French Market

Old Times, New Times & Everything in Between

When you visit the world-famous French Market District, you step back into amazing history as it blends with today’s vibrant French Quarter culture. See for yourself!

What is the French Market?

It was once a Native American trading post, founded in the 1700s, before the Europeans found their way here.  Numerous expansions, renovations and re-brandings later, the French Market now spreads out across six city blocks jam-packed with New Orleans-style dining, diverse shopping, spectacular festivals and music including the jazz sounds this city is known for.

Cajun, Creole and Traditional Dining

If you didn’t come here to sample the out-of-this-world cooking, you’re in the wrong city.  Food is as much a New Orleans tradition as jazz and the Saints.  Your trip to the French Market must include some indulgence.  

Shop, Shop & Shop Some More

There’s nothing “strip-mallish” about shopping in the French Market.  Whether you’re after exquisite gift baskets, regional fine art, kitchen accessories, confections, books with local inspiration, vintage statues, handsome apparel and so much more, you won’t have trouble finding it. Two bustling shopping areas include Shops at the Upper Pontalba and Shops of The Colonnade.

The Big Easy is the Big Busy

Any time of year, you’ll find something fun and entertaining at the French Market.  It’s busy, the way we like it – and you’ll like it, too, when you see what’s waiting for you.

• Looking for festivals and good times? We’ve got it all – Creole Tomato Festival; Downriver Festival; Boo Carre Halloween and Harvest Festival; St. Nicholas Day Fair and a bunch more scheduled throughout the year.
• Informative walking tours detailing the wonderful Creole and Cajun food and the music that the Market is known for.
• Another tour brings visitors face to face with the development of New Orleans jazz, area architecture and the history of the French Market.
• An awesome farmer’s market, year-round with endless selections.

Really, it would take 20 pages to tell you all about the sights and sounds that put and keep the French Market on the map. Come see for yourself.