Are you wondering if New Orleans is a good family vacation spot? The answer is yes! With its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse activities, New Orleans has something for every member of the family.
Join us as we explore safe and enjoyable family-friendly activities in the Big Easy.
Now let's uncover why 🔗New Orleans should be your next family vacation destination!
Key Takeaways
- New Orleans offers a variety of family-friendly activities including exploring the French Quarter, visiting city parks like Audubon Park and City Park, checking out museums such as the Louisiana Children’s Museum, and going on bayou and swamp tours.
- The city provides safe accommodations for families in neighborhoods like Uptown and Lakeview. Family-friendly hotels recommended include The Roosevelt New Orleans and Hyatt Centric French Quarter.
- For safety during your vacation, stay in well-lit areas, use reputable transportation, avoid certain areas with higher crime rates like Central City and Lower 9th Ward, and keep an eye on weather conditions due to New Orleans' susceptibility to tropical storms and hurricanes.
- Natural landscapes play a big role in attractions for families; from the green spaces within the city offering picnics and outdoor concerts to adventurous airboat rides through swamps that are home to diverse wildlife.
- Understanding local culture is easy with numerous options for children's learning experiences at places like interactive exhibits at museums or historical insights provided by walking tours throughout historic districts.
Overview of New Orleans as a family vacation spot
New Orleans dazzles families with its rich history, vibrant culture, and a wide array of kid-friendly activities. From the lively streets of the French Quarter to the calm waters of the Mississippi River, this city offers experiences that cater to both young adventurers and adults seeking a blend of leisure and excitement.
The Audubon Zoo and Aquarium captivate with exotic wildlife, while City Park invites exploration with green spaces vast enough for picnics and play. Museums throughout New Orleans engage curious minds, showcasing everything from Mardi Gras traditions at award-winning exhibits to interactive displays at the Louisiana Children’s Museum.
Families love strolling down Royal Street for art galleries or taking Charles Avenue streetcar rides through the Garden District's stunning mansions. Canal Street serves as a central hub for shopping and dining within walking distance of family-friendly hotels in safe areas like Downtown New Orleans and near attractions along the riverfront.
Walking tours reveal stories behind historic sites such as Jackson Square, blending education with entertainment seamlessly at every step.
New Orleans: A melting pot of culture, history, and endless family fun.
Explore how your family can experience all these attractions safely next.
Safe and Family-Friendly Activities in New Orleans
Explore the vibrant French Quarter, visit city parks and gardens, explore museums featuring interactive exhibits, and take bayou and swamp tours for an exciting family adventure in New Orleans.
French Quarter
The French Quarter, often hailed as the jewel of New Orleans, offers families a vibrant glimpse into the city's rich history and cultural tapestry. Walking through its lively streets, visitors can marvel at historic architecture, enjoy street performances, and even taste award-winning Bloody Marys at local cafes.
This district is more than just Bourbon Street; it's home to family-friendly attractions like horse-drawn carriage tours that reveal stories of the past and present.
Next up are visits to lush city parks, offering a change of pace from the bustling French Quarter.
City Parks
New Orleans offers a variety of city parks that serve as green oases for families looking to relax or engage in outdoor activities. Audubon Park, located uptown, features a magnificent oak-lined avenue, playgrounds, and a serene lagoon.
Families can enjoy picnics, visit the zoo within its bounds, or simply take a leisurely walk to soak in the scenic views. City Park stands out as one of the largest urban parks in the country and includes attractions like Storyland—a whimsical playground with fairy-tale-themed structures—and an antique carousel known as one of the Crescent City’s hidden gems.
City parks also host family-friendly events throughout the year including outdoor concerts that introduce children to New Orleans jazz. Both locals and visitors find these green spaces perfect for experiencing parts of New Orleans' culture away from its bustling streets.
Whether it's engaging with nature, enjoying some playtime, or attending special events, these parks contribute significantly to making New Orleans a good family vacation spot by offering peaceful retreats amidst vibrant city life.
Museums
Museums in New Orleans provide families with a mix of education and fun. The Louisiana Children's Museum stands out as a highlight for those on a family trip, offering interactive exhibits that engage young minds in the wonders of the world around them.
Kids can explore topics from environmental science to cultural history in an environment designed just for them.
For those interested in marine life, the Audubon Aquarium is another must-visit spot. Here, families marvel at exotic sea creatures and learn about aquatic habitats. Both these institutions entertain and educate visitors of all ages, making them perfect stops during your stay in New Orleans with kids.
Bayou and Swamp Tours
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with your family by exploring the fascinating bayous and swamps surrounding New Orleans. Discover the unique ecosystem of Louisiana's wetlands, home to alligators, turtles, and diverse bird species.
Board a flat-bottom boat or airboat for an up-close encounter with this rich wildlife habitat while learning about the region's history from knowledgeable local guides. These tours provide a thrilling and educational experience for visitors of all ages, offering a refreshing break from the cityscape.
Moreover, you can witness firsthand how these vital ecosystems are being preserved and protected for future generations through conservation efforts which have helped maintain these natural habitats over time.
By taking part in these experiences during your visit to New Orleans, your family will gain a deeper appreciation for nature as well as an understanding of the importance of environmental conservation efforts in sustaining these precious landscapes.
Where to Stay in New Orleans with Kids
When it comes to accommodation in New Orleans, families can find a range of family-friendly hotels and vacation rentals tailored for their needs. Along with recommended neighborhoods, these options ensure a comfortable stay for everyone.
Family-friendly hotels in safe areas
Family-friendly hotels in New Orleans cater to the needs of families and ensure a safe and comfortable stay. When planning your family vacation, consider these recommended options:
- The Roosevelt New Orleans - A Waldorf Astoria Hotel: This luxury hotel offers spacious rooms and suites suitable for families. It's centrally located, close to attractions such as the French Quarter and City Parks.
- Hyatt Centric French Quarter: Situated in the heart of the French Quarter, this hotel provides a convenient base for exploring the city with kids. Family-friendly amenities and comfortable accommodations are available.
- Omni Royal Orleans: With its historic architecture and modern comforts, this hotel offers a family-friendly atmosphere in a safe neighborhood. It's within walking distance of many family-oriented attractions.
- Hilton New Orleans Riverside: This hotel boasts expansive rooms that are ideal for families, along with an outdoor pool and easy access to nearby family-friendly activities such as museum visits and street car rides.
- The Westin New Orleans Canal Place: Located near the Central Business District, this hotel provides stunning views of the Mississippi River and is close to family-friendly dining options and entertainment venues.
These hotels not only prioritize safety but also offer various amenities that make them perfect choices for families visiting New Orleans.
Recommended neighborhoods
- Uptown: Known for its beautiful historic homes, lush greenery, and family-friendly atmosphere.
- Lakeview: Offers access to recreational activities along the lakefront and is a peaceful residential area suitable for families.
- Bywater: A vibrant neighborhood with colorful murals, local shops, and a laid-back vibe that families can enjoy.
- Mid-City: Home to City Park, one of the largest urban parks in the country, offering numerous family-friendly attractions and activities.
- Gentilly: A quiet and residential area with close proximity to Dillard University and the Dillard University Ray Charles Program Center for African-American Material Culture.
Recommended Places to Stay in New Orleans
Alternatively, you can choose from these properties recommended by Roami.
Motorworks
Elevate your stay at 🔗Motorworks with convenient access to our sister property, The Brandywine. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the heated rooftop pool from 8 am to 9 pm daily, just steps away from your doorstep.
Motorworks and Brandywine are situated in safe, serene environments, ensuring a peaceful stay. With these top picks, you can relax and enjoy your visit to New Orleans without worry. Roami is with you every step of the way!
Explore these neighborhoods for a variety of family-friendly experiences while visiting New Orleans.
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Family Vacation in New Orleans
Ensure safety by staying in well-lit areas and using reputable transportation. Keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings at all times.
Areas to avoid
When traveling with your family to New Orleans, it's essential to be aware of certain areas to avoid. Here are some places you may want to steer clear of:
- Central City: This area has a higher crime rate compared to other parts of the city.
- Lower 9th Ward: While significant efforts have been made to revitalize this neighborhood since Hurricane Katrina, it still faces challenges and may not be suitable for tourists.
- Algiers: Although there are some safe areas in Algiers, certain parts can be less secure, especially at night.
- New Orleans East: This area has experienced high crime rates and is generally not recommended for tourists, particularly those unfamiliar with the city.
- Treme: While known for its cultural significance, parts of Treme can be unsafe, so it's best to visit with caution or avoid certain areas altogether.
Understanding these areas will help you make informed decisions when exploring New Orleans with your family.
Safety precautions
To ensure a safe and enjoyable family vacation in New Orleans, it is important to consider the following safety precautions:
- Stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas like the French Quarter.
- Keep valuables secure and be cautious of pickpockets, especially during large events such as jazz concerts.
- Plan ahead for extreme weather conditions, as New Orleans is susceptible to natural disasters such as hurricanes.
- Use reputable transportation services and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas at night.
- Teach children about stranger danger and establish a family meeting point in case anyone gets separated.
These safety precautions will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for your family in New Orleans while keeping everyone safe and secure throughout your visit.
Natural disasters and weather conditions
New Orleans is prone to tropical storms and hurricanes, especially during the Atlantic hurricane season from June 1st to November 30th. It's essential for families planning a trip to New Orleans to stay updated on weather forecasts and potential evacuation routes in case of severe weather conditions.
Being informed about the city's emergency resources and having a contingency plan can ensure a safe and enjoyable family vacation experience.
Visitors should also be aware of the city's occasional heavy rainfall, which can lead to localized flooding in certain areas. While New Orleans has implemented significant improvements in its flood protection system since Hurricane Katrina, it's advisable for families to exercise caution during heavy rain events and seek advice from local authorities if necessary.
These considerations are important for ensuring peace of mind during a family trip to New Orleans, allowing everyone to focus on enjoying the unique attractions and experiences that this vibrant city has to offer.
Conclusion
Experience the vibrant culture of New Orleans with your family, from strolling through the lively French Quarter to exploring city parks and museums. Find safe and family-friendly activities, along with a range of accommodations suited for families.
Plan a memorable and enjoyable trip while ensuring safety by following our tips for navigating the city's various areas. Immerse yourselves in the one-of-a-kind experiences that New Orleans has to offer as you embark on a unique family vacation filled with excitement and enrichment.
FAQs
1. Why is New Orleans considered a great family vacation spot?
New Orleans offers unique experiences like exploring the historic French Quarter and enjoying family-friendly jazz concerts, making it an exciting and culturally educational destination for all ages.
2. Can families enjoy the music scene in New Orleans?
Absolutely! Families can experience the rich musical heritage of New Orleans by attending lively jazz concerts that are suitable for even the smallest members of the family.
3. What can families do in the French Quarter?
The French Quarter in New Orleans is full of history, award-winning food spots, and vibrant street performances perfect for family entertainment.
4. Are there kid-friendly activities in New Orleans?
Yes, besides exploring the French Quarter and enjoying jazz music, there are many other attractions specifically designed to be fun and engaging for kids throughout New Orleans. You set your own limits in this vibrant adventure!
