New Orleans is a city steeped in history, culture, and an eclectic blend of artistic influences. As one of the most unique cities in the United States, its vibrant neighborhoods are filled with hidden gems, from colorful French Quarter architecture to historic landmarks. But beyond its famous beignets and jazz, New Orleans is also home to a remarkable collection of antique shops, each brimming with treasures that span centuries and continents.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a history buff, or simply someone looking to add a piece of the Crescent City’s past to your home, New Orleans antique shops offer a vast selection of items ranging from vintage furniture and fine art to rare jewelry and Louisiana memorabilia. This guide will help you navigate some of the best antique shops in the city, each offering its own unique ambiance, specialty, and, of course, treasures waiting to be discovered.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll take you through five of the most remarkable antique shops in New Orleans—places where history and craftsmanship meet, and where you might just find your next prized possession.
Why New Orleans is a Haven for Antique Lovers
New Orleans’ rich history as a melting pot of French, Spanish, African, and Creole influences has fostered a vibrant culture that appreciates the old, the rare, and the beautifully crafted. The city has always had an appreciation for antiques, with collectors drawn to the stories and artistry behind each piece. From the early 18th century to the 20th century, New Orleans has been a hub for both European and local craftsmanship, making it one of the best places in the country to find rare and high-quality antiques.
But what makes New Orleans truly special for antique enthusiasts is the city’s spirit of preservation. Many of its shops have been passed down through generations of collectors, each one dedicated to preserving and showcasing a piece of the city’s history. These stores don’t just sell items—they tell stories, often giving insight into the cultural melting pot that is New Orleans.
Whether you’re on the hunt for a vintage cocktail set from the 1920s or a rare Creole piece of furniture from the 1800s, New Orleans is a treasure trove of antique finds, and this guide will take you to some of the city’s finest shops.
The Best 5 New Orleans Antique Shops
1. The Shops at The Colonnade
Nestled in the heart of the historic French Quarter, The Shops at The Colonnade is a must-visit destination for any antique lover. With its charming courtyard and collection of specialty stores, this antique mall offers a wide variety of antiques, from fine art and furniture to vintage collectibles and jewelry.
What Makes It Special:
The Shops at The Colonnade stands out for its diverse range of offerings. Inside, you’ll find everything from 18th-century European antiques to pieces reflective of the unique Creole and Cajun heritage of Louisiana. The building itself is a piece of history, and shopping here feels like stepping back in time as you explore its various booths, each with its own curated selection of treasures.
The antiques here are carefully sourced from both local estates and international markets. You’ll find pieces that showcase the finest craftsmanship, such as hand-carved French furniture, antique mirrors, brass chandeliers, and more. The store also features vintage jewelry that transports you to a different era, making it a perfect stop for collectors looking for rare finds.
Highlights:
- European Antiques: Elegant French and Spanish furniture from the 18th and 19th centuries.
- Creole and Cajun Artifacts: Local antiques that tell the story of Louisiana’s unique culture.
- Vintage Jewelry: A stunning selection of fine jewelry from various periods.
Location:
The Shops at The Colonnade are located at 316 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130. It’s an easy walk from Jackson Square and the French Quarter.
2. M.S. Rau Antiques
One of the most prestigious antique shops in New Orleans, M.S. Rau Antiques is a family-owned business that has been operating for over a century. This iconic shop specializes in rare, high-end antiques, offering everything from fine art to antique furniture and timepieces.
What Makes It Special:
M.S. Rau Antiques is synonymous with luxury. The store’s reputation for carrying extraordinary pieces of history—many of which are museum-quality—sets it apart from other antique shops. The collection here is curated with the utmost attention to detail, and many pieces come with rich backstories that make them even more desirable.
The store’s inventory includes world-class pieces, such as rare 17th-century paintings, exquisite French Rococo furniture, and even a collection of antique clocks that would make any collector’s heart race. The prices here are on the higher end, but the items you’ll find are second to none in terms of craftsmanship and historical significance.
Highlights:
- Masterpieces of Art: 17th-century Dutch and Italian paintings.
- Exceptional Furniture: French Rococo and Louis XV pieces.
- Timepieces: Rare clocks, including mantel clocks from the 18th and 19th centuries.
Location:
M.S. Rau Antiques is located at 630 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70130, right in the center of the French Quarter.
3. Royal Antiques
For those looking to score classic, New Orleans-style antiques without breaking the bank, Royal Antiques is the place to be. Located in the heart of the French Quarter, this shop is known for its eclectic mix of antiques, ranging from vintage furniture to decorative items and rare collectibles.
What Makes It Special:
Royal Antiques offers a fantastic selection of items at a range of price points, making it a great spot for both serious collectors and casual antique hunters. The store is particularly well-known for its selection of vintage New Orleans-style furniture—think beautifully crafted armoires, side tables, and cabinets that reflect the city’s unique blend of French, Spanish, and Creole influences.
The shop also boasts a lovely selection of fine art, including vintage lithographs and local artists’ works, giving you a true taste of New Orleans’ artistic culture. One of the shop’s most exciting aspects is its constantly changing inventory, meaning that each visit offers the opportunity to discover something new.
Highlights:
- New Orleans Furniture: Classic armoires, credenzas, and chairs in the signature Creole style.
- Vintage Art: Works from local artists and vintage prints.
- Affordable Antiques: Items for all budgets, with some very reasonably priced finds.
Location:
Royal Antiques is located at 715 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70116, right in the French Quarter’s antiques district.
4. Fanny’s Antiques
Fanny’s Antiques is an institution in New Orleans and one of the best-known shops for antique lovers in the city. Established over 40 years ago, this shop specializes in rare and unique pieces, ranging from vintage furniture to decorative objects that showcase the best of New Orleans’ history.
What Makes It Special:
Fanny’s Antiques has an old-world charm that is instantly appealing to collectors. The shop’s inventory leans heavily toward Victorian and Edwardian pieces, with an emphasis on rare furniture, porcelain figurines, and fine glassware. The shop is also known for its selection of Mardi Gras-related antiques, including vintage costumes, masks, and other celebratory objects that give insight into the city’s colorful traditions.
The staff at Fanny’s is knowledgeable and passionate about antiques, and their expertise makes shopping here a truly enjoyable experience. Whether you’re looking for something rare and valuable or just a unique piece to add to your home, Fanny’s Antiques offers something for everyone.
Highlights:
- Victorian and Edwardian Furniture: Handcrafted, one-of-a-kind pieces.
- Mardi Gras Antiques: Vintage Mardi Gras costumes, masks, and artifacts.
- Porcelain and Glassware: Exquisite collectible pieces from various eras.
Location:
Fanny’s Antiques is located at 3316 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115, a short drive from the French Quarter.
5. Antiques on Royal
Another gem located on the historic Royal Street in the French Quarter, Antiques on Royal is known for its exceptional collection of fine antiques, art, and collectibles. Whether you’re a collector of fine porcelain, silver, or vintage furniture, you’ll find something to suit your tastes here.
What Makes It Special:
What sets Antiques on Royal apart is its focus on high-quality European antiques. The store’s collection includes a wide variety of French, English, and Italian furniture, as well as a curated selection of antique art pieces and decorative items. The store also carries a fine assortment of silver and porcelain, which are often hard to come by in other antique shops.
The atmosphere inside the store is elegant and refined, providing a more intimate shopping experience than larger antique malls. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the pieces on display are meticulously curated, ensuring that every item is of the highest quality.
Highlights:
- European Antiques: Beautiful French, English, and Italian furniture.
- Porcelain and Silver: Rare porcelain figurines and antique silver pieces.
- Fine Art: Exquisite oil paintings and decorative art.
Location:
Antiques on Royal is located at 532 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70130.
Conclusion
New Orleans is a city like no other, and its antique shops are a testament to the rich history and diverse culture that make this place so unique. From the high-end luxury of M.S. Rau Antiques to the charming, eclectic finds at Royal Antiques, there’s a shop to suit every collector’s taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for fine art, vintage furniture, or rare collectibles, New Orleans offers some of the best antique shopping in the country.
As you explore these five antique shops, take your time to appreciate the craftsmanship and history behind each piece. Who knows—you might just leave with a treasure that will add a touch of New Orleans’ magic to your own home. Happy hunting!
