St. Louis Cathedral

As the mother church of the Archdiocese of New Orleans, St. Louis Cathedral has a long and interesting history. It is the oldest continuously active Roman Catholic Cathedral in the United States, originally built in 1727 and dedicated to King Louis IX of France, "The Crusading King" who was later canonized by the Church. The original St. Louis Cathedral burned during the great fire of 1794 and was rebuilt. The present structure was completed in the 1850s.

In September 1987 the cathedral witnessed the historic visit of Pope John Paul II and the plaza directly in front of the church was renamed in the pope's honor. Shortly afterward the status of the Cathedral was upgraded to a Basilica.

Second Line Parade

As it is a celebration, second-lines are a popular tradition among New Orleans weddings. It signifies the beginning of a new life together. Usually, the second line brings the wedding guests and bridal party from the ceremony to the reception.

The newlyweds lead the procession, umbrellas in hand, while the wedding party and guests follow the band with handkerchiefs. The strutting revelers who fall in behind are referred to as the “second line.”

Our Favorites to Visit

Restaurants

Mr. B’s Bistro

GW Fins

Commander’s Palace

Galatoire’s

Cafe Du Monde

Cocktails

Carousel Bar & Lounge

The Sazerac Bar

French 75 Bar

Hot Tin

Pat O’Brien’s

Things to Do

The National World War II Museum

City Park

New Orleans School of Cooking

Shop at Canal Place

Visit the French Market