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New Orleans, Orleans Parish / History

St. Charles Avenue Historic District

A prestigious historic district featuring grand Victorian and Greek Revival mansions, served by an iconic National Historic Landmark streetcar line that defines the elegant atmosphere of New Orleans' Garden District.

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St. Charles Avenue Historic District
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What is the St. Charles Avenue Historic District known for?

The district is known for its grand Queen Anne-style houses from the 1880s, many designed by architect Thomas Sully, and its location on the Mardi Gras parade route.

What architectural styles can be found in the St. Charles Avenue Historic District?

The district features Greek Revival residences, such as the Alfred Grima House and the Squires House, as well as grand Queen Anne-style houses and Victorian townhouses.

Is there a historic transit system in the area?

Yes, the St. Charles Avenue Streetcar Line is one of New Orleans' National Historic Landmarks. It was originally developed to connect downtown New Orleans with Carrollton, which was then a separate municipality.

Where is the St. Charles Avenue Historic District located?

The district is associated with the Garden District area of New Orleans, with St. Charles Avenue serving as the district's northern boundary in city-planning definitions.

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 St. Charles Avenue Historic District is a celebrated corridor of elegance, with a history dating back to the 1830s. It serves as the northern boundary of the Garden District, where opulent opulent residences are framed by a canopy of live oaks. The area is part of a National Historic Landmark district, ensuring the preservation of its timeless architectural beauty. Architectural diversity is a hallmark of the avenue. Visitors can admire Greek Revival residences, such as the Alfred Grima House, built in 1857, and the Squires House, which was originally constructed in 1851 and remodeled in 1884. The 1880s saw the avenue rise to prominence with the construction of grand Queen Anne-style houses, many of which were the work of architect Thomas Sully. Beyond the residences, the district's history is marked by notable landmarks. A four-story building at 5318 St. Charles Avenue, built in 1888, once served as the main building of New Orleans University for African American students. Other historic footprints remain, such as the site of a historic Carnegie library at Lee Circle, which was part of a nationwide network of libraries funded by Andrew Carnegie. Today, the avenue remains a focal point of New Orleans culture. It is highly coveted as part of the Mardi Gras parade route, making it one of the most sought-after addresses in the city. The St. Charles Avenue Streetcar Line, a National Historic Landmark, continues to connect the area to downtown New Orleans, providing a timeless way to experience the district's grandeur.

Visitor tips

  • Ride the St. Charles Avenue Streetcar to see a wide stretch of the avenue's architecture without walking the entire length.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes as the district is a long linear corridor of historic homes.
  • // a practical tip inferable from the category: bring a water bottle to stay hydrated while walking under the live oaks.

Nearby context

The district is closely associated with the Garden District, with St. Charles Avenue forming its northern boundary. It is a linear corridor that connects the downtown area to the Uptown same as the umaid neighborhood.

Sources

Evidence and links