NAEYC’s 17th National Institute for Early Childhood Professional Development

New Orleans Attractions

"Ding ding goes the trolley..."

The area surrounding the site of the 17th National Institute for Early Childhood Professional Development is filled with many exciting things to do:

There is no better way to soak up the essence of New Orleans than a stroll through the French Quarter.  It’s block after block of fine dining, music venues, nightclubs, charming boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries.  Attractions in the Quarter include Bourbon Street, Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and the French Market. 

A great way to sightsee is to take the streetcar line.  The longest of New Orleans' streetcar lines, the St. Charles Avenue Streetcar, is the oldest continuously operating street railway system in the world.  Three streetcar routes operate in the city.

Art lovers will enjoy the huge collection of international art work and archaeological finds at the New Orleans Museum of Art.  Other art museums in the city include the Contemporary Arts Center and the Ogden Museum of Southern Art.

New Orleans is also noted for its many beautiful cemeteries.  Some notable cemeteries in the city include Saint Louis Cemetery and Metairie Cemetery.

The Audubon Zoo, and its sister site, the Aquarium of the Americas, are impressive showcases of creatures found regionally and across the world, including such rarities as white tigers and 450-pound sharks. The Aquarium of the Americas is also home to New Orleans' IMAX Theatre.

New Orleans is said to be the birthplace of jazz.  Every night of the week, the streets and clubs of the Big Easy are alive with vibrant music.  From jazz to Cajun to bluegrass to rock n’ roll, there's something for every ear, every day of the week.

New Orleans is world-famous for its food.  Relish the rich flavors of an unforgettable meal in one of its superb restaurants.  Sample the city’s eclectic menu of legendary dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, red beans and rice, etoufee, po-boys, beignets, and pralines.  Food in New Orleans is a way of life and a huge part of the city’s charm.

Located in the New Orleans’ Arts/Warehouse District, the Louisiana Children's Museum is a hands-on learning environment with over 100 interactive exhibits and many educational programs held regularly throughout the year. Explore art, music, science, math, health, and role-playing environments.

A must-see for history lovers is The National World War II Museum! It’s been designated by the U.S. Congress as the country’s official World War II Museum. It illustrates the American experience during the World War II era with moving personal stories, historic artifacts, and powerful interactive displays.  It brings to life the teamwork, optimism, courage, and sacrifice of the men and women who won the war and changed the world.