New Orleans, a city pulsating with vibrant music, unique culture, and mouth-watering cuisine, is an unexpectedly fantastic destination for families. Beyond the lively nightlife, there’s a treasure trove of experiences waiting for children and parents alike.
From historic landmarks to interactive museums and charming green spaces, the Big Easy offers a blend of education, entertainment, and delicious treats that will create lasting memories. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate both the must-see attractions and some delightful local secrets, ensuring you discover the best family travel guides and destination guides for your trip. These are some of the best things to do in New Orleans with kids.
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Audubon Zoo
Nestled in historic Uptown New Orleans, the Audubon Zoo offers a captivating adventure for animal lovers of all ages. Kids will be thrilled to explore diverse habitats featuring over 2,000 animals, from majestic big cats to playful primates. The Louisiana Swamp exhibit is a highlight, showcasing native wildlife like alligators and black bears in a beautifully recreated environment. It’s a perfect place for children to learn about biodiversity while enjoying plenty of space to run and play.
Good to Know: The typical adult ticket price is around $27, and children aged 2-12 cost about $22. Combo tickets that include other Audubon attractions are also available, offering good value for families. Stroller access throughout the zoo is excellent, with paved paths that make navigation easy for families with young children. Plan to spend a good 3-5 hours to fully enjoy all the exhibits and allow for breaks.
Pro-Tip: To beat the heat and the biggest crowds, aim to arrive shortly after opening. This timing often coincides with popular animal feeding times, offering a more intimate viewing experience. The zoo provides several shaded areas and water fountains, but it’s always wise to consider bringing a reusable water bottle for kids to stay hydrated throughout your visit.
Audubon Aquarium of the Americas
Dive into an underwater world at the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, conveniently located on the riverfront. This impressive aquarium brings marine life from around the globe to New Orleans. Children will be mesmerized by the giant sharks and sea turtles in the Caribbean Reef tunnel and delighted by the playful penguins and sea otters. Interactive exhibits and touch tanks provide hands-on learning, making it an engaging experience for curious young minds. It’s truly one of the fantastic things to do in New Orleans with kids.
Good to Know: Adult tickets typically cost $27, while children aged 2-12 are $22. The entire facility offers excellent stroller access, with all exhibits easily navigable for families. Most families find that 2-3 hours is a good duration to explore everything at a comfortable pace.
Pro-Tip: To avoid waiting in long lines, especially during peak tourist seasons, purchase your tickets online in advance. If you’re planning to visit the nearby Audubon Insectarium, consider buying a combo ticket to save money and time.
Jackson Square & St. Louis Cathedral
Step into the heart of the French Quarter at historic Jackson Square, a lively park surrounded by iconic architecture. Kids will love watching the talented street performers, musicians, and artists who bring the square to life with impromptu shows and vibrant displays. The stunning St. Louis Cathedral, with its distinctive spires, provides a beautiful backdrop for family photos and adds a sense of history to your visit. It’s a fantastic spot to soak in the city’s unique atmosphere and enjoy an unexpected show, making it a memorable part of your things to do in New Orleans with kids.
Good to Know: Entrance to Jackson Square is completely free, allowing families to enjoy the atmosphere without an admission fee. While the paved paths offer generally good stroller access, the square can become quite crowded, particularly on busy days. You can typically spend anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour here, or longer if you’re captivated by the street performances.
Pro-Tip: Enhance your iconic New Orleans experience by grabbing some famous beignets from the nearby Café Du Monde. Find a spot in the square and enjoy these delicious powdered sugar treats while watching the artists and performers at work.
French Quarter Exploration (Kid-Friendly)
The French Quarter is the vibrant soul of New Orleans, and it’s surprisingly family-friendly by day. Stroll along charming streets like Royal Street, admiring the colorful Creole townhouses, intricate ironwork balconies, and numerous art galleries. You’ll hear live jazz spilling from doorways and discover unique shops selling everything from voodoo dolls to local art. For a bustling but manageable experience with younger children, focus your exploration on the block between Canal Street and St. Ann Street, wisely avoiding the more adult-oriented Bourbon Street.
Good to Know: Exploring the French Quarter is free, though you’ll find plenty of opportunities for shopping and dining. The sidewalks can be uneven and crowded, so a smaller, more agile stroller will serve you best here. Plan for 1-3 hours of exploration, depending on your family’s pace and how much you stop to browse.
Pro-Tip: Head out in the morning for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, making the stroll more enjoyable for everyone. Many shops offer small, affordable souvenirs that are sure to delight children and serve as a nice memento of your trip.
Steamboat Natchez Riverboat Cruise
Embark on a journey back in time aboard the historic Steamboat Natchez, New Orleans’ last authentic paddlewheel steamboat. A cruise along the mighty Mississippi River offers spectacular views of the city skyline and the bustling port, providing a unique perspective on the city’s maritime heritage. Kids will be fascinated by the massive paddlewheel in action, marveling at the mechanics, and will enjoy the live jazz music played on board, adding to the authentic atmosphere. It’s a relaxing way to experience the grandeur of the Mississippi, making it a unique addition to your list of things to do in New Orleans with kids.
Good to Know: Prices for the Steamboat Natchez vary depending on whether you choose a day cruise or a dinner cruise, with different rates available for adults and children. Stroller access is good on the lower decks of the steamboat, and elevators are available to assist families in moving between levels. The typical duration for most cruises is around two hours, providing a leisurely and scenic experience.
Pro-Tip: Booking your tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially if you have a specific seating time in mind or are planning a popular dinner cruise. Arrive early to ensure you secure good spots on deck for optimal viewing of the river and city sights.
City Park & Carousel Gardens Amusement Park
New Orleans City Park is a sprawling urban oasis, larger than New York’s Central Park, offering endless family fun and a perfect escape from the city bustle. Wander beneath ancient oak trees draped with Spanish moss, explore picturesque lagoons, and let the kids burn off energy in the vast green spaces. Within the park, Carousel Gardens Amusement Park features over a dozen classic rides, including one of the oldest operating carousels in the country. It’s a whimsical delight for younger children and a charming throwback for parents, showcasing another side of things to do in New Orleans with kids.
Good to Know: While entry to City Park itself is free, Carousel Gardens Amusement Park requires a separate ticket for admission to its rides. Stroller access throughout the park is excellent, with wide paved paths that are easy to navigate for families. Plan for a half-day or even more if you want to fully explore both the park’s natural beauty and the amusement rides.
Pro-Tip: To make a full day of your visit, pack a picnic lunch or some snacks to enjoy in the shaded areas of the park. Don’t forget your sand-proof blanket for ultimate comfort, allowing you to relax while the kids play.
Garden District Walking Tour (Self-Guided)
Take a charming self-guided walk through the opulent Garden District, known for its grand antebellum mansions and lush gardens. Kids will enjoy imagining stories behind the historic homes, many with impressive architectural details and sprawling yards that spark curiosity. Sticking to prominent streets like Prytania Street and Washington Avenue offers easy viewing and a delightful architectural journey. It’s a beautiful, quieter contrast to the bustling French Quarter and offers a glimpse into a different, elegant side of New Orleans history.
Good to Know: A self-guided tour of the Garden District is completely free, allowing you to explore at your own pace without cost. Stroller access is generally good on the wide sidewalks, though you might encounter some challenging curb cuts at intersections. Expect to spend 1-2 hours on this tour, depending on how many photos you stop to take or how much time you spend admiring specific homes.
Pro-Tip: To truly enhance the experience, take the historic St. Charles Avenue Streetcar to reach the Garden District. The streetcar ride itself is a charming and authentic New Orleans experience, costing just a few dollars, and provides a scenic route to your starting point.
Hands-on Activities & Local Favorites
Louisiana Children’s Museum
The Louisiana Children’s Museum is a vibrant hub of interactive learning, perfect for younger children. Located in City Park, it offers engaging exhibits that encourage hands-on exploration and creative play, allowing kids to learn while having fun. Children can explore a giant water exhibit representing the Mississippi River, pretend to work in a kid-sized grocery store, or express themselves freely in the art studio. It’s a fantastic indoor option, especially on hot or rainy days, and truly celebrates Louisiana culture through imaginative play, making it a top choice for things to do in New Orleans with kids.
Good to Know: An entrance fee applies for both adults and children, though infants under 1 year old are typically free. The museum boasts excellent stroller access with wide pathways and ramps throughout, ensuring easy navigation for families. Plan for a visit of 2-3 hours to allow your children ample time to engage with all the interactive exhibits.
Pro-Tip: Always check their website for specific daily programs or workshops that might align with your child’s interests, as these can add an extra layer of fun to your visit. Don’t forget to pack a small backpack with snacks and drinks to keep energy levels up during their adventures.
New Orleans Streetcar Rides
A ride on a historic New Orleans streetcar is an attraction in itself and an incredibly affordable way to see the city’s charming neighborhoods. The rhythmic clatter and gentle sway of the streetcar evoke a sense of nostalgia that kids often find exciting and unique. The St. Charles Avenue line, famously the oldest continuously operating streetcar line in the world, offers a scenic journey past grand mansions and ancient oaks, providing a glimpse into the city’s elegant past. It’s a true, quintessential New Orleans experience not to be missed, and an easy way to experience many things to do in New Orleans with kids.
Good to Know: You can pay a per-ride cash fare, but remember that exact change is required. Alternatively, a Jazzy Pass allows for unlimited rides over a set period, which can be more convenient. While streetcars are accessible, space can be tight during busy times, so folding strollers are recommended. The typical duration varies by route, but a one-way trip on the St. Charles line can take 20-45 minutes, offering plenty of sights.
Pro-Tip: If you plan on using public transport frequently during your stay, purchasing a Jazzy Pass is a smart move. It offers convenient, unlimited rides, saving you time and the hassle of fumbling for exact change.
Storyland & Morning Call Coffee Stand in City Park
Combine classic tales with a classic New Orleans treat in City Park for a truly enchanting family experience. Storyland brings favorite fairy tales to life with whimsical, larger-than-life sculptures of characters like Humpty Dumpty and Captain Hook, inviting children to climb, explore, and let their imaginations run wild. Afterward, head to the iconic Morning Call Coffee Stand right next door for delicious hot beignets and café au lait, a perfect family indulgence in a beautiful, relaxed setting. It’s a delightful way to spend part of your day exploring things to do in New Orleans with kids.
Good to Know: There is a small admission fee to enter Storyland, making it an affordable attraction. The Morning Call Coffee Stand operates à la carte, so you only pay for what you order. Stroller access is generally good, with clear paths within Storyland and easy access around Morning Call. You can typically enjoy both attractions within 1-2 hours.
Pro-Tip: This combination makes for a delightful morning activity, allowing you to enjoy the outdoor fun and fresh beignets before the heat of the day truly sets in. Remember, the beignets are best enjoyed fresh and hot!
Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium
Prepare for a captivating encounter with the insect world at the Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium. Kids will be enchanted by the lush, free-flying butterfly garden, where colorful butterflies alight on flowers and sometimes even on visitors, creating a magical experience. Beyond butterflies, exhibits showcase a fascinating array of insects from around the world, making science both accessible and exciting for young minds. It’s a unique and immersive experience that broadens children’s understanding of nature, making it a fantastic educational outing among the things to do in New Orleans with kids.
Good to Know: Adult tickets typically cost $27, and child tickets for ages 2-12 are $22. The facility offers excellent stroller access, with all exhibits and pathways easily navigable. Most visitors find that 1-2 hours is sufficient to explore the entire insectarium at a comfortable pace.
Pro-Tip: For the brave and adventurous, don’t miss the “Bug Appétit” kitchen where diners can sample edible insects. It’s a truly memorable (and surprisingly tasty!) experience that adds an adventurous culinary twist to your visit.
Swamp Tour (Kid-Friendly Options)
For an authentic Louisiana adventure, consider taking a kid-friendly swamp tour just outside the city. Reputable operators offer guided boat tours through the bayou, providing a safe and exciting way to spot alligators, turtles, and various bird species in their natural habitat. Many tours offer insightful commentary on the ecosystem and local history, making it both thrilling and educational for all ages. Be sure to choose a tour specifically designed for families to ensure a comfortable and engaging experience, adding a thrilling element to your things to do in New Orleans with kids.
Good to Know: Prices for swamp tours vary widely depending on the operator and the length of the tour, but typically range from $25-50+ per person. Stroller access on the boats is limited, so infants might need to be in carriers for comfort and safety. The typical duration for these tours, including travel to and from the city, is usually between 2-4 hours.
Pro-Tip: It’s highly recommended to book your swamp tour in advance, especially during peak seasons, and always verify that the tour is suitable for young children. Don’t forget to bring insect repellent and a hat to protect against the sun and any insects you might encounter.
New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park
Introduce your children to the roots of American music at the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park. This unique park offers free ranger-led programs, often including interactive talks and musical demonstrations that bring the history of jazz to life. It’s an engaging way for kids to learn about the history of jazz and experience live music in its birthplace, fostering an early appreciation for music and culture. The casual, welcoming atmosphere makes it perfect for curious young listeners, a truly enriching experience among the things to do in New Orleans with kids.
Good to Know: All programs and entry to the park are free, making it an excellent budget-friendly option for families. While the facilities are generally accessible, it’s a good idea to check specific program locations for stroller accessibility. Most programs or talks last between 30 minutes to 1 hour, providing a focused and engaging experience for children.
Pro-Tip: To make the most of your visit, check the park’s official website or call ahead for the current schedule of performances and ranger talks, as these can vary seasonally. This will ensure you don’t miss out on a live music session.
French Market
The historic French Market, a sprawling open-air market spanning several blocks in the French Quarter, offers a sensory overload in the best way. Kids will love browsing the diverse stalls filled with local crafts, unique souvenirs, art, and trinkets, discovering new treasures around every corner. The food section is a culinary adventure, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to local delicacies like pralines and hot sauce. It’s a vibrant place to explore, find a unique gift, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere, offering many fun things to do in New Orleans with kids.
Good to Know: Browsing the French Market is free, though any purchases you make are extra. Stroller access is generally good, but be aware that aisles can become quite crowded, especially during peak times. You can easily spend 1-2 hours here, or even more if you linger to explore all the stalls and enjoy the various food options.
Pro-Tip: Encourage kids to practice their bargaining skills (politely!) at the souvenir stalls for a fun and memorable interaction with local vendors. Don’t forget to sample small treats from different vendors to get a true taste of New Orleans.
Voodoo Authentica Cultural Center & Voodoo Museum
For older children and teens with an interest in unique cultures and history, the Voodoo Authentica Cultural Center and Voodoo Museum offers a respectful glimpse into New Orleans Voodoo. This isn’t about spooky Halloween thrills, but rather an educational exploration of Voodoo’s deep historical and spiritual roots in the city, providing context and understanding. Knowledgeable staff are on hand to answer questions and help demystify this often-misunderstood tradition, providing a fascinating cultural lesson. It’s a unique educational experience among the things to do in New Orleans with kids.
Good to Know: There is a small admission fee for the museum section of the center. Stroller access is limited due to the nature of the space, so it’s better suited for walking children or infants in carriers. Expect to spend approximately 30-60 minutes here, allowing enough time to absorb the information and ask questions.
Pro-Tip: Approach this visit with an open mind and encourage respectful questions from your children. It’s a chance for kids to learn about a unique aspect of NOLA’s diverse cultural tapestry in an informative setting.
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Planning Smart: Logistics & Timing
1. Transportation with Kids
While walking is a fantastic way to explore the charm of the French Quarter, its often uneven sidewalks and dense crowds can pose challenges, especially if you’re navigating with a large stroller. The historic streetcars offer a charming experience, but boarding with strollers isn’t always seamless; consider using a compact umbrella stroller or folding yours if possible. For longer distances, or when little legs inevitably tire, ride-sharing services are readily available and generally provide a more convenient and direct option for families moving between different areas when exploring things to do in New Orleans with kids.
2. Weather and Hydration
New Orleans is known for its hot and humid weather, which persists for much of the year, particularly from late spring through early fall. It’s crucial to always carry plenty of water for everyone in your family, especially children, to prevent dehydration. Plan your itinerary to include indoor activities or shaded breaks during the hottest parts of the day, typically the afternoon. Packing lightweight, breathable clothing and hats is essential for sun protection and staying comfortable.
3. Meal Times & Kid-Friendly Dining
Dinner in New Orleans often starts later than what many families are accustomed to, with prime dining hours typically after 7 PM. If your kids are used to eating earlier, seek out restaurants that offer early bird specials or have more casual counter-service options. Traditional po’boy shops or neighborhood cafes are excellent choices that can accommodate earlier family dining. Fortunately, many restaurants in the city also offer dedicated kids’ menus, making it easier to find suitable options for picky eaters when exploring things to do in New Orleans with kids.
The French Quarter is undeniably enchanting, but it can become very crowded, particularly on weekends and during evenings. For a more relaxed and enjoyable family experience, it’s best to explore the main tourist areas during the daytime hours. It is generally advisable to avoid Bourbon Street with children, especially after dark, as the atmosphere shifts dramatically and becomes more adult-oriented. Stick to family-friendly streets like Royal Street for live music, art browsing, and a more pleasant stroll.
5. Safety First
Like any major tourist destination, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and prioritize safety while exploring things to do in New Orleans with kids. Keep valuables secure and out of sight, and avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night. For older children, establish a designated meeting point in case you get separated in crowded areas. Additionally, having a compact first aid kit readily available is always a good idea for minor scrapes or emergencies during your family adventures.
Final Thoughts on Your New Orleans Adventure
New Orleans with kids is an unforgettable experience, a vibrant tapestry of history, music, and flavors that captivates all ages. Embrace the city’s unique charm, from the soulful sounds of jazz spilling from open doors to the delicious local cuisine and the fascinating stories around every corner. Every street offers something new to discover for families looking for things to do in New Orleans with kids.
With a little planning, your family can easily navigate the Big Easy, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come. So pack your bags, prepare to be enchanted, and let the good times roll! For further planning, be sure to check out our most child-friendly airports worldwide, as well as guides on best compact airline-friendly strollers, travel car seats for kids, best kids luggage, best kids backpacks, portable white noise machines, and best travel adapters for families to ensure a smooth trip.
Useful resources.
- Family Travel Guides
- Explore Our Destination Guides
- Most Child-Friendly Airports Worldwide
- Best Compact Airline-Friendly Strollers
- Ultimate Guide: Travel Car Seats for Kids
- Best Kids Luggage Buying Guide
- Essential Compact Carry-On First Aid Kit for Family Travel
- Best Kids Backpacks Travel Guide
- Best Portable White Noise Machine for Babies & Kids
- Best Travel Adapters for Families
- Wikivoyage page on New Orleans
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