Image via Complex Original
New Orleans is a photographer's paradise with its brightly colored homes, lush tropical plants, European architecture, and lively street scenes. The downtown area, especially in and around the French Quarter, features a number of historic alleyways and narrow streets that host musicians, artists, and vendors. Here are seven Instagrammable spots for a creative, vibrant photo opportunity.
Pirate's Alley
Where: Pirate's Alley and Royal Street
Pirate's Alley hosts a multitude of characters throughout the day, so depending on what time you get there, you can either observe street artists painting or drawing in action—next to high-end galleries and antique shops—or you can "accidentally" stumble into a party of celebratory Saints fans dancing the night away.
Pere Antoine's Alley
Where: Pere Antoine's Alley and Royal Street
Face the nearby Mississippi River from Pere Antoine's Alley, and you'll find street philosophers, devoted Catholics, and friendly drifters (who are often wielding musical instruments). This makes for a colorful experience. If you go at nightfall, you can't miss the breathtaking silhouette of the Jesus statue on the back of iconic St. Louis Cathedral.
Cabildo Alley
Where: Cabildo Alley and St. Peter Street
Duck into this alley to try out an absinthe cocktail at Pirate’s Alley Café and Absinthe House, book a ghost tour, or just relax among the lush plants and enjoy the sounds of the nearby jazz music.
Behind the French Market
Where: North Peters and Dumaine Streets
This pocket of space is a peaceful oasis between the Riverfront and the busy French Market, with beautiful oak trees that filter out the sunlight.
1100 Block of Chartres Street
Where: Between Ursulines Avenue and Gov. Nicholls Street on Chartres Street
These two buildings, built in a similar Spanish architectural style with Victorian additions (ornate railings), perfectly demonstrate the historic, well-preserved, and colorful beauty of the French Quarter.
Lafayette Street
Technically it’s not an alley, but this narrow, tree-lined street in the Central Business District features centuries-old buildings that have been converted into offices and places with modern conveniences: coffee, cocktails, and food.
Exchange Place
Where: From Canal to Iberville Street, between Chartres and Royal Streets
You can capture the tall, modern Central Business District buildings and the historic French Quarter architecture in one shot.
