St. Louis Cathedral

The triple-spired cathedral presiding over Jackson Square — the oldest continuously active Catholic cathedral in the United States, on a site used for worship since 1727. Free to enter daily (roughly 9:30am-4pm), and it's an active parish, so visits pause for weddings, funerals, and Mass. Fifteen quiet minutes inside is worth it.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

Can I take photos inside the cathedral?

Yes, without flash and not during services. Be discreet — people are often praying, and it's their church before it's your backdrop.

Are there tours of St. Louis Cathedral?

Self-guided visiting is the norm; there's a brochure and sometimes docents inside. Most French Quarter walking tours include the exterior and history — you don't need a paid tour to see the interior properly.

Can I go inside St. Louis Cathedral for free?

Yes — it's free and open to visitors roughly 9:30am to 4pm (from 8am Sundays), except during weddings, funerals, and services. A small donation for upkeep is appreciated but never required.

Is there a dress code for St. Louis Cathedral?

No enforced code, but it's an active church — dress respectfully, remove hats, and keep your voice down. If Mass is underway, either join it quietly or come back later.

What are the Mass times at St. Louis Cathedral?

Sunday Masses at 9am and 11am, a Saturday vigil at 4pm, and weekday Mass at 12:05pm. Visitors are welcome to attend — it's one of the more moving ways to experience the building.

How old is St. Louis Cathedral?

There's been a church on this spot since 1727; the current building dates largely to 1850 after rebuilds and expansions. It's the oldest cathedral in continuous use in the United States.

What's behind the cathedral in St. Anthony's Garden?

A quiet fenced garden facing Royal Street, with the famous Touchdown Jesus statue that casts a giant shadow on the cathedral's rear wall at night. The Royal Street view of it after dark is a classic free photo.

How long does a visit to the cathedral take?

Fifteen to thirty minutes covers the interior — the ceiling murals, the stained glass, and the Rex window. It pairs naturally with the Cabildo and Presbytère museums on either side.

Nearby in Ask New Orleans

• The Presbytère (Louisiana State Museum)Museum0.04 km · 1 min walk
• The CabildoAttraction0.05 km · 1 min walk
• French Quarter (Vieux Carré)Neighborhood0.08 km · 1 min walk
• Jackson SquareLandmark0.09 km · 1 min walk
• Preservation HallAttraction0.17 km · 2 min walk