Jackson Square, New Orleans (must see)

Due to its close proximity to the Mississippi River, the Saint Louis Cathedral, and the Cabildo, Jackson Square has always been and remains a well-liked gathering place at the heart of the French Quarter. Named after Andrew Jackson, hero of the Battle of New Orleans (who went on to become the 7th US president), it has been a hubbub of activity since colonial times, when the militia conducted drills, vendors peddled their goods at the open-air market, and public executions were carried out.

Modeled after the famous 17th-century Place des Vosges in Paris, the square has been transformed into a beautifully landscaped park with neat lawns and flowerbeds. Despite the constant flow of tourists taking photos, school groups, and waitstaff on their breaks, it somehow maintains a sense of tranquility. During the day, numerous artists display their paintings on the park's fence and set up outdoor studios where they create artworks or offer to sketch portraits of passersby. Musicians, mimes, tarot card readers, and magicians entertain on the paved pedestrian mall, many of them performing both day and night.

The view of the square is quite iconic, with an equestrian statue of Andrew Jackson at its center and the beautifully designed Saint Louis Cathedral as a backdrop, while the Cabildo and Presbytère, two Spanish colonial structures, flank the church. The elegant brick buildings on either side of the square are known as the Pontalba Buildings. All in all, an excellent spot for capturing memorable photos, enjoying a respite on the benches, and taking it all in. It's amazing how much of New Orleans can be experienced from just this small location.