Carrollton-Riverbend

Before becoming part of New Orleans in 1874, this area was a resort town, providing a relaxing getaway with riverfront views. Now the neighborhood is mostly composed of smaller one- and two-story family homes, shady oak-lined streets, and plenty of small restaurants and cafés. With the success of local events, such as the annual Oak Street Po'Boy Festival in October (www.poboyfest.com), the retail strip on Oak Street has blossomed with shops, clothing boutiques, restaurants, and popular bars such as the Maple Leaf, where the Rebirth Brass Band plays every Tuesday night. Nearby Maple Street is a great shopping destination in its own right, attracting the college crowd with an array of bars and cafés.