Let me start by saying, I am in love with New Orleans! So, of course I wanted to take my son to experience the spirit of this soulful city. Now, I know this might come as a surprise to some, but there is equally as much for children to do, as there is adult fun, in the Big Easy.
Where to stay
With a great location and affordable prices, the Blake Hotel is a wonderful option for families visiting New Orleans. It is walking distance to Lafayette Square (next door), French Quarter and Audubon Aquarium of the Americas.
Rooms and suites are available, which include a kitchen area, room service and there is also an on-site restaurant.
Olde Town Inn
Olde Town Inn is an exceptionally charming hotel, which offers guests a unique experience to stay in a colorful classic cottage or a historic New Orleans Creole Home. Continental breakfast is also included in the room rate.
Located near Frenchman Street, about 15 minutes from French Quarter, and less than 2 blocks to the Streetcar. With a tropical courtyard and laid-back atmosphere, it’s the perfect fit for any family.
What to do
City Tour
There are several options when it comes to New Orleans tours. Some kid-friendly options would be Southern Style Tours, the City Sightseeing Tour and Royal Carriages.
Ride the Streetcar
With access to 5 distinct routes, the Streetcar is great way to see different parts of New Orleans without all the walking. Rides are $1.25 a person and exact change is required. A Jazzy Pass is available, for unlimited rides you can expect the following rates: 1 day at $3, 3 days for $9 or 30 days for $55.
Jackson Square
Some of the most notable features of this historic park are the St. Louis Cathedral and the statue of Andrew Jackson, in the very center of the square.
Jackson Square is known for it’s open-air artist exhibits, street performers, merchants, fortune tellers and so much more. The street at the front of Jackson Square, is lined with horse carriages offerings tours of the French Quarter. Open 7 days a week from 8am until 7pm or 6pm in the winter.
Stroll through French Quarter
Commonly called, the Crown Jewel of New Orleans, the French Quarter is the oldest section of the city. Rich history meets modern culture. Old world architecture comes together with antiques, boutiques, entertainment and live music galore. The French Quarter neighborhood is by far one of the most fascinating cities in the world.
Bourbon Street is definitely bucket list worthy! But it’s not for the faint of heart. Here, the party never stops, so if you’re traveling with your children, you may want to skip Bourbon Street, especially at night.
Mardi Gras World
Held in a huge warehouse on the river, Mardi Gras World offers a behind the scene sneak peak experience into the magic of New Orleans Mardi Gras. Year after year spectacular floats parade the streets and many of them are housed at Mardi Gras World. Guests get first hand experience in float making and the history behind it all. Ticket price is $22 for adults, $14 for children 2-11 years old. Classes are offered in Mini Float Building and Mask Making, as well.
Not to mention the amazing photo shoots your family could have here with the props, costumes and floats!
City Park
New Orleans City Park is 1300 Acre wonderland for kids! From 6 different playgrounds, to an amusement park and botanical garden, there is something for everyone!
- Storyland brings fairy tales to life with a story-book themed playground. Larger than life characters and play equipment keeps children occupied for hours.
- Carousel Gardens Amusement Park has over 15 different rides, including a historic hand-crafted carousel.
- Big Lake is great for exploring by paddle-boat or bike, which are both available to rent.
- City Putt has two 18-hole miniature golf courses.
Those are just a few of the amazing outdoor adventures offered at City Park.
Where to eat
Beignet
New Orleans is known for these amazing sweet treats called Beignet, and your kids will love them . They are a deep fried french donut that are to-die-for delicious! Don’t worry, they’re sold just about anywhere food is prepared, so you’ll have many chances to try them. A favorite cafe for most is Cafe Du Monde.
Eat the sweets, all of them!
Po’Boy
Another famous Louisiana fare is the famous Po’boy sandwich. A baguette-like New Orleans French bread filled with roast beef or fried seafood, typically shrimp, crawfish, oysters or crab, topped off with lettuce and tomato.
Cajun Cooking
Some of the most popular Cajun dishes are Jambalaya, Gumbo, boiled crawfish, boudin sausage, alligator and wild duck. Cajun seasoning consists of mostly Cayenne Pepper and garlic, giving it a nice spicy heat. Cajun food can be found at many restaurants throughout New Orleans.
Creole Cooking
Creole food is a blend of flavors from Germany, Spain, France, Africa, and more. Foods are spiced using seasonings like paprika, red pepper, garlic, and onion. Common creole dishes are red beans and rice, Shrimp Creole, Oysters Rockefeller, Southern Oxtail Soup, seafood gumbo and Lousiana-style crawfish boil.
French Market
An old-fashion open-air shopping area, French Market, was once a Native American trading post. Spanning six blocks in the French Quarter, this farmers market meets flea market. Featuring local vendors selling everything from food, souvenirs, jewelry to art. Open 7 days a week, rain or shine, from 10am-6pm.
What was your favorite place in New Orleans?
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