A Loyola student should never be bored. Campus is located nearby neighborhoods with shops and attractions that appeal to anyone from athletes to fashionistas to musicians. Incoming students should use this article as a where to browse, shop and eat guide. Take the streetcar to these areas when you aren't studying for classes and walk around. The more you experience Crescent City culture, the more you'll fall in love. You'll understand why returning Loyola students have counted down the summer days until fall semester.
Uptown
Tulane and Surrounding Area:
The green wave looms over two sides of Loyola, but it is OK because students can find more food options at our neighboring school. Use Wolfbucks at the LBC's chain-restaurant options, which include Panda Express, Quiznos and Baja Fresh.
If you have a few extra bucks to spend try the crepes at Crepes a La Carte, Tthey offer a dinner-type "Savory" menu and desserts from the "Sweet" list that will make a great meal or snack for anytime of the day. When you're donewn eating, stop by The Mushroom for a wide selection of cheap used CDs and vinyls as well as posters for dorm decoration.
Maple Street
Maple has several specialty shops to cater to students' diverse hobbies and interests. Photographers can get supplies and friendly service from Moldaner's Camera Shop. Literary enthusiasts should visit both the new and used Maple Street Bookshop shops located in two separate houses. Campus Connection is the place to buy all things Greek from key chains to license plate covers.
Oak Street
The city's site of the delicious PoBoy Festival is worth visiting. Those who want to invest in non-motorized transportation should check out New Orleans Bike and Board Shop. Graphic novel fans can visit More Fun Comics and Cards Bookstore to find collectibles or current issues. If you are feeling adventurous, try the alligator and shrimp cheesecake at Jaqcues-Imo's.
South Carrolton/Riverbend
Right off St. Charles Street there are several places to go that are light on the pockets and good on the stomach. Jazmine Café's refreshing bubble tea and Camellia Grill's classic cheeseburgers are popular among Loyola students. The closest Walgreen's is located here, and remember it's conveniently open later than the Rite-Aid on St. Charles Street.
Prytania Street
Pronounced Pur-Tan-Yuh, this street offers the closest place to watch a movie at Prytania Theatre. There's only one screen, but go for an old time film experience or a midnight movie on Saturday. When your not catching a flick, walk over and support Loyola musicians who play at Café Pyrtania.
Magazine Street
It takes more than one day to tackle this street but it's worth it with the array of boutiques, and shops. Pick up groceries from Whole Foods or a yogurt cup from Pinkberry when you're hungry. Artists can purchase supplies from National Art and Hobby. Shop at Buffalo Exchange and Funky Monkey for second-hand clothes, and check out Storyville for New Orleans specific tee-shirt slogans and designs. Shops like American Apparel and Jean Therapy are also on this street.
Downtown
Decatur and North Peters Streets:
Browse Urban Outfitters to keep up with Loyola's hipster culture, and then go to the French Market to pick up some accessories to pair with your outfits. The Shops at Canal Place offer upscale clothing and the Canal Cinemas have food and beverage service during films. The House of Blues is located here, which is a big venue for popular acts. Stop by early to purchase tickets so you are not excluded from a sold out show.
Royal Street
Spend a day perusing this street lined with art galleries and antique shops. Stop at Royal Blend Café and drink an affordable cup of coffee or hibiscus iced tea in a peaceful oasis within busy downtown. Take note, the café does not accept cards, but stop by Rouses on the same street to purchase gum or candy and get cash back rather than spend money at an ATM.
Frenchmen Street
Venture past the quarter to the site of local indie music festivals such as Foburg to hear local musicians at The Maison or Blue Nile. Visit Electric Ladyland Tattoo and Piercing or Rocket Science Beauty Bar Salon to walk out with a new look for a new school year.
Yvonne Labbe can be reached at
yrlabbe@loyno.edu
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