Exploring the Riverfront Charm Between French Quarter and the CBD in New Orleans

New Orleans is a city rich in history, culture, and vibrant outdoors. Venture along the riverfront area between the bustling French Quarter and the Central Business District (CBD), and you'll discover a blend of natural beauty, historic sites, and exciting activities. From stunning views to unique experiences, this diverse stretch offers something for everyone.

Historic Steamboat Tours and Steampunk Charm

Begin your exploration at the River Walk, a beautiful walkway along the Mississippi River. Just a short stroll from Jackson Square, you'll find a variety of options to make the best of your visit. The Cafe Demoman offers a taste of New Orleans cuisine, while the French Market entices with its array of local art and tasty treats.

A Promenade through a Big Park

The area along the river extends from Canal Street to Governor Nicholls Street, making it a sprawling park-like setting. You can explore a couple of steamboat tours, embarking on a unique way to discover the city's rich history and scenic beauty. Enjoy a ferry ride for just $1.50 each way to reach the charming Algiers neighborhood across the river.

Outside the French Quarter

As you move into the French Quarter, you'll find the first-class aquarium, currently under renovation, which offers stunning displays that are worth a visit. From there, head to the Spanish Plaza, where you can catch a ferry to Algiers. Just a block away lies the Riverwalk, a shopping mall filled with discounts and a fantastic food court, part of the 1984 World’s Fair.

Upmarket Shopping and Entertainment

Explore the upscale shopping center nearby, which also houses a theater complex. Along Canal Street, you'll find two streetcar routes – the Canal Street line which stretches to City Park and the St. Charles Avenue line that continues along S. Carrollton Avenue to S. Claiborne Avenue. Along this route, you can visit the Audubon Park, Audubon Zoo, and the universities of Loyola and Tulane.

Restaurants and Delights

The area along S. Carrollton and Oak Street is lined with numerous restaurants, with the historic Camellia Grill standing out. Nearby, the Milk Bar in the strip center across Carrollton from the Carrollton Courthouse (converted into a senior residence) offers great sandwiches and salads.

Unique Traditions and Festivals

On Mardi Gras, the riverfront transforms into a captivating environment. People touch the water to bid farewell to the past, and often pay their respects with small offerings or ashes mixed with glitter. During the French Quarter Fest, the area turns into a festival ground, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of New Orleans.

Concluding Thoughts

While the CBD area just across Canal Street is more limited, the abundance of activities and attractions between the French Quarter and the riverfront ensures that your time in New Orleans will be filled with endless surprises. So, if you find yourself exploring the New Orleans riverfront, you’re sure to have an unforgettable journey through history, culture, and natural beauty.