7-Day Family-Friendly Educational Adventure in New Orleans on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Travel to NOLA

New Orleans, LA

8:00AM

Depart from McKinney

Start your journey from McKinney, excited for a week of fun in New Orleans.
Take US-75 S to I-20 E; continue to I-49 S towards Lafayette.
CURRENCY0, 8 hours

12:00PM

Lunch Break

Stop in Shreveport for a budget-friendly lunch at Johnny's Pizza House, enjoying a slice of the local flavor.
Located off I-20 E.
CURRENCY60, 1 hour

1:00PM

Continue to New Orleans

Hit the road again for the final leg of your journey, filled with anticipation.
Continue on I-49 S and then I-10 E until you reach New Orleans.
CURRENCY0, 4 hours

5:00PM

Arrive in New Orleans

Check into a budget-friendly hotel or Airbnb in the Garden District.
Consider options such as The Green House Inn or budget hotels in the area.
CURRENCY200, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Dat Dog

Enjoy a casual dinner at Dat Dog, where everyone can build their own hot dog with lots of toppings.
Located on Magazine St, accessible by walking or a short streetcar ride.
CURRENCY80, 1 hour

7:30PM

Evening Stroll

Take a peaceful evening stroll around the Garden District to admire the beautiful historic homes.
Walking distance from Dat Dog.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour
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Day 2: Exploring the City

New Orleans, LA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe du Monde

Start your day with beignets and coffee at the iconic Cafe du Monde.
Take the streetcar from your accommodation to the French Quarter.
CURRENCY40, 1 hour

9:30AM

French Quarter Walking Tour

Join a free walking tour to learn the history of the French Quarter, perfect for the whole family.
Meet-up point in Jackson Square.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The French Market

Grab a picnic lunch at The French Market, where you can find various affordable vendors.
Just a short walk from Jackson Square.
CURRENCY60, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas

Engage with wildlife exhibits that both kids and adults will find fascinating.
Located along the riverfront, accessible by streetcar.
CURRENCY100, 3 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Riverwalk

Take a stroll along the Riverwalk and enjoy views of the Mississippi River.
Within walking distance from the aquarium, along the riverfront.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at The Bulldog

Enjoy casual dinner at The Bulldog, known for its great burgers and family-friendly atmosphere.
Located close to Magazine St.
CURRENCY80, 1 hour

6:30PM

Return to Hotel

Head back to your accommodation to relax and enjoy family time.
Streetcar or walking distance depending on your hotel location.
CURRENCY0, 30 minutes
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Day 3: Cultural Exploration

New Orleans, LA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Toast

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Toast, known for its breakfast sandwiches and pancakes.
A short walking distance from your hotel.
CURRENCY70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Children’s Museum

Spend the morning at the Louisiana Children’s Museum with hands-on exhibits that engage young minds.
Located in the Warehouse District, accessible by bus.
CURRENCY80, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch at Coliseum Square Park

Grab sandwiches from a deli and enjoy a leisurely picnic in the scenic park.
A short drive or bus ride from the museum.
CURRENCY50, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit the Ogden Museum of Southern Art

Explore Southern art exhibits that showcase the cultural heritage of the region.
Located nearby, within walking distance from the park.
CURRENCY40, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

World War II Museum

Discover the rich history of WWII, with fascinating exhibits that will intrigue all ages.
Just outside the Ogden, a short walk away.
CURRENCY120, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Pizza Domenica

Unwind with delicious wood-fired pizzas that the whole family will love.
Closed to the WWII Museum in the Arts District.
CURRENCY90, 1 hour

7:00PM

Evening Ghost Tour

Take a family-friendly ghost tour of the French Quarter and learn about the city's spooky history.
Guided by a family-friendly tour company.
CURRENCY120, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Nature and Fun

New Orleans, LA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Ruby Slipper

Fuel up with Southern breakfasts, including omelets and French toast.
A short streetcar ride will take you to their location.
CURRENCY80, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit City Park

Spend the morning exploring City Park, playtime at the playgrounds or visit the sculpture garden.
Take the streetcar to City Park.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the New Orleans Museum of Art

Explore the collections and participate in family programs available at the museum.
Located within City Park and easily accessible.
CURRENCY100, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Parkway Bakery and Tavern

Enjoy NOLA’s famous po-boys in a family-friendly environment.
A short drive or bus ride from City Park.
CURRENCY80, 1 hour

2:30PM

Airboat Swamp Tour

Take an exhilarating airboat tour where the kids can spot gators and experience the swamp.
Pre-book the tours for convenience and transportation.
CURRENCY300, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Hotel

Head back to your accommodation to refresh and rest after an adventurous day.
Transportation pre-arranged to return to hotel.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Mother's Restaurant

Indulge in classic Creole dishes for dinner, perfect for the entire family.
Nearby your hotel, easy access for all.
CURRENCY90, 1 hour
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Day 5: More Culture and History

New Orleans, LA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Beignet

Savor traditional beignets and coffee for breakfast, in a charming setting.
A short streetcar ride to their location.
CURRENCY40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the National WWII Museum

Return to the WWII Museum to delve deeper into exhibits and uncover the stories of the brave.
Pre-book tickets online to avoid queues.
CURRENCY100, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cochon Butcher

Indulge in delicious sandwiches and charcuterie options for a unique New Orleans experience.
Located in the Warehouse District.
CURRENCY70, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit St. Louis Cathedral

Explore the beautiful landmark, teaching the kids about its historical significance.
Walk to Jackson Square to see the Cathedral.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Cabildo

Discover more about the history of Louisiana at this historic site adjacent to the Cathedral.
Just steps from St. Louis Cathedral.
CURRENCY30, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Historic Voodoo Museum

Learn about the fascinating culture of Voodoo in a simple and educational museum.
Located in the French Quarter.
CURRENCY40, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Royal House Oyster Bar

Enjoy fresh seafood in a friendly atmosphere that caters to families.
On Bourbon St., walking distance.
CURRENCY90, 2 hours
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Day 6: Sharing Experiences

New Orleans, LA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Willa Jean

Delight in Southern breakfast options, including biscuits and gravy.
Located nearby your accommodation.
CURRENCY60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Historic Garden District

Take a long stroll through the Garden District to admire the stunning architecture and learn its history.
Easily accessible by streetcar.
CURRENCY0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at the Commander's Palace

Experience classic New Orleans dining in a family-friendly atmosphere; confirm if they offer lunch specials.
Located in the Garden District.
CURRENCY150, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Take a Streetcar to the Audubon Zoo

Enjoy the varied animal exhibits that will entertain and educate your boys while being a fun experience for everyone.
Streetcar ride from the Garden District.
CURRENCY100, 2 hours

3:30PM

Return to Hotel for Rest

Relax for a bit at the hotel and refresh for the evening.
Via streetcar or walking distance.
CURRENCY0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Shaya

Savor delicious Israeli cuisine with unique flavors that the whole family can enjoy.
Located nearby your hotel.
CURRENCY120, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Night Walk at Frenchmen Street

Experience live music and the vibrant atmosphere of Frenchmen Street for a family-friendly evening outing.
A short streetcar ride.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour
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Day 7: Goodbye NOLA

McKinney, TX

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a simple breakfast at your accommodation before packing for the trip home.
In-house service.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Last-minute Sightseeing

Take a quick stroll through the nearby neighborhood or revisit a favorite spot.
Walking distance from the hotel.
CURRENCY0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Depart for McKinney

Begin your journey back home with memories filled with fun and learning.
Take the same route back.
CURRENCY0, 8 hours

12:00PM

Lunch Break

Revisit Johnny's Pizza House in Shreveport for a rewarding lunch as a family stop.
Off I-20 E.
CURRENCY60, 1 hour

1:00PM

Continue Journey Home

Conclude your New Orleans trip and relish the joy of family time en route.
Take I-20 W back to McKinney.
CURRENCY0, 4 hours

5:00PM

Arrive Home

Arrive back in McKinney, reflecting on all the wonderful experiences shared as a family.
Home sweet home!
CURRENCY0, 30 minutes
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