As a New Orleans artist with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI)—commonly called Brittle Bone Disease—my relationship with the French Quarter is a complicated one. On one hand, it’s an iconic part of the city, bursting with life, art, and music. On the other, the lack of accessibility poses significant challenges for someone with a disability.
The Allure of the French Quarter
The French Quarter is a vibrant hub of culture. From live street music to captivating artwork displayed around Jackson Square, the atmosphere is uniquely inspiring. As an artist, I draw immense motivation from the energy of the Quarter. It’s a hub of creativity.
I often visit my favorite restaurants like Muriel’s, Criollo, and Crescent City Brewhouse, enjoying the rich culinary heritage of the city. These outings fuel my creativity and provide moments of connection with family and friends.
Accessibility Challenges in the French Quarter
Despite its charm, the French Quarter is notoriously inaccessible for those with disabilities. As someone in a wheelchair, I’ve encountered numerous obstacles:
Bar Entrances: Many bars on Bourbon Street have small steps at their entrances, making them inaccessible. A simple, cost-effective solution like a folding ramp could solve this problem, yet few establishments have taken this step.
Historic Buildings: Many restaurants and bars are exempt from ADA regulations due to their status as historic landmarks. While preserving history is important, it often comes at the expense of accessibility. For example, at Tujaque’s—the city’s oldest restaurant—I couldn’t even fit my wheelchair into the bathroom. Experiences like these are frustrating and alienating.
Sidewalks and Streets: The cobblestone streets and slate sidewalks, while beautiful, are treacherous for wheelchairs. Uneven surfaces and poorly maintained areas create a bumpy, often hazardous ride. Even able-bodied visitors have difficulty navigating these pathways.
Accessibility Isn’t Just a Legal Issue—It’s Good Business
Although some of these venues aren’t legally required to comply with ADA standards, inclusivity should be a priority. Providing access to all patrons—regardless of ability—is not just ethically sound but also smart business. Investing in small, portable ramps or ensuring that doorways are clear and accessible could open these spaces to a wider audience.
As a disabled artist, I often find myself navigating similar issues in other parts of the city, but the Quarter presents a unique mix of charm and frustration.
Planning Is Essential
For me, a trip to the French Quarter requires careful planning. I:
- Call Ahead: Before visiting a restaurant, gallery, or music venue, I confirm accessibility features.
- Choose Accessible Parking: Finding parking close to my destination minimizes logistical challenges.
- Avoid Peak Times: Navigating through the Quarter is especially difficult on weekends, when large crowds and inebriated revelers fill the streets.
While spontaneity may not always be possible, the reward of experiencing the Quarter’s vibrant culture makes the effort worthwhile.
Finding Motivation Through Challenges
Living with Osteogenesis Imperfecta means my life is full of unique challenges. Yet, these experiences also fuel my determination as a New Orleans artist. The French Quarter’s artistic energy inspires me to keep creating, while the barriers I face motivate me to advocate for greater inclusivity.
The Quarter is a place of contradictions—vibrant yet inaccessible, historic yet challenging for modern needs. But for me, it’s also a reminder that art and life are about resilience, creativity, and making the most of every opportunity.