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New Orleans, Orleans Parish / History

Esplanade Ridge Historic District

A prestigious historic district showcasing a massive concentration of 19th and early 20th-century residential architecture, once the grand address of New Orleans' upper-class Creoles and Free People of Color.

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What is the Esplanade Ridge Historic District known for?

It is known for its museums, above-ground cemeteries, and the Creole "Millionaire's Row," which features a high concentration of grand historic homes. Visitors can also enjoy kayaking on Bayou St. John and visiting outdoor cafés.

What is the history of the area?

The area originally served as a Native American trading outpost and portage route. It later developed into a prestigious neighborhood for upper-class Creoles and Free People of Color, with the city annexing the neighborhood in 1812.

What can I see and do in the district?

You can explore the Degas House, visit St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 to see its marble above-ground tombs, and rent a kayak on Bayou St. John. The district also provides access to City Park.

What is the architecture like?

The district is primarily residential and serves as a showcase of 19th and early 20th-century residential architecture, including grandiose mansions and early 20th-century styles. Some blocks are irregularly shaped due to the way separate faubourgs meet city streets.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Esplanade Ridge Historic District is recognized as one of the largest and most impressive concentrations of historic buildings in the nation. This residential area was once among the most prestigious Creole neighborhoods in New Orleans, serving as a premier address for upper-class Creoles and Free People of Color. The district's layout is unique, with some irregularly shaped blocks caused by the separate faubourgs meeting city streets at odd angles. Its origins trace back to an ancient Native American portage route and trading outpost on a ridge between the Mississippi River and Bayou St. John. The earliest known land grant in the area dates to 1718 on Bayou Road. Later, in 1798, Claude Tremé began selling lots, and the city officially annexed the neighborhood in 1812. Esplanade Avenue itself originated from a strip of land transferred to the city by an act of Congress in 1807. Development grew as wealthy Creole families built grandiose mansions on Esplanade Avenue, creating what is now known as 'Millionaire's Row.' Residential growth was further spurred by the introduction of the first streetcar along Esplanade in the 1860s, which allowed for more concentrated development. The area remains a living gallery of 19th and early 20th-century architecture, including a strong concentration of residences in early 20th-century styles. Today, the district is bounded by Orleans Avenue, Moss Street, St. Louis Cemetery #3, St. Vincent Street, Fortin Street, Onzaga Street, St. Bernard Avenue, N. Claiborne Avenue, and N. Broad Street. It encompasses several notable landmarks, including the Degas House, where French Impressionist Edgar Degas visited his mother's Creole family in 1872, and St. Louis Cemetery No. 3, featuring marble above-ground tombs.

Visitor tips

  • Walk along Esplanade Avenue to admire the grand historic homes of 'Millionaire's Row'.
  • Visit St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 to see the distinctive marble above-ground tombs.
  • Rent a kayak on Bayou St. John, the old French water route to Lake Pontchartrain.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes as the district is large and the area is primarily residential.

Nearby context

The district is situated on a ridge between the Mississippi River and Bayou St. John, incorporating the historic Faubourg St. John, Faubourg Pontchartrain, and Tremé neighborhoods.

Sources

Evidence and links