Carrollton
The Vibe
College town within a city—where Tulane students, young families, and old-timers share the streetcar and neighborhood bars. The Maple Leaf Bar (since 1974) hosts legendary Tuesday night with Rebirth Brass Band and defines the neighborhood's musical identity. Weekend mornings bring farmers market shoppers and brunch seekers to Riverbend, while Palmer Park families fly kites and walk dogs. The neighborhood feels distinctly un-touristy despite streetcar access—locals know its charms but visitors rarely venture this far upriver. Oak Street offers additional boutiques, po-boy shops, and secondhand stores.
Description
Historic upriver neighborhood at the terminus of the St. Charles streetcar line, once the independent city of Carrollton (1845-1874) before annexation into New Orleans. The Riverbend commercial district at Carrollton and St. Charles avenues mixes college-town energy with family neighborhood character. Maple Street's row of shops, restaurants, and the iconic Maple Leaf Bar anchor the cultural scene. The neighborhood combines Tulane students, young families, and longtime residents in a leafy, walkable community. Palmer Park hosts the annual Arts Market and provides green space between shotgun houses and Craftsman bungalows.
Neighborhood Stats
Popular With
- Tulane Students
- Young Families
- Music Lovers
- Locals
Key Attributes
- Streetcar Terminus
- Neighborhood Character
- Maple Leaf Bar
- College Town
- Family-Friendly
Food Scene
Castnet Seafood (6215 Elysian Fields, New Orleans East nearby—delivers here) won Infatuation's 'best Po-boy in the city' with fried shrimp dressed with Blue Plate mayo and Crystal hot sauce. Jacques-Imo's (8324 Oak St) serves legendary late-night Cajun with fried chicken in a converted house—no reservations, expect a wait. One Restaurant (8132 Hampson St) offers French-Creole elegance from Scott Boswell. Refuel Cafe (8124 Hampson St) fuels Riverbend with excellent coffee and breakfast. Camellia Grill (626 S. Carrollton Ave, since 1946) serves diner classics at the counter—omelets, burgers, pecan pie, and legendary waiters.