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Part-timer in the quarter. Bringing first timers son and family down for Easter weekend. Will have a 2 and 9 yr. old. Have them staying at Omni Royal Orleans. The kid part I need help with please.

Can you take a collapsed stroller on the street car?

Would love any input from locals and those who have visited with kids their favorites for the kiddos. Zoo, amusement park and/or Story Land at City Park, Aquarium, Mardi Gras World should I send them off on a swamp tour? Am I missing something great? Experienced input appreciated!

Anyone have experience with the Bunny cruise on the Creole Queen? Will the kids be kept busy or become bored fast.

Anyone know if an Easter Egg hunt on 4/19?

Also looking for dinner rec for a Thursday evening around 8 that is good and will give them a nice taste of NOLA cuisine. Budget not an issue and will have car driving them in from airport so doesn’t necessarily have to be in FQ. Not Coops please.

Any other tips or suggestions welcome!

TIA

Answer

It sounds like you're planning a wonderful Easter weekend for your family in New Orleans, and it's great that you're considering the kids' needs and activities. Here’s some detailed advice for you, including tips for kids-friendly activities, transportation, and dining recommendations:

1. Can You Take a Collapsed Stroller on the Streetcar?

Yes, you can take a collapsed stroller on the streetcar. New Orleans streetcars allow folded strollers, but it's always a good idea to try to keep it compact and ensure the kids are seated safely. Streetcars can get crowded, especially on weekends and during holidays, so it might be easier to use the stroller when not on the streetcar or when you’re walking to a specific destination.

2. Kid-Friendly Activities in New Orleans:

There’s plenty to do with kids in New Orleans, and since you have a 2-year-old and a 9-year-old, here are some activities that would be enjoyable for both:

Audubon Zoo: A fantastic zoo with a wide variety of animals and exhibits. The children’s area, including the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, will be perfect for both kids, with kiddie rides and plenty of space to explore. The zoo is well-maintained, and you can easily spend a few hours there.
City Park - Story Land: A great spot for younger kids! Story Land at City Park is a fairytale-themed playground with interactive sculptures based on children’s stories. It’s a beautiful and relaxing area, and there's also the New Orleans Museum of Art and the Sculpture Garden nearby if you want to extend the visit.
Audubon Aquarium of the Americas: The aquarium is a must-see, and the kids will love the exhibits, especially the underwater tunnel where they can see fish and sea creatures up close. There’s also a great section with touch pools where kids can get hands-on with marine life.
Mardi Gras World: This one’s fun for everyone. The kids will love seeing the huge, colorful Mardi Gras floats and learning about the history of the festival. It’s an interactive experience with plenty of photo ops!
Swamp Tours: While a swamp tour can be a great experience for adults, you might want to gauge whether the kids will enjoy the boat ride and the quiet nature of the swamp. It’s a relaxing trip, but younger children might get bored with the lack of constant action. If you do decide to go, look for tours that cater to families with children.

3. The Bunny Cruise on the Creole Queen:

The Bunny Cruise on the Creole Queen is a festive, family-friendly experience. The cruise includes a fun Easter-themed event with activities for kids. Given the theme and interactive aspects of the cruise, the 9-year-old should definitely enjoy it, and the 2-year-old will likely find the boat ride and atmosphere fun as well. That said, some kids may get a little bored if they’re not into the activities, so it might depend on the attention span of the 2-year-old. But generally, the event is geared toward making sure children stay entertained!

4. Easter Egg Hunt on 4/19:

There are usually several Easter egg hunts around New Orleans on Easter weekend, including in City Park and at other family-friendly locations. Keep an eye on local event listings closer to the date, as specific times and locations for egg hunts are often posted closer to the holiday.

5. Dinner Recommendations for Thursday Evening:

For a nice dinner that captures the essence of New Orleans cuisine, here are some fantastic spots that are family-friendly and will give your group a great taste of the local flavors:

Commander’s Palace: Located in the Garden District, this iconic spot is perfect for a fancy but still family-friendly experience. Known for its Creole cuisine and exceptional service, it’s a great place to experience classic New Orleans dishes. They also offer a kids' menu with some New Orleans-inspired choices.
Shaya: If you’re looking for something a bit different but still delicious, Shaya serves up modern Israeli food with a southern twist. It's great for families and has a warm, welcoming vibe. The pita bread here is a crowd-pleaser for kids.
Galatoire’s: Located on Bourbon Street, Galatoire’s offers a classic New Orleans dining experience with traditional Creole cuisine. While a bit more formal, it’s still a great spot for families, especially if you're looking for local seafood dishes like crawfish etouffee or shrimp gumbo.
Herbsaint: A more relaxed option with excellent Southern food and a kid-friendly environment. Herbsaint is known for its delicious pasta and meats, and it’s a great place to enjoy a New Orleans meal in a more casual setting.

6. Other Tips and Suggestions:

Transportation: Since you’ll have a car, consider parking in the French Quarter or at your hotel and using it for short trips to attractions. Walking is a great way to explore the French Quarter, but be prepared for busy streets, especially around holiday weekends.
Stay Flexible: With young children, it’s best to stay flexible. Some activities might need to be shorter or more relaxed, depending on the mood and energy levels of the kids. Don’t be afraid to switch things up if one outing doesn’t go as planned!
Pack Snacks and Water: New Orleans can be hot and busy, so it’s a good idea to have snacks and drinks on hand for the kids, especially during outings like the zoo or park visits.

It sounds like you’re planning an action-packed and fun-filled Easter weekend in New Orleans! With a mix of outdoor activities, local culture, and delicious food, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy your time in the city!

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