Hotels near The Garden District and Lafayette Cemetery No. 1

The Garden District went up from the 1830s, built by wealthy Americans who were not welcome in the Creole French Quarter. The architecture reflects the rivalry - Greek Revival and Italianate mansions on unusually large lots, ringed by cast-iron fences and shaded by live oaks planted a century and a half ago. First Street, Prytania Street and Third Street carry the densest concentration.

Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 at 1400 Washington Avenue holds the above-ground tombs New Orleans is known for, a practical response to a water table that sits barely a metre below the surface. The cemetery has closed for restoration work for long stretches in recent years, so confirm its status before making a special trip. Commander's Palace, serving since 1893, sits directly across the street.

Pro Tip: Start at Washington Avenue and walk downhill towards Magazine Street, which turns commercial with independent shops, bookstores and coffee. The full loop takes about 90 minutes on foot and needs no guide.