New Orleans, renowned for its vibrant nightlife, has a unique charm that draws city dwellers into its alluring streets. The neon lights stand out as the most captivating among the various signs that guide their way. This vintage neon signage has been a part of the city's culture for nearly a century, and its popularity continues to grow with time.
Video of the best neon signs in New Orleans
The Magnetic Appeal of Neon
Neon signage, an art form that first made its mark in the late 1940s, has remained dominant in New Orleans. Its radiant glow symbolized post-war modernity and the booming capitalist spirit of the Cold War era. Neon signs were associated with the city's diverse entertainment venues from its inception.
Neon signage ensured that bars and restaurants in New Orleans were dressed to impress and ready to provide a respite from the bustling city life.
Whether you're a businessman seeking a secluded booth, a couple of martinis, and a juicy steak or searching for a more playful atmosphere, neon signs guide you to your desired destination. Some of the most prominent neon signs New Orleans are the vibrant neon ribeye sign of the Crescent City Steakhouse, which is a notable example. For a more whimsical experience, Café 615/Da Wabbit, located on the West Bank of New Orleans, features a Roger Rabbit-style character outlined in bright blue neon.
This form of signage quickly became integral to New Orleans' culinary architecture, adding an element of intrigue and pleasing aesthetics to the city's nightlife. Much like the city, neon signage in New Orleans oscillates between grit and glamour, creating a continuously engaging visual experience.
The Journey of Neon: From Rise to Fall and Revival
Unfortunately, the city lost several iconic neon signs during Hurricane Katrina. However, the decline of neon began between the 1970s and 1990s, when businesses started considering this form of branding outdated.
Jerry Therio, owner of New Orleans Neon, started collecting neon signs in the 1970s. He saved over 3,000 pieces in the end, some are still functional after 70 years.
Despite the setbacks, neon signage has made a remarkable comeback in recent years. A modern-day tour of New Orleans reveals several well-preserved neon signs, providing a glimpse into the city's past while adding a unique charm to its present.
Neon Signs New Orleans
A short trip to the neighboring parish of Metairie reveals a host of neon signs. These signs flicker with a nostalgic charm amid the newly constructed fast-food joints and strip malls. The 24-hour Sweet Things & Grill, adorned with pink neon, is a favorite spot for late-night cheese fries and slices of pie. A little further away, the Lamp Lighter Lounge's sign, scripted in azure, sails into the sky, adding an element of beauty and allure to the area.
Da-Wabbit
Da-Wabbit is a drive-through diner in Gretna, Louisiana. Known for its burgers, shakes, and fries, this business has one of the most impressive neon light signs in New Orleans (and the whole of the United States, for that matter). View the image below. Definitely one of our personal favorites - the sign is unique and colorful.
- 615 Kepler Street
- Gretna, Louisiana
- (504) 365-1225
Saturn Bar
The Saturn Bar has some of the best neon lighting in New Orleans. Vibrant neon red, green, and yellow make the Saturn Bar stand out in the New Orleans nightlife. Given the scale of the neon sign here, it must have been a massive project to install.
Cocktails and beers taste good at this venue, so make sure to sample them while you're there.
- 3067 St. Claude Avenue
- New Orleans, Louisiana
- (504) 949-7532
Crescent City Steaks
Customers rave about the steaks at Crescent City, but we think their green and red neon sign is a stand out in New Orleans. Fortunately, you gaze upon their neon sign and enjoy one of the finest steaks in North America.
- 1001 North Broad Street
- New Orleans, Louisiana
- (504) 821-3271
Ted's Frostop
The Frostop Root Beer neon sign at Ted's in New Orleans, Louisiana, is World famous. It features gorgeous green, red, and blue neon, and experts rate it as one of the best in North America. Also, try root beer - it comes with the best-taste guarantee!
- 3100 Calhoun Street
- New Orleans, Louisiana
- (504) 861-3615
Conclusion
New Orleans, a city known for reinvention and electrifying experiences, is a beacon of light in neon signage. Even in the digital age, the allure of neon signs remains undiminished. Whether you're seeking a complete transformation or just a memorable evening, the neon lights of New Orleans are always ready to guide you.
Get a quote on a new sign - Maybe a replica of a famous New Orleans neon sign, or maybe your own custom design - and inquire with our team.
