⚓ Family Fun in the French Quarter: Discover Adventure with Pirates of the Quarter

Experience New Orleans History Through a Pirate’s Eyes

If you’re planning a family trip to New Orleans and looking for fun, history, and a little bit of adventure, the French Quarter is the place to be. Known for its colorful architecture, street performers, and live music, this centuries-old neighborhood is packed with stories waiting to be discovered. Among all the top things to do in the French Quarter, one experience stands out as both family-friendly and unforgettable — the Pirates of the Quarter Walking Tour.

Led by real costumed pirates, this award-winning tour brings the legends of Jean Lafitte, Pierre Lafitte, and their crew to life. Families follow their pirate guide through narrow streets, hidden courtyards, and famous landmarks while hearing tales of smuggling, sword fights, and the daring battles that shaped Louisiana’s history. Kids love the pirates and humor, adults love the storytelling and history — and everyone walks away with a new appreciation for New Orleans’ adventurous past.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler returning to the Crescent City, this unique tour is a must-do experience that combines history, humor, and just the right amount of swashbuckling fun.

Jackson Square: The Heart of the Quarter

Every French Quarter adventure should begin at Jackson Square, the city’s most photographed landmark. Once a military parade ground, the square is now a lively hub surrounded by artists, musicians, and local performers. Families can stroll along the iron fences lined with paintings, stop to watch a brass band, or snap a family photo with the iconic Andrew Jackson statue in the background.

Just steps from Jackson Square, you’ll find two more must-see attractions: St. Louis Cathedral and Café du Monde — both perfect stops before or after your pirate adventure.

St. Louis Cathedral: A Piece of Living History

Standing tall since 1794, the St. Louis Cathedral is one of the oldest continuously active Catholic cathedrals in the United States. Its three steeples and white façade dominate Jackson Square, creating a picture-perfect view that defines New Orleans’ skyline.

Step inside and you’ll be greeted with stunning stained glass, painted ceilings, and centuries of history. Even if your family isn’t religious, the cathedral offers a peaceful and fascinating look into the city’s colonial roots and architectural beauty. It’s the perfect place to cool off, learn something new, and take a quiet moment before continuing your French Quarter exploration.

Café du Monde: A Sweet Treat for Every Traveler

No trip to the French Quarter is complete without stopping at Café du Monde, the city’s most famous coffee stand. Founded in 1862, this open-air café sits just across from Jackson Square and serves only two things: beignets and coffee with chicory — and that’s all it needs.

The beignets are hot, fluffy squares of fried dough smothered in powdered sugar. Watching kids try not to sneeze sugar everywhere is part of the fun! Whether you grab a table to enjoy the street music or take your order to go, this sweet stop is a family favorite that’s easy to fit into any day in the Quarter.

Take to the Water on the Creole Queen

After exploring on foot, it’s time to see New Orleans from the water. The Creole Queen Paddlewheeler offers an authentic riverboat experience on the Mighty Mississippi. Families can take a historic river cruise to Chalmette Battlefield, where General Andrew Jackson and the Lafitte pirates helped win the Battle of New Orleans in 1815.

Onboard, enjoy incredible views of the city skyline. It’s a relaxing and educational way to connect the pirate stories you heard on the walking tour with real Louisiana history.

Dive Under the Sea at the Audubon Aquarium

Just a short walk from Jackson Square along the Mississippi Riverfront, the Audubon Aquarium is one of the best family attractions in New Orleans. Recently renovated, it features immersive exhibits showcasing sea life from the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean, and the Amazon Rainforest.

Kids love walking through the underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks and rays, while parents can enjoy the educational displays on Louisiana’s coastal ecosystems. The Aquarium is fully air-conditioned — a welcome escape from the Louisiana heat — and conveniently located near the Woldenberg Park promenade and the French Market.

The Audubon Zoo: Wild Fun Uptown

For another full day of family fun, head uptown to the Audubon Zoo, part of the same family of attractions as the Aquarium. This world-class zoo sits under the shade of massive live oaks in Audubon Park and features more than 2,000 animals from around the world — including Louisiana’s own white alligators.

Ride the Safari Train, visit the Louisiana Swamp exhibit, or cool off at the splash park during summer months. The zoo’s layout makes it easy for families with strollers, and the natural scenery is stunning year-round. If you’ve got a few days in the city, pairing the Pirates of the Quarter Walking Tour with a trip to the Audubon Zoo offers the perfect mix of education, adventure, and outdoor fun.

Why Pirates of the Quarter Is a Family Favorite

What makes Pirates of the Quarter stand out among all the attractions in New Orleans? It’s the combination of accurate history, engaging performance, and family-friendly energy. Your guide isn’t reading from a script — they live the pirate life, walking you through the same streets where Jean Lafitte and his crew once roamed.

• Educational and Entertaining: Kids learn about real history — smuggling, the War of 1812, and the pirate code — in a way that feels like a live-action storybook.

• Interactive Experience: Families can ask questions, take photos, and even “join the crew” for a bit of fun along the way.

• Local Expertise: These pirates are locals who love the city and its history. Their passion and humor make the stories come alive.

• Perfect for All (most) Ages: The tour is designed to entertain both adults and kids, so no one feels left out. It’s recommended for kids over 10 but if your little one likes history and learning then it’s great for anyone!

If you’re searching for things to do in the French Quarter with kids or want an experience that everyone in the family will remember, this is it. The tour runs year-round and is easy to fit into your French Quarter itinerary.

Book your spot early — pirates don’t wait for latecomers!

Plan Your Perfect French Quarter Day

Here’s a sample itinerary for a full day of family fun in the French Quarter:

1. Morning: Start with breakfast at Café du Monde and a stroll around Jackson Square.

2. Late Morning: Step inside the St. Louis Cathedral and snap family photos with the horse-drawn carriages.

3. Afternoon: Join a Pirates of the Quarter Walking Tour — adventure, laughter, and history rolled into one.

4. Evening: Take a Creole Queen river cruise for sunset views of the Mississippi.

5. Next Day: Visit the Aquarium or Audubon Zoo for more animal encounters and Louisiana wildlife.

It’s the perfect blend of sightseeing, storytelling, and pure New Orleans charm.

Set Sail on Your Family Adventure

The French Quarter is more than just a destination — it’s an experience. From powdered-sugar smiles at Café du Monde to sword-clashing stories on Pirates Alley, every corner of this neighborhood tells a tale. Families visiting New Orleans will find plenty of activities that mix history, culture, and fun — but none capture the city’s adventurous spirit quite like Pirates of the Quarter.

So lace up your boots, grab the family, and set sail for adventure in the French Quarter!