Fulton Street Attractions: What to See and Do in New Orleans

Situated in the energetic downtown area of New Orleans, Fulton Street has emerged as a beloved spot for both locals and tourists. This charming pedestrian mall, spanning just one block between Poydras and Lafayette Streets, offers an enticing blend of dining, entertainment, and shopping experiences. With its lively ambiance and diverse attractions, Fulton Street captures the essence of New Orleans’ rich cultural and social landscape.

TL;DR

• Fulton Street is a vibrant hub of cultural and social activities in downtown New Orleans, featuring a diverse range of attractions.
• The pedestrian mall offers an array of dining options, live music venues, and unique shopping experiences, catering to various tastes and preferences.
• With its lively atmosphere and engaging activities, Fulton Street is a popular destination for both locals and visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the spirit of New Orleans.

Historical Context of Fulton Street

Fulton Street’s transformation into a thriving entertainment district began in the mid-1980s when the area was included within the boundaries of the New Orleans World’s Fair. The fair served as a catalyst for the revitalization of the city’s Warehouse District, where Fulton Street is located. The once nondescript collection of century-old brick mercantile warehouses underwent a remarkable metamorphosis, becoming a hub of activity and excitement.

Over the years, Fulton Street has evolved into a beloved destination, attracting visitors with its unique blend of history and modern amenities. The pedestrian mall’s development has been shaped by the efforts of local businesses, community leaders, and the Harrah’s Casino, which played a significant role in its revitalization.

Culinary Delights on Fulton Street

One of the primary draws of Fulton Street is its diverse culinary scene, offering a tantalizing array of dining options to satisfy every palate. From casual eateries to upscale restaurants, the pedestrian mall showcases the best of New Orleans’ renowned cuisine.

Notable restaurants along Fulton Street include:

Grand Isle Restaurant

(575 Convention Center Blvd): This seafood restaurant offers a taste of Louisiana’s coastal cuisine, with dishes like chargrilled oysters, seafood gumbo, and blackened redfish. Open daily from 11am to 10pm.

Manning’s

(519 Fulton St): Owned by former New Orleans Saints quarterback Archie Manning, this sports bar and restaurant serves classic American fare and local favorites. Don’t miss the Fried Catfish Platter or the Shrimp & Grits. Open Monday to Thursday 11am-10pm, Friday to Saturday 11am-11pm, and Sunday 11am-9pm.

Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant

(200 Poydras St): This brewpub offers handcrafted beers and a menu of American cuisine with a twist. Try the Gastro Pub Burger or the Gorgonzola Ribeye. Open Sunday to Thursday 11am-10pm and Friday to Saturday 11am-11pm.

For an authentic New Orleans experience, be sure to try local specialties like po’boys, jambalaya, and beignets during your visit to Fulton Street.

Shopping and Retail on Fulton Street

While Fulton Street may not be renowned as a shopping destination, it does offer a selection of unique local shops and boutiques worth exploring. Visitors can find souvenirs, gifts, and locally crafted items that reflect the rich culture and heritage of New Orleans.

Some notable shops include:

Hattie Sparks

(933 Fulton St): This boutique features a curated collection of clothing, accessories, and home decor from emerging and established designers. Open Monday to Saturday 10am-6pm and Sunday 12pm-5pm.

Fulton Alley

(600 Fulton St): In addition to its bowling lanes and live music, Fulton Alley also houses a small gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs and local artisan goods. Open Monday to Friday 3pm-12am, Saturday 11am-2am, and Sunday 11am-10pm.

When shopping on Fulton Street, keep an eye out for unique items that showcase the city’s vibrant art scene, such as locally made jewelry, paintings, and crafts.

Entertainment and Nightlife

Fulton Street comes alive at night, offering a variety of entertainment options for visitors to enjoy. From live music venues to bowling alleys, there’s something for everyone on this lively pedestrian mall.

Popular entertainment spots include:

Harrah’s Casino

(228 Poydras St): This sprawling casino offers a wide range of gaming options, including slot machines, table games, and poker. Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Fulton Alley

(600 Fulton St): This upscale bowling alley features 12 lanes, a full-service bar, and a menu of elevated pub fare. Fulton Alley also hosts live music performances and special events throughout the year. Open Monday to Friday 3pm-12am, Saturday 11am-2am, and Sunday 11am-10pm.

The Howlin’ Wolf

(907 S Peters St): Located just off Fulton Street, this live music venue showcases both local and national acts across various genres, including jazz, blues, and rock. Check their website for a schedule of upcoming performances.

During major holidays and events, such as Mardi Gras and Christmas, Fulton Street transforms into a festive wonderland with decorations, live performances, and special activities for visitors to enjoy.

Art and Culture Exhibits

Fulton Street may not be primarily known as an art destination, but it does offer a few notable cultural attractions for visitors to explore.

Ogden Museum of Southern Art

(925 Camp St): Located just a short walk from Fulton Street, this museum showcases the diverse art and culture of the American South, with exhibitions featuring paintings, sculptures, photographs, and mixed-media works. Open Monday to Sunday 10am-5pm.

Harrah’s New Orleans Hotel

(228 Poydras St): The hotel’s lobby and public spaces feature a rotating collection of artwork by local and regional artists, providing visitors with a glimpse into the city’s vibrant art scene.

While exploring Fulton Street, keep an eye out for public art installations and murals that add to the area’s unique character and charm.

Architectural Highlights

Fulton Street’s architecture reflects its rich history and the revitalization efforts that have shaped its development over the years. Visitors can admire a mix of historic warehouses and modern buildings that coexist harmoniously along the pedestrian mall.

Notable architectural features include:

The Fulton Cotton Mill

(600 Fulton St): This historic building, which now houses Fulton Alley and other businesses, was originally constructed in the late 19th century as a cotton mill. Its exposed brick walls and large windows are characteristic of the area’s industrial past.

Harrah’s Hotel

(228 Poydras St): This modern hotel features a sleek, glass-and-steel exterior that contrasts with the historic buildings surrounding it, showcasing the evolution of Fulton Street’s architectural landscape.

As you stroll along Fulton Street, take note of the unique blend of old and new architectural elements that contribute to the area’s distinctive character.

Practical Information for Visitors

When planning your visit to Fulton Street, consider the following tips to make the most of your experience:

• Best times to visit: Fulton Street is a popular destination year-round, but it can get particularly crowded during major events like Mardi Gras and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during weekdays or off-peak hours.
• Transportation and parking: Fulton Street is easily accessible by foot, bike, or public transportation. The nearby Poydras Street and Riverfront streetcar lines provide convenient access to the area. If driving, several parking garages and lots are available in the surrounding blocks.
• Duration of stay: While you could easily spend an entire day exploring Fulton Street and its attractions, most visitors find that a few hours are sufficient to enjoy a meal, take in some live music, and do a bit of shopping. Consider combining your visit with other nearby attractions, such as the French Quarter or the Warehouse District, to make the most of your time in New Orleans.

Community and Seasonal Events

Fulton Street hosts a variety of community events and festivals throughout the year, showcasing the best of New Orleans’ vibrant culture and traditions. Some notable events include:

Miracle on Fulton Street

This annual holiday celebration, which typically runs from late November through December, transforms Fulton Street into a winter wonderland with festive decorations, live music, and special events. Visitors can enjoy hourly “snowfall” displays, holiday-themed drinks and treats, and photos with Santa.

Mardi Gras celebrations

While not directly on the main Mardi Gras parade routes, Fulton Street still gets in on the action with festive decorations, live music, and special events at its various venues. Many restaurants and bars offer Mardi Gras-themed specials and drink packages during the carnival season.

French Quarter Festival

This annual celebration of New Orleans’ music, food, and culture takes place each April, with several stages and food booths set up in the nearby French Quarter. Fulton Street’s restaurants and bars often offer special menus and live music lineups during the festival.

By participating in these events, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich cultural traditions that make New Orleans such a unique and beloved destination.

Fulton Street’s transformation from a nondescript collection of warehouses to a vibrant entertainment district is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the New Orleans community. With its diverse attractions, rich history, and lively atmosphere, Fulton Street offers visitors a quintessential New Orleans experience that combines the best of the city’s past and present. Whether you’re a foodie, music lover, or simply looking to soak up the city’s unique culture, Fulton Street is a must-visit destination that promises to delight and inspire.