New Orleans Riverwalk: Heart of the Big Easy

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas

Sea Otter

The Audubon Aquarium is the only place in the South where Southern sea otters can be seen.

In the heart of New Orleans on the banks of the Mississippi lies the 186,000 square foot Riverwalk Marketplace, an indoor complex of over 100 shops, cafes and art galleries. A unique combination of nationally popular and locally charming shops and food vendors make up this 1/2 —mile stretch of fun for everyone. With views of the riverboats passing by, and the scents of Cajun cooking on the breeze, you'll know you're enjoying the spirit and soul of New Orleans at Riverwalk Marketplace!

Riverwalk Marketplace, conveniently located between the Morial Convention Center and the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, features everything a shopper could desire, including apparel, gifts, electronics, toys, home furnishings, sporting goods and eyewear. Some national purveyors include Sharper Image, Abercrombie & Fitch, Baby Gap, Ann Taylor Loft and Nine West. Or, for a taste of local New Orleans flair, check out unique favorites like Cookin' Cajun Cooking School, Tabasco Country Store, Street Scenes, Bayou Bangles, Destination New Orleans, Little Cajun Gallery and Jazzin' on the River.

One must-see Riverwalk shop is the Mardi Gras Madness store. Shoppers wander through a bead-bedecked party headquarters, amused by the variety of mannequins dressed in elaborate sequined Mardi Gras costumes. Mardi Gras Madness is the place to find everything you need for a great party or celebration: decorations, music, cups, masks, confetti, beads, costumes and king cakes!

In addition to shopping, Riverwalk Marketplace features a wide variety of eateries, ranging from quick-stop, snack-type sites to full-service restaurants. Enjoy traditional favorites, some Cajun spice, or ethnic foods from around the world. The Bon Fete Food Court includes such diverse favorites as Popeye's Chicken & Biscuits, Steak Escape and Panda Express, with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. And don't forget to stop by the Original French Market Coffee Stand, where local bakers serve up the sweet pastry that New Orleans is known for: hot, fresh beignets!

Riverwalk Marketplace is truly in the heart of New Orleans, close to the French Quarter, Jackson Market, the seawall, Entergy IMAX Theatre, Louisiana Children's Museum, the National D-Day Museum, Spanish Plaza, Harrah's Casino, and the Creole Queen Riverboat! And, perhaps the best feature of the Riverwalk's location is its walking-distance proximity to great lodging choices like the Best Western French Quarter Landmark Hotel, Best Western Parc St. Charles Hotel, Days Inn Canal, Holiday Inn Downtown, Hotel St. Marie and the Place d'Armes.

So, when in New Orleans, be sure to visit the one-stop Louisiana experience at the Riverwalk Marketplace, where you'll make one-of-a-kind purchases, enjoy some great food, and get a look at the Mighty Mississippi!