• Best things to do in New Orleans with kids

    20 Really Fun Things To Do In New Orleans With Kids

    11 Min Read

    New Orleans, Louisiana has a certain mystique about it that is undeniable: revelers love it. Conventiongoers flock here each year, and it’s certainly where the party’s at. But what about the children?

    If you think you can’t find some wholesome family-oriented activities to get into in New Orleans, you’ve got another think coming.

    What Is There For Children To Do In New Orleans?

    Although the city is well-known for its adult fun, New Orleans has a renown zoo and aquarium that children love to visit. But that’s not the only kid-friendly thing they can do in New Orleans.

    All of the places we list below have strict COVID protocols that have been implemented.

    Let’s look at what Nola has to offer for children (and their parents).

    Here Are 20 Fun Things You Can Do In New Orleans

    In this article. we’re going to show you some really fun things you can do with kids in New Orleans.

    Audubon Zoo

    6500 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70118 |  (504) 861-2537

     

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    Here’s what one family says about the Audubon Zoo: “This is a great Zoo. Some of the exhibits were still being repaired after Hurricane Ida. We visited mid week so there were no crowds. A lot of the animals were also resting, I would assume from the excitement of Ida.”

    Audubon Aquarium of the Americas

    1 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70130 |  (504) 565-3033

    Here’s what one reviewer says about the Audubon Aquarium. “Let me start by saying… make a reservation. Check the schedule, they are closed on certain days. We visited the aquarium and had a great time… its not a huge place, but, they have a little bit of everything. I was so very happy, there were penguins and stingrays and sharks and macaws and jellies… omg so beautiful!! It was great! If you are trying to find something to do inside for a couple hours, this is definitely worth it!”

    National World War II Museum

    945 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130 |  (504) 528-1944

    Audubon Louisiana Nature Center

    11000 Lake Forest Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70127 | (504) 861-2537

     

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    Here’s what one family says about the Audubon Louisiana Nature Center: “Absolutely wonderful visit, the rangers are friendly and informative. I volunteered at the nature center back in 81/82, and the rangers were kind enough to let me finger thru the hand full of photos from that time that remained, as well as sharing some of the old memorabilia with me. The walking trails have been rebuilt and offer a nice stroll through the woods, with abundant wildlife engaging us as we walked. I highly recommend you make this a stop when in NOLA.”

    Cafe Du Monde

    56 Dreyfous Dr, New Orleans, LA 70124 |  (504) 766-0250

     

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    Here’s what one family says about Cafe Du Monde: “If you know about Cafe Du Monde, you know what to expect, coffee and beignets.
    Service was fast and friendly, coffee was pretty good, not the best ever but definitely good. We went on a Wednesday so expect crowds when it’s really busy.”

    Canal Street Ferry

     

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    Here’s what one reviewer sys about the Canal Street Ferry: “What’s there to not like about a ferry ride?! Smooth access. Smooth ride. Short but well worth the $2 fee.”

    City Park

    1 Palm Dr, New Orleans, LA 70124 | (504) 482-4888

    Here’s what one family says about City Park: “Beautiful amazing park… Trails to walk, a butterfly garden, a pretty bridge to walk over and a pond with swan peddle boats and kayaks… The Louisiana Children’s Museum is here too, it’s an absolute must do when in New Orleans!! One of the best city parks I’ve ever been to.”

    Confetti Park

    451 Pelican Ave, New Orleans, LA 70114 |  (504) 658-3201


    Here’s what one park lover says about Confetti Park: “Cute, little neighborhood park. The gate can be a bit tricky/difficult, but my toddler enjoyed playing here. There isn’t too much shade over the playground area, but there are plenty of seating areas and trees throughout.”

    Crescent Park

    Crescent Park Trail, 2300 N Peters St, New Orleans, LA 70117 |  (504) 636-6400

    Here’s what one parkgoer says about Crescent Park: “Very nice park with clean, well kept grounds. It is a cool place to see tucked between a set of train tracks and the Mississippi River. Superb for running, walking and features a decent sized Dog park so the pups can get their hooman(s) out of the house! Definitely worth stopping by on a nice afternoon.”

    Faulkner House Books

    624 Pirates Alley, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 524-2940

     

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    Here’s what one book lover says about Faulkner House Books: “Great little shop on Pirates alley next to St. Louis Cathedral. This is the house Faulkner lived while residing in New Orleans. Mostly fiction, literature, and poetry books along with locally themed books as well.”

    Jackson Square

     701 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 658-3200

    Here’s what one park lover says about Jackson Square: “Absolutely beautiful. Would recommend a visit. And if your there in time I recommend going to the mass and the church right on the square. They have daily mass at 12:05.”

    Louis Armstrong Park

    701 N Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 658-3200

     

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    here’s what one parent says about Louis Armstrong Park: “I really liked the artwork in the park and it was also beautiful there. I wish there was a splash pad for the kids somewhere in the park though…it is sooooooo very hot in New Orleans and it would be nice if we could cool off somewhere. A little playground would be nice too. The kids still enjoyed themselves running around and looking at the statues. I sat under a tree on the grass to try and cool down.”

    Louisiana Children’s Museum

    15 Henry Thomas Dr, New Orleans, LA 70124 | (504) 523-1357

    Here’s what one family says about the Louisiana Children’s Museum: “What a fun place for the family. We spent hours there, 2 floors of fun, a great restaurant and area to explore outside. Our kids spent an hour in the grocery market and kitchen, then another hour building with the giant building blocks and magnet tiles, then just as much time in the simulated River.”

    Mardi Gras Museum Of Costumes And Cultures

    1010 Conti St, New Orleans, LA 70112 | (504) 218-4872

     

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    Here’s what one reviewer says about the Mardi Gras Museum: “Wonderful place, amazing costumes and the owner of the place was just as fun as his costumes. I was educated and amazed. Yes if you’re in New Orleans check this place out, you’ll be glad you did, I was. Too there’s an array of costumes to try on.”

    Music Box Village

    4557 N Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70117 | 

    Here’s what one reviewer says about the Music Box Village: “This out of the way and a bit hard to find Village is worth the adventure finding it. Built by Artisans who makes small houses that are each their own musical instrument is open to the public on special days for everyone to play. Outside, they had a wonderful little artist Market with lots of unique items. Admission was free and once you go in be sure to go to the bar to get a delicious cocktail. We had two! Then roam around and play all the instruments.”

    New Orleans Museum of Art

    1 Collins Diboll Cir, New Orleans, LA 70124 |  (504) 658-4100

     

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    Here’s what one parent says about the New Orleans Museum of Art: “Nice and diverse collection of paintings, sculptures and other arts from different eras and parts of the world. I was particularly impressed with the little explanations they had next to each exhibit. Short, informative and to the point. I wish we had more time to explore the outside grounds too. Their cafe and shop are quite good too! Tip: If you’re a student bring your student ID for a big discount!”

    Ogden Museum Of Southern Art

    925 Camp St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 539-9650

     

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    Here’s what one museum lover says about Ogden Museum: ”

    Amazing contemporary museum. Appreciated knowing which region of the United States the artists came from. I appreciated the suggestion to start at the top floor and work our way down.”

    Storyland

    5 Victory Ave, New Orleans, LA 70124 |  (504) 483-9402

     

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    Here’s what one reviewer says abut Storyland: “A fun time for family. Cost is $5 per person. The dragon is a large slide which my 2 year old loved. They also have a massive play area that she enjoyed climbing as well. If you’re in New Orleans with young kids, check this place out!”

    French Quartour Kids

    Dumaine St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 975-5355

    Here is what one family says about French Quartour Kids in New Orleans: “Of all the activities I have planned for family vacations over the years, this was the best! Jill is amazing at engaging the children, the walking was minimal, but there was a lot of history, she gave the children plenty of opportunity to move around and had all the energy in the world for our chatty 5 year old.”

    Preservation Hall

    726 St Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116 | 

     

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    Here’s what one parent says about Preservation Hall: “Incredible music! Unbelievably skilled and entertaining musicians! Small venue so get there early if you want to be able to see the performance well from your wooden bench. No AC so it gets hot and stuffy, we used the flyer the staff hands out before the show as a fan. Good chance some band members will stay for a few minutes to say hello when the performance is over!”

    Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden

    1 Collins Diboll Cir, New Orleans, LA 70124 |  (504) 658-4100

    Here’s what one parent says about Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden: “What an amazing value for only $5. Bring your walking shoes and a bottle of water. I appreciated the guide at the front gate suggestion to start on the left. Beautiful scenic walkways. Great place to bring children very open yet contained within the fenced area.”

    Final Thoughts

    So after looking at all these wonderful activities and places to visit, what’s the verdict? It’s that New Orleans is a family-friendly place that children and the rest of the clan can really enjoy.

    Bringing the kids to New Orleans will be one of the best decisions you could make.

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  • history of New Orleans

    5 Historical Facts About New Orleans

    3 Min Read

    New Orleans is an international city that attracts millions of visitors to its hotels and restaurants every year. But many of these people don’t know much about the city, including where it’s located.

    In this article, we’ll tell you some facts about one of the most famous cities in America.

    5 Facts About New Orleans

    While New Orleans is known as a vibrant city with an around-the-clock pulse, there are indications that it wasn’t always that way.

    Let’s look at some facts about the city so you can have a better understanding.

    1. When Was New Orleans Founded?

    New Orleans was founded around 1718 by Jean Baptiste Le Moyne, Sieur de Bienville. The city was claimed by the French Crown as La Nouvelle-Orleans.

    New Orleans is named after Orleans, a ruler in France. As you can see from the city’s architecture, New Orleans has a lot of French influence.

    2. What Was New Orleans’ First Name?

    New Orleans was not originally called New Orleans. The city was first known for the town situated in the center of a serious curve in the Mississippi River, Vieux Carré, aka the French Quarter.

    As you might have guessed, the French Quarter has had little problem keeping its name and significance today.

    3. New Orleans Is In What State?

    New Orleans is located in Louisiana. For those that don’t know, Louisiana became part of the United States in the Louisiana Purchase, which took place in 1802.

    French explorer La Salle christened the territory Louisiana in honor of French King Louis XIV in the 1680s.

    The city’s location was nearly 100 miles from the gaping mouth of the Mississippi River.

    4. When Did New Orleans Become A Part Of America?

    It is said that the Louisiana Purchase is one of the cheapest land deals in official history when you account for inflation. The Louisiana Purchase only costs $15 million.

    Adding the Louisiana Territory, as it was called then, immediately doubled the size of the United States,

    As for France, the deal secured much-needed capital that was needed for a pending war with Great Britain.

    5. Did Mardi Gras Originate In New Orleans?

    One thing we know for sure is the festivities and revelry we come to know as being a part of an authentic Mardi Gras celebration first took place in New Orleans on Shrove Tuesday in 1938.
    To go back further, it is documented that as far back as 1699, explorer Jean Baptiste Le Moyne Sieur de Bienville called the Louisiana site he had arrived in Pointe Du Mardi Gras.
    It is of no dispute though that the first Mardi Gras took place in Mobile in 1703. Like New Orleans, Mobile was founded by Jean Baptiste Le Moyne Sieur.

    Final Word

    New Orleans is one of those cities that you can get lost in once you take the time to explore it. As the former capital of Louisiana, New Orleans is one of the most eclectic and eccentric cities in the world.

    One of the things that makes the place special is the people, which are eager to show you a good time via parties and authentic New Orleans cuisine.

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  • Louis Armstrong Airport

    Flying Out Of Louis Armstrong Airport? Here’s What To Know

    3 Min Read

    New Orleans has the only international airport in the state of Louisiana: Louis Armstrong International Airport. If you’re flying out of there soon, there are some things you need to know.

    The airport has one terminal and three concourses that serve 16 airlines across 35 gates with domestic, regional and international flights. There’s a lot more to know about the largest airport in the state.

    5 Things To Know About Louis Armstrong Airport In New Orleans

    In this article, we’re going to tell you everything you need to know about Louis Armstrong Airport.

    I recently flew out of Louis Armstrong Airport on my way to California (shoutout to Delta Air Lines). I was able to get an affordable Economy class flight without a lot of hassle.

    Navigating through Louis Armstrong during COVID was easier than I expected, but maybe because I flew early in the morning.

    Let’s get into some things you might not know about the airport.

    1. Where Does Louis Armstrong Airport Get Its Name?

    Obviously, the airport gets its name from hometown jazz great and elder statesman Louis Armstrong. The renaming ceremony happened in August 2001 on the famous jazz trumpeter’s 100th birthday.

    Before that, the airport was named  for aviator John Moisant and the nearby Moisant Stock Yards.

    2. Why Is Louis Armstrong Airport Called MSY?

    If you’ve ever flown, you know that airports have three-letter codes that identify them in the aviation industry. So, why does New Orleans’ Louis Armstrong Airport have an airport code of MSY? It’s because those three letters are the initials for Moisant Stock Yards, which are nearby.

    3. Who Owns New Orleans’ Airport?

    Many international airports are owned by an airport authority, but that’s not the case in Nola.

    Louis Armstrong Airport is owned by the City of New Orleans.

    4. Where Is Louis Armstrong Airport Located?

    Although it’s known for serving New Orleans, Louis Armstrong Airport is actually located in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana. That is considered the metro New Orleans area.

    The address of Louis Armstrong Airport is 1 Terminal Dr, Kenner, LA 70062.

    5. How Do You Pick Someone Up From Louis Armstrong Airport?

    Because of the large terminal, you may be wondering where to pick up someone if they arrive at the airport.

    The best place to pick up someone after their flight has landed is in the Cell Phone Lot just off Airline Drive. You get one hour of free parking there.

    Final Word

    If you’re flying out of Louis Armstrong Airport make sure you get there early enough to get through the security area with no problem.
    For good measure, it’s a good idea to arrive two hours before your departure time for domestic flights.
    If you’re flying internationally, you should get there three hours before your flight.

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  • What to make with gumbo

    What To Serve With Gumbo: 3 Great Options For Your Meal

    2 Min Read

    If you know anything about New Orleans’ signature dish, gumbo, you might be surprised to learn that you can eat other things with it.

    That’s right. Gumbo is not necessarily a full meal. You can easily make two or three other things to serve with it on another plate.

    What To Make With Gumbo?

    Gumbo takes a lot of ingredients to make, so the price tag could run upward of $50. But there’s more money to be spent when you think about making a full meal.

    Here are some other things you can cook along with gumbo.

    Cornbread

    Making cornbread is one of the most tasty breads you can make. If you have some gumbo, cornbread is just perfect with it because you can absorb quite a bit of roux with it.

    Of course, many restaurants serve crackers with gumbo, but cornbread is actually a better option.

    Potato Salad

    A lot of people love to make potato salad with barbecue, but it goes pretty well with gumbo. The nice, cool taste of potato salad is an appropriate contrast to pair with gumbo.

    If you do happen to go with potato salad, make sure you don’t have potato in any other dish. That way, you don’t have to overdo it with potatoes.

    Salad

    Another option to serve with gumbo is salad. A fresh Caesar salad or even a garden salad can be a great choice because gumbo can be quite overpowering when you consider it’s flavor and temprature.

    A salad with Ranch dressing or something similar would work fine as an additional dish.

    Final Word

    Gumbo already is served with a nice heap of rice, so you won’t need too many side dishes. With that being said, a salad, potato salad and/or cornbread would be great additions.

    Here are some places to get the best gumbo in New Orleans.

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  • What does Nola mean? Baby names

    What Does The Name Nola Mean?

    2 Min Read

    When it comes to baby names, one of the most popular is “Nola.” If you are considering naming your daughter, you might want to know what the name means and where it comes from.

    Names can have interesting origins and for that reason you’ll want to have a clear understanding of how and where the name you choose for your lovely baby comes from.

    Where Does Nola Come From?

    Although there may be plenty of people around these parts with the name Nola but it is not from here.

    In Europe

    The name “Nola” is a very charming name in the United States, although its origins can be traced to Europe.

    According to NameBerry, Nola is a girl’s name of Gaelic, which is the ethnic language of the Irish. The name can also traced to a Latin word meaning “white shoulder.”

    In The United States

    In the United States, you may also know the name Nola from the lead female character in Spike Lee’s 1986 film She’s Gotta Have It.

    Of course, one of the most renown cities in America is New Orleans, which is situated in Louisiana is known by its nickname, Nola.

    Top Baby Names

    When it comes to the most popular baby names, Nola didn’t make the list this year. But that doesn’t mean it’s not a beautiful name.

    Let’s look at the top baby names for girls and boys, according to BabyCenter.

    Olivia Liam
    2 Emma Noah
    3 Amelia Oliver
    4 Ava Elijah
    5 Sophia Lucas
    6 Charlotte Mason
    7 Isabella Levi
    8 Mia Asher
    9 Luna James
    10 Harper Mateo
    11 Gianna Benjamin

    Final Word

    You can just picture that a baby named Nola is a cute, sweet little girl that melts your heart. And that name, in its strange way, makes you feel at peace with Europe and America.

    It also makes you feel like you have a little piece of New Orleans in your heart, which is just where Nola lives.

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