Overview
Congo Square is a historic park located in the heart of New Orleans' French Quarter. It is widely recognized as the birthplace of jazz and an important site for African American cultural heritage.
Congo Square is significant for its role in the development of African American music, dance, and culture. It was a gathering place for enslaved Africans and free people of color in the 18th and 19th centuries, where they preserved their cultural traditions and created new forms of expression.
Location
Address
701 N Rampart St, New Orleans, Louisiana
Neighborhood: French Quarter
Coordinates
29.968000, -90.072900
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May and October-November
Best Time of Day
Late morning
Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Warm and pleasant
- • Jazz performances
- • Outdoor markets
summer
Hot and humid
- • Outdoor concerts
- • Evening events
autumn
Warm to cool
- • Fall foliage
- • Outdoor markets
winter
Cool and occasionally rainy
- • Holiday decorations
- • Festival of Lights
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- No admission fee
- Open to public
- Check event schedules
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Low
- • Hot and humid weather in summer
- • Sun exposure
Medical facilities: Nearby hospitals and clinics
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, Comfortable clothing and shoes, Walking shoes, Beachwear, Revealing clothing for religious sites nearby
Booking Tips
- • Not required, but check for special events
- • Official New Orleans tourism website
- • N/A for general visits
- • N/A
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
New Orleans Official Guide
Size: 30 MB
Features: Map, Event schedules, Tours
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Nearby cafes
Charging Stations: Nearby cafes and shops
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport
Distance: 18 km
Travel Time: 25 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 1 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Rich history and cultural significance
Historical Significance: Important site for African American history and jazz
Insider Tips
- Best jazz performances on Sundays
- Nearby cafes offer great people-watching spots
Local Recommendations
- • Visit nearby Café Beignet for beignets
- • Explore the French Quarter
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, French, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Center of the square
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Wide shots capturing the entire square
Result: Beautiful historic park
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Louis Armstrong Park
Distance: 0.3 km
Walking: 5 min
Type: Park
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
Distance: 0.4 km
Walking: 7 min
Type: Historical Site
French Market
Distance: 0.5 km
Walking: 8 min
Type: Market
Jackson Square
Distance: 0.6 km
Walking: 10 min
Type: Historical Site
Presbytere
Distance: 0.7 km
Walking: 12 min
Type: Museum
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit during events"
- "Combine with French Quarter tour"
- "Great for photography"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
34
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
Free