Gramma. Grampa. Granddad, Grandma, Granny, Gramps… whatever term of endearment we use, one’s grandparents are very special people for most of us. I was blessed to have a grandmother whose name was Fannie – Granny Fannie to me. Time spent with grandparents is best not taken for granted. Before you, or any of us, plan out a day for them, I recommend asking Grannie and Gramps what they would enjoy doing with you. Below are some suggestions for activities worth considering in New Orleans when you/we get time together with our grandparents.
College Baseball Games
Baseball is the sport that, in all likelihood, your grandparents grew up loving. Baseball is a slow, relaxing, and multiple-hour experience. It allows for conversation without interfering with anyone else’s enjoyment of the game. We can enjoy a cold refreshing adult beverage, soda, coffee, hot dogs, and peanuts while watching the game. And we also get to enjoy the company of those we love.
New Orleans doesn’t have a pro or minor league team, but the college games are fantastic to attend. We recommend the following college team to attend:
A Round of Golf
Depending on the physical condition of your grandparents, a few hours out on a golf course might be something they would enjoy. Golf is about as relaxing as an activity can get, especially when we rent a golf cart to use. The time between shots (on the course, and not just at the 19th hole) allows time and opportunity for conversation. Perhaps memories of rounds played in the past with family and old friends. Even in your golden years, you can improve your swing speed, putting, and chipping. Birdie up!
Bayou Oaks at City Park, the South Course, is an excellent setting for a golf outing. Featuring 18 holes of championship golf in New Orleans City Park, several different tee-off locations are available, allowing golfers of all skill levels to get in the game. There are an additional 18 holes open and a fabulous clubhouse to relax in after the game.
Live Music and Dinner
Everyone knows you don’t need to look far to find live music in New Orleans. Take your grandparents down Bourbon or Frenchmen Street and hit local clubs like The Spotted Cat, House of Blues, d.b.a, among dozens of other fabulous spots. Afterward, grab a bite to eat at Antoine’s Restaurant or Napoleon House for a cut above dining experience.
Bayou Oaks at City Park, the South Course, is an excellent setting for a golf outing. Featuring 18 holes of championship golf in New Orleans City Park, several different tee-off locations are available, allowing golfers of all skill levels to get in the game. There are an additional 18 holes open and a fabulous clubhouse to relax in after the game.
Bowling
Maybe Granddad and Grandma enjoy, or have enjoyed in the past, some cold beer, bowling, and dancing to live bands? Mid City Lanes Rock ‘n’ Bowl is the place to take them. The musical entertainment buzzes every night, with sounds from funk, to blues, rock-n-roll, and zydeco. Throw a few games, knock down some pins and pints, and then take to the dance floor. I wonder if your grandparents’ first date was at a bowling alley. Ask them. That may be why they want to sit in the back seat on the way to a night of bowling, boogying, and beverages. I remember Leo, the bartender, from a bowling alley I frequented in my youth. The man could mix a fine drink. He was a true Jedi Bartender.
Riverboat City of New Orleans
Just sit right back and create a tale, a tale of a two-hour trip… Ginger, Mary Ann, and the Mighty Mississippi. For a couple of hours, the family can take in the panoramic views of New Orleans, which can only be seen from the middle of the river.
Lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch cruises, all with live jazz music, are enjoyable for everyone. New Orleans-style cooking, of course, and a cash bar for those age 21 and over. I bet that Grandma and Grandpa would enjoy some leisurely time with their grandchildren, doing nothing but chatting and strolling on the decks while taking in the view.
Religious Services and Old Cemeteries
The odds are good that your grandparents have some friends of their age and background at these community gatherings and rituals. They may get some real pleasure out of being able to introduce you, their grandchildren, to them. Going to visit old cemeteries may sound maudlin or macabre, but again the odds are that your grandparents have friends and family buried. Perhaps they have not gone to visit the gravesites for quite some time. They might appreciate being able to share old stories from days gone by.
CONCLUSION
We hope this article inspires you to take your grandparents out and explore all New Orleans offers. If you are looking for assisted living and memory care in New Orleans, please don’t hesitate to contact Peristyle Residences. We are looking forward to meeting you and your family.
