Not Your Usual Mall
Tucked right against the bank of the Mighty Mississippi River and just steps from Canal Street and the French Quarter lies the River Walk mall. This area was originally a wharf but was cleared and the land used in conjunction with the 1984 World’s Fair. It is connected to the Hilton Hotel and runs all the way to the Morial Convention Center. After the Fair this venue was developed into the Riverwalk which was planned to be an upscale shopping complex attracting both locals and tourist alike. It has been going strong since then with the exception of a short period following Hurricane Katrina.
Great Shopping, Great Views
The Riverwalk is a “must see” for visitors to the City. Located on the river it affords sweeping vistas of the City’s West Bank, the Mississippi’s bend and the magnificent Crescent City Connection Bridge spanning the East and West banks of New Orleans. You can stroll along the river and enjoy the breeze as well as enjoy local musicians who just about always show up and entertain people in hopes of receiving a tip. There are also historical plaques that provide interesting peeks into the City’s past such as the riverboat races and the hazards of the old steam engines. This is a family friendly attraction that has something for all ages. If you happen to be into photography or just want to snap a picture or two from your mobile phone, you have got to visit this photographer’s paradise and shoot to your heart’s content.
You Have to Eat to be at Your Best While Shopping
What would an upscale mall in New Orleans be without outstanding food? You will not be disappointed as there are over a dozen restaurants selling foods ranging from seafood, Italian, sushi, Mexican and Café du Monde’s world famous beignets (hot French doughnuts). Here you can sit down and enjoy the ambience of a fine eatery or grab a quick sandwich. There are also merchants who sell uniquely New Orleans staples such as local brands of coffee or even beignet mix as well as renown spices that are known around the world.
There's Entertainment Too!
The Riverwalk turns out to be entertaining with the roving jazz bands and piped in New Orleans music as well as a practical place to pick up just about anything you may need (or not need!). It is a place to see the unique sights the City has to offer as well as eat and imbibe until you can go no more. After all, that’s what you’re suppose to do on vacation.Let's Talk Shopping
And talk about shopping, there are over a hundred stores just waiting to thrill you. You can buy a pair of Crocs or visit Brookstone for a state of the art item. There are numerous vendors selling artistic scenes of New Orleans and all sorts of creative keepsakes. You can buy articles from your favorite sports teams as well as headwear from caps to a very nice chapeau. The mall offers a very nice blend of local merchants and nationally known stores.
What's Nearby
When you tire of shopping you might want to take a rest at Spanish Plaza and enjoy the huge spraying fountain surrounded by colorful tiles. There are additional restaurants and bars right there for you to enjoy. The Hilton Hotel offers more to eat and drink and it is simply a few steps from Spanish Plaza and connected to the Riverwalk.
If you need more shopping, the Shops at Canal Place are just two blocks away.
If you are feeling lucky, you just might want to visit Harrah’s Casino which is just across the street. This posh gambling emporium is sure to keep you busy for hours on end.
One last point, the Riverwalk is truly easily accessible. You can walk there from nearly any hotel in the area or if you prefer to drive there is ample on site parking (but it is not free). Parking stubs can be validated at several stores in the mall to help offset this cost.
So, what are you waiting for? Come and visit New Orleans’ spectacular Riverwalk Market Place and see for yourself. For all the information you need, go to the official website.