New Orleans is a special spot: a one-of-a-kind destination that's packed with family-friendly things to do and places to see that  can't be duplicated elsewhere (see our article for a few ideas), including the Audubon Nature Institute, a family of museums and parks dedicated to nature. The New Orleans Marriott is offering a package that includes tickets to a choice of the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas or the Audubon Zoo. With rates that range from $179-$329 per night (depending on room type), is the Four Legs or Fins Family Getaway  a good deal for families?  Let's do the math.  The package includes:

• accommodations in a room with two double beds (figuring a typical weekend stay, regular rate is $149)
• breakfast for up to two adults and two children 12 and under (worth, let's say, $30)
• four tickets to either the Audubon Aquarium (worth $56) or the Audubon Zoo ($40)        

If a family of four purchased this getaway on its own, a one-night stay in the lowest room category, with breakfast, would total $219 with zoo tickets or $235 with aquarium tickets. The Marriott's package costs just $179—which means a savings of at least $40.

Deal or no deal?  A fin-slapper of a deal.