Top 15+ Things to Do in New Orleans With Kids

Three kids walk arm in arm down a street with colorful murals. One mural features a musician with a guitar. The buildings have balconies and vibrant facades, creating a lively, artistic atmosphere. "Things to Do in Orleans With Kids"

There are loads of things to do in New Orleans with kids in 2024. You have many great options to visit such as the zoo where kids learn about animal behaviour. The beautiful Aquarium where you enjoy the sea life. Spend quality time in the city park and relax with nature.

Enjoying the street performance and lively atmosphere is a fun option for kids. These attractions ensure that the kids and family are relaxed and comfortable to enjoy the tour.

The Top 15+ Things to Do in Orleans With Kids in 2024

There are plenty of things you could do in New Orleans with kids this weekend. The fun options never end. Take the kids to roam about the French Quarter with ghost tours designed especially for children. During the holiday season, “Zoo Lights” at the Audubon Zoo Aquarium is available.

These activities ensure the kids have a great time checking out New Orleans. It offers a combination of educational, outdoor, and cultural experiences perfect for kids in 2024. These activities provide both daytime and nighttime entertainment for kids and families. Such activities ensure that the kids have fun checking out New Orleans.

1. Mardi Gras World

A colorful parade float with a jester theme travels down a street during a Mardi Gras celebration. The float features large jester heads, and people in costumes wave from it. A crowd of onlookers lines the street, reaching out with excitement.

One of the fun places here in New Orleans is Mardi Gras World. There you could see those large floats coming together for that famous Mardi Gras parade. Those people who visit this particular attraction get a full view of the colorful, gigantic floats. Costumes, all decorations, and even the opportunity to try on some of them are there.

It’s a great spot for families and kids to learn about this unique festival. And you can take pictures with the floats and even view an artist who is at work.

Location:

  • It is located along the Mississippi River. 

Best time to Visit:

  • Monday to Wednesday is the best time to visit. Bring some drinks and snacks to make the visit fun and comfortable. 

2. New Orleans City Park

A serene pond reflecting a vibrant blue sky and lush green trees. A small bridge crosses the water, surrounded by dense foliage under a few scattered clouds. The scene is peaceful and picturesque.

New Orleans City Park is one of Orleans’s places with plenty of kid-friendly things to do in New Orleans with kids this weekend. Families can go exploring Storyland or take a ride on the antique carousel. The park has gorgeous gardens, paddle boats, and many open spaces for the children to run about in.

A small dose of adventure is promised by the Train Garden, or you may consider cycling around the whole park with your family. It’s just perfect for a weekend to spend all day outdoors with kids.

Location:

  • It is located in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Best Time to Visit:

  • October – November is the best time. Many attractive places are close together so walking can save you time and give you a vibrant atmosphere for true taste. 

3. St. Louis Cathedral

A grand cathedral with multiple spires stands against a vibrant sky at sunset. In the foreground, a statue of a man on horseback is silhouetted by the warm, colorful clouds. Trees and buildings encircle the scene, creating a serene and historical ambiance.

A family with kids would enjoy visiting St. Louis Cathedral during a guided tour in New Orleans. Its tall spires and nice style will attract your attention when coming close. Colorful stained glass windows inside tell stories of saints and significant events.

The big altar is a stunning thing, and there are fascinating statues and masterpieces to see more of. Kids can spend their playtime in the park there and watch street performers afterward so make it a fun family stop.

Location:  

Best Time to Visit:

  • It should be early morning when it is less crowded. The light is fresh and good for photos.

4. Jackson Square

View of Jackson Square in New Orleans with a prominent equestrian statue surrounded by greenery. St. Louis Cathedral stands majestically in the background under a clear blue sky.

Visiting Jackson Square is very interesting for children. In New Orleans, the park is full of beautiful green spaces, big trees, and lovely views of St. Louis Cathedral. In the park, kids might find interesting street shows, such as musicians and dancers, putting on fun displays.

Artists who sell colorful paintings and interesting souvenirs can also be met there. It is a very good place to run, have a picnic, or just spend time with your family while feeling the lively vibe of the city.

Location:

Best Time to Visit:

  • Late Afternoon is the best time to visit.
  • The weather is cooler, and you can watch street performers and the sun sets.

5. Audubon zoo

The image shows the entrance to Audubon Zoo, featuring a clock tower, palm trees, and a colorful, busy plaza with visitors. The zoos name is prominently displayed on a yellow and green sign above the entrance.

Audubon Zoo is an excellent entertaining place to visit in New Orleans. It is one of the zoos which can accommodate diverse types of wild animals from other continents. The zoo is so beautiful, with special exhibits including the Louisiana Swamp, where locals can be seen.

Kids can have a lot of fun here in the petting zoo and splash pads during the hot days. With various fun activities and interesting animals surrounding it, Audubon Zoo has always been my first option to spend a day with my family.

Location:

  • It is located in Magazine Street, New Orleans. 

Best Time to Visit:

  • The early morning is when it is not so crowded animals are also active during such times. This will enable you to have fun with your family.

6. Garden District

A grand, two-story white house with a wraparound porch is surrounded by lush greenery and a manicured lawn. A black iron fence lines the sidewalk, which is shaded by trees under a clear sky.

The big beautiful houses and the lovely gardens are just unbelievable. You could see many big historic mansions with wonderful porches and flowers along that road when you take a walk through the area. All these have made the streets lined up by tall trees a good place to take a walk or just take pictures.

Even quaint little shops and cafes can be spotted all around where families might pull up for a snack or drink. The best way to take in the exact style and allure of New Orleans is by visiting the Garden District.

Location:

  • It is located in uptown New Orleans. 

Best Time to Visit:

  • Afternoon is the best time to visit. These times enable one to fully appreciate the beautiful homes and gardens in the area.

7. Audubon Aquarium

Silhouetted people observe a large aquarium with various fish swimming inside. The tank features a sunken tree trunk and underwater lighting, creating a vibrant underwater scene.

Audubon Aquarium is great for little kids and families, with outstanding sea creatures, beautiful fish, funny penguins, and gigantic sharks. Exhibits of ocean habitats like coral reefs and the Gulf of Mexico are offered in a fun way at the aquarium.

There are also interactive touch pools where children can feel starfish and some other sea animals. The Audubon Aquarium is hilarious and full of interesting exhibitions and activities. 

Location:

  • It is located on Canal Street, New Orleans.

Best Time to Visit:

  • This place is best to visit in mid-day. It is less crowded and more peaceful to enjoy with your kids.

8. French Market

The image shows the entrance to the French Market, featuring an archway with French Market written on it. People are walking in and out of the market area, and there are palm trees and bicycles nearby. The sky is cloudy.

It’s a pretty good place to spend some playtime with your young kids. Amongst the cheap things to do in New Orleans is to visit this open market free of charge, sample local food, and look at various inexpensive souvenirs and handicrafts.

Colorful lights and sounds will amaze kids, and often one can catch street performers and musicians entertaining the crowd. An easy budget-stop in its exploration of the city’s historic French Quarter.

Location:

  • It is located on the right of Jackson Square.

Best Time to Visit:

  • The best time to visit French Market is in the morning hours during the weekdays. You’ll find ample time to go through the stalls nicely.

9. Louisiana Children’s Museum

A spacious indoor exhibit with people interacting with various educational displays. Children are engaged with water-themed activities and models, under a bright atrium with large windows and overhead yellow beams. Signs read Move with the River.

The Louisiana Children’s Museum in New Orleans is heaped with fun for kids to visit. There are heaps of hours spent playing, exploring, and learning from tons of entertaining, interactive exhibits.

All ages, from toddlers to older kids, are catered with just enough activities for both groups. The building is set in a big park. For kids, the best place to have fun while learning about this great world we live in.

Location:

  • It is located in the center of New Orleans city park.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Weekday is the best time to visit. The kids can enjoy the exhibits with more space for them and less waiting around.

10. Jamnola

A vibrant, mirrored room with LED lights in swirling rainbow patterns on the floor, walls, and ceiling. The door frame is shaped with a wavy outline. In the background, a reflection shows trees and lights.

It is a fun and colorful art space in New Orleans. It is filled with fun thighs that are perfect for photos. Kids will love exploring the bright rooms and creative displays. It is a great place for family fun and a unique way to experience art together.

Location:

  • It is located in  New Orleans, Louisiana.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Arrive early and check their schedule for special events.

11. New Orleans Boulder Lounge

Two people are bouldering on an indoor climbing wall with colorful holds. The foreground climber wears a cap and gray shirt, focusing on a dynamic movement. A person in the background appears to be reaching for a hold. Bright interior lighting.

It is a great spot for families who love adventure. It has fun climbing walls for all skill levels, making it perfect for kids and adults. The friendly staff helps everyone feel safe while having fun.

It is an excellent place to find things to do in New Orleans with kids as you can be actively engaged in fun play with them.

Location:

  • It is located in New Orleans Louisiana.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Visit the weekend and wear comfortable shoes and clothes.

Fun Things to Do in New Orleans With Kids in 2024

Orleans provides many fun things to do with kids. You can visit parks, and beaches, and appreciate natural trails. The children would like the hands-on exhibits at local museums. See things to do in New Orleans in November for family-friendly events and activities.

12. The Kids Kingdom

Exterior view of an entertainment center with colorful signage for activities like laser tag and a game room. The building features large windows, red awnings, and a spacious parking lot under a blue sky with scattered clouds.

It is a fantastic playground for kids in Orleans. It has good slides, swings, and climbing for any age group. Children can run around and play safely in a friendly atmosphere. It’s one of the best fun things to do in Orleans with kids, so it is perfect for family outings.

Location:  

  • It is in the middle of Orleans.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Arrive early for a quieter experience.

13. kid’s Castle

Two children play on a beach. A boy in a white shirt and blue shorts builds a sandcastle with a red shovel, while a younger child in a rainbow-striped swimsuit holds a red bucket. The ocean and sky are vivid blue in the background.

Kid’s Castle is a great play area that develops the imagination of kids. With its castle-like constructions, kids can play and climb from one place to another and indulge in slides. The place is secure and offers great fun for family recreation.

You can explore unique things to do in New Orleans, this playground is a great choice for a day out with the kids.

Location:

  • It is located in City Park, New Orleans, Louisiana.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Arrive Early in the morning and wear comfortable shoes.

14. Cape Cod Museum of Natural History

A rustic, white coastal house with a small tower stands amidst sandy dunes and tall grasses during sunset. The ocean is visible in the background under a clear sky.

It is a nice place for children to learn and discover things. The interesting displays about local fauna, hands-on interactive displays, and nature trails keep everyone captivated. This certainly is an ideal destination for a day trip with family. New Orleans has some wonderful experiences for children also like museums and more.

Location:  

  • This place is situated in Brewster, Massachusetts.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Visit in summer and check for special family programs and outdoor activities.

Free Things to Do in New Orleans With Kids in 2024

Orleans provides great free activities for families. Enjoy the scenic trails, beaches, and animals for that perfect family day. Place du Martroi is another spot to visit full of history and open areas.

If you are in New Orleans, there are also free things to do with kids at night, from walking tours to vibrant street performances. This is Perfect for Cheap or Free things to do in New Orleans with kids at night. 

15. Cape Cod National Seashore

A scenic coastal view with golden sand dunes on the left, a narrow strip of land dividing a small river and the ocean. The sky is mostly clear with a few scattered clouds, and the sunlight casts warm tones over the landscape.

It is a lovely place to visit with kids. You can relax on the beach and see many animals all for free. It is a perfect place for family fun in nature.

If you are exploring for more things have fun, there are also many free things to do in New Orleans with kids, like enjoying parks or taking in the local sights.

Location:

  • It is located on the eastern shore of Massachusetts.

Best Time to Visit:

  • You can see late spring or early fall for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.

16. Place Du Martroi

A historic town square featuring a large equestrian statue in the center. Surrounding the statue are elegant, classic-style buildings with steep roofs and ornate facades. Bright flowers decorate planters nearby under a clear blue sky with a few clouds.

Place du Martroi is a lovely square with historic statues and open spaces, perfect for a family visit. Kids can run around while you enjoy the see. It is a great spot to explore local history and relax. For more enjoyment, you can also find fun things to do in New Orleans with kids, like parks and street performances.

Location:

  • It is located in Orleans.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience.

Conclusion

There are plenty of activities for kids to enjoy indoors activities in New Orleans while keeping the family active and making memories in 2024. This range includes engaging activities at the Louisiana Children’s Museum and colorful artistic displays at Jamnola, among others.

Families can explore multiple affordable or free things to do in New Orleans with kids-like the colorful French Market or the great parks. These options allow parents to find stuff to do with kids in New Orleans without overspending. Experience the excitement and fun of this lively city, where each trip promises to explore and learn everything together for the family.

FAQs:

Is New Orleans good for families with young children?

Yes, it is very safe; it has numerous areas and attractions geared towards families with young children.

What is the best time to bring kids to New Orleans?

The best periods to take your children to New Orleans include autumn from September to November when the weather is not too hostile.

What are the Free activities for kids in New Orleans?

Yes! Families can enjoy such free activities as exploration of City Park, Jackson Square with street performances, and walking around French Market.

Are Mardi Gras events are kids- friendly?

Yes! Mardi Gras World is a spectacular show combining entertainment, education, and history of the festival and floats.

What are there outdoor activities with kids?

Lovely parks like City Park and Audubon Park will enjoy a day with your family.

Where will the children find their local culture?

The best place that teaches kids about culture, history, and traditions is probably the Louisiana Children’s Museum and even Mardi Gras World.

What do you pack for a day out in New Orleans with kids?

This list should include sunscreen, comfort walking shoes, bottled water, snacks, and a camera to take snaps and live memories of the experience.

Are there any places to eat kid-friendly food in the city?

Absolutely. New Orleans has very family-friendly restaurants with great varied menus. With casual atmospheres and kid’s menus.

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