Frenchmen St vs French Market Vs Jackson Square

Question

Which would be the best to visit. We don’t drink much and don’t like cheap souvenirs. We do like nice artisan crafts and decent but affordable restaurants

Answer

If you're looking for a more relaxed, culturally rich experience in New Orleans without the typical touristy, alcohol-focused spots or kitschy souvenirs, here's a breakdown of the three areas you mentioned: Frenchmen Street, French Market, and Jackson Square.

1. Frenchmen Street

Frenchmen Street is a local favorite and offers a more authentic New Orleans vibe. While it’s well-known for its music scene, it’s not as packed with rowdy tourists as Bourbon Street, which makes it a great spot for people who enjoy jazz, blues, and local culture. If you're not into drinking, don't worry—there are plenty of places to enjoy the live music without feeling pressured to have a drink in hand.

Artisan crafts: Frenchmen Street is home to several local art galleries and shops selling handmade crafts, jewelry, and vintage items. This is a great spot for finding unique, high-quality souvenirs that reflect the city's creative spirit.
Restaurants: There are a number of excellent, affordable eateries on Frenchmen Street, including casual spots offering local dishes like gumbo, po'boys, and crawfish. Look out for places like The Three Muses or Adolfo’s for a relaxed, local dining experience.
Atmosphere: The street is a mix of historic charm and modern creativity, with murals, street performers, and some of the best live jazz in the city. It's a vibrant area but without the overwhelming tourist crowds.

2. French Market

The French Market is a historic, open-air market located in the French Quarter, and it's one of the oldest in the U.S. It's a bit more touristy than Frenchmen Street, with lots of souvenir stalls and shops selling everything from T-shirts to beaded necklaces. However, you can still find some unique artisan goods here, especially in the more curated sections of the market.

Artisan crafts: The French Market does have a section dedicated to handmade jewelry, clothing, and artwork. However, be mindful that many of the stalls cater to tourists and may sell mass-produced or low-quality items. Still, if you look closely, you can find some great local crafts, especially in the artisan market area.
Restaurants: The French Market area offers some good, casual food options like muffulettas and beignets. It's definitely worth checking out, but for a more authentic experience, you might want to head to nearby spots like Café du Monde or stop by the various food stands offering crawfish, gumbo, and other local delights.
Atmosphere: The market can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons, but it’s still worth a visit if you want to see the hustle and bustle of the French Quarter. The surrounding areas also have a lot of street vendors and performers, which adds to the lively vibe.

3. Jackson Square

Jackson Square is one of the most iconic spots in New Orleans, and while it’s often filled with tourists, it’s also a place that captures the historic charm and beauty of the city. The square is surrounded by beautiful architecture and is the perfect place to take in the local culture. The square is home to the famous St. Louis Cathedral and has a lovely park with benches where you can relax and watch the street artists, musicians, and performers.

Artisan crafts: Jackson Square is home to many local artists who display their work along the perimeter. You’ll find high-quality, hand-painted portraits, local photography, and unique jewelry. This is a great spot for picking up a beautiful, locally made piece of art.
Restaurants: There are several good restaurants nearby, including Café du Monde for beignets, and the historic Antoine's for a more upscale experience. If you're looking for something more casual, there are plenty of options along Decatur Street and in the surrounding areas. The French Quarter's central location means you're close to many fantastic eateries with a range of price points.
Atmosphere: Jackson Square can get very crowded, especially during the day, but it offers a wonderful experience for those who appreciate New Orleans' history and culture. The nearby shops, cafes, and the beautiful Cathedral make it a great place to explore if you're looking for a classic New Orleans vibe.

### Summary of Recommendations

If you’re looking for artisan crafts and a more relaxed vibe, Frenchmen Street would be your best bet, especially if you enjoy live music and a local feel. The area offers some unique handmade items and local art, plus a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for non-drinkers who just want to explore and enjoy the scene.

If you’re in the mood for a more bustling market with some local crafts and food, the French Market could be worth checking out, though you may have to sift through some touristy items. It’s still a fun area to explore, especially if you’re interested in New Orleans food culture.

For those who enjoy history and beautiful public spaces, Jackson Square is definitely worth visiting. It’s a great spot to relax, people-watch, and enjoy local art. Plus, it’s centrally located in the French Quarter with easy access to excellent restaurants and attractions.

All three areas have their unique charm, but if you prefer to avoid crowds and cheesy souvenirs, I’d recommend starting with Frenchmen Street or Jackson Square. Both offer a more authentic, artisan-focused experience without the overwhelming touristy feel.

Frenchmen St vs French Market Vs Jackson Square

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