Looking for a family-friendly destination with plenty of adventure for teens? Look no further than New Orleans, Louisiana! Known for its rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant music scene, this city has something to offer to everyone in your family. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or thrill-seeker, New Orleans has it all. In this guide, we’ll take you through the top teen-approved adventures that you can enjoy during a weekend trip to the Big Easy. From exploring the city’s famous French Quarter to getting spooked on a haunted ghost tour, there’s never a dull moment in this lively city. So pack your bags, grab your family, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure during a weekend in New Orleans!
Day 1: French Quarter Exploration
New Orleans is a city that is full of excitement and wonder, with something for everyone to enjoy. For families with teens, there is no shortage of adventure to be found in the historic French Quarter. The area is filled with interesting architecture, unique culture, and delicious food, making it the perfect place to start your weekend in New Orleans. Here’s a guide to a perfect day in the French Quarter with your teens.
Start your day off right with a visit to the iconic Cafe du Monde, a landmark that is over 150 years old. Just follow the trail of powdered sugar on the sidewalk that leads right up to this world-famous spot. The open-air cafe is famous for its hot and fluffy beignets, which are delicious French-style doughnuts covered in powdered sugar. Grab a table, or sit on a bench in the park across the street and watch the world go by as you enjoy these sweet treats and a cup of their signature chicory coffee.
After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the French Quarter, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. This area is filled with historic buildings and narrow streets, and it’s easy to get lost in the magic of the place. Your teens will love exploring the nooks and crannies of the city’s oldest neighborhood, discovering hidden courtyards and picturesque balconies.
Next, stop by the French Quarter Visitor Center for Jean Lafitte to learn more about the history of the area. The center offers historical exhibits and guided walking tours that explore the fascinating past of this iconic neighborhood. Your teens will be captivated by the stories of pirates, smugglers, and voodoo queens that once roamed these streets.
For lunch, head over to Central Grocery, a family-owned deli that has been serving up delicious sandwiches since 1906. The store is famous for its muffuletta, a sandwich made with Italian cold cuts, cheese, and a tangy olive salad, served on a round loaf of bread. Take your sandwich to go and have a picnic in one of the nearby parks.
After lunch, explore the French Market, a colorful and bustling open-air market that has been operating since the late 1700s. The market features a variety of vendors selling everything from local produce to candy to handmade crafts, and it’s a great place to find unique souvenirs and gifts to take home.
New Orleans is one of the most famously food-centric cities in the United States. Finish off your day in the French Quarter with a hearty meal at Mother’s Restaurant, a New Orleans institution that has been serving up classic Creole and Cajun dishes since 1938. The menu is full of delicious options, including their famous Ferdi Special, a sandwich made with roast beef, ham, debris, and gravy. Your teens will love the lively atmosphere and the chance to try some of the city’s most iconic dishes. Or you can grab a meal at the Acme Oyster House where our family feasted on chargrilled oysters, po-boys, gumbo, and platters of local specialties.
Exploring the French Quarter is a must-do experience for anyone visiting New Orleans, and it’s the perfect way to kick off a weekend in the city. With delicious food, interesting history, and plenty of opportunities for adventure, your teens will be sure to have a blast in this iconic neighborhood.
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures and History in New Orleans
Welcome to day 2 of your teen-approved adventures in New Orleans! Today we will be exploring the city’s rich history and enjoying some outdoor adventures.
Start your day off right with a hearty breakfast at Elizabeth’s Restaurant. This cozy spot on Gallier Street is known for its delicious Southern-style breakfast dishes. Don’t miss their famous praline bacon!
After breakfast, make your way to the National WWII Museum. This was one of our favorite experiences in the city. The world-renowned museum offers an immersive experience that brings the history of World War II to life. From interactive exhibits to personal stories, this museum is a must-see for history buffs of all ages. I found myself standing in front of a few of these exhibits unable to walk away as I listened to first-person accounts of what it was like to land on the Normandy coast on D-Day. The way they cover in great detail, not just the war itself, but also the United States during the years leading up to the war, was amazing and added to the immersive nature of the museum experience.
For lunch, head to Willie Mae’s Scotch House. While they do have a location in California, this iconic restaurant has been serving up delicious Southern soul food in New Orleans for over 60 years. Be sure to try their famous fried chicken.
After lunch, make your way to City Park. This 1,300-acre park is home to the New Orleans Museum of Art, which features an impressive collection of over 40,000 objects, ranging from contemporary art to ancient artifacts. Take a stroll through the beautiful sculpture garden and enjoy the outdoor art installations.
End your day with dinner at Jacques-Imo’s Cafe. Check out their linked website here and if this looks like your kind of place, be sure to reserve up to one month in advance. This funky restaurant in the Uptown neighborhood is known for its delicious Creole and Cajun cuisine. Be sure to try their famous fried chicken with waffles. Want something you won’t find anywhere else? Get a fork ready for the alligator cheesecake. I personally have not tried it but I did hear good reviews. I leave that one up to you. Don’t forget to check out the colorful murals and eclectic decor!
Or you can enjoy a New Orleans classic at Camellia Grill. This NOLA institution was featured on Somebody Feed Phil. The affordable diner opened in 1946 and is famous for its breakfast omelets (served all day), burgers, and desserts.
Overall, day 2 is the perfect mix of history and outdoor adventure, with plenty of delicious food along the way. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or just looking for some tasty Southern cuisine, New Orleans has something for everyone.
Day 3: Music and Culture in New Orleans
Start your day with a delicious breakfast or brunch at Ruby Slipper, a local favorite known for its tasty dishes and laid-back atmosphere. I live for a good Bennie and these guys know how to put a southern spin on this classic dish. Choose the Bayou Shrimp, Crawfish & Grits, or go more traditional. You can’t go wrong. And don’t stress if there’s a wait. You’re in good hands in New Orleans. We enjoyed walking the neighborhood while we waited for our table, as we discovered beautiful houses with gates still draped in bead necklaces left over from Mardi Gras.
After fueling up, head to the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park to learn about the city’s rich musical heritage. This park is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the origins and evolution of jazz, which has deep roots in New Orleans.
Next, take a streetcar ride through the charming Garden District. This historic neighborhood is filled with stunning architecture and beautiful gardens and is home to some of the city’s most impressive mansions. Take a stroll through the streets and admire the ornate houses, or stop by Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 to look through the gates at the above-ground tombs this area is so famous for. The cemetery has been closed for quite a few years and at the time of writing we are not sure when it will reopen again.
We just can’t stop talking about food and who can blame us because this is New Orleans! For lunch, head to Joey K’s, a local favorite that serves up classic New Orleans dishes like po’boys, gumbo, and red beans and rice. If you had brunch earlier, feel free to skip straight to exploring the Garden District.
In the evening, make your way to Commander’s Palace for dinner. This iconic restaurant has been a fixture in the Garden District for over 130 years and is known for its award-winning cuisine and elegant atmosphere. It’s a great place to enjoy a memorable meal and experience some of the city’s famous Southern hospitality. If you’d like to explore something less formal and “faaahhncy”, then head back to Decatur for Coop’s Place. This hole-in-the-wall spot boasts fantastic Creole dishes at a more affordable price.
Overall, this three-day itinerary provides a great introduction to all that New Orleans has to offer. Whether you’re interested in food, history, music, or just soaking up the unique culture of the city, there’s something for everyone here. So come on down to the Big Easy and let the good times roll!
New Orleans is a city that truly has something for everyone, including families with teens. With its unique blend of history, culture, music, and outdoor adventures, there’s never a dull moment. From exploring the French Quarter, visiting the National WWII Museum, and experiencing live jazz music, to indulging in delicious local cuisine, New Orleans has it all. And for those seeking a quieter side of the city, the Garden District provides a peaceful respite. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or longer, the Big Easy won’t disappoint. Come see for yourself why New Orleans is a top destination that you’ll want to come back to again and again.