Last week I attended there WriterMBA meeting in New Orleans. Besides being an incredible conference, it was held in one of my favorite cities… and my husband was able to come with me. That meant, instead of staying at the boring hotel at the end of Canal Street, we stayed at the lovely Hotel Mazarin in the heart of the French Quarter. The French Quarter, despite being famous for Bourbon’s Street’s ongoing parties, is also known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and captivating charm. And for book lovers, it hosts a number of unique, independent bookstores. Nestled among the cobblestone streets and wrought iron balconies, these bookstores offer a retreat for readers, collectors, and anyone who appreciates the written word.
I was lucky enough to visit a number of these bookstores, but below are my must-visit bookstores in the heart of the French Quarter that offer more than just shelves of books—they’re an experience. Although, I am still disappointed that none of the stores I visited carried romance or women’s fiction novels. So if anyone has a dream of opening a bookstore in a charming city like New Orleans’ French Quarter, there is a desperate need for romances and other books favored by those who crave happily ever afters.
Dauphine Street Books
Tucked away on Dauphine Street, in the quieter part of the French Quarter, this cozy, used bookstore is a hidden gem. Dauphine Street Books boasts an eclectic mix of rare and secondhand books, with everything from classic literature to local history and oddities you won’t find elsewhere. The space is charmingly cramped, filled with well-worn shelves and stacks of books, that makes the search for the perfect book feel like a treasure hunt. If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind find or want to lose yourself among the pages of a forgotten story, this is the place to go. While this bookstores had the largest selection of used fiction that I found in the city, there was still no romance or women’s fiction. (I’m very sad about that!)
Crescent City Books
A haven for collectors and bibliophiles, Crescent City Books offers an extensive selection of rare, used, and antiquarian books. A short walk from the bustling noise of Bourbon Street, this bookstore is a peaceful respite for those who want to browse thoughtfully curated classic literary collections. This bookstore includes a large, recently published, fiction collection as well as a huge selection of books on New Orleans history, art, and culture.
There are even shelves devoted to cookbooks written by some of the famous chefs who’ve worked/owned restaurants in the French Quarter. With two floors of literary wonders, Crescent City Books also has an impressive array of maps, prints, and vintage ephemera. Whether you’re a serious collector or a casual browser, you’ll find something to spark your curiosity.
Beckham’s Bookshop
Steeped in history, Beckham’s Bookshop has been a beloved institution in the French Quarter since 1967. This charming bookstore specializes in used and rare books, and its towering shelves and cozy nooks make it easy to spend hours perusing its impressive selection. Located on Decatur Street, Beckham’s is especially known for its literary fiction, nonfiction, and Louisiana-centric books. It’s also a special place where history buffs can find unique titles on Southern history and culture.
There is not a huge fiction collection (and absolutely no romance, women’s fiction, or even popular literary fiction that I could find), but it does have an impressive collection of first edition, leather-clad books stored in a glass cabinet especially for serious collectors. With its old-world charm and knowledgeable staff, Beckham’s is a must for any book lover visiting the French Quarter.
Whether you’re searching for a rare edition, a piece of New Orleans history, or a quiet escape from Bourbon Street, the bookstores of the French Quarter offer something for everyone. Each store has its own unique character, reflecting the eclectic spirit of this very interesting city. Next time you’re wandering through the historic streets of New Orleans, make sure to visit Dauphine Street Books, Crescent City Books, and Beckham’s Bookshop—you may just leave with a piece of the Quarter’s literary soul.
