Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in new orleans, LA

5 Special Spots That Will Wow a Preschooler

by Kelly Leahy

June 23, 2009

Whether it's to make a birthday extra special or to simply get out of the house for a few hours, here are five local spots that are guaranteed to make their eyes pop out of their heads.

1. The Algiers Ferry, Canal Street. Crossing the Mississippi on a big boat is right up there on a preschooler's idea of a good time. The fact that it's free for pedestrians and only a dollar if you drive makes it a good choice for parents as well.
2. Angelo Brocato's, 214 N. Carrollton Avenue. This Italian ice cream and pastry shop has been pleasing kids and grown-ups alike since 1905. Their offerings of gelato, spumoni, cannoli and cookies are unparalelled in the city.
3. Audubon Insectarium, Custom House, Canal St. Preschoolers will have a great time not only looking into terrariums filled with bugs but also holding and even eating the six-legged wonders (and worms too). Tickets are $5 for members through the summer!
4. Whether it's Jackson Square, Wednesday in the Square or one of the various venues around town, preschoolers love music. There are plenty of events going on that are kid friendly and even unconventional spots (D.B.A., for one -- or so I've heard) welcome kids to their shows.
5. Le Jouet, 1700 Airline Drive. This family owned and operated toy store is stuffed the rafters with toys, bikes and goodlies for kids of all ages.  Children are welcome to explore the playhouses outside or try out the mini kitchens indoors. Of course, it's unlikely that you'll be able to walk away without buying something, there's always penny candy at the register.

Best Bet: Dogs and Kings

by Kelly Leahy

February 27, 2009

Well, the beads have been caught and probably disposed of by now. This weekend will be quiet around town but there is still plenty to do. 

• Street performers remain en masse in the French Quarter to draw out the last of the Carnival dollars from the tourists. Take a trip downtown, grab some beignets and dance in Jackson Square with your preschooler.
• If you are looking for a new pup (or just like hanging out with them) the LA/SPCA is holding an adoption event on Saturday at Canine Connection (3440 Magazine Street) from 11:00-3:00. 
• Palmer Park hosts once more the Art Market of New Orleans this Saturday.
• If you haven't caught it yet, From Tramps to Kings: 100 Years of Zulu is still on exhibit at the Presbytere.

 Hey if all else fails, there's always Motley Crue at the Arena on Saturday.

This weekends best bets: Satchmo and White Linen

by Kelly Leahy

July 31, 2008

So many fun things to do this weekend! In a city where residents normally hide inside during the months of July and August, there are two excellent events happening Saturday and Sunday. The first is the Satchmo SummerFest which I mentioned yesterday. The second is White Linen Night . Satchmo SummerFest is full of live music on four different stages including a children's stage. Highlights  Read more...

This weekend's best bet: Storyville Stompers

by Kelly Leahy

July 25, 2008

You may have seen them at Jazz Fest or just playing around town. There's something about the Storyville Stompers that just makes you want to dance along to the music. This weekend they are putting on a free show for kids. To make it even better, bringing along your own instruments is encouraged. So pull out that snare drum that you've been hiding from Junior and head on down to the Quarter  Read more...

Moby, Mozart or Miles

by Kelly Leahy

May 30, 2008

Finding music in New Orleans is never a problem. Chances are that live music wafts through your windows at any hour of the day. The challenge, if any, is finding a family-friendly venue, at a kid-friendly time. And, let's face it, sometimes it's nice to hear something other than jazz and zydeco. [I feel like I just said something blasphemous. Am I still welcome to live in this city?] Below I've  Read more...