Mini Architectural Tour

From refined Greek Revival mansions to colorful Creole cottages, New Orleans boasts unique buildings that reflect the cultural influences and style trends of their time periods. If you have only a short period of time, consider stopping by a few of these beauties.

1. Hermann-Grima House (820 St. Louis Street)
The earliest and best example of American architecture in the French Quarter.
Built in 1831, this elegant residence accurately depicts the lifestyle of a wealthy Creole family during New Orleans' Golden Age. Tour its stately interiors, courtyard garden, horse stable and functional outdoor kitchen.

2. Beauregard Keyes House (1113 Chartres Street)
A raised Creole cottage once inhabited by Confederate General Pierre G.T. Beauregard and author Frances Parkinson Keyes.
This prime example of a raised center house was designed by architect Francois Correjolles and was finished in 1826. Enjoy features like a large parlor, twin curved stone staircases and a brick-walled garden with boxwood hedges and a cast-iron fountain.

3. Gallier House (1132 Royal Street)
The former home of James Gallier Jr., the city's most famous architect.
As one of the city's most talented architects of his time, James Gallier Jr. ensured his own home reflected a life of success and style. Walk through its lavishly appointed rooms, as well as the detailed garden, carriageway and slave quarters.

4. Longue Vue House and Gardens (7 Bamboo Road)
Called "one of the country's finest city estates" by Southern Living.
This magnificent eight-acre estate has a two-story mansion surrounded by eight dependencies, five structures, 15 garden areas and 22 fountains.

5. Madame John's Legacy (632 Dumaine Street)
One of the few buildings to have escaped the great fire of 1795.
A surviving relic of 18th-century New Orleans architecture, this building complex includes the two-story main house, kitchen with cook's quarters and a two-story garçonnière, all separated by a courtyard.

6. Edgar Degas House (2306 Esplanade Avenue)
Storied house near City Park that was the home of artist Edgar Degas during his time in New Orleans.
Explore the home of French-Impressionist painter Edgar Degas, who created 22 works while living here, including two pieces showcased on the premises. Guided tours are conducted by Degas' great-grandniece and are by appointment only.

7. The Merieult House (533 Royal Steet)
One of the few buildings to survive the 1794 fire that all but destroyed the French Quarter. Part of The Historic New Orleans Collection.
Dating back to the 18th century, this building has been in continuous use since the 1720s, as both a place of business and residence. It was remodeled in the 1830s, reflecting the then-current Greek Revival style of architecture, which accounts for its cast-iron balconies and granite first-floor façade.