Sustainable Shopping in New Orleans

Being a sustainable traveler in New Orleans is easy once you realize the number of thrift, vintage, and secondhand stores in the city. If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind piece of furniture or simply a houseware that sparks nostalgia, we’ve got plenty of places for you to check out below. 

Sustainable Seafood

Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana 

This non-profit is dedicated to fighting coastal land loss in Louisiana. There are lots of ways to get involved, including volunteering in their Oyster Shell Recycling Program. You can also dine at these area restaurants dedicated to oyster shell recycling through CRCL. 

Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Catch & Cook Program 

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries Catch and Cook program allows for a day full of fishing followed by a meal prepared by a New Orleans chef. Check out the LADWF website for more information, including how to contact participating restaurants (restaurants must be contacted well in advance of your planned date). 

Secondhand homeware, clothing, and furniture stores 

Merchant House 

Shop antique furniture and vintage décor at Merchant House on Magazine Street. Its location in the Lower Garden District is the perfect gateway for a day full of shopping. 

BargeBoard 

Located in historic Algiers Point, BargeBoard offers a curated collection of refurbished lighting, local art and gifts, antique finds, cabinets, and custom woodwork. They specialize in historic renovations and architectural salvage. Beyond the mercantile and mill shop, BargeBoard hosts events, art shows, charity events, and food festivals. 

Seasoned 

Seasoned is your neighborhood kitchen thrift store. They buy, sell, and trade pre-owned cookware in addition to keeping a small stock of local food products like Jamboree Jams! Stop in for a look at their vintage finds for a wave of nostalgia. 

Out of the Closet 

Thrift clothing and other goods all while raising funds and awareness for AIDS Healthcare Foundation.  

Buffalo Exchange 

Local customers seeking recycled or vintage clothing, plus new liquidated items, will abound at Buffalo Exchange on Magazine Street. 

Junk’s Above 

Shop vintage toys, games, art at home furnishings at this off-the-beaten-path shop in Mid-City. Tchotchkes and trinkets of all varieties can be found here. 

For a look at New Orleans’ best vintage clothing stores, see here. 

Zero-Waste Stores 

Vintage Green Review 

New Orleans’ first zero-waste store has everything you need to run a zero-waste household. Reusable bags, soap mixes, and bamboo goods are aplenty. They pride themselves in being plastic-free and carbon neutral. 

Shops that feature local goods 

The Good Shop 

Comprised entirely of goods from local makers, shop everything from pottery to perfumes to eco home goods. A portion of each sale goes to a specific non-profit, making this shop extra-good.  

Dutch Alley Artists Co-Op 

Shop over 20 local artists at the Dutch Alley Artists Co-Op. You can find the perfect souvenir or new piece for your home at this spot, nestled in the French Quarter. 

The French Market 

New Orleans’ most iconic flea market, the French Market features hundreds of local goods including five blocks of local produce, specialty art, handmade crafts, retail shopping, and more. The market is also host to free live music events and festivals throughout the year. Find it right next to Dutch Alley Artists Co-Op in the French Quarter. 

For more on Sustainable New Orleans, see here.