French Market

Spanning the length of six blocks, the French Market technically begins at Café du Monde and stretches downriver from Jackson Square to the US Mint. Spread across its numerous tables and stands, you can find everything from souvenirs to clothing to street-food outlets of every conceivable kind, with some excellent fruits and veggies. Often you can hear music as well, as the market makes for a great performance space.

The crepe stand is out of this world, but there's no shortage of other great-smelling food kiosks and restaurants with just about anything you could ask for, from crayfish to po' boys to beignets. Also, in addition to the tourist-focused NOLA and Mardi Gras masks, t-shirts, shot glasses, etc., you may find locals who make unique, colorful jewelry (pins, earrings) or will offer an assortment of handmade art items in clay, stone, or wood. Their wares are reasonably priced and make great souvenirs. Don't forget to bring cash, as not all the booths accept credit cards.

While primarily a shopping center, this popular spot is surprisingly historical. The oldest of its kind in the US, it has been a gathering place for many different ethnic groups, starting with the Native Americans who came here to sell their baskets and beads and later including Creoles, Germans, Sicilian and Chinese, who once traded fragrant herbs, mysterious wild birds, and even alligators. Today, the market's arcades have been mostly enclosed to protect shoppers from the sun, though still open at the sides to allow for a breeze.