New Orleans Square, opened in 1967, was the first new land added to Disneyland and among the last projects overseen by Walt Disney himself. Today, it stands as one of my favorite spots in any Disney Park around the world. From the live jazz and delicious creole cuisine of the outdoor French Market to the twisting streets and back alleys with their shops and infinite details, I can easily spend half a day in New Orleans Square alone.
New Orleans Square is full of hidden gems, like the quiet Court des Anges, seen below in a festive moment as the cast of Princess Tiana's Mardi Gras Celebration wrap up a morning performance.
Of course, I always like finding small details that help tell the story of a place, and New Orleans Square is full of them. Take this plaque, for example. It depicts an old-fashioned hose and chemical wagon, along with the letters "D" and "L." This is the Disneyland version of a traditional fire insurance plaque. Homes having paid their insurance premiums would display this plaque on an exterior wall, so the fire department would know just which buildings to save first in the event of an emergency. (Click here for a similar detail from Liberty Square in the Magic Kingdom.)
There's plenty to see at eye level, but visitors to New Orleans Square can also benefit by looking up. The "homes" on the second floor of the buildings are each dressed to tell us something about who might live there. There are artists and musicians... and a lady preparing to host guests for afternoon tea.
As fascinating as the exterior details of this land can be, the interiors are equally spectacular. Even if shopping isn't your thing, it's worth it to browse through what New Orleans Square has to offer.
One of the most beautiful and ornate is the Jewel of Orleans (formerly Mademoiselle Antoinette's Parfumerie). This space, like many of the interiors of New Orleans Square, was designed by Disney Legend Dorothea Redmond. The hand-painted mirrors seen here are originals, done by Dorothea in an ages-old style that involved applying details to the back of the glass one layer at a time. Even the antique chandelier has a story to tell. It was purchased by Walt Disney on one of his many trips to the Crescent City.
Other details in the shops of New Orleans Square are newer, but no less interesting. Each space has its own eclectic mix of fixtures and props, creating a real sense of a series of small, privately-owned boutiques.
Sometimes, the detailing is so clever, you may miss it unless you take a step back. I purchased something from this checkout counter in the Pieces of Eight shop, but it wasn't until I was walking away that I realized it was dressed as the Captain's quarters at the aft of a ship. I especially appreciated the keyboard, implying that the counter itself is part of an elaborate organ like the one played by Davy Jones.
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