Plenty to Do in the CBD

Historically, New Orleans’ Central Business District was a 9-5 destination – and 9-5 only. There were few restaurants, few apartments, and just not very many reasons (save for a Saints or Pelicans game) to visit the area after business hours. But not today. With the rise in millennials and a newfound entrepreneurship, the CBD has seen an influx of employees who not only work in the CBD, but also live and relax in the area. From art installations to restaurants, take a look at what’s new in the CBD:

The Sculptures of Poydras

As part of an ongoing beautification effort, The Helis Foundation, Sculpture for New Orleans, and the Ogden Museum of Southern Art have worked together to install several sculptures throughout the Poydras Corridor. The sculptures change every few months, but typically represent modern art. Some, like Kendall’s Island, are so realistic that you might actually think you’re looking at a real person. The sculptures are a chance to contemplate art in the context of a bustling downtown city center.

sculpture poydras

One of many sculptures dotting the Poydras corridor in the Central Business District. (Photo: Rebecca Ratliff)

South Market District

Also known as “SoMa,” this stretch in the Warehouse District features an expanding list of shopping destinations and residential opportunities. Two buildings, The Paramount and The Park, are home to luxurious rentals on the upper floors; downstairs, you can shop at stores like Hattie Sparks, Arhaus Furniture, CVS, and Fetch (for pets!), plus other boutiques and a Rouses Supermarket. And if all that shopping makes you hungry? SoMa can help. Stop in at Willa Jean, the new bakery from Besh Restaurant Group, or try Ursa Major, a spinoff from the folks behind the popular Bywater restaurant Booty’s Street Food.

More to Do