Hellobee Boards

So, I went this past summer when my daughter was 20 months old. Not quite a baby, but still.

We had a WONDERFUL time. That being said - Nola isn't exactly a kid friendly destination. We went because my husband was going for work, and we tagged along. We stayed at the Ritz Carlton on Canal street, which I would not recommend. After all the young people left from the conference we were the youngest people there by 30 years - and the only ones with a kid. We went to a Marriot down the street to use the pool and it was just so much friendlier.

We mostly hung out in the French Quarter, which again, isn't overly child friendly. It was fine, everyone was polite enough - but certainly nothing was meant for a kid. With a baby, it wouldn't be a problem, but you'll even have trouble finding bathrooms with changing tables, for instance. We stayed a block off of Bourbon street, and I did see at least a few other couples pushing strollers around. But really, no. My daughter loved hearing all the music, and there was plenty before she went to bed at night.

What we enjoyed the most was just walking around, exploring the city, learning about the history, soaking it all in. We had a ton of fun doing that. If that appeals to you, you can have a great time doing it and exposing your baby to travel and new things and different experiences. But I wouldn't choose to take a child back except under similar circumstances (tagging along on a work trip) - it just isn't meant for them. We decided that we'd love to come back alone, some day.

I'm from New Orleans. Yes, the French Quarter may not be the easiest place to navigate with a baby but there are definitely other areas to the city - Aquarum, Audubon Zoo, City Park that are perfect for kids. Depending upon when you come there could be festivals going on too. The great thing about NOLA is also that it is a laid back friendly city.

I would definitely bring kids here!

You can wall me if you want more info.

Eta: if I knew around when you are going, I could give you more info. Also, there are areas to stay outside of the French Quarter.

@augustmama: The last weekend of April is always the first weekend of Jazz Fest so just know the city will be crowded. I personally wouldn't take a baby to Jazz Fest but people do!

The second weekend of April is French Quarter Festival which is definitely more family friendly - music and food all along the river.

I agree with staying in the uptown area too. Food wise - pretty much anywhere is good - from a local hole in the wall to the fancier establishments.

City Park has a wonderful story land area for kids.

@augustmama: yes, jazz fest is also the 1st weekend of May too. I'm not aware of anything the 2nd to last weekend of April.