St. Louis Cathedral

Activity Overview

St. Louis Cathedral is one of the most famous landmarks in New Orleans and one of the oldest cathedrals in the United States. Officially known as the Cathedral-Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France, this beautiful Catholic cathedral was built in the late 1700s in the heart of the French Quarter. If you're interested in local history or architecture, you won't want to miss this exciting landmark.

Things to Do

• Explore the cathedral, which is open after 7:30 a.m. mass until 4:00 p.m. every day. You can pick up a self-guided tour brochure for $1 or go on a guided tour with a volunteer docent if one is available.
• One of the most popular attractions near the cathedral is the burial place of famous Voodoo priestess Marie Laveau in the Saint Louis Cemetery.
• Visit the nearby Old Ursuline Convent Museum, another Catholic historical site in the French Quarter that is said to be the finest example of French Colonial public architecture in the United States. It is open for self-guided tours from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

St. Louis Cathedral Insider Tips

• Visiting the cathedral is free, but donations are always welcome.
• Don't forget to bring along a camera so that you can take photos of the impressive architecture of the cathedral and the convent.
• Stop by the gift shop to pick up keepsakes, gifts, and religious items such as rosaries and prayer cards.