Royal Street
Royal Street is one of the most recognizable streets in New Orleans, Louisiana. It spans 13 blocks throughout the French Quarter and is renowned for its historic architecture, interesting boutiques, and lively nightlife. Let’s examine in greater detail what makes Royal Street so unique.
The heritage of Royal Street
Royal Street was originally known as Rue Royale and was set out in 1721, just a few years after New Orleans was founded. It was called after the French regent at the time, the Duke of Orleans. Throughout its length, prosperous Creole families erected homes and opened businesses, transforming the Boulevard into a center of trade and culture.
Over the ages, Royal Street has undergone numerous transformations. It has been enlarged and repaved numerous times, while the adjacent buildings have been rebuilt and repurposed multiple times. Yet, the street has always had its distinct personality and allure.
Architecture
Architecture is one of the most prominent elements of Royal Street. The structures along the street date back to the 18th and 19th centuries and feature a wide range of architectural styles, including French Colonial, Spanish Colonial, and American Classical Revival. Several buildings have balconies and galleries made of wrought iron, which are ideal for people-watching and soaking up the French Quarter’s atmosphere.
The Hermann-Grima House, a restored Creole home constructed in 1831, is one of the most notable structures on Royal Street. The mansion is now a museum that provides tourists with an insight into the 19th-century lives of rich New Orleanians.
Shopping
Royal Street is renowned for its shopping as well. The Boulevard is lined with an assortment of one-of-a-kind businesses, galleries, and antique stores. Visitors can peruse unique jewelry, handcrafted apparel, and distinctive artwork. There are also numerous souvenir shops offering a variety of items and memorabilia with a New Orleans theme.
M.S. Rau Antiques, which has been in operation for over a century, is one of the most popular stores on Royal Street. The shop features an extraordinary assortment of rare and precious antiquities, such as jewelry, paintings, and furniture.
Art Galleries
Royal Street is also well-known for its art galleries, in addition to its shops. Several art galleries showcasing the work of both local and foreign artists are located on this route. Contemporary artwork, classic sculptures, and vintage posters are all on display.
The Alex Beard Studio is one of the most popular galleries on Royal Street, displaying the artist’s colorful and humorous artwork. Another noteworthy gallery is the Rodrigue Studio, which features the work of Louisiana artist George Rodrigue, renowned for his Blue Dog paintings.
Nightlife
Royal Street is the epicenter of nightlife in New Orleans. Many bars, clubs, and music venues ranging from jazz to blues to rock can be found along this route. In one of the many ancient bars, guests can enjoy a drink and live music, or they can dance the night away in one of the modern nightclubs.
Since the 1960s, Preservation Hall, one of the most renowned music venues on Royal Street, has been holding live jazz performances. The hall is a must-visit for everyone interested in experiencing the authentic vibe of New Orleans jazz.
Conclusion
Royal Street is a must-see site for everyone traveling to New Orleans. It is one of the city’s most iconic streets due to its historic architecture, interesting boutiques, and thriving nightlife. Royal Street has something for everyone, whether they are interested in shopping, art, or music. Hence, the next time you’re in New Orleans, be sure to stroll down this famous boulevard and take advantage of all it has to offer.