Vegetarian family visiting New Orleans with kids in tow? Here’s how to enjoy the city’s best flavors and sights in just one day!
New Orleans can feel like a whirlwind of culture, music, and rich flavors, but navigating it with kids and vegetarian diets can be tricky. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! I spent a whirlwind day here, balancing the best places to stay, eat, and explore, all while sticking to a vegetarian-friendly itinerary. Here's how we did it all in less than 24 hours!
Where to Stay?
The French Quarter is your best bet. It’s the heart of the city’s action and history, and we found it perfect for staying central without feeling overwhelmed. Aim to stay between North Rampart Street and Decatur, from Canal Street to Esplanade Avenue. This rectangle holds all the excitement, but families will want to steer clear of Bourbon Street, which can get rowdy.
If river views are your thing, the Westin New Orleans has one of the best, offering serene views that are a nice retreat after a day of exploring. For couples, the Ritz-Carlton and the Marriott are right by Bourbon Street, placing you close to the action. However, with kids, it’s better to avoid staying too close to the noisy party scene unless you’re craving that “hustle and bustle” vibe.
What to Eat?
Local flavors are key! You can easily hit these three stops within the day and still feel fully immersed in the flavors of New Orleans.
Coffee and Beignets at Café Du Monde
A must. Yes, there’s always a line, but it moves fast. Grab your beignets and coffee to-go from the pickup window if you're in a rush. The coffee with chicory is worth every penny—smooth with a nutty twist—and those beignets, oh boy! They’re French-style donuts doused in powdered sugar. The balance of sweetness is perfect, not too sugary, just enough to please the kids and the adults alike. Café Du Monde has been a staple in Jackson Square since 1862, so it’s practically a bite of history!
Soul Food at Sweet Soulfood
For lunch, head to Sweet Soulfood, a little out of the way but so worth the trip. This casual, quick-serve restaurant offers a buffet of vegan soul food. Think jambalaya, okra gumbo, black-eyed peas, collard greens—New Orleans classics without the meat. Trust me, this is a must-visit for any vegetarian or vegan wanting a taste of traditional Southern food.
Killer Po-Boys
You can't leave New Orleans without trying a Po-Boy, and Killer Po-Boys has you covered with at least three vegetarian options. The French bread alone is to die for—crispy on the outside, soft inside. It’s a Louisiana classic with a vegetarian twist.
What to See?
We focused on the French Quarter because that’s where you can really soak in the city’s history, culture, and charm, all within walking distance.
The Tram & Horse Carriages
Start your day with a ride on the Canal Street Tram. It’s a fun and affordable way to get from the Central Business District (CBD) to the French Quarter, with a little old-world charm. And if your kids love animals, you’ll see plenty of horse-drawn carriages along the way!
Bourbon Street
Even though we didn’t stay on Bourbon Street, we took a stroll just to experience the energy—live music spilling from every corner, street performers, and colorful crowds. Be warned: it’s loud, and maybe not ideal for younger kids, but the vibe is unmistakably New Orleans.
French Market
The open-air French Market is a treasure trove. It's five blocks of local produce, handicrafts, art, and delicious food. We loved browsing the artisan shops—don’t miss the bracelet stall—and sampling hot sauces.
Pick up some Creole pralines and Creole seasoning to bring a bit of NOLA home with you. Be sure to get there early, though—the market closes by late afternoon.
Jackson Square
A central hub of history and culture. Jackson Square is anchored by the iconic St. Louis Cathedral and surrounded by street artists and musicians. It’s the perfect place to let the kids run around while you enjoy the atmosphere. You’ll also find the Presbytère Museum, which is great for sparking conversations about Mardi Gras and Hurricane Katrina.
The Banks of the Mississippi River
We took a serene walk along the Mississippi River after lunch. It’s peaceful, scenic, and perfect for winding down after the busy French Quarter. The kids had fun skipping stones, and it’s a relaxing break from the city’s vibrant energy. If you have time, consider a river cruise for a unique perspective on the city.
Suggestions for Families with Older Kids:
If your kids are 10 and up, check out these two museums:
The National World War II Museum in the Warehouse District. If your kids are into history, this place is full of interactive exhibits and even real airplanes!
The Presbytère Museum (right in the French Quarter) dives deep into Mardi Gras culture and the history of Hurricane Katrina, sparking meaningful discussions.
Tips to Remember:
Many attractions close around 5 PM, so plan ahead!
Bring comfy shoes—you’ll be walking a lot.
Start early to maximize your day, especially if you’re hitting the French Market.
There you have it—24 hours in New Orleans with kids, all while staying true to vegetarian-friendly spots! Trust me, you’ll leave full of memories, culture, and great food.
