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Experience the best of the Big Easy with kids in tow—without missing out on the charm, music, and culture that make this city unforgettable.
New Orleans is more than Bourbon Street and beignets. For families, it’s a city full of discovery—think paddlewheel boats, jazz in the park, interactive museums, and alligator spotting in the bayou. Whether you're visiting for the first time or rediscovering it with little ones, this 4-day itinerary offers the perfect balance of fun, culture, and downtime for families of all ages.
Day 1: French Quarter Wonders & Riverfront Fun
Morning: Café du Monde & Jackson Square
Start your trip with a classic: grab beignets and café au lait (chocolate milk for the kids) at Café du Monde. Head to Jackson Square to watch street artists, musicians, and magicians entertain in front of St. Louis Cathedral.
Late Morning: Aquarium of the Americas
Walk along the Mississippi River to the Audubon Aquarium. With Gulf sea life, touch pools, and a walk-through tunnel, it’s both cool (literally) and captivating.
Lunch: The French Market
Grab casual bites from food stalls—tacos, crepes, and classic po’boys are all easy finds. Bonus: outdoor seating means space for wiggly little ones.
Afternoon: Steamboat Natchez Cruise
Board the Natchez for a two-hour paddlewheel boat ride complete with live jazz and views of the riverbanks. Educational and relaxing—it’s a win for all ages.
Dinner: Deanie’s Seafood (French Quarter)
Big platters, great shrimp, and a laid-back atmosphere. Ask for crayons—they’ve got them.
Day 2: Garden District & City Park Adventures
Morning: Ride the Streetcar to the Garden District
Hop on the historic St. Charles Avenue streetcar. Kids love the open windows and old-school feel. Get off at Washington Ave. and walk past grand mansions (parents will love this part!).
Lunch: The Rum House on Magazine Street
Taco platters and colorful drinks for parents make this a kid-friendly favorite with a grown-up vibe.
Afternoon: Audubon Zoo or Louisiana Children’s Museum
Pick your adventure:
Zoo: Known for its Louisiana Swamp exhibit and splash pad.
Children’s Museum (in City Park): Interactive, modern, and air-conditioned bliss.
Dinner: Picnic in City Park or Café Navarre
Grab sandwiches or pizza and let the kids run wild at the expansive City Park playgrounds. Watch the sunset over Big Lake.
Day 3: Culture, History & Sweet Treats
Morning: New Orleans Jazz Museum & French Market Shopping
A smaller museum that introduces kids to jazz with instruments and interactive exhibits. Afterward, walk the French Market for souvenirs or handmade crafts.
Lunch: Napoleon House
An atmospheric Creole lunch stop with kid-friendly dishes like grilled cheese and jambalaya.
Afternoon: Mardi Gras World
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the floats, costumes, and magic behind New Orleans’ biggest celebration. The free slice of king cake seals the deal.
Dinner: Dat Dog on Frenchmen Street
Bright colors, custom hot dogs, and a casual outdoor patio. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a family-friendly brass band marching by.
Day 4: Swamps, Sno-Balls & Street Performers
Morning: Swamp Tour with Cajun Encounters
Just outside the city, this boat tour takes you into real Louisiana swamp country. Expect gators, wild pigs, and fascinating stories from Cajun guides. Life jackets for kids provided.
Lunch: Parkway Bakery & Tavern
Famous for po’boys with shaded outdoor seating. Try the roast beef or fried shrimp!
Afternoon: Carousel Gardens & City Park Mini Train
Cap off the trip with old-school fun: a vintage carousel, carnival rides, and a mini train that loops the park.
Dinner: Frenchmen Art Market & Food Trucks
Back in the Marigny, this open-air market has handmade art, string lights, and nearby food trucks offering everything from sliders to crepes.
Tips for Visiting New Orleans with Kids
Hydrate constantly—it gets muggy.
Plan midday breaks to avoid afternoon meltdowns.
Book swamp tours and steamboat rides in advance, especially on weekends.
Frenchmen Street is family-friendly before 8 p.m., but skip it late at night.
New Orleans might surprise you. Beyond its adult-centric reputation lies a welcoming, music-filled city that sparks imagination in both kids and parents. With this itinerary, your first time visiting will feel like the start of a family tradition.
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