Canal Street has been shaped by every kind of character and story imaginable. Originally conceptualized as a waterway by French surveyor Joseph Antoine Vinache in 1807, the canal evolved into a street and became the main thoroughfare of the city. In honor of his vision for the street we call home, Mr. Vinache became our namesake. We’ve stayed connected to the street’s early days as a famous meeting ground, where all the elements that give New Orleans its certain je ne sais quoi came together: old world elegance, daring adventure, bold innovation, and eccentric mystique, all mingling together on the neutral ground of Canal Street.
The beloved streetcar line runs through the center of it all, right past Hotel Vinache, bringing locals and visitors together to experience New Orleans, New Orleans style.
New Orleans is famous for being among the world’s first streets powered by electrical lighting, alongside New York and Paris. Canal Street was also the city’s notorious red light district, later becoming its theater district as well, illuminated by bright marquees and equally vivid performances. Our logo features a New Orleans icon: a Canal Street streetlamp. Acting as a beacon to all travelers, welcoming adventurers of any kind, and shining a light on great stories this place has yet to tell.
We can’t wait to be a part of your New Orleans story.