The French Market of New Orleans... Esplanade & Decatur Street

The French Market is America's oldest city market. Before europeans settled into the area, the Choctaw indians used the site as a trading post and meeting place.

In 1771, the Spanish erected the first buildings which were destroyed by a hurricane in 1812. Soon after this devastation, the original buildings were replaced with structures that stand to this day and continue to serve the people of New Orleans.

At the French market, one can buy just about anything and everything. In the main buildings, one will find the produce and meat vendors. Every morning, local restaurateurs, grocers and others can be found haggling over the best produce. On weekends, the French Market is transformed into a giant flea market. People come from across the state to vend their wares. From fine jewelry to that perfect creole tomato, it can be found at the French Market.

The Ladies in Red French Quarter ~ New Orleans, Louisiana

One if the newest additions to the Riverfront are the Ladies in Red Streetcars. You can catch the Streetcars at the French Market and they will bring you from the far end of the French Quarter to Canal Street. A handy thing to know after a long walking tour.