Top 5 Family-Friendly Activities in New Orleans: 2024 Guide


City Park New Orleans
Infrogmation of New Orleans, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

New Orleans, a city famed for its vibrant music scene, rich history, and unique culture, is also a treasure trove of family-friendly activities. Whether you’re visiting with toddlers, tweens, or teens, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From lush parks to interactive museums and kid-friendly attractions, here are some top recommendations to make your family trip to the Big Easy memorable and enjoyable.

1. Exploring City Parks

Audubon Park

Located in the Uptown neighborhood, Audubon Park is a sprawling green oasis perfect for a family day out. The park features a picturesque lagoon, walking and biking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds. Don’t miss the Audubon Zoo, where kids can get up close with animals worldwide, including the famous white alligators.

Front view of Audubon Zoo
MeRyan, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

City Park

City Park, one of the country’s oldest urban parks, offers many activities for families. The park boasts an enchanting botanical garden, Storyland – an amusement park with storybook-themed sculptures – and the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park. The park’s Train Garden and the historic carousel are always a hit with the little ones. You can also play a round of mini-golf at City Putt located inside the park.

2. Museums for All Ages

Louisiana Children’s Museum

The Louisiana Children’s Museum, located in the newly developed area of City Park, is an interactive haven for kids. The museum offers hands-on exhibits that encourage learning through play. Highlights include a giant bubble maker, a mock grocery store, and a wetlands exhibit where children can explore the local ecosystem.

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas

Situated along the Mississippi River, the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas is home to a dazzling array of marine life. Kids can marvel at sharks, touch stingrays, and even walk through a tunnel surrounded by tropical fish. The aquarium’s interactive exhibits make learning about marine biology fun and engaging.

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas
ironypoisoning, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The National WWII Museum

While this museum may seem more suited for older children and adults, the National WWII Museum offers special exhibits and interactive displays that can captivate young minds. The museum provides a comprehensive and immersive experience that can help children understand the importance of history.

3. Kid-Friendly Attractions

Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium

Also located in the Audubon Nature Institute family, the Butterfly Garden and Insectarium is a unique attraction that allows kids to get up close with butterflies and insects worldwide. The immersive exhibits and hands-on activities make learning about entomology an exciting adventure.

Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium
Paul Mannix, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Mardi Gras World

For a behind-the-scenes look at New Orleans’ most famous celebration, Mardi Gras World offers guided tours that showcase the elaborate floats and costumes used in the parades. Kids will love seeing the vibrant designs and even trying on some outfits. It’s a colorful experience that brings the magic of Mardi Gras to life.

New Orleans Riverfront

A stroll along the New Orleans Riverfront provides scenic views of the Mississippi River and plenty of activities for families. The Crescent Park offers playgrounds and green spaces, while the Riverwalk Marketplace features shops and eateries. Families can also take a steamboat cruise to enjoy live jazz music and beautiful river views.

4. Unique New Orleans Experiences

French Quarter Carriage Rides

A horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic French Quarter is a delightful way to see the sights. These guided tours offer exciting tidbits about the city’s history and architecture, and kids will love the novelty of riding in a carriage.

French Quarter Carriage Rides

Preservation Hall

Visiting Preservation Hall offers an authentic New Orleans jazz experience for families with older kids. The intimate setting and world-class musicianship provide an unforgettable evening of music that’s a quintessential part of the city’s culture.

Ghost Tours

For those who enjoy spooky fun, family-friendly ghost tours of the French Quarter can be both entertaining and educational. These tours blend local folklore with historical facts, offering a unique way to explore the city’s haunted past.

5. Sweet Treats

Beignets

Sure, the adults will have plenty of foods and beverages to enjoy while being in New Orleans, but treat the kids to some uniquely New Orleans treats for dessert. Go to the historic Cafe du Monde in the French Quarter, or try another New Orleans classic, Morning Call. An order of the decadent french donuts will have everyone smiling.

This image depicts two cups of ice cream for Sweet Treats.
Infrogmation of New Orleans, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Snoballs

Another local favorite is the flavored ice delight, the snoball. There are many snoball stands around the city, but some local favorites are Sal’s in Old Metairie, Pandora’s in Midcity and Plum St. Snoballs Uptown.

Ice Cream

Lastly, it’s worth a stop by Creole Creamery for some homemade ice cream. Their quality and selection is unbeatable. Angelo Brocato in Midcity also has magnificent gelato and Italian Lemon Ice for something a little different. They have been open since 1905, making them a real New Orleans staple.

New Orleans warmly welcomes families, offering a diverse array of activities for all ages. From its beautiful parks and engaging museums to unique local attractions, there’s no shortage of fun and educational experiences. So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to create lasting memories with your family in the heart of the Big Easy.

 

This is not the end. You may also like to read:

Top 10 Best Family Hotels in New Orleans 2024
Top 10 Best Family-Friendly Restaurants in New Orleans 2024

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