Jackson Square, New Orleans — Visitor Guide & Things to Do Nearby

Jackson Square, the historic heart of New Orleans' French Quarter, has anchored the city's civic and spiritual identity since its founding in 1718 as Place d'Armes under French rule and Plaza de Armas under Spanish dominion. This revolutionary space witnessed the colonial transformation following the devastating Great Fire of 1788, which consumed the original structures; Spanish officials responded with audacious reconstruction, building the new St. Louis Church beginning in 1789, elevating it to cathedral rank in 1793, and constructing the new Cabildo town hall in 1795. These structures, rising from ash, established an architectural language that still defines New Orleans' character. The square earned its current name in honor of General Andrew Jackson, who in December 1814 reviewed troops here before leading them to legendary victory against the British. Jackson's address to volunteer companies, including two battalions of free men of color, inspired this diverse force to defend their shared home; their collective courage proved crucial to American victory and established Jackson as a national hero. In 1856, artist Clark Mills created an innovative equestrian statue of Jackson that became one of only four identical Mills sculptures in the nation, remarkable for its technical achievement: the first bronze equestrian statue in America balanced solely on the horse's hind legs. Walking around the square today, you encounter street performers, musicians, the iconic statue, and surrounding historic buildings that create an intimate gathering space for locals and tourists alike. Baroness Pontalba, sensing the square's romantic potential, personally lobbied for and financed redesign in the 19th century, installing iron fencing, formal gardens, walkways, and sitting benches that transformed it from utilitarian plaza into romantic park. With Questo, you unlock stories of triumph, diversity, and urban design vision.