New Orleans is one of the oldest cities in the U.S. Its notable architecture is a blend of the French and Spanish influences of the respective occupations of the city. You can view a substantial cross-section of old New Orleans architecture by strolling the French Quarter. Afterwards, tour St. Charles Avenue for a look at some of the country's finest real estate. Read on to learn do an architectural tour of New Orleans.
Instructions
1. Start in the French Quarter at the 300 block of Royal Street, the city's original financial district. Note the Old Bank of the U.S. at 343 Royal with its wrought iron balconies (rather than cast iron like most New Orleans balconies) built in 1800. Look across the street at 334 Royal to the 1826 Old Bank of Louisiana building, now used as the French Quarter Police Station.
2. Continue to the 400 block of Royal to the 1821 structure that was originally the Louisiana State Bank. Note the 1909 four-story marble building across the street that was once home to the U.S. Court of Appeals.
3. Check out Brennan's Restaurant at 417 Royal Street where an historic marker notes the site of the fire on December 8, 1794 that destroyed more than 200 homes and business. Walk along to 520 Royal to one of the few buildings to survive the fire.
4. Stop by 534 Royal Street to view an outstanding example of the architecture of the early 1800s. Note the graceful arched openings, the pilasters and plaster work on the second story facade and the beautiful, lacy wrought iron balcony that were typical of the period.
5. Stroll along to the world famous 1803 Cornstalk Fence Hotel at 915 Royal Street. Note the details of the cast iron fence as well as the intricate paint in appropriate colors.
6. Take a turn onto St. Peter Street. Check out Pat O'Brien's (718 St. Peter) and Preservation Hall (726 St. Peter), both originally private residences and find examples of period architecture.
7. Board the St. Charles streetcar to finish the tour. Cruise St. Charles Avenue through the Garden District pat New Orleans' gorgeous antebellum homes.
Tags: Royal Street, French Quarter, across street, block Royal, cast iron, Charles Avenue, wrought iron