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Stepping on the French colonial era pavement of New Orleans excites every step to further discovery of this historical city. Buildings that lasted through fires, civil wars and three dominant governments lean toward each one-way street and wait to share the secrets of this mesmerizing city.

One way to discover the myriad of tales, is to take a slow walk down French Quarter streets and observe the people and culture that this thriving place beats by. New Orleans requires a good pair of walking shoes as the streets are often pitted with deep pot-holes created by a mixture of pavement and bricks filled with yesterday's morning rain. Bring cash, because there is nothing better than stopping to taste the local ales before noon, or catching the best fried seafood sandwich at the corner store.

The merge of Decatur Street and North Peters where Joan of Arc rides her battle horse next to the Mississippi River is right next the French Market. The market boasts treasures handmade and local. On some afternoons a jazz band plays at the Ursulines Avenue end of the market.

Walking up Decatur Street toward Jackson Square you'll no doubt pass by a local hot spot, Caf du Monde. Stop in and pause for a thick cup of coffee and some powdery beignets to give you needed stamina. Afterwards take a leisurely stroll down the East side of Jackson Square toward the Presbytere arches. The Presbytere hosts local musicians and artists that highlight the best of New Orleans culture. The large building to the Northeast corner of the square was the first building the Ursuline nuns from France used to teach young girls in the city. This building lasted through the fire that burned half of the quarter buildings in 1788.
Musicians and artists share their talents in front of St. Louis Cathedral completed in 1794. A slight breeze blows across the stone pavement right in front of the church. Going West toward Saint Peter St., take a right to walk to Royal Street. The third story balconies are covered with tropical plants that thrive in the humid air. The Spanish iron work is detailed in style while French buildings next door boast symmetry and elegance.

On the next block down St. Peter Street, Bourbon street's balconies clamor for space above talked about venues like the Cat's Meow, Oz and Tropical Isle. Visiting these bars and dance clubs can be exciting for some from evening on into the morning. Continuing our walk South down Bourbon Street shows how buildings in this part of the city are kept up with

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