Making Memories on Magazine Street

A cabinet with ornaments at St. James Hotel

If you’re planning a visit to New Orleans, no doubt you already have some of the most popular attractions on your to-do list, like the historic French Quarter, lively Bourbon Street, the stand-out Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, and maybe even a ride on the Steamboat Natchez, NOLA’s very own authentic paddle-wheeler. However, when you stay at the St. James Hotel, you are literally on one of the most bustling and fun streets in the city, Magazine Street, which reaches from Canal Street to Audubon Park.

Featuring a large collection of unique boutiques, galleries, and enough restaurants to make the most serious of foodies smile with glee, Magazine Street is a 6-mile, one-stop-shop for entertainment, shopping, and dining. So, during your stay at the St. James, enjoy a stroll and check out some of these local hot spots:

  • Bon Ton Café -- Creole cooking and Cajun cuisine served up with downhome friendliness is the hallmark of this charming restaurant. The Bon Ton originally opened its doors in the early 1900s, in the historic 1840’s Natchez building. Two must-try items while you visit are the Bread Pudding with Whiskey Sauce and the secret cocktail - the Rum Ramsey.

  • Chophouse New Orleans -- This steakhouse has been named one of the best places to enjoy steak in NOLA, and it’s right next door to the St. James. Gather together with friends or enjoy a romantic dinner for two as you indulge in primed cuts of USDA steaks and delicious seafood dishes. There are also live bands and musicians that entertain guests on certain evenings. 

  • Bittersweet Confections -- There’s always room for dessert, and this bakery and sweet shop offers up a wide selection of mouthwatering confections and irresistible treats. Stop in for a handmade chocolate truffle, bananas foster-filled cupcakes, eclairs, wedding cakes, and so much more. 

  • Octavia Art Gallery -- This world-class gallery showcases the impressive works of both national and international contemporary artists. It strives to feature pieces from established and emerging artists, as well as modern masters. 

  • New Orleans Glassworks and Printing Studio -- Located in a historic 1800s brick building, this 25,000-sqft studio holds impressive demonstrations in glassblowing, welding, and other crafts. You can also take two-hour classes to learn how to make your own pieces, or use open-studio space to blow your own glass. 

  • Buzz NOLA Bike Tours and Rentals -- Ready to see even more of Magazine Street and the Big Easy? Rent a bike and extend your explorations beyond where you can go on foot and see even more outstanding shops, eateries, and delightful attractions. Plus, the group and private bike tours provide the perfect opportunities for a more intimate look at New Orleans. 

There’s always something to do and somewhere to go in New Orleans, and what better way to stay than right in the midst of all the action? The elegant and posh St. James Hotel is steps away from some of NOLA’s best places to visit, and it’s also close to the Canal Streetcar Line, so you’ll never run out of ways to make memories! What are you waiting for? As we say in NOLA, “Let the good times roll!”