Navigating New Orleans
Laila and I have had our fair share of long-haul flights and layovers, but sometimes it’s nice to explore all the gems the U.S. has to offer, so we hopped on a quick flight and headed to New Orleans for a weekend getaway. Now, I know what you may be thinking: New Orleans? With a child?
For those of you, like myself, who may have been in your life pre-kiddos and your memories are filled with late nights and fruity beverages (not in a sippy cup), you’re probably thinking kids in New Orleans are a no-no. Well, think again!
In just two days, Laila and I were able to enjoy this gem of a city that, contrary to popular belief, is LOADED with kid-friendly activities. Check out my top 5 below:
Run, don’t walk to this. Better yet, take the streetcar! The Children’s Museum just relocated from its original location on Julia Street to City Park and it was a hit! They didn’t miss a single detail in the design – even the entry has kid-sized doors! The museum is 8.5 acres of indoor and outdoor interactive exhibits from a grocery store and art studio to a climbing wall and STEM lab! Our favorite activity was definitely engulfing ourselves in a giant bubble!
What kid (and adult, for that matter) can say no to beignets? For those who are unfamiliar, beignets are square French -style doughnuts, covered (and I mean COVERED) in powdered sugar.They originated at Café du Monde coffee stand in New Orleans more than 150 years ago! Moms and dads, if you’re watching your sugar intake, the Café au lait (coffee with steamed milk) here is amazing. Something about that famous New Orleans roasted chicory! It definitely gave me the energy to match Laila’s sugar rush as we continued exploring the city.
3. Bourbon Street (French Quarter)
Yes, you read correctly: Bourbon Street. Hear me out…during the daytime, of course. Laila and I were able to walk and explore the architecture of the French Quarter, hear live jazz and window shop. It was so clear we got to snap some really cool photos standing in the middle of the street!
We definitely did our fair share of eating this trip. How can you not in a city that’s famous for it’s cuisine? We stopped at Parkway, known for serving the best Po’ Boys in New Orleans. We got a catfish po’ boy for me and Laila to both share- they’re HUGE. Trust me, the long line is worth the wait, they did not disappoint!
5. Jazz Brunch at Court of Two Sisters
The jazz brunch at Court of Two Sisters was filled with favorite dishes popular in New Orleans, all available in a buffet setting for you to enjoy as much as you want! Hot and cold dishes are available along with what seemed to be an endless assortment of salad, fruit, and desserts- including king cake! You get the opportunity to enjoy your food and live jazz music inside or outside in the huge courtyard. The best part beyond the delicious food was the fact that Laila ate free because of her age- umm yes please!
If you have longer than a few days, I highly encourage you to also check out Mardi Gras World, The Aquarium of the Americas, Audubon Zoo and Insectarium and grab a sno-ball (snocone for those of us not from New Orleans!) at Hansen’s Sno-Bliz. Book that trip and “Laissez les bon temps Rouler!”
