Ideas for Dec trip with kids

Question

We are visiting over Christmas break with our two kids aged 5 and 9. I was hoping for some ideas for things to do (we have the zoo, aquarium and children's museum on our list) as well as places to eat. The kids are good eaters, eat a variety of cuisines, and do well in restaurants, so we don't need kids' menus or anything, but also don't want to disrupt the ambience at fancy places. In particular, we need recommendations for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, since it seems like a lot of places are closed. We will be staying at an airbnb in the CBD. Thanks in advance!

Answer

It sounds like you're planning a wonderful trip to New Orleans with your kids during the Christmas break! New Orleans is a family-friendly city with a lot of fun activities, even during the holiday season. Since you already have the zoo, aquarium, and children's museum on your list, here are some additional ideas for things to do and places to eat, especially for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Things to Do with Kids in New Orleans:

City Park: City Park is a beautiful place to explore with kids, and during Christmas, it's even more magical. The park features the “Celebration in the Oaks,” a holiday light display that is fantastic for families. There are also carousels, playgrounds, and the New Orleans Museum of Art if you want to explore some culture in a relaxed setting.
Steamboat Natchez Cruise: A family-friendly boat tour along the Mississippi River can be a fun way to see the city from the water. The Steamboat Natchez offers daytime cruises with live jazz music, which is a great experience for kids and adults alike.
Louisiana Children’s Museum: You're already planning to visit the Children's Museum, which is a fantastic choice. It's hands-on, interactive, and offers exhibits that will entertain and educate both your 5-year-old and 9-year-old. If you have some extra time, you can also check out the adjacent Storyland in City Park, which features fairytale-themed playgrounds.
Garden District Walk: While this is a quiet activity, a stroll through the beautiful Garden District can be a lovely way to see some of the city’s oldest homes, lush greenery, and historic streets. It's great for a peaceful afternoon after a busy day of activities. Kids will enjoy looking at the historic mansions and visiting the famous Lafayette Cemetery (if they’re interested in spooky history).
Audubon Aquarium of the Americas: The aquarium is an exciting place for kids to explore. They’ll love the exhibits featuring sea turtles, sharks, and penguins. It’s right on the riverfront, so you can also enjoy a nice walk along the Mississippi River afterward.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Activities:

Many restaurants and businesses close on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, but there are still some fun things to do and places to eat:

Christmas Eve Mass or Service: If you’re looking for something special to do on Christmas Eve, attending a mass or service can be a lovely tradition. St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square offers beautiful Christmas Eve Masses, and it’s an iconic part of the city’s history.
City Park’s Celebration in the Oaks: As mentioned earlier, this is a must-see event, especially around Christmas. It’s open every night during the holiday season, and it’s a magical light display with a holiday carnival, train rides, and more. It's a great way to get into the holiday spirit, and the kids will love the lights and the festive atmosphere.

Where to Eat on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day:

Finding restaurants open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day can be a challenge, but there are a few places that are sure to be open and welcoming for families:

Galatoire’s: This is an iconic New Orleans restaurant located on Bourbon Street, and while it's known for its upscale dining, it’s also very family-friendly, especially for lunch. They may have limited hours on Christmas Eve, but it’s definitely worth checking out. The ambiance is historic, and the food is fantastic.
Café du Monde: Café du Monde is a must-visit in New Orleans, and while it’s typically busy, it offers a casual, kid-friendly atmosphere. You can grab beignets and coffee (or hot chocolate for the kids) and sit at an outdoor table. They’re open 24/7, including on Christmas Day.
Arnaud’s: For a classic New Orleans Creole experience, Arnaud’s in the French Quarter offers a festive atmosphere and family-friendly dining. Their holiday menu features traditional NOLA dishes, and it’s a beautiful restaurant for a special Christmas Eve or Christmas Day meal.
Commander’s Palace: While more upscale, Commander’s Palace is a fantastic restaurant with great food and a kid-friendly atmosphere. It’s often open on Christmas Day with a special holiday menu. The staff is very accommodating to families, and it's an iconic New Orleans dining experience.
Willie Mae’s Scotch House: If you're looking for some great Southern comfort food, this is the place for fried chicken. It's a local favorite, and while it’s not fancy, it’s a perfect family spot for a casual meal. Check ahead to see if they are open on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.
Praline Connection: Located in the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood, this spot is great for classic Creole food. They offer kid-friendly portions of local favorites like jambalaya, gumbo, and fried shrimp. It's an affordable option for a family meal.

Other Tips:

Check Hours Ahead of Time: Many places in New Orleans will have limited hours during the holiday season, so be sure to call ahead and confirm the restaurant’s schedule.
Plan for Parades: If you’re interested in seeing the holiday parades, New Orleans often has special parades and events during Christmas. Be sure to check local event schedules closer to your travel dates to see what’s happening during your stay.
Book Reservations Early: For special holiday meals, it’s a good idea to make reservations in advance, especially for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Popular places fill up quickly!

Overall, New Orleans is a fantastic place to visit with kids during Christmas break. With a mix of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and festive events, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy your trip!

Ideas for Dec trip with kids

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