French Quarter New Orleans
The French Quarter of New Orleans may be one of the most famous districts in the United States - or perhaps we should say "infamous". But there is much more to the Quarter than the hedonism of Bourbon Street. This is an area of remarkable natural beauty, architectural elegance and rich history - to say nothing of the charm of its residents.

The French Quarter is located in the same area laid out in 1722 as the original City of New Orleans. After years of struggle with colonization, illness and economic woes, the city of New Orleans finally hit its stride in the early years of the 20th century. In 1925 the city decreed that much of the historic French Quarter was to be preserved. A commission was established to maintain the architectural style of the district and some of its more historic buildings were either rebuilt or reconstructed. One interesting architectural style is that of the French Quarter Creole Cottages. These cottages began to appear in New Orleans in the 1760's.

There are plenty of attractions in the French Quarter, but the main draw is the area itself. Walking tours are available, and provide the best way of getting to know the area. Tired of walking? Then catch a mule-and-buggy ride on Decatur Street - just be sure to take the drivers with a grain of salt - they are infamous story tellers!