Royal Street

The basics

Among New Orleans’ premier shopping destinations, Royal Street is a treasure hunter’s dream. Antique shops are filled to the brim with displays of furniture, chandeliers, and vintage knickknacks, while art galleries showcase the work of local and international artists. It's a pleasant place to pick up a conversation piece, window shop, or savor Creole cuisine at a European-style café.

Things to know before you go

• Look for musicians and other street performers for an impromptu show at the intersection of Royal and St. Peter Streets. 
• The most pedestrian-friendly stretch of Royal is between St. Louis and St. Ann Streets, which is closed to traffic between 11am and 4pm.
• Visit the Hermann-Grima and Gallier Historic Houses for a glimpse into gilded life in 19th-century New Orleans. 

How to get there

The most interesting part of Royal Street is a 13-block stretch that runs parallel to Bourbon Street between Canal Street and Esplanade Avenue. It is best explored by foot.

When to get there

Most shops, art galleries, and lunch cafés are open during standard business hours, making Royal Street a friendly daytime destination. A handful of restaurants, bars, and small music venues help the street come alive after dark.

Dining and Drinking on Royal

In contrast to the shot bars and other rowdy watering holes of Bourbon Street, Royal offers a more sophisticated way to drink and eat. The classy Carousel Bar at the Hotel Monteleone was once a favorite of literary legends like William Faulkner and Tennessee Williams, while Cafe Beignet is known for its sinfully soft French-style doughnuts and coffee. Landmark restaurants like Court of the Two Sisters and Brennan’s serve up sumptuous Creole meals to remember. 

Ways to explore

Among New Orleans’ premier shopping destinations, Royal Street is a treasure hunter’s dream. Antique shops are filled to the brim with furniture, chandeliers, and vintage knickknacks, while art galleries showcase the work of local and international artists. It's a pleasant place to window shop, pick up a conversation piece, or savor Creole cuisine at a café.

While Royal Street is easy to stroll on your own, you can get more out of your visit by joining a guided tour. Architecture- and history-themed walking tours stop along this French Quarter stretch, as do food tours and late-night ghost walks.

Accessibility

Thanks to its relatively wide sidewalks, Royal Street is generally wheelchair accessible, but individual shops will have varied accessibility.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Cash or credit cards, sun protection, water bottle, camera

What to wear

Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate layers—or go with something smart to match the stylish locals.

Not allowed

While the rules vary by tour, most don’t allow smoking, pets, or alcohol.

Amenities

Shops, restaurants, nearby streetcar stops

Address

Royal Street runs through the length of the French Quarter, just one block from Bourbon Street. Many visitors walk there, but it’s also easy to reach by streetcar, taxi, and rideshare, as well as tours that include transportation.

Driving

Driving in the French Quarter is not recommended, due to the neighborhood’s many one-way streets and lack of parking. Instead, use taxis or rideshare services to get there.

Public transportation

Many streetcar lines stop near Royal Street, including the St. Charles line (12), Rampart/UPT line (46), Canal/Cemeteries line (47), and Canal/City Park line (48). Buses frequent the area, too.

Best times to visit

Prime shopping time on Royal Street is typically from late morning to late afternoon, when the street largely becomes pedestrian-only.

Best days to visit

While individual shops, restaurants, and bars along Royal Street keep their own hours, you’ll find most businesses are open on the weekends.

Best months to visit

Since the summer brings soaring temperatures and crowds, aim to visit in the springtime, which is more comfortable for outdoor sightseeing.

Special events

The French Quarter Festival, held every April, holds some of its performances and events on Royal Street. Other major annual events, including Mardi Gras and Satchmo Summerfest, are held nearby.