4 day itinerary with Teens

Question

Going in March for 4 days to New Orleans. We do have our own car and will be staying in Airbnb

I don't have my itinerary set, but just starting my research. So far I have:

WWII museum. Kids not big fans of museums but we are, hope I can convince them to go in for a few hours

Swamp tour? - would love recommendations on any particular company

French Quarter walking tour/Jackson Square

Bourbon Street - Not sure if kids can't get in to bars - 18 year old and 20 year old. Just wanted to show them some Zydaco music

Plantation tour?

Beignets at Cafe Dumont

Would appreciate any advice!!!

Answer

It sounds like you’re planning a fun trip to New Orleans with your teens! It’s a great city for a mix of culture, history, music, and food. I’ll break down your plans and offer suggestions to help fill out your itinerary and ensure you get the most out of your 4 days. Here’s a sample itinerary that balances historical, cultural, and fun activities that will appeal to both adults and teens:

Day 1: Explore the French Quarter and Jackson Square

Start your trip with a visit to the heart of New Orleans—the French Quarter. It’s the city's most iconic area and full of history, architecture, and great food. You can start with a walking tour of the French Quarter. Many tour companies offer guided tours that take you through the narrow, picturesque streets and explain the history behind key spots like St. Louis Cathedral, the Cabildo, and Jackson Square. This is a great way to learn about the city’s past and its French Creole influence.

Must-see stops in the French Quarter:

Jackson Square: A central hub with street performers, artists, and musicians. Perfect for snapping photos, watching performers, or just soaking up the atmosphere.
St. Louis Cathedral: A beautiful and historic church right on the square. It's free to visit, and it’s worth stepping inside to admire its stunning interior.
Café du Monde: Don’t forget to grab a beignet and café au lait at Café du Monde. It’s a classic New Orleans treat that the whole family will enjoy.
Royal Street: Known for its galleries, antique shops, and street musicians. Great for a casual stroll and window shopping.

Evening Option: You can visit Bourbon Street, but since your teens are under 21, they won’t be able to enter bars or clubs. However, Bourbon Street is still fun to visit to hear live zydeco and jazz music from the street performers. You’ll find plenty of music spilling out of bars and restaurants, so you can still enjoy the atmosphere without needing to go inside.

Day 2: WWII Museum and Swamp Tour

The National WWII Museum is a must-see for history buffs, and it’s very engaging. Even if your teens aren’t big fans of museums, this one is different—it's interactive, with plenty of exhibits and multimedia presentations. The museum can take a few hours to explore, so it’s best to go early to avoid crowds and really take in the experience. If your teens aren’t into it, you could plan to spend a couple of hours and then take a break before moving on to something more active.

Swamp Tour: In the afternoon, head out for a swamp tour. This is a great way to get out of the city and experience the natural beauty of Louisiana. Teens generally love the adventure of seeing alligators, birds, and other wildlife up close. I recommend these companies:

Jean Lafitte Swamp Tours: One of the most popular and highly rated swamp tour companies. They offer small boat tours through the swamps where you can get up close to the wildlife.
Airboat Adventures: If you want a more thrilling experience, consider an airboat tour. These fast boats zip through the swamps, offering a unique perspective.

Day 3: Plantation Tour and Magazine Street

If you're interested in the history of the South, a plantation tour can provide valuable insights. Some options include:

Oak Alley Plantation: Famous for its picturesque alley of 28 oak trees, this plantation offers a fascinating tour of the house and grounds. It’s a bit touristy but still very beautiful.
Whitney Plantation: Focused on the history of slavery, this plantation offers a more somber, educational experience, which can be powerful and moving.

After the plantation tour, head to Magazine Street. This street offers shopping, cafes, and a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for a post-tour stroll. It’s a great spot for finding local boutiques, casual eateries, and even spots for teens to pick up souvenirs.

Day 4: City Park, Bayou St. John, and Mardi Gras World

On your final day, take a visit to City Park, one of the largest urban parks in the U.S. It’s a beautiful place for a walk or bike ride, and you can visit the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) if your teens are in the mood for more culture. The park also has the lovely Sculpture Garden, perfect for photos.

Mardi Gras World: For a fun and educational experience, visit Mardi Gras World. It’s a working studio where many of the city’s Mardi Gras floats are made, and you can get a behind-the-scenes look at the creation process. Teens will enjoy the colorful floats and the chance to see how New Orleans’ most famous festival comes to life.

Additional Tips:

Ferry Ride to Algiers Point: For something different, take a ferry ride across the Mississippi River to Algiers Point. It’s a short ride but offers great views of the city’s skyline.
Music & Nightlife: While Bourbon Street is a no-go for the kids, there are plenty of other places to experience live music in New Orleans. Check out spots like Preservation Hall (a famous jazz venue), or listen to some zydeco at The Spotted Cat Music Club in the Marigny neighborhood. You can enjoy the vibe, even if the teens can’t go into the bars.
Street Performers: Throughout the French Quarter, you’ll find talented street performers—musicians, magicians, and dancers—that will captivate both teens and adults alike.

Overall, your trip to New Orleans sounds like it’s going to be full of great activities for your whole family. Between the swamp tours, historical sites, music, and food, there’s a lot to see and do. Enjoy your trip!

4 day itinerary with Teens

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