The French Market is the oldest city market in the United States. We were there in the wintertime, so I didn't see very much produce. However, there were bunches of souvenirs and gift items. Some vendors have tables out in the open-air area. Others are located in more permanent shop buildings. You can bargain with the vendors in the outside area. There are also several restaurants located at the market. Aunt Sally's Creole Pralines is my favorite shop at the French Market. Their pralines and candied pecans are delicious. They sell a wide variety of other unique products and souvenir items there, as well. Cafe du Monde is located next door to Aunt Sally's.

If you can't handle crowds of people, this isn't the place for you. However, if you enjoy digging (and then haggling) for that perfect bargain, you might be in the right place.

The French Market is divided into a covered market section and a community flea market. The community flea market often has some interesting local vendors, while the covered market seems a little more commercial in some parts. Many vendors sell the hot sauces and hurricane mix you can find all over the city, but some are selling local plants and vegetables or unusual jewelery. The snow cones and lemonade often for sale here are both tasty ways to beat the heat.

Overall, this place really is a treasure hunt, so if you aren't prepared to spend some time wading through the junk for a real bargain or two, you may want to skip this attraction.

The French Market is a major outdoor market. Near Cafe Du Monde, it is more upscale, selling fresh vegetables and spices. As you progress through, you get to a great little flea market. Any overpriced souvenir found in any store on Bourbon or Decatur can also be purchased here for much, much less. Besides, you have the power of bargaining. I usually come here and pick up all of my souvenirs - knockoff designer pens, jewelry, masks and beads for the folks at home. If you underpacked and need an emergency pair of socks or a t-shirt, you can get some here.

There are also some stands on the perimeter selling what can only be called hippie clothing. These are a mixed bag. While I met one friendly proprietor who told us all about New Orleans, another stand-owner informed me that I was too large to fit into any of her clothing. I neglected to buy any souvenirs from her, even though I had considered buying a scarf.

The prices were lower than many of the prices in the French Quarter, but many if not all of the vendors were charging the identical price and it was hard to barter for a lower price. Their prices seemed to me to be fixed. We found a place just outside the flea market that was going out of business and had everything marked 50% off, so I'd advise you to look around.

From beginning to end, the French Market is a shopping delight. You can get almost everything you'll need to dress festive on Bourbon Street, including masks at amazing prices. Then, when you want a snack, the Farmer's Market is right there. Or relax at the little cafe and listen to live music.