Think of New Orleans, what comes to mind? Beads, booze, and bad decisions? For many people, New Orleans doesn’t seem like a toddler-friendly destination. Y’all are missing out! Here is a list of five things to do in New Orleans with a toddler.
Five fun things to do in New Orleans with a toddler
Ride the streetcars
Riding the streetcars is a fantastic experience for both young and old. The vast majority of the operators go above and beyond to make it a pleasant and easy experience. Toddlers and small children love to watch the sights go by the windows. Take the Canal-City Park Streetcar to City Park for some of the other great things to do on this list. Be sure to check out the schedule and information New Orleans Regional Transit Authority before starting on your trip and learn about the streetcar lines.
Take the Algiers Ferry across the Mississippi River
The ferry ride is very quick but provides a great view of the French Quarter and Algiers Point. Once you have made it to Algiers Point, walk to the corner of Verrett and Alix Streets to get a treat from Tout De Suite Cafe and then back-track to Confetti Park for some play time. Locals have left toys for the kids to play with while at the park as well!
Visit the public parks
Confetti Park is just one of many fantastic parks and playgrounds around the city.
Cabrini Playground in the French Quarter has updated play equipment and is frequented by many local little ones. In the Bywater neighborhood, Mickey Markey Playground is a great one to visit. Another great option, sans playground equipment, is Cresent Park. Here you can just watch the large freighters make their way up the Missippii, play in a grassy area, or just kick back on a porch-swing! Plan your adventure before you go!
Taste test beignets
The French Quarter houses the iconic Cafe du Monde. Wait for some table service and receive lots of smiles but quite the harried service from the staff or snag a bag to-go and find a bench in Jackson Square to nosh on these tasty treats! Bring plenty of wipes to clean up those sticky hands on everyone. Check out Go NOLA for the local perspective on all the places to snag a beignet! I need to check some of them out since my favorite place to go closed, The Morning Call at City Park. 🙁
Jackson Square
Jackson Square is a great place to visit. Street performers surround the park and love to entertain the crowds, paying special attention to the younger set during the daytime (be kind and tip). The carriage rides start from outside the square with the mules and carriages all decked out, a delight to smaller kids. The square also has a beautiful fountain that entertains as well.
Are you ready to visit?
Those are just five of the many things to do in New Orleans with a toddler. Hands down, New Orleans is one of my daughter’s favorite places to go! She is always up for a trip down to the Big Easy.
Planning a trip to the Big Easy soon? Or anywhere else for that matter? Check out my travel tips and activity bag posts! And feel free to drop me a line, I am happy to share more ideas!
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