It is famous as a bohemian hang out and the street is lined with many book stores, various ethnic restaurants and bars.

Long Street exhibits a diversified culture and attracts tourists from all over the world.

It also has a number of youth hostels which provide accommodation to an international roster of guests.

Several theatres which showed anti-apartheid plays were located on the street during the 1970s and 1980s, although most have now closed and been replaced by restaurants or stores.

Architecturally, it is noted for its Victorian buildings with wrought iron balconies.