New Orleans is well known for its culture and rich history, which many groups of people choose when running from exile and discrimination. It has housed and helped cultivate much of the world's favorite music and food. However, being a part of certain communities means different things to NOLA natives.
NOLA's neighborhoods like The Marigny can represent different things and traditions of the city. It is special and unique because of its beautifully colored art and famous Washington Square Park. The Marigny is a charming area with residents living side by side in some of the most vibrantly colored Creole cottages in the South. Founded by Jean-Bernard de Marigny in the 1800s, the area was home at one point to a few popular jazz musicians who helped move along the beat and rhythm instilled in the cracks of the sidewalk. The fav things to do in the Marigny are eating at local but loved restaurants, going to art museums, and shopping.
10 Best Things to do in Marigny
1. Dine at Elizabeth's
601 Gallier St., (504) 944-9272
elizabethsrestaurantnola.com
Restaurants like Elizabeth's are a savior for fighting a hangover after being out all night just a mile away in the French Quarter. They serve large dishes filled with the taste of homemade breakfast or brunch. You can even get back into the swing of the fun with a worthy cocktail.
Elizabeth's has been serving classic Creole cuisine for over 20 years in the Marigny. The restaurant's menu is rich and diverse, and they're famous for their Duck Waffle and Eggs Florentine.
2. Grab Coffee at Flora Cafe
2600 Royal St., (504) 947-8358
facebook.com/Flora.Gallery.And.Coffee.Shop
If you want a more quaint and cozy place to bounce back with a coffee and affordable brunch, you can also try Flora Cafe. It has perfectly brewed coffee and snacks till 10 at night daily.
While you enjoy your coffee at Flora Cafe, you'll be surrounded by art works done by local artists in the community that are available for purchase. The menu has affordable food options that have an eclectic flare.
3. Take a Trip to the Art Museum JAMNOLA
2832 Royal St., (504) 233-9152
jamnola.com
Along the trails of Marigny are also the lively colored art museums and interactive studios. JAMNOLA is also a great spot to see New Orleans-inspired art taken to another level. Louisiana locals save 50 percent off tickets every Thursday.
JAMNOLA celebrates the Crescent City art community and embraces local culture. JAMNOLA, standing for Joy, Art & Music New Orleans, Louisiana is a great way to immerse oneself in New Orleans culture.
4. Observe Artworks and Experience Live Music at Studio BE
2941 Royal St., (504) 252-0463
studiobenola.com
Another Marigny crown jewel is Studio BE, located on Royal Street. This warehouse holds art that proves Black voices can come alive through art and unite together through emotions we have all felt.
Studio BE was created as a space for artists to come under one roof and create visuals that represent critical voices and the freedoms we have to express them. On your way back, you can also grab CDs and vinyls at Euclid Records.
5. Go Antiquing at Palace Market Frenchmen
619 Frenchmen St., (504) 358-8287
palacemarketnola.com
The Marigny also has multiple antique stores, shopping markets and a park for a beautiful sunny day. The Palace Market Frenchmen is one store known for its wide selection of goods. This outdoor night art-themed market offers handmade souvenirs and crafts you won't find anywhere else.
Palace Market Frenchmen features 38 nightly booths and aims to promote local vendors. With each booth and vendor selling different goods, Palace Market Frenchmen reflects the diversity of New Orleans' community.
6. Shop for Art and Books at Frenchmen Art and Books
600 Frenchmen St., (504) 302-1772
frenchmenartandbooks.com
Shoppers looking for clothes and shoes can always go to the malls and outlets in NOLA, but if you are a bookworm, Frenchman Art and Books is the place for you. They sell books written by local authors and have sections focusing on the history of different races and ethnicities.
Frenchmen Art and Books has been independently owned and operated, in the same location, since 1978. The "Featured Book of the Neighborhood" is The Faubourg Marigny of New Orleans by Scott S. Ellis, which details the uniqueness of Marigny.
7. Take a Stroll Through Washington Square Park
700 Elysian Fields Ave., (504) 658-3000
nola.gov/parks-and-parkways/parks-squares/washington-square
Whether looking for live music or another area to feel history swaying in the old oak trees, Washington Square Park fits you. The historic landmark has become a staple for all New Orleans residents, hosting family events and friendly gatherings. However, it is also known for its street performers roaming in and around the park.
Large events and music venues take up the park on special days and festivals, but it is still a quiet picturesque place to have some alone time.
8. Hear Live Music at Blue Nile
532 Frenchmen St., (504) 766-6193
bluenilelive.com
Try any of the local bars and restaurants in The Marigny for live music that you won't have to get advanced seating for. Located on the historic Frenchmen Street, Blue Nile is known as the original music club that gave birth to Marigny's music culture. Blue Nile features live jazz, funk, and blues musical acts.
Blue Nile is one of the oldest music clubs on Frenchmen Street, housed in a building constructed in 1832. The club features performances from a wide array of musical genres, visitors must be 21+ to enter.
9. Grab a Drink and Experience the Night Life at The Spotted Cat
623 Frenchmen St.
spottedcatmusicclub.com
The Spotted Cat is an intimate setting perfect for enjoying live jazz music. Located in the heart of The Marigny, this spot has remained a local favorite when it comes to hearing live music.
Located a few steps from the busy French Quarter, The Spotted Cat is open seven days a week from 2 p.m. to 2 a.m. "The Cat," as locals call it, is a hub for local jazz performers.
10. Continue the Night at The Apple Barrel
609 Frenchmen St., (504) 948-3800
facebook.com/AppleBarrelBar
Apple Barrel, located below Adolfo's, is known for it's nightly live jazz and blues music. With the venues' interior decorated with dollar bills, the bar is a great way to experience Marigny's nightlife.
Apple Barrel is a Frenchmen Street staple for both locals and visitors; the quaint venue makes the space an inviting atmosphere. Gain the full experience of The Marigny by getting a cocktail and hanging out at Apple Barrel.
Make a Trip through The Marigny
The Faubourg Marigny's rich history and eclectic atmosphere makes this neighborhood a perfect travel destination. There are many things to do and places to visit in The Marigny, so finding something new and exciting won't be difficult.
Make your way down to the enchanting neighborhood of The Marigny, New Orleans. You will not want to miss another second of their lively days or nights.
