New Orleans is a vibrant and exciting city that attracts millions of visitors every year. However, as with any tourist destination, safety is a top concern for families planning a vacation. In this article, we will explore the safety of New Orleans for families and provide some tips to help you enjoy your trip to the fullest.
Crime rates in New Orleans
One of the most important factors to consider when evaluating the safety of a city is its crime rate. While it’s true that New Orleans has a higher crime rate than many other cities in the United States, it’s important to put these statistics into context.
According to recent data, New Orleans has a violent crime rate of 1,121 per 100,000 people. This may sound alarming at first glance, but it’s worth noting that many popular tourist destinations have higher crime rates than this. For example, Las Vegas has a violent crime rate of 1,413 per 100,000 people.
When it comes to property crimes like theft and burglary, New Orleans has a rate of 3,673 per 100,000 people. Again, while this may seem high compared to other cities in the US, it’s worth noting that many popular tourist destinations have even higher property crime rates.
Staying Safe in New Orleans
While statistics can be helpful when evaluating the safety of a city, they don’t tell the whole story. It’s important for families visiting New Orleans to take some common-sense precautions to ensure their safety while enjoying all that the city has to offer.
One of the most important things you can do is to stay aware of your surroundings at all times. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and stick to well-lit streets with plenty of foot traffic. Be cautious around ATMs and avoid flashing large amounts of cash or valuables.
It’s also a good idea to stay in a safe area of the city. The French Quarter and Central Business District are generally considered to be safe for tourists, but other areas like the Lower Ninth Ward and New Orleans East may be more dangerous.
Family-Friendly Activities in New Orleans
Despite its reputation for being a party city, New Orleans has plenty of family-friendly activities to offer. Some popular options include:
- Exploring the Audubon Nature Institute, which includes attractions like the Audubon Zoo, Aquarium of the Americas, and Butterfly Garden and Insectarium.
- Taking a riverboat cruise down the Mississippi River.
- Visiting City Park, which offers everything from playgrounds and picnic areas to a botanical garden and art museum.
- Learning about the history of jazz music at the New Orleans Jazz Museum.
Conclusion
While it’s true that New Orleans has a higher crime rate than many other cities in the US, it’s important to put these statistics into context. By taking some common-sense precautions and staying in safe areas of the city, families can enjoy all that New Orleans has to offer without compromising their safety. With plenty of family-friendly activities available, there’s no reason why New Orleans can’t be a great destination for your next vacation.