Top Rated Shopping in New Orleans

This building was home to the great William Faulkner while he wrote Mosquitoes and Soldiers Pay. Every shelf at Faulkner House Books is occupied by a great work that is a collectible as well as a literary landmark. This book shop boasts a large collection of first editions by Faulkner himself as well as many other first-rate authors.

Located in the heart of the French Quarter, Cigar Factory is a cigar-lover's dream. Here, you can watch master cigarmakers at work. Among the specialty styles made here are the Plantation Reserve, Tres Hermanos and Vieux Carre. There are tables along the wall so you can sit and smoke or just watch the masters do their work. This is also the only cigar factory in New Orleans, boasting 100% hand-rolled cigars. Cigarmakers are available for special events.

Royal Street is one of the oldest streets in the city, well known for its businesses that deal in antiques and artwork from all over the world. This impressive street is surrounded by French and Spanish colonial architecture on all sides and emanates a distinct old-worldly look. The shops dotting this street are filled with consumers having an eye for quality, authenticity and detail. The quality of the merchandise is unmatched and sometimes, just talking to the shop owners can be an educative experience. Make this street your next shopping destination for all that is antique and unique.

From the famed beignets of Cafe Du Monde to the fabulous farmer's/flea market going strong since 1812, this shopping experience incorporates buying, dining and entertainment all within a five block radius of the famous French Quarter. The French Market boundary begins on Decatur Street across from Jackson Square. While you stroll through you may see any number of items, including candy, cookware, spices and mixes, clothes, fresh produce, crafts and toys, memorabilia and even gator-on-a-stick. The Market is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and is free for browsing.

In the heart of the French Quarter, this voodoo shop doubles as a shrine to the famous Voodoo Queen, Marie Laveau of New Orleans. Psychic readings, voodoo dolls, statues and altars are the real thing, not found in other touristy spots. Whether you come to the Big Easy for business or pleasure, you can find an original souvenir and even learn a little something of the black arts from around the world at Marie Laveau's House of Voodoo.

This unique shop, run by the Sutton family, offers a wide variety of celebrity memorabilia. The objects presented range from presidential autographs to items belonging to celebrities. Vintage 329 has countless items from great names, such as Julia Roberts and Sting. You never know quite what you'll come across as you peruse the selection at Vintage 329.