A Closer Look at Bourbon Street, New Orleans

Undeniably one of the most famous streets in the country, Bourbon Street is well-known in New Orleans. It’s a part of the famous French Quarter neighborhood and offers plenty of great things to do, places to go and entertainment options.

Bourbon Street is the perfect place for a birthday party, girls night out, bachelor party or any other celebration. You’ll find plenty of bars, live music, burlesque clubs and so much more all along the street. Here’s a closer look at what to expect on Bourbon Street in New Orleans.

The History

New Orleans is one of the oldest cities in the country and Bourbon Street offers some of the best historic venues throughout. It’s a street filled with iconic buildings, great tales and so much more. The street dates back to 1798 when the city was founded. Many refer to it as Rue Bourbon and it runs directly through the French Quarter.

Top Points of Interest on Bourbon Street

The Royal Sonesta Hotel is one of the most luxurious places you will find on Bourbon Street. While the hotel was opened in 1969, the location dates back to 1721. It was once houses, stables, and even a brewery. This hotel offers a unique architectural style and looks much like the row houses from the 1830s.

Another point of interest on Bourbon Street is Galatoire’s Restaurant. This is one of the most popular restaurants in the city and one of the oldest, as well. Jean Galatiore founded the restaurant in 1905. It serves French Creole cuisine and provides one of the hottest places for lunch on Fridays.

If you’re looking for a top bar on Bourbon Street, Jean Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop is the places to go. It’s found on the corner of Bourbon Street and St. Phillip Street. The bar is filled with legends and mystery. The building dates back to before 1772 and may believe this is where the Lafitte brothers started their blacksmith shop.

Another great bar on Bourbon Street is The Old Absinthe House. This building dates back to 1806 and it was an importing firm before it became a bar. It’s filled with history and plenty of tales of the past.

Live Jazz on Bourbon Street

You will find several great spots for live jazz all along Bourbon Street. Some of the best spots in the city for jazz are found on this street. Fritzel’s European Jazz Club comes with about 200 years of history and provides some of the best jazz in the city. Live jazz is found here every night of the week.

How to Get to Bourbon Street

If you live in the French Quarter, you will be able to walk to Bourbon Street. It’s found just steps from Frenchmen Street, as well, which is found in Marigny/Bywater. Those coming from Uptown can use the St. Charles Streetcar. Just get off at Canal Street and walk a few blocks to get to Bourbon Street.

Several of the most popular New Orleans neighborhoods offer an easy walk to the St. Charles Streetcar, which makes accessing Bourbon Street very easy. If you live in the Warehouse District, Garden District or one of the many other popular neighborhoods, you can easily access this area of New Orleans.