Algiers Point, the second oldest neighborhood in New Orleans, lies across the Mississippi River from the French Quarter. It has the atmosphere of a 19th century village with a history of sugar plantations, shipyards, and railroads. Today it's noted as a great place to live with it's quiet, tree lined streets yet close to the hustle and bustle of the French Quarter
After a traditional breakfast of coffee and beignet, we leisurely headed to the river walk. Bikers and runners dot the walkway along with tourists and several dogs. There are benches and lots of open green grass for relaxing. With these views what a lovely place for a picnic!
Several children were having fun throwing food to the seagulls. Kirby was a little concerned as some seemed to swoop rather close to him so we made a point of staying back a bit from the railings.
There was a section with no railing where wooden steps led down to the river's edge. Why, I'm not sure? Fortunately, we know Kirby well enough to know he wanted to jump in so Doug kept a short hold on his leash.
There are lots of leashed dogs in the quarter so I think the children here are accustomed to asking permission to pet any dog they see. Kirby is always happy to oblige as long as they are gentle with him. Personally I think he very much enjoys the attention.
There are two ways to get to Algiers Point - by vehicle over the bridge or by ferry over the water. The Algiers/Canal Street ferry has been offering free rides from the Quarter to Algiers Point every half hour from 6 am – midnight since the early 19th century. It's a very short ride across the river on the ferry, and since dogs are allowed, we knew that was the way to go. On the way over we rode on the second level at the front which Kirby enjoyed. On the return trip we made the mistake of choosing to ride on the lower back part. The loud noise of the engine and the vibrations felt through the floor was too much for him. He hid under one of the seats and could not be coaxed out until the ferry had come to a complete stop.
Right off the ferry landing are several restaurants and bars, as well as the historic Algiers Courthouse, and a carriage house that is being used as a temporary public library while the historic Hubbell Library built in 1907 is under repairs.
There are a variety of locally owned restaurants, cafes, and bars including the Old Point Bar where bands usually play every night of the week. We spotted the Dry Dock Cafe and decided to stop in for a cold beer.
I thought it was pretty cool how the fire hydrants are placed so high up. I was told that even though it's a dog friendly city, they don't want dogs relieving themselves on the hydrants. True or false? I have no idea. I do know Kirby had a hard time realizing he had to relieve himself on concrete since grass is practically non-existent here.
The inside was quite lovely and new. Dogs were allowed inside but we chose to sit out front under a shady umbrella.
Kirby was content to rest while we conversed with some locals who proudly told us about their neighborhood. I took lots of notes!
He did decide he wanted to get to know this little cutie.
We found out about the community of homes just a few short blocks away so we went walking again. Most of the homes are historic ranging from Greek revival homes to Creole cottages to traditional doubles and small shotgun houses, all sitting on shady tree lined streets. I do think I could live here.
There are two parks on the point - Delcazal Park and Confetti Park, a playground surrounded by an artistic cut-out white fence. The most popular green space is the levee which is a favorite place for dog walking and jogging with a spectacular view of downtown New Orleans.
There are four historic churches - the tiny Mount Olivet Episcopal Church built in 1854, the Algiers United Methodist Church, the Trinity Lutheran Church built in 1875, and the Name of Mary Catholic Church built in 1929, a chapel with 75 beautiful stained glass windows.
There's also a replica of an African village and a glass blowing studio.
Walking the levee we passed a large high-rise condo sitting next to the river. I suppose they do offer a great view of the river and downtown New Orleans but I found its modern look to be quite out of place in this neighborhood.
If your looking for a nice vacation spot, there are several rentals and a the Bed & Breakfast just three blocks from the ferry.
Year round events held in Algiers Point include art festivals, weekly summer concerts, a ferry festival, an annual home tour, the Mississippi River Fest, Oktoberfest, and Algiers Friendship Day, a St. Patrick's celebration.
The trip to Algiers Point was a fabulous day trip but our Kirby was one tired little dogger by the time we were back in the French Quarter.
In fact it's rare to catch a picture of him while sleeping so we half walked, half carried him back to our room for a late afternoon nap.
