16-04-2025
Why this New Orleans public square is a top-2 spot in America, USA Today says
USA Today has released its Reader's Choice Awards results for the ten best public squares, and one public square in Louisiana came in second place.
Public squares are a staple within many U.S. cities, and are often a keystone within communities.
Public squares can serve as stages for events and activities, from farmers' and flea markets to sites of festivals and gatherings.
Jackson Square in New Orleans, Louisiana was named the second best public square on USA Today's list of the "10 Best Public Squares."
Jackson Square is a historic park, and National Landmark, located within the French Quarter of New Orleans.
This public square is highly recognizable by the bronze statue of Andrew Jackson, which is who the square is named after, located in the square's center. The historic St. Louis Cathedral is also a part of the square's iconic backdrop.
Jackson Square, originally called the Place d'Armes or Plaza de Armas, was built by French engineers in 1721 within the heart of New Orleans' military activities, according to the Historic New Orleans Collection.
The square was renamed in 1851, after General Andrew Jackson defended the city of New Orleans during the War of 1812.
1. Campus Martius Park: Detroit, Michigan
2. Jackson Square: New Orleans, Louisiana
3. Winterset Town Square: Winterset, Iowa
4. The Square: Oxford, Mississippi
5. Franklin Square: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
6. Capitol Square: Madison, Wisconsin
7. Fountain Square: Cincinnati, Ohio
8. Healdsburg Plaza: Healdsburg, California
9. Centerway Square: Corning, New York
10. Mission Plaza: San Luis Obispo, California
Presley Bo Tyler is a reporter for the Louisiana Deep South Connect Team for Gannett/USA Toda. Find her on X @PresleyTyler02 and email at PTyler@
This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: What's the best public square in Louisiana? Here's what USA Today says
