New Orleans Family Itinerary: A Week of Fun and Culture

New Orleans brilliantly intertwines a profound cultural legacy with modern family-friendly attractions, rendering it an ideal destination for a week-long vacation brimming with fun and educational experiences.

TL;DR

• New Orleans presents a variety of activities suitable for families with children of all ages.
• Iconic sites like the French Quarter, museums, parks, and plantations offer opportunities for learning and exploration.
• The city’s culinary scene and live music venues allow families to immerse themselves in the local culture.

Introduction to New Orleans Family Itinerary: A Week of Fun and Culture

New Orleans, the “Big Easy,” captivates visitors with its unique fusion of French, Spanish, and African influences. From the lively streets of the French Quarter to the serene bayous, this dynamic destination offers a wealth of experiences for families seeking the perfect balance of fun and cultural enrichment.

Day 1: Exploring the French Quarter

Begin your family adventure by immersing yourselves in the heart of New Orleans – the French Quarter. This historic neighborhood, with its colorful buildings, wrought-iron balconies, and lively street performers, is a feast for the senses.

Start your day at Jackson Square, where you can admire the iconic St. Louis Cathedral and let the kids run around the park, soaking in the lively atmosphere. Next, explore the French Market, a bustling marketplace offering a glimpse into the city’s culinary heritage. Indulge in local delicacies like beignets (powdered sugar-coated doughnuts) and pralines (creamy pecan candies).

For a family-friendly dining experience, head to Café du Monde, an institution in New Orleans serving up delectable beignets and café au lait since 1862.

Day 2: Museum Day

New Orleans is home to several world-class museums that cater to both educational and entertaining experiences for families. Begin your day at the Louisiana Children’s Museum, where interactive exhibits and hands-on activities foster learning through play.

Next, visit the National WWII Museum, a must-see attraction that brings history to life through immersive exhibits, multimedia experiences, and personal accounts from veterans. Children will be captivated by the museum’s interactive displays, allowing them to explore the events of World War II in an engaging and age-appropriate manner.

Day 3: Zoo and Park Adventures

Spend a day surrounded by nature and wildlife at the Audubon Zoo, consistently ranked among the top zoos in the country. Explore the diverse animal exhibits, including the rare white alligator and the majestic lion pack. Don’t miss the opportunity to feed the giraffes or watch the playful antics of the primates.

After a morning at the zoo, head to Audubon Park for a picnic lunch and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Rent paddleboats and explore the park’s tranquil waterways, or let the kids burn off energy at one of the playgrounds.

For a family-friendly dining option, visit Camellia Grill, a classic diner serving up delicious comfort food in a nostalgic setting.

Day 4: Day Trip to Plantation Country

Venture outside the city limits and step back in time with a visit to the historic plantations that dot the Louisiana countryside. Two standout options are Laura Plantation, a Creole heritage site that offers insight into the lives of the enslaved people who worked the land, and Oak Alley Plantation, renowned for its stunning alley of oak trees leading to the main house.

These plantation tours provide an educational experience for children, allowing them to learn about the region’s complex history while exploring beautifully preserved estates and grounds.

Day 5: Arts and Culture

Immerse your family in the vibrant arts scene of New Orleans by visiting the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA). This world-class institution houses an impressive collection of French and American art, as well as works by local and regional artists.

After exploring the museum’s galleries, venture outside to the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden, where your children can interact with larger-than-life sculptures set against the backdrop of lush greenery.

Many museums and cultural institutions in New Orleans offer family-friendly workshops or interactive art sessions, allowing your children to unleash their creativity while learning about various art forms.

Day 6: Swamp and Bayou Tour

No visit to New Orleans is complete without experiencing the unique natural landscapes of Louisiana’s swamps and bayous. Embark on a guided swamp tour, where knowledgeable guides will navigate you through the winding waterways, providing insights into the region’s diverse ecosystem and wildlife.

Keep your eyes peeled for alligators, turtles, egrets, and other fascinating creatures that call the swamps home. These tours offer an educational and thrilling experience for the whole family, while also emphasizing the importance of preserving these delicate environments.

Day 7: Local Cuisine and Music Experience

On your final day in New Orleans, immerse yourself in the city’s renowned culinary and music scenes. Start by introducing your children to the flavors of Creole and Cajun cuisine at family-friendly restaurants like Emeril’s or Jacques-Imo’s Cafe, where they can sample kid-friendly versions of local favorites like gumbo, jambalaya, and po’boy sandwiches.

In the evening, treat your family to a live music experience at venues like Preservation Hall or the Jazz Playhouse, where you can enjoy the soulful sounds of jazz while introducing your children to this quintessential New Orleans art form.

Additional Tips for Traveling in New Orleans with Family

• Best times to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds, making them ideal for family travel.
• Transportation: Utilize the historic streetcars or public transportation to navigate the city with ease. Many attractions are also within walking distance of each other.
• Safety: While New Orleans is generally a safe city, it’s always advisable to exercise caution, especially in the French Quarter at night. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid isolated streets.

With its profound cultural heritage, world-class attractions, and family-friendly activities, New Orleans offers a truly unique and unforgettable vacation experience for families seeking a blend of fun, education, and immersion in the city’s vibrant spirit.