A Family Overnighter in New Orleans: Flights, Beignets, and Memories Galore!
Hello everyone! I just had to share our latest family escapade – a whirlwind overnight trip to New Orleans! It all started because Thomas needed just two more flights to maintain his A-list status (imagine, 23 flights between Chicago and Austin this year alone!). So, what better excuse for a family adventure, right?
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Dates | Dec 19th-20th, 2023 |
| Flights | Southwest $177 per person (Booked Nov 3rd) PLUS One Kid on Companion Pass= $531 |
| Hotel | Holiday Inn French Quarter-Chateau Lemoyne, an IHG Hotel – $125 |
The Journey Begins:
Our journey kicked off with a bright and early 9 am flight and we returned the next day on a 7 pm flight. Although Thomas was unfortunately struck by a migraine on the second day, it didn’t dampen our spirits. We’ve ventured to New Orleans a few times before, but this trip was special for reminiscing with the kids.
Culinary Highlights:
Oh, the food! We indulged in Café Du Monde’s beignets not once, not twice, but three times – starting our culinary journey at their City Park location straight from the airport. The kids and I enjoyed them again in the French Quarter for breakfast. And guess what? We couldn’t resist grabbing them one last time at the airport!
Our Uber driver recommended Charbroiled Oysters and they were, simply put, the shiznit. We tried them at two different restaurants, with Gallier’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar topping our list. The Alligator bites, shrimp, Gumbo, and Jambalaya at Gallier’s were equally memorable.
Day 1 Explorations:
Our first day was a blast! We started at Storyland in New Orleans City Park, then checked into the lovely Holiday Inn Hotel French Quarter-Chateau Lemoyne. A walk led us to the quirky Pirate King Coffee for some top-notch iced coffee, followed by an impromptu mini-lesson at Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights. Our evening was capped off with a stroll through the French Market and the vibrant nightlife.
Day 2 Adventures:
Despite Thomas being under the weather, the kids and I made the most of our second day. We walked over to Café Du Monde, explored the French Market, and enjoyed a trolley ride. A leisurely walk along the riverfront led us back to the hotel, where we took advantage of a late checkout as IHG One Rewards cardholders to enjoy their heated saltwater pool. Our final stop before heading to the airport was the serene Louis Armstrong Park.
The Perfect Ending:
At the airport, we savored delicious Catfish and grits at Leah’s kitchen before our flight back. We arrived home by 10 pm, tired but filled with joy from our compact trip.
Reflections:
This quick getaway was the perfect treat after a busy fall. It was light on travel stress and heavy on enjoyment, leaving us all eager to plan our next overnight adventure.
Closing Thoughts:
What a trip! New Orleans, you’ve given us another set of unforgettable memories. Here’s to spontaneous adventures and the joy of exploring together as a family!