Jackson Square, New Orleans (must see)

Because of its proximity to the Mississippi River, the St. Louis Cathedral, and the Cabildo, the lively Jackson Square was and is a popular meeting spot at the heart of the French Quarter. Named after Andrew Jackson, hero of the Battle of New Orleans, who went on to become the 7th US president, it was a hubbub of activity since colonial times, when the militia performed drills, vendors sold their wares at the open-air market, and public hangings and beheadings were carried out.

Jackson Square was designed after the famous 17th-century Place des Vosges in Paris. Now revamped into a landscaped park with neat lawns and flowerbeds, the square somehow manages to not feel hectic, despite the streams of photo-snapping tourists, school groups, and waiters on their breaks. It was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1960. The site has been the location of many festive events, movies, and television shows.

The view of Jackson Square is fairly iconic, featuring Jackson's equestrian statue at its center and the beautifully designed St. Louis Cathedral as its backdrop – but there's always more to appreciate than the view. Art and music festivals, mule-drawn carriage tours, artists selling their wares, quirky street performers - you never know what you'll find here. Good for some great tourist photos, a quick break on the chairs, and a great place to take it all in. It is amazing that you'll see so much of New Orleans from just this little spot.