Explore Black History Month in New Orleans With Kids
Travel influencer Monet Hambrick and her family recently visited New Orleans to experience the rich culture and heritage that lives within the city. Known online as The Traveling Child, the family spent five days exploring family-friendly activities, including the city’s Black history. Here’s a look at how you too can explore New Orleans’ Black history with your own little ones.
As the oldest historically Black neighborhood in the country, Tremé is rich in Black-owned restaurants, museums, and historical sites. Take a walking tour to best experience the neighborhood and learn about Black history. There's plenty to see and do, from historical markers to museums and restaurants. It's a great place to start on your journey through Black history in New Orleans.
Located in Armstrong Park, Congo Square is an open space where enslaved Africans and free Blacks gathered for meetings, an open market and dance. Filled with statues and historical markers, Congo Square is a great place for a picnic or a rest stop on your journey through NOLA’s Black history.
The Whitney Plantation is unique in that it is the only plantation museum in Louisiana with an exclusive focus on sharing the history of the lives of enslaved people. Located less than an hour drive from New Orleans, the Whitney is worth the trip. Take a guided tour via the Whitney Plantation app, which is appropriate for all ages.
Monet Hambrick, courtesy of Monet Hambrick/The Traveling Child
Studio BE is a 35,000 sq ft warehouse showcasing the work of Brandan “BMike” Odums that highlights Black history in New Orleans and beyond. Oversize, colorful contemporary art drapes over the massive walls and throughout the gallery. Studio BE reflects the current moment and is a must-see for those interested in Black history or current events.
The TEP (Tate, Etienne, and Prevost) Center is a renovated mixed-use facility housed in what used to be the historic McDonogh 19 Elementary School in the Lower Ninth Ward of New Orleans. The new mixed-use facility is a safe space built on anti-racist principles. It features education & exhibition space dedicated to the history of desegregation in New Orleans Public Schools, Civil Rights, and restorative justice. Take a tour of the building and learn its history, or visit for TEP Talks, held monthly.
A truly fascinating and mostly hidden part of New Orleanian Black culture is Mardi Gras Indians. The footwork, beading, and second lines display the labor of love that these individuals pour into their suits and culture, and the results are truly breathtaking. Children will be amazed by the colorful and intricate beading.
Home to a number of phenomenal Black-owned restaurants and legendary cuisine, New Orleans takes great pride in the food they serve. Visit Dooky Chase's Restaurant for Creole cooking from the legendary Chase family. Or try Li'l Dizzy's, a lunch joint known for their daily specials. Children will enjoy Baldwin & Co., a part bookstore, part coffee shop with lots of books for young readers.
