FRENCHMAN STREET

NEW ORLEANS

The oldest and best-known section of Frenchmen Street is in the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood, just downriver from the Vieux Carré.

This area was once the plantation of Bernard de Marigny a wealthy Creole and political leader of old New Orleans. He exemplified the Creoles of his day, with his joie de vivre — a keen enjoyment of living.

In 1806, he had his property subdivided and developed as a neighborhood.

Many of the houses in this area are over 100 years old; some are much older.

The Frenchmen Street entertainment district began developing in the 1980s.

As Bourbon Street became more tourist-focused, Frenchmen emerged as a spot for locals to party, as it was more geared toward authentic New Orleans musical and gastronomical tastes.

Residing on some of the highest ground in the city, Frenchmen Street survived Katrina relatively unscathed.

Following the catastrophe, the street was officially designated a city arts and entertainment district; its notoriety increased when it was patronized by people who went to New Orleans to help rebuild, and by visitors who sought authentic local music.