NOLA: For the Young & Young At Heart

New Orleans for the Young and Young at Heart: A Guide to Family-Friendly Adventures

A common misconception is that New Orleans isn’t family-friendly. It certainly is! How else would the children who grow up here become lifelong New Orleanians? As someone who had the pleasure of helping raise his godchildren here and hosting family visits, I’ve curated activities for the young and young at heart.

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Part 1: An Afternoon French Quarter Stroll

Start at Pirate King Coffee Shop
📍 320 Exchange Pl, New Orleans, LA 70130
Begin your adventure in Exchange Alley, one of New Orleans' most magical spots. Visit the Pirate King Coffee Shop and discover treasures like cannons protruding from the walls and a recreation of Lafitte’s bedroom. Kids can even reach into a hoard of coins while parents grab a coffee. (Pro tip: If you prefer Spitfire Coffee, just down the alley, consider splitting up while still supporting Pirate King!)

While in Exchange Alley, stop by:

• The Witches Brew Gallery and Haunted Sanctuary (311 Exchange Pl, New Orleans, LA 70130)

• Benvolio Gas Lights to learn how the city’s iconic gas lights are made.

Next Stop: Royal Street
Head one block left to discover a taxidermy poker game in an antique shop window. Moving toward St. Louis Cathedral, peek into Brennan’s Kitchen Window to watch world-class chefs at work. If you’re lucky enough to visit on April 20, don’t miss Brennan’s Annual Turtle Parade! (Details: Brennan's Turtle Parade)

For pirate enthusiasts, stop by James H. Cohen Antique Weapons & Rare Coins (437 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70130) to glimpse authentic pirate treasure and antique weaponry.

Sugar Break at Antoine’s
📍 713 St Louis St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Make a reservation in advance to enjoy a fancy treat: Baked Alaska! While it’s prepared, explore the restaurant’s haunted speakeasy, Krewe Rooms, wine cellar, and cannon display. Personalized Baked Alaska makes for an unforgettable experience!

Continue Along Royal Street
Stop outside Rouses Market to enjoy live street musicians. On weekends, you may hear the world-famous Doreen Ketchens. Engage with street poets for a custom poem to commemorate your visit!

Explore family-friendly galleries like:

• Gallery Burguieres (736 Royal St), home of Sesame the Possum.

• Leroy’s Place (922 Royal St), where Muppet-like puppets come to life.

• The Idea Factory (924 Royal St) for unique wooden toys and puzzles.

Final Stops
Recharge with snacks at CC’s Coffee and let the kids burn off energy at Cabrini Playground (1219 Dauphine St).

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Part 2: The Riverfront Agenda

Start with the Insectarium & Aquarium
📍 1 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Explore the world-class butterfly room at the Insectarium and try a bug snack if you dare! Then transition to the Aquarium to see mesmerizing aquatic life.

Lunch & Jazz Cruise on the Natchez
📍 400 Toulouse St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Enjoy the riverboat Natchez with lunch and live jazz. Explore the paddlewheel, engine room, and deck for stunning views of the Mississippi River.

Mardi Gras World
📍 1380 Port of New Orleans Pl, New Orleans, LA 70130
Take a shuttle to Mardi Gras World to learn about float-making, see iconic characters, and enjoy a slice of king cake.

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Part 3: A Wider Orbit

This itinerary is car-friendly but also possible with rideshares or streetcars.

Morning Pastry at Who Dat Cafe
📍 2401 Burgundy St, New Orleans, LA 70117
Try the corn cakes or a fresh pastry to fuel your day.

JamNola
📍 2832 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70117
This interactive art experience, featuring over 30 local artists, is a hit for all ages.

Rainbow Bridge & Crescent Park
Climb the Rainbow Bridge at Chartres and Piety Streets for fantastic views, then enjoy the charming Crescent Park and Piety Gardens.

Lunch at Mahony’s Po-Boys
📍 3454 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115
Savor po’boys made with bread from the legendary Dong Phuong Bakery.

Audubon Park
📍 6500 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70118
Explore the Tree of Life, lagoons, and accessible playgrounds. Don’t miss the Walnut Street swing for a touch of whimsy.

Afternoon Snack at Sucre
📍 3025 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115
Indulge in gourmet chocolates before browsing the unique shops on Magazine Street.

Dinner at Dat Dog
📍 3336 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115
This colorful hot dog spot has something for everyone, including chicken fingers and alligator sausage!

Evening at Urban South Brewery
📍 1645 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Enjoy a kid-friendly atmosphere with retro games, inflatable houses, and live music.

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Part 4: Night Crawling with Young Adventurers

Preservation Hall
📍 726 St Peter St, New Orleans, LA 70116
Introduce the family to New Orleans jazz with a one-hour performance.

Family-Friendly Ghost Tour
Opt for a 5 p.m. tour to balance thrills with kid-friendly fun.

Carriage Ride or Pedicab Adventure
Equip the kids with bubble guns for a whimsical ride around the Quarter.

Night Art Bazaar on Frenchmen Street
Explore local art under twinkling lights, create chalk art, and dance to live brass bands.

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New Orleans is filled with magic for families of all ages. Have fun and embrace the adventure! Follow me on Instagram: @nawlins_crawlins or visit orioncoulingnola.com.