Café du Monde is the most popular destination in New Orleans and, unfortunately, it often feels that way. But once you do get seated, the beignets (square, sugar-coated fritters) and chicory café au lait, served here since 1862, are decadent and delicious. Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week – the cafe only closes for Christmas Day.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. 1850 House Museum

0.04 MILES

The 1850 House is one of the apartments in the lower Pontalba Building. Madame Micaëla Pontalba, aristocratic daughter of Don Andrés Almonaster y Roxas,…

2. Moonwalk

0.05 MILES

Named for former mayor and politician Maurice 'Moon' Landrieu, this riverside promenade offers great Mississippi views.

3. Jackson Square

0.06 MILES

Whatever happens in the French Quarter usually begins here in Jackson Square, at Decatur and St Peter Streets. It's a gentle, carnivalesque scene,…

5. Presbytère

0.09 MILES

The lovely Presbytère building, designed in 1791 as a rectory for the St Louis Cathedral, serves as New Orleans’ Mardi Gras museum. You’ll find there’s…

6. St Louis Cathedral

0.11 MILES

One of the best examples of French architecture in the country, this triple-spired 18th-century cathedral is dedicated to Louis IX, the French king…

7. Cabildo

0.12 MILES

The former seat of government in colonial Louisiana now serves as the gateway to exploring the history of the state in general, and New Orleans in…

8. Rodrigue Studio

0.14 MILES

The late Cajun artist George Rodrigue’s gallery is the place to see examples of his unbelievably popular ‘Blue Dog’ paintings. The iconic dog became his…