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45 BEST Things To Do With Kids New Orleans, LA (You'll Have Fun Too!)

Explore the top 45 family-friendly activities in New Orleans, LA! Find fun for kids & adults alike from museums to parks. Perfect for family travelers.

Tobi Miles

September 10, 2022

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45 BEST Things To Do With Kids New Orleans, LA (You'll Have Fun Too!)

New Orleans is a lively city in Louisiana located on the Mississippi River, adjacent to the Gulf of Mexico. The area is best known for its music and nightlife scene, along with its French, American, and African cultural influences.

Although this festive town has plenty to offer for party-goers, there are several activities for families with children to enjoy during their stay as well. The city’s optimal location creates a string of parks and outdoor activities for all to participate in.

There are plenty of activities and attractions for families with children to enjoy while visiting New Orleans. Start with the Louisiana Children’s Museum, then venture off to the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park. There are attractions like the Audubon Zoo to take advantage of year-round, along with seasonal attractions including the NOLA Christmasfest and Rowdy’s Rascals mobile petting zoo.

New Orleans is a great place to visit year-round for family travelers. Between historical landmarks and beachfront parks, there is something for everyone to enjoy here.

If you are planning a trip to New Orleans with your family or considering one, this is a great place to start. We’ve created a list of the 45 best things to do in New Orleans with kids. Keep reading to discover the most family-friendly attractions in the city!

1. Louisiana Children’s Museum

The Louisiana Children’s Museum is an excellent place to start on your journey through New Orleans. The property is composed of 8.5 acres of land, with plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to explore!

The museum is located in New Orleans City Park, making it a great pit stop between other nearby activities. If you have a few hours to spare on your itinerary, consider checking out all of the interactive and educational exhibits they have to offer inside.

2. Carousel Gardens Amusement Park

Carousel Gardens is a magical amusement park, and one of New Orleans’ most beloved attractions for children of all ages. The outdoor venue is composed of 1300-acres of land, providing tons of space for kids to run around and explore the attractions.

It has been open since 1850, making it a historical attraction as well as an amusement park. Children under 36” tall are admitted for free. While the park itself is open to all ages, this activity is recommended for children who are at least 3, to ensure participation in all activities.

Related Read: Best Time to Visit New Orleans

3. Audubon Aquarium of the Americas

The Audubon Aquarium of the Americas is an expansive aquarium on Canal Street located near the French Quarter. This top-rated attraction offers a unique adventure to children of all ages visiting the area.

One of the best features about this place is the submerged Maya city, presenting an unforgettable underwater adventure to those who enter. There are hundreds of colorful marine species to explore throughout the aquarium.

4. Storyland

Storyland is a city park in New Orleans composed of a storybook-themed fantasy play area. There are several sculpture characters scattered around the playground for children to play with.

Built in 1950, this is another historical landmark in the city to explore. Adjacent to the fantasy play area is the popular amusement park Carousel Gardens. If you happen to be in the area seeing one of them, it is definitely worth it to see the other in one trip!

5. French Quartour Kids

French Quartour Kids is a tour company providing guided history tours specifically for children through the city of New Orleans. The kid-friendly tours will take you through the French Quarter and other notable landmark areas in the city.

One of the most unique features of this particular tour is the Ghost Hunt For Kids activity. During this time, kids will learn ghost hunting techniques and explore various tools to help them on their journey.

6. Audubon Zoo

The Audubon Zoo is a must-do list item when visiting New Orleans with kids. The expansive property houses hundreds of exotic animals to explore, from lions and tigers to elephants and monkeys.

The museum is open during the day from Thursday to Monday, but is closed on Tuesday and Wednesday. This is something to keep in mind before you visit. All ages are welcome inside the gates to spend the day exploring and learning about their favorite animals.

7. The Riverwalk Play Area

📍Map It: New Orleans, LA 70130| Hours: Open daily 10 am - 7 pm | Entrance: Free | Age Group: All ages welcome

The Riverwalk is a popular shopping center located in New Orleans. The outlet shops contain a wide variety of retail vendors, along with restaurants and entertainment options.

Included in this area is a play area specifically for kids. It is consistent of a playground jungle gym with lots of fun and challenging components to get through.

The enclosed area is conveniently located near the shops at the disposal of parents who want to visit Riverwalk during their vacation. It is an excellent place to stop by before you leave or to keep children occupied while the shopping gets done.

Related Read: 25 Best Romantic Getaways in New Orleans

8. Cool Zoo

📍Map It: New Orleans, LA 70118 | Website | Hours: Open Thursday-Friday 10 am - 1pm and Monday 10 am - 1 pm | Entrance: $99 general admission | Age Group: Ages 6+ recommended

Cool Zoo is an individual section located within the larger Audubon Zoo. This attraction offers a 750-foot lazy river, along with several other wet and wild activities. Kids can slide down a giant alligator-themed water slide into a pool with lots of water splashing them at every turn.

This is a great way to cool off during a hot day in New Orleans. Be sure to pack swimwear and safety gear. The attraction is recommended for children 6 and up, or those who can swim on their own.

9. Lakeside Kids’ Castle

📍Map It: 3301 Veterans Blvd #79a, Metairie, LA 70002 | Website | Entrance: Free | Age Group: All ages welcome, ages 3+ recommended

The Kids’ Castle is located inside the Lakeside Shopping Center in Metairie, Louisiana. The shopping center itself offers plenty of retail vendors and dining options for adults.

However, children can easily get bored being on their feet or riding around in a shopping cart with no hands-on activities. The adjacent Lakeside Kids’ Castle solves this problem with a medieval themed castle to climb on and several hand-washing stations around it.

10. Paddlewheeler Creole Queen

Paddlewheeler Creole Queen is a gigantic paddlewheel boat open to the public for tours. Sail off into the Mississippi aboard the classic ship any day during opening hours.

The historic boat contains private dining rooms and serves dinner options to guests as well. Visitors of all ages are welcomed, as long as they are accompanied by an adult. This is a great way to see the Mississippi River on board a vintage paddlewheel boat for an unforgettable experience!

11. New Orleans Kayak Swamp Tours

New Orleans Kayak Swamp Tours provide the opportunity for tourists to explore the vast swamps on board a kayak. The tours are guided by experienced and friendly staff who will show you the ins and outs of nearby swamps.

Due to the fact that the tours are given through open water and require paddling, this attraction is recommended for children ages 12 and up in general. They are open 24 hours for one of the most unique tour experiences you can find in the country!

12. Jackson Square

📍Map It: 701 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | Hours: Open daily 9 am - 6 pm| Entrance: Free | Age Group: All ages welcome

Jackson Square is a historical landmark located in the center of the French Quarter on Decatur Street. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, and can certainly be visited with children!

The landmark is part of the nearby historic French Market, making it a perfect double-stop during a day visiting the French Quarter. Grab some of their famous beignets and take a walk around Jackson Square, exploring the rich history of the area.

13. Mardi Gras World - Riverfront

Mardi Gras World is a unique cultural experience in New Orleans, open 7 days a week with admission beginning at 9 am every morning. Free shuttle rides are offered when contacting the venue ahead of time by phone, which is something to keep in mind before you travel.

Some of the available attractions on the property include life-size elements from Mardi Gras floats and other artistic props. The vibrant colors will be interesting for children of all ages to walk through. Tours are self guided, and admission starts at $22 per person.

14. New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum

The New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum is an essential educational experience for anyone visiting New Orleans. It has been open since 1972, providing artifacts and history on the city’s history of Voodoo.

The staff also offers a Voodoo walking tour, taking guests around the city to point out notable landmarks and tell stories related to its historical past. Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop on your way out to purchase cemetery prints and other unique souvenirs.

15. French Quarter Phantoms

French Quarter Phantoms is the leading ghost tour provider in New Orleans. Book a tour to get the full scoop on ghosts and vampires around the city. There are also specialized Cemetery Tours and Garden District Tours to explore.

Entry prices vary on the specific tour selected for your trip. While the tours are open to people of all ages, it is recommended to bring children who are at least 12 years old, due to the potentially frightening material.

16. French Market

The French Market in New Orleans is a historical landmark location, as well as a functional shopping center. Located in the French Quarter, it is an excellent place to stop by the cafe to try some of their classic and delicious beignets.

You will immediately notice the beautiful French architecture at the entryway and around the shops. Explore the flea market section with daily vendors, along with the Farmers Market for fresh produce and other goods.

17. Confetti Park

Confetti Park is a specialty playground for children located on Pelican Ave in New Orleans. The play area was designed by an architect and sculptor in partnership to create a whimsical space for kids to explore.

It has been open since 1996, and was a remodel of the original firehouse in its place since 1851. The historical area turned playground is a great place to stop by during the day for a break between attractions. Children of all ages can run around and let out any additional energy before, after, or during a day of fun.

18. New Orleans City Park

📍Map It: 1 Palm Dr, New Orleans, LA 70124 | Hours: Open 24 hours | Entrance: Free | Age Group: All ages welcome

New Orleans City Park is a public recreational area open 24/7 to the public. Entrance is free, and there is no shortage of activities to explore throughout its 1300 acres of land. It is on the top 100 list of largest urban parks in the country, and is number 20 on the list of most visited.

The City Park is almost 50% larger than Central Park in New York City! Guests can walk around a network of nature trails through the trees, walk over bridges, and play in the grass. Participate in sports games or pack lunch for a picnic, the possibilities are endless!

19. Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes & Culture

📍Map It: 1010 Conti St, New Orleans, LA 70112 | Phone: (504) 218-4872 | Hours: Open Thursday - Monday 11 am - 3 pm| Entrance: $20 general admission | Age Group: All ages welcome

The Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes & Culture provides additional insight into the Mardi Gras grassroots traditions. If you are seeking an educational experience during your visit, it is a great idea to take the kids to this museum!

All ages are welcome to enter this venue and see the fun, creative costumes on display. The colorful and whimsical designs are sure to amuse both younger and older children.

20. The National WWII Museum

The National WWII Museum is another rich educational experience that gives insight into New Orleans’ history. There are several exhibits throughout the property that aim to highlight different world leaders and their impact on the United States.

This museum was designated by Congress as the official museum commemorating WWII. Museum tours are also available for a guided experience through the vast campus and series of exhibits. There is plenty to explore when you plan to spend an entire day here!

21. New Orleans Botanical Garden

The New Orleans Botanical Garden is located within the larger New Orleans City Park. It is most significant for being the first classical garden in the city. Its creation was made possible by the Works Progress Administration, which provided the necessary funding.

There are over 2,000 unique plant species from all over the world available on display at the Botanical Garden. It is open daily for viewing between the hours of 9 am and 4 pm.

Step into this quiet retreat between attractions or to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is a great way to kill some time during the day and is totally kid-friendly!

22. Wheel Fun Rentals

Wheel Fun Rentals is one of the most unique outdoor attractions New Orleans has to offer. Visit this location to rent out a swan pedal boat to ride across the water at Rainbow Lagoon Park.

There are over 100 locations worldwide, including this one in New Orleans. Wheel Fun is a trusted provider with several years of industry experience. You can expect friendly staff and quality rentals during your visit.

This particular attraction in New Orleans is recommended for children aged 12 and over, or for those who can swim on their own. Children should always be accompanied or supervised by an adult when riding pedal boats on the water.

23. Escape My Room

📍Map It: 633 Constance St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | Website | Hours: Open daily 9 am - 9 pm | Entrance: $100 per 2 people | Age Group: Ages 6+ recommended

Escape My Room is another classic escape room attraction in New Orleans, Louisiana. There are a variety of unique room settings to choose from and rent out for your journey.

The perfect family activity, your group will be forced to decode clues and work together to escape before it’s too late. Will you make it out before the clock runs out, or will you lose the game?

This is an excellent bonding and team-building activity to explore with kids while in New Orleans. It is recommended to bring children over the age of 6 to ensure they can participate in the game and have the most enjoyable time.

24. Louis Armstrong Park

📍Map It: 701 N Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | Hours: Open daily 8 am - 6 pm | Entrance: Free | Age Group: All ages welcome

Louis Armstrong Park is a public recreation area on Rampart Street in New Orleans. It is open to everyone daily between the hours of 8 am to 6 pm. It is the perfect place to spend an entire day from sunrise to sunset, or to stop by between attractions to kill some time.

Entrance is free, and there are many things you can do while you’re there. If you are in search of free or low cost activities to mix into your itinerary, this is the perfect addition.

Bring along a ball for a game of kickball or some hula hoops and frisbees. Parks are always great for picnicking or sunbathing during the day.

25. Le Petit Theatre Du Vieux Carre

📍Map It: 616 St Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116 | Phone: (504) 522-2081 | Website | Entrance: ticket prices vary by show | Age Group: Ages 6+ recommended

The Le Petit Theatre is one of New Orlean’s most classic landmark locations. It serves as a performing arts theater, regularly putting on live shows. Tickets can be purchased online or in person, and prices will vary depending on the specific event.

The small professional theatre was originally built in 1916, and has been kept in working condition since. This attraction is recommended for children ages 6 and older, or those who can sit still without disturbing other guests during a show. If you have children who may be interested in acting or enjoy live performances in general, this is the place to go!

26. Cajun Encounters Tour Company

Cajun Encounters offers unique tour packages through all significant areas of New Orleans. Guests can choose between swamp tours, pub crawls, plantation tours, city bus tours, and more.

For families traveling with children, this can be an excellent way to explore the city’s swamps, cemeteries, historical landmarks, and more. All ages are welcome to join in on the tour, and admission prices will vary depending on the chosen route and duration.

27. Saddle Up & Ride

Saddle Up & Ride is the leading provider of horseback riding lessons in the New Orleans area. Located nearby in the city of Avondale, the riding school has years of experience teaching children of all ages how to ride horses.

This particular attraction is special because they offer lessons that are geared toward children specifically. These classes have a maximum weight limit of 100 pounds, making it ideal for younger children. Admission costs start at $40 per person for a one-hour private lesson.

28. The 1850 House

The 1850 House is a historical landmark on St Ann Street in New Orleans. The attraction is open from Tuesday through Sunday during daytime hours, closed on Monday. Guests can view the historic antebellum row house, kept in restored condition from the year it was built.

The house is nestled on Jackson Square near the French Market. After you complete your tour of the house and all the classic furniture inside, you can easily access the French Quarter and other nearby attractions.

29. The Moon Walk

📍Map It: New Orleans, LA 70116 | Hours: Open daily 6 am - 10 pm | Entrance: Free | Age Group: All ages welcome

The Moon Walk is a city park in New Orleans, just a short walk away from Jackson Square. If you happen to be visiting the French Quarter or a nearby area, you can easily access this park after a few minutes of walking.

The park is nestled along the Mississippi River, offering beautiful waterfront views. Other areas of the city can also be viewed from the shoreline. It is a quiet place to enjoy lovely scenery inside the larger Woldenberg Park that surrounds it.

30. Clue Carre

Clue Carre is yet another escape room center in New Orleans, Louisiana. Located on Union Street, this place is unique for being the first live escape game created throughout the entire city.

They now have a string of locations around New Orleans, so you will have the opportunity to visit the closest location at your convenience. Their array of escape rooms and themes do not disappoint, you are sure to have a thrilling experience with your family during your visit!

31. Rock n Bowl

📍Map It: 3016 S Carrollton Ave, New Orleans, LA 70118 | Phone: (504) 861-1700 | Website | Hours: Open Tuesday - Sunday 5 pm - 11 pm | Age Group: Ages 12+ recommended

Rock n Bowl is a classic bowling alley located on Carrollton Avenue in New Orleans. They are open from Tuesday to Sunday, opening at 5 pm and closing at 11 pm.

The venue is known for the live music and dancing performances it offers. There are also plenty of dining options for guests to enjoy. This attraction is recommended for children ages 12 and up, due to the late opening and closing hours.

32. Hermann-Grima House

📍Map It: 820 St Louis St, New Orleans, LA 70112 | Phone: (504) 274-0750 | Hours: Open Saturday-Sunday and Wednesday-Friday 10 am - 12 pm and 1 pm - 4 pm | Entrance: $16 per adult, $13 per child, children under 8 admitted free | Age Group: all ages welcome

The Hermann-Grima House is a 200-year old restored home in New Orleans’ French quarter. Built in the 19th century, the original architecture has been kept in pristine condition, reflecting how the city looked in that time period.

The gigantic mansion reflects a Federal-style, and includes a garden on the property, as well as an expansive courtyard. Guests are welcome to enter and tour the property for a general admission fee. Children under the age of 8 are admitted for free, which is convenient for families with young kids!

33. Adventure Quest Laser Tag Family Fun Center

Adventure Quest Laser Tag Family Fun Center is a single venue in New Orleans that truly has it all. The activities beyond the front doors range from laser tag to bumper cars and even an arcade!

They are open in the evenings on weekdays and earlier in the afternoon on the weekends. This is something to keep in mind before you visit. Ages 6 and older are recommended for this attraction to prevent injuries when playing with older children.

34. NOLA Christmasfest

📍Map It: 900 Convention Center Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70130 | Phone: (504) 582-3000 | | Hours: Seasonal availability Dec 16 - 31 | Age Group: all ages welcome

The NOLA Christmasfest is a seasonal attraction available in December in New Orleans. The family-friendly event is hosted by Coca-Cola, and includes a wide range of Christmas-themed activities.

If you happen to be visiting New Orleans during the holidays, it is worth it to stop by and see the festive Christmas lights and activities around the property. Small children can visit Santa and tell him their gift wishes before departing!

35. Buzz Nola Bike Tours & Rentals

Buzz Nola Bike Tours & Rentals can provide all of your bike rental or purchase needs. They have tons of electric bikes to choose from to tour around the city.

If you are a first-time visitor, it may be helpful to opt for a guided tour at $50 per person. This is a great activity for families with older children who are able to ride a bike on their own. Cruise through the historical areas of New Orleans with an experienced local behind the handlebars of a cool e-bike!

36. Dave & Busters

📍Map It: 1200 Poydras St Unit 601, New Orleans, LA 70113 | Phone: (504) 226-3300 | Hours: Open daily 11 am - 1 am | Entrance: Free | Age Group: all ages welcome

Dave & Busters is a well-known restaurant chain across the United States. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re looking for something that will feel like home, this is the place to go!

The sports and arcade bar inside the restaurant provides the perfect activity for children of all ages. Stop by for lunch between attractions or go for dinner in the evening. Your kids will be excited to end the day with fun arcade game and delicious food!

37. Airline Skate Center

Credit: Youth Empowerment Project / Twitter

Airline Skate Center is a roller skating rink in New Orleans’ nearby city of Metairie. They are open Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday weekly during the day.

Admission is charged at $12 per person, and skate rentals will cost an additional $3 per person. When you get inside, there is a large and open skating rink to take advantage of. If you visit in the evening hours, you may be able to skate in the dark with neon lights!

38. Salty Dog Charters

Salty Dog Charters provides guided fishing tours in New Orleans. Hop on board a chartered boat with an experienced guide to discover the best places to catch fish in Louisiana.

If you have fishing enthusiasts in your family, or are looking for a fun way to soak up the sun during the day, a fishing charter is an excellent choice! Pricing will depend on the chosen boat and tour duration. It is recommended to check their website prior to traveling for any booking concerns.

39. Louisiana State Museum - The Presbytere

The Louisiana State Museum is another essential educational experience for family travelers in New Orleans. It contains a series of collections unique to the area, along with educational programs for children of all ages.

The state of Louisiana has plenty of culture, history, and heritage to explore. All of that and more is on display at this massive collection of exhibits. The museum was originally founded in 1906, and is considered to be one of the city’s historic landmarks. It is open to visitors of all ages at the general admission cost of $27 per person.

40. Woldenberg Park

📍Map It: 1 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | Hours: Open daily 6 am - 10 pm | Entrance: Free | Age Group: all ages welcome

Woldenberg Park is a large public recreational area located on Canal Street in New Orleans. It consists of smaller areas within the park, including the Moon Walk area near the Mississippi. The park is open to the public daily, with no fee for admission or age requirements.

41. The Mystere Mansion

📍Map It: 4800 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70119 | Phone: (504) 483-2350 | Hours:Open daily 9 am - 5 pm | Entrance: inquire for group pricing | Age Group: ages 6+ recommended

The Mystere Mansion is another escape game located in New Orleans. There are plenty of unique rooms to choose from with your team. It is recommended to bring children over the age of 6 who will be more likely to participate in the activities.

42. Atkinson-Stern Tennis Center

📍Map It: 4025 S Saratoga St, New Orleans, LA 70115 | Phone: (504) 658-3060 | Website | Hours: Open 8 am - 7 pm daily | Age Group: all ages welcome

The Atkinson-Stern Tennis Center is a historic complex and is known for being one of the oldest in New Orleans. The tennis courts are open to the public daily from 8 am to 7 pm. All ages are welcome to get some exercise and play tennis on the historic outdoor courts.

43. Fulton Alley

Fulton Alley is another great bowling alley located in the New Orleans Area. This venue doesn’t charge per person, but per lane. You can expect to pay $50 per hour for each lane you rent out, and $4 per person for shoe rentals.

44. Coconut Beach Volleyball Complex

📍Map It: 100 Coconut Beach Ct, Kenner, LA 70065 | Phone: (504) 305-4090 | Website | Hours: Open Monday-Friday 6 am - 12 pm, Saturday 3 pm - 10 pm, closed Sunday | Age Group: all ages welcome

The Coconut Beach Volleyball Complex is composed of 100,000 square feet. It is not only a man-made beach, but also the largest sports complex of its kind in the country! Guests are free to stop by to play a game of volleyball between the hours of 6 am and 12 pm on weekdays or 3 pm to 10 pm on Saturdays.

45. Rowdy’s Rascals

📍Map It: New Orleans, LA | Website | Hours: Seasonal availability | Entrance: Free | Age Group: all ages welcome

Rowdy’s Rascals is a mobile petting zoo in the New Orleans area. When you are visiting the city, you may be able to catch them near one of the city’s popular shopping centers or parks. This attraction is open to all, but is subject to seasonal availability. Be sure to check their website for location and hours information!

Tobi Miles

Article updated:

March 28, 2024

A nomadic wordsmith savoring the world's flavors and penning stories that turn every journey into an epic.

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