Finding Jazz in New Orleans, LA: Day 3 & 4
Field Trip Newsletter #88
Welcome to days three and four of our trip through New Orleans, where I lay it all out for you to take the same trip. I’m a big fan of taking our son on trips that look like we would have taken before we had kids, so all of these things are kid-friendly but also perfect for a weekend away with your partner or a weekend with friends—heck, even a solo trip! If you are just joining here, start with posts from days one and two.
Thank you to Explore Louisiana for this opportunity to explore the jazz (and food) side of the city more deeply.
Day Three:
Start your morning at Willa Jean for an elevated Southern breakfast. It will give you the sustenance you need for this packed day full of adventure. Across the street from the restaurant, check out the Unframed series of murals.
After breakfast, go by the New Orleans Jazz National Park. You can find out about events in town, join a drum circle, or find a Second Line. I plan to add this from the park into our homeschool lessons.
Next, head across the river to one of our favorite finds, the Walking Jazz Tour in Algiers. You can drive or take the ferry across, starting in Jackson Square. We loved this neighborhood, wandering through the quiet streets and learning about its connection to the jazz movement, which New Orleans is known for. Pop into Congregation Coffee for an iced coffee or tea, and continue your walk. Have lunch at one of the best taco shops we’ve been to, Barracuda Taco Stand.
Once you’ve walked your morning away and have your belly full of tacos, head back across the river to catch a live performance at Preservation Hall. You should buy your tickets ahead of time because the venue is small and fills up quickly. It’s a special time to be up, close, and personal with the band. You feel like you are part of the performance. Afterward, keep the excitement going and wander through Jackson Square to catch a jazz street performance.
Next, take a street car ride. Try to grab a seat, relax for a bit, and enjoy the ride.
Finally, it's time to eat again! Try the new spot, St. Pizza. You can grab pizza by the slice or eat in their tavern. We loved it! The pizzas are big, so keep that in mind when ordering.
Day Four:
It's time to head home. Before you leave town, grab breakfast at Molly’s Rise and Shine; from the folks behind Turkey & the Wolf and Hungry Eyes, Molly's is equally quirky and innovative. If you drive to New Orleans, head east before leaving town and get some Vietnamese pastries and Bahi Mi sandwiches at Dong Phuong Bakery for the road.
Until next time, New Orleans. We will always be back! - Erin
*** Visit Explore Louisiana to discover more places throughout the state for a music genre-based trip itinerary that fits you and your musical taste. Each itinerary highlights the musical genre most associated with that area. These locations will include restaurants, dance halls, museums, outdoor activities, and more. You can pick from cajun, country, blues, and jazz (as we did), add your own spots, or follow the itinerary already created.