If you're that travel mom planning a Louisiana destination with kids in tow, and want to avoid the madness that is Mardi Gras, this info is for you. I did the trek with my son to Nola not too long ago, and we had a blast. Louisiana, the land of zydeco music, Louis Armstrong International Airport, spicy gumbo, and overflowing hospitality, beckons travelers year-round. You can still explore the state's unique charm with your kids during the off-season! Don't worry, you'll still experience the magic – minus the crowds. Here's your guide to a Louisiana adventure with your little ones, packed with tips for smooth airport navigation, kid-friendly activities, and delightful accommodations.
Preparing for travel
Airports can be a battlefield for parents. Here's how to conquer the chaos:
Flying: There are several airports to choose from when flying into Louisiana. Here is a list to research and book flights:
- Alexandria International Airport,
- The Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport,
- The Lafayette Regional Airport in Louisiana,
- The Lake Charles Regional Airport,
- The Monroe Regional Airport,
- the New Orleans International Airport (Louis Armstrong International)
- the Shreveport Regional Airport.
Airplane etiquette: One tactic I use for my energetic kids is setting the ground rules as soon as we settle down in our seats on the plane. I make a point of being firm by saying the rules so the people sitting around us can hear. Here are the rules:
- Keep your hands and legs to yourself. No kicking the seat in front of you.
- Use your inside voices on the plane. No screaming or fighting.
- No throwing objects at your brothers or sisters. It may hit another passenger and will create a mess.
- If you are traveling with a baby you can hand out ear plugs with a note and treat, apologizing for any loud crying or screaming ahead of time. Gum or candy usually does the trick and I hand it to the people sitting in front and behind us.
Pack Smart: Pack a small backpack with essentials like snacks, water bottles, wipes, and a change of clothes. Keep them entertained with activity books, travel games, and small toys.
Entertainment: Don’t shy away from electronics. Download movies, shows, or audiobooks onto tablets before the trip. This is a lifesaver during long layovers.
Scope it Out: Familiarize yourself with the airport layout beforehand. Look for kid-friendly amenities like play areas, family restrooms, and nursing rooms.
Plan for the Unexpected: Delays happen. Be patient and pack some flexibility. Use the wait time to let the kids stretch their legs at the play area, or have a picnic lunch at a designated space.
Sweet Dreams, Louisiana Style
Louisiana boasts an array of family-friendly accommodations:
- Plantation Charm: Stay in a restored plantation home, offering a glimpse into Louisiana's rich history. Many have spacious grounds perfect for kids to run around and explore.
- Beach Bliss: Head to the stunning Gulf Coast for a beach vacation. Choose a condo or resort with amenities like pools, playgrounds, and kids' clubs.
- City Comfort: Opt for a hotel in New Orleans' French Quarter or a family-friendly suburb. These locations provide easy access to kid-friendly attractions and restaurants.
- Airbnb: New Orleans provides lots of options for accommodations. You can opt-out of the traditional route and choose sites with lots of charm and history. You can rent anything from Victorian flats to Creole cottages, but of course, always choose the kid friendly options.
Little Explorers:
- City Trolly: If you plan to stay in New Orleans you will win the mom of the year award with the city trolly. The kids will love this nugget of adventure, taking them all around the city. The trolly covers almost seven miles of line from the French Quarter to South Claiborne Avenue. It currently costs $1.25 to ride each way and will make your budgeting much easier as you explore.
- Swamp Tours: Embark on a thrilling swamp tour through the lush Louisiana bayous. Spot alligators, egrets, and other fascinating wildlife in their natural habitat. Many tour operators offer kid-friendly options with shorter durations and interactive elements.
- Children's Museums: Immerse your kids in a world of learning and play. New Orleans' interactive Louisiana Children's Museum or Lafayette's Acadiana Children's Museum offer exhibits that spark curiosity and ignite imaginations.
- Airboat Adventures: Take an airboat ride through the cypress swamps. The high-speed ride and unique perspective are a guaranteed thrill for kids. Opt for a tour with a guide who can share interesting facts about the local ecosystem.
- Festival Fun: Louisiana celebrates festivals year-round! Check local listings for food festivals, music events, or cultural celebrations. Many offer family-friendly activities and a chance to experience Louisiana's vibrant culture.
- Plantation Tours: Learn about Louisiana's history with a tour of a historic plantation. Choose a plantation that offers special tours for children, focusing on interactive exhibits or stories about plantation life for kids.
- Zoological Delights: Visit Audubon Zoo in New Orleans or Alexandria's Alexandria Zoological Park. Encounter fascinating animals from around the world and participate in educational programs designed for young minds.
- Beaches and Kayaking: Relax on the white-sand beaches of Grand Isle or Holly Beach. Build sandcastles, go shelling, or try your hand at kayaking in the calm Gulf waters.
Foodie Fun for the Whole Family
Expand your family’s palette with the many food options in New Orleans. Here are a few kid friendly options:
- Beignets: Grab a plate of fluffy beignets, Louisiana's iconic powdered sugar donuts. Café du Monde in New Orleans is a must-visit, but beignets are a staple at many cafes throughout the state.
- S'mores: Let the kids be mini chefs at a bonfire, roasting marshmallows for classic s'mores. Louisiana has plenty of state and national parks with road trip camping options, perfect for this family-friendly treat.
- Snowballs: Beat the Louisiana heat with a refreshing snowball. These shaved ice treats, a New Orleans staple, come in a vast array of syrups and flavors.
- Gumbo Galore: Introduce your kids to the flavors of Louisiana with a bowl of gumbo. Opt for a seafood or chicken gumbo, and let them customize it with a dollop of hot sauce (optional, of course!).
Have fun on your trip and remember you’re only one mom and family. There are no rule books for parents, only other parents sharing tips. Do what works for your family!
