Did You Know There's A French Quarter In This Coastal Alabama Town?

Get a taste of the Big Easy in the coastal town of Fairhope, Alabama.

The sweet scent of beignets covered in powdered sugar. The bright beads hanging from the trees. The buzzing blare of trumpets. To most, it may sound like New Orleans, but residents of this coastal Alabama town may think otherwise.

Just 30 miles north of the Gulf of Mexico, Fairhope, Alabama, is a hidden gem in the Yellowhammer State. With an ideal combination of historic charm, pleasant weather, and friendly residents, people from all over flock to Fairhope for a relaxing getaway.

Whether you’re staying closer to the city or the bay, downtown Fairhope is a must. Filled with local shops, restaurants, galleries, and more, this area is the best way to spend a leisurely day strolling outside. A block from the very center of downtown lives the charming entrance to an alleyway that will transport you 160 miles west of the city: The French Quarter of Fairhope.

History of the French Quarter

Alabama is no stranger to the French culture that is commonly associated with New Orleans. In fact, Alabama’s French arrival predates Louisiana’s. The history of French influence in Alabama actually begins just 20 miles north of Fairhope in Mobile, Alabama.

According to French-American magazine France-Amérique, Mobile was founded as the capital of colonial French Louisiana from the nickname “La Mobile” in 1702 and remained a part of New France for over 60 years. The next year after settling in Mobile, the first ever Mardi Gras celebration in America took place in Mobile, introducing the fun and flashy Carnival to the country.

Eventually the Treaty of Paris ended the French and Indian War in 1763, and France gave its territories east of the Mississippi to Great Britain. The French left Alabama and retreated to New Orleans, which became the new capital of French Louisiana in 1722.

Even though the French left Alabama, their influence on the culture stayed and is still very much alive today. Fairhope’s French Quarter was built in 1994 and honors the history of the French settlers in Mobile. This charming and historical section of downtown offers a chance for everyone to enjoy the wonderful pieces of culture that the French brought to Alabama.

Things to Do in the French Quarter

After walking through the topiary-draped archway onto a red brick path, you’ll immediately be welcomed by an array of New Orleans-inspired restaurants and shops in a stunning cobblestone courtyard (and you may get serenaded by a live jazz band!). This unique area of the city is loved by locals and tourists alike, and it offers an ideal break to relax under large shady trees, enjoy a bite to eat, and spend a little time shopping.

The most popular lunch spot in the French Quarter is Panini Pete’s, a New-Orleans style sandwich shop. The menu features items from classic New Orleans cuisine, including the famous Muffuletta panini and a variety of beignets. With quick service and plenty of outdoor seating, Panini Pete’s is the best stop for grub in the French Quarter.

If you’ve got a sweet tooth that needs satiating, you’ll want to take a trip into the Fairhope Sweet Shop. This adorable candy store in the French Quarter is packed with classic, wacky, and nostalgic selections that will bring out your inner child. If candy isn’t your thing, the Fairhope Sweet Shop offers a variety of French macarons to fit perfectly into your New Orleans-inspired visit.

After eating, you can check out the specialty shops and boutiques in the French Quarter and sit by the fountain to finish up your trip to this unique area of the city. We recommend checking out the artisan shop In the Company of Angels before you head out of the Quarter. Filled with eclectic and locally-made items, this store is great if you want to bring home a unique gift to commemorate your time in Fairhope.

Next time you're in Fairhope, don't miss the French Quarter. This captivating courtyard represents all of the charm and quirkiness the city has to offer.

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