And we thought New Orleans wasn't for families!
By A Yahoo! Contributor, 8/28/05
Being from Canada, I am always a bit timid about visiting larger centers in the United States. I had always associated New Orleans with drunken parties. I was to be speaking at a conference there and had to decide whether or not to make a family holiday of the trip. Well, all I can say after visiting New Orleans is that I would recommend it, and indeed have recommended it, to every family I know! Our of respect for those who come to New Orleans to party, we decided to stay out of the French Quarter. Still, we walked everywhere from our hotel in the upscale Warehouse District and found the city clean and safe.
We took a boat ride to the zoo and our son enjoyed the boat ride almost as much as the zoo itself. We also went to the aquarium and went on a hourse drawn carriage through the French Quarter. Our son also enjoyed the fountain near the French Market. Our son loved the Children's Museum so much we spent the better part of two days there. We went just before Easter and the Easter day parade is not to be missed. Traveling with a little one, we got extra attention as people got off their floats to give us stuffed toys so, in addition to all the beaded necklaces we caught, our son went home with quite the stash of loot.
The best part truly was our choice of hotel. We were on the same floor as the outdoor pools yet never heard any noise. We started each day in the hot tub and would always go for at least one swim per day. The room was spacious and had a fridge and microwave so a person could make their own breakfast or lunch. The hotel is walking distance of all main attractions and good shopping. The only downside was that the food at the hotel restaurant was nothing to write home about. Still, with so many restaurants nearby, including Emeril's, that did not detract in the least. The staff were very helpful and very welcoming of children. We will definitely return to New Orleans and, when we do, we will stay at the Hilton Garden Inn.