 1824, the convent became a residence for the archdiocese. A portico and gatehouse were added in 1825. In addition to being a school, convent, and a home, the building also served as a make-shift hospital and orphanage. The nuns also trained Indian and African American girls and the daughters of wealthy Creoles. In addition, they trained French girls, who were imported into the country, for marriage. The statues of praying saints in the courtyard are absolutely beautiful and should not be missed. There are also statues of Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini and Father Francis Xavier Seelos. Another beautiful element is the cypress hand-carved staircase. Tours are available from Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm.

Located in the heart of the renowned French Quarter, Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop is one of the oldest structures continually used as a bar. Local legend says the bar was owned by pirate Jean Lafitte, a co-hero of the Battle of New Orleans and his brother Pierre. The building supposedly served as a front for slave trading, contraband, and other illegal activities. The French Colonial structure was built between 1722 and 1732 and declared a National Historic Landmark in 1970. It is appropriately located on Bourbon Street.

The shop is rumored to be haunted by those who died in the fires of 1788 and 1794 and the spirit of Jean Lafitte. The watering hole is also a popular meeting place for celebrities, tourists, and local residents. Authors Tennessee Williams and Lucius Beebe are two celebrities who graced the bar.
Esquire Magazine named the shop one of the "Best Bars in America.” The bar is open Monday through Wednesday from 11 am to 2 am and Thursday through Sunday from 10 am to 4 am. Visitors should make sure to sample the famous Obituary Cocktail and the Hurricanes. If you want to join in on the many sing-alongs, it is best to arrive after 9 pm.

Jackson Square, originally known as the Place d’Armes or Plaza de Armas, is a major and important cultural attraction in New Orleans. Because of its proximity to the Mississippi River, Saint Louis Cathedral, and the Cabildo, it was and is a popular meeting spot. Architect and landscape architect Louis H. Pilié designed the plaza in 1721. The square received its current name in 1850. The square was named after President Andrew Jackson. President Jackson was a hero of the War of 1812 and a statue of him on horseback is in the center of the square. The statue is one of four identical statues in the United States. The square was a hubbub of activity in colonial times and is where the militia performed drills, vendors sold their wares at the open-air market, and public hangings and beheadings occurred. No longer the site of hangings or beheadings, today’s visitors can have their portrait or caricature drawn by an artist or be entertained by the colorful dancers, mimes, clowns, or singers. In addition, they can buy the works of the many artists who line the walkways. The site has been the location of many movies, festive events, television shows, and is a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike.

The Saint Louis Cathedral is one of the oldest cathedrals that still in continuous use in the United States. It was dedicated to King Louis IX of France in 1718. The place of worship is located in the French Quarter and features Spanish Colonial and Renaissance architecture. It is also a building that is most associated with the city of New Orleans. Originally constructed in 1718, the church has over 6,000 members. The current cathedral was built in 1789. A renovation in 1850 completely changed the look of the house of worship to the design we see today. The church was visited by Pope John Paul in 1987 and the plaza was renamed in the pope’s honor to celebrate his visit. The cathedral is a popular building and has been frequently photographed and featured in many movies, television shows, and other presentations. Mass is celebrated on Saturdays at 5 pm, on Sundays from 9 am to 11 am, and weekdays at noon. Visitors will admire the Rococo-style, gilded altar and stained glass windows. Tours are available Wednesday through Saturday from 1 pm to 4 pm. Two gifts shops sell religious items and gifts with the proceeds going towards the upkeep and maintenance of the church.

One cannot visit New Orleans without seeing the Cabildo. The Cabildo was the original seat of the New Orleans colonial government. Located along the Jackson Square next to the Saint Louis Cathedral, this building is an important part of American and Louisiana history. The Louisiana Purchase transfer ceremonies were held at this location. The original building was constructed in 1769. The current structure was raised in 1798 to replace the old building that was destroyed by fire. The local government used the building until the mid 1850s. Currently, the Cabildo is a museum that tells the history of Louisiana from the time of the Native Americans until the Reconstruction Era. Many of the exhibit’s displays give you a glimpse into the daily lives of the locals. The museum also holds an exhibit that tells the story of music. Visitors should make sure to view the death mask of Napoleon that was donated to the museum by his doctor. The Friends of the Cabildo offers tours Tuesday through Sunday at 10 am and 1:30 pm. No tours are given on Mondays or state holidays. They also provide monetary support, publish books about the many historical buildings in New Orleans, and augment museum staff.

New Orleans is an eclectic city that features a mix of French, Spanish, and African cultures. Most people think of Jazz, the French Quarter, Tremé, Royal Street, or Bourbon Street when they think of New Orleans. But, there is one more thing that makes New Orleans extraordinary, the Moon Walk.

Located in the French Quarter along the east-bank of the Mississippi River, the Moon Walk is a riverside promenade that is popular with tourists and locals alike. Built in 1976 and named after mayor Maurice "Moon" Landrieu, the boardwalk allows one to catch a cool breeze or aroma or watch vessels traverse the river.

In addition, visitors can enjoy the performances of the many street performers and musicians. The Moon Walk replaced a levee originally constructed in the 1700s that made the area inaccessible, due to its height continually being increased, to people for several decades.

The promenade is conveniently located near many shops and restaurants. It is said that many married couples began their relationships at the walkway. The Moon Walk can be reached by travelling through Washing Artillery Park by means of Jackson Square.

Attractions near the Moon Walk include Jackson Square, the Natchez Steamboat, the French Market, the Cabildo, the Presbytère, the St. Louis Cathedral, the Supreme Court, the French Quarter, Bourbon Street, and the Old Ursuline Convent.

Woldenberg Park is a gorgeous 16 acre park located between the Mississippi River and the French Quarter. In addition to the stunning view of the Mississippi River, visitors can walk, bike, jog or simply sit back and enjoy the comings and goings of the many vessels that travel the river. Beautiful sculptures and artwork decorate the park and the recreational area is amply dotted with oak, magnolia, willow and crepe myrtle trees.

Named after philanthropist Malcolm Woldenburg, the park was established in the late 1980s. The local promenade provides visitors the opportunity to enjoy the work of local artists. Nearby business include the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas and the Energy IMAX Theatre. A rare treat are the spontaneous serenades from local musicians and street performers.

The park’s convenient location makes it a popular destination for visitors and residents alike and the attractive scenery and ample space make it the perfect place to catch your breath or to relax. The park is the least populated in the early hours of the morning. The best time is visit is during April when the April Festival, a musical festival of local performers occurs. In addition, the square hosts the annual Jazz Fest as well as many other concerts and events.

If you want to experience the finer things in life, Royal Street is one the best streets in New Orleans where you can do so. Unlike the nearby Bourbon Street, Royal Street displays a more sedate culture and refinement. Miles and miles of upscale galleries, stores, and restaurants line the street. It is one of the oldest streets in New Orleans.

Many of the buildings on the avenue date back to the 18th and 19th century and feature ornate and beautiful design. Patrons dine at restaurants that display scenic gardens, ornate fountains, and beautiful courtyards. Connoisseurs of antiques will feel as they have walked into heaven since many of the estates have items that are available for sale. And let’s not forget the many galleries that display fine works of art that rival those that are displayed in major museums.

From visiting the Gallier House to touring the Historic New Orleans Collection or eating at the New Orleans influenced African restaurant Bennachin, there is a lot to see and do on Royal Street. You will also bask in comfort at one of the many luxury hotels if you need to stay overnight. Royal Street is so unique that one will find that it is difficult to choose where to begin and where to end.