one of the oldest Mardi Gras mask shops in the French Quarter, visitors are greeted by walls adorned with vibrant, handmade creations. Inside the shop, there is little space untouched by art.

As the site of the original New Orleans colony (established by the French in 1718), the French Quarter has held on to its heritage, complete with street names that are still listed in French.

“From almost anywhere in the French Quarter, you’re just steps to many of the city’s best white-tablecloth restaurants, art galleries, antique stores, museums, historical collections and ...