French Market

The Basics

The sights, sounds, and smells of the French Market are enough to induce sensory overload for those who rush through. Instead, take your time wandering the stalls of crafts and culinary delights, stopping to bite into a beignet at New Orleans’ iconic Cafe du Monde or to slurp oysters at one of the market restaurants specializing in Cajun and Creole cuisine. See the market in the broader context of New Orleans by visiting on a guided walking tour of the French Quarter that may stop at nearby attractions such as Jackson Square, Decatur Street, Bourbon Street, and the Old Ursuline Convent. Small-group tours and private tours of the French Market and French Quarter offer opportunities for more personalized experiences and exposure to things you might otherwise miss.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Check the market’s event calendar for a complete list of special shopping opportunities and performances.

• The market includes three cafés, two sit-down restaurants, five confectionaries, and over 10 other bistro-style eateries.

• Shopping ranges from inexpensive flea market bargains to middle-end retail and specialty shops.

• The French Market is accessible to strollers and wheelchair users.

How to Get There

Located along North Peters and Decatur Streets, and bordered by the Mississippi River, the French Market is hard to miss while you’re in the French Quarter. Walk there from any downtown or French Quarter location, catch the Riverfront Streetcar, or take Marigny-Bywater Bus #5 or Elysian Fields Bus #55.

When to Get There

The French Market is open year-round. Every vendor has slightly different hours, but generally speaking, most vendors are open from 9am to 6pm. Wednesday and Saturday farmers markets promise more varied shopping options and larger crowds. Wednesday markets have live music, cooking demonstrations, and fresh produce from local farms from 1pm to 5pm, while Saturday markets have more prepared foods.

Historical Shopping in New Orleans

The French Market plays an important role in New Orleans history and has existed on the same site since 1791, where it was founded as a pre-colonization trading post on the banks of the Mississippi River. Popular items sold over the centuries include pralines, calas (Creole rice fritters, big in the 19th century), herbs, spices, handmade Native American crafts, and coffee—which played a central role in the social life of the market, both day and night.

Ways to explore

The French Market spans several blocks in New Orleans’ French Quarter and is a shopping mecca, whether you’re seeking kitschy souvenirs, handmade crafts, or local bites. It’s wise to come hungry: Visit the storied Café du Monde for beignets, or slurp oysters at one of the market restaurants specializing in Cajun and Creole cuisine.

You can also explore on a guided walking tour; many also stop at nearby French Quarter attractions such as Jackson Square, Decatur Street, Bourbon Street, and the Old Ursuline Convent. Small-group and private tours of the French Market and French Quarter offer more personalized experiences.

Accessibility

The French Market is wheelchair-accessible, featuring wide aisles and an accessible bathroom. Crowds, however, may make access tricky.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Water, camera, handheld bag, cash for some vendors

What to wear

Light, loose layers to help beat the heat and humidity

Not allowed

While the rules vary by tour, most don’t allow smoking, pets, or alcohol (New Orleans does have relaxed open-container laws).

Amenities

Shops, restaurants, restrooms, proximity to public transit

Address

The French Market is located in New Orleans’ French Quarter neighborhood. To get there, use taxis or rideshare services, opt for public transit, or pick a tour that has transportation included. The market is best explored on foot.

Driving

While you could drive to the French Market, parking is limited in the area, and 1-way streets can make getting around difficult. Opt for taxis or rideshare services instead.

Public transportation

To get to the French Market using public transit, take the Loyola-Riverfront (49) Streetcar, which has a designated French Market Station.

Best times to visit

The French Market is open daily, from midmorning until early evening. Arrive early in the day to beat the crowds (and the afternoon heat).

Best days to visit

The French Market is often crowded on weekends; aim for a weekday for a calmer experience. Individual trader and restaurant hours may vary.

Best months to visit

Winter and spring are generally the best seasons to visit the French Market (and New Orleans), before the arrival of summer's heat and hurricanes.

Special events

Mardi Gras, held in February or March every year, is the most popular annual event in the French Quarter. The market also hosts classes, concerts, and other events throughout the year.