The Shops at Canal Place

The Shops at Canal Place is an upscale indoor shopping center at 333 Canal Street, on the edge of the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana. Positioned at the foot of Canal Street near the Mississippi River, it is a compact, climate-controlled alternative to the open-air markets of the Quarter. Its best-known anchor is Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH, which sells designer apparel, shoes, handbags and accessories at reduced prices, and the center also houses a cinema, which is useful on rainy or very hot days. The brand mix leans toward fashion, jewelry, accessories and specialty retail rather than souvenirs, so shoppers looking for Louisiana keepsakes are better served at the French Market. Tenant lineups change over time, and visitors should check the center's website for the current directory. Prices are fixed and bargaining is not part of the culture; credit and debit cards and mobile payments are accepted everywhere. The United States has no general tax refund scheme for tourists, so Louisiana sales tax added at the register is not reclaimable. The atmosphere is calm and uncrowded compared with the nearby streets, with polished interiors, air conditioning and a quieter pace that appeals to visitors seeking a break from the heat. Dining options are available within the center and in the adjoining hotel and nearby restaurants, with additional cafes along Canal Street and in the Quarter within a short walk. The location is convenient for streetcar riders, as the Canal Street line stops nearby, and for guests staying in the neighboring hotels. Parking is available in an attached garage, and a typical visit takes one to two hours, longer with a film. Weekday afternoons are the quietest, while holiday periods and event weekends bring more visitors. The center works best as a stop for designer deals, indoor browsing and a movie rather than as a destination for local crafts.