Most big destination cities have that one area that only tourists go to–Leicester Square, Times Square… They’re usually squares. Fun fact: the french name for the French Quarter is Le Vieux Carre– the old square. But the French Quarter isn’t New Orleans’ version of Times Square, where the only locals present charge you $10 to take a picture with them in Elmo costumes. The French Quarter is New Orleans’ “big tourist destination,” but it’s also one of the coolest places in the city.

So let’s talk about the French Quarter and the five things to do while you’re there.