33 Best Things to Do in New Orleans with Kids in 2024
LOOKING FOR THINGS TO DO IN NEW ORLEANS WITH KIDS?
You’ve come to the right place! We’ve been traveling with kids since 2015 and have spent months traveling the Gulf Coast. We visited New Orleans with our kids and learned a lot about the most fun things to do and places to visit.
We also learned about how to best stay safe when traveling in the city, including which spots to steer clear of and when to come in for the night.
So buckle up as we fill you in on our favorite things to do in New Orleans with kids and offer insight into how to best have a good time in The Big Easy.
Free Things to Do with Kids in New Orleans
1. Cabrini Playground
A visit to Cabrini Playground is one of the most fun things to do with kids in New Orleans when exploring the French Quarter. The park first opened in 1940 and has been a nice green space to escape to in the heart of the city ever since.
A trip to the playground is always one of the best free, kid-friendly things to do in New Orleans. It’s the perfect place to make a pit stop and enjoy a picnic while making your way through town.
You can eat under the picnic pavilion, and kids will also love running around the surrounding fields. As parents, we love having a little bit of a break to relax while our kids get some energy out and have an opportunity to play with other kids.
2. Jackson Square
Exploring the Garden District and the French Quarter is a must-do activity when visiting New Orleans, with kids in tow or not. So, while you’re making your way through this historic section of the city, don’t pass up Jackson Square!
Of course, you should visit the famed statue of Andrew Jackson, but aside from that, Jackson Square is one of the best spots in the whole city to catch some amazing street performances.
The city really comes to life in spots like this, and kids will enjoy the chance to see the culture of New Orleans up close through local musicians and art displays. Commission a portrait by local street artists, visit a fortune teller, or catch a carriage ride, all in Jackson Square!
There are also lots of local artists displaying their artwork around Jackson Square. My oldest kids loved walking around the sidewalks, admiring all of the local art. There were some unique and beautiful pieces.
If you have extra time in this part of town, we recommend venturing over to see St Louis Cathedral, too. It’s a New Orleans landmark you won’t want to miss!
3. Confetti Park
Another one of the classic things to do in New Orleans, LA with kids is to spend some time playing at Confetti Park. This park features a playground suitable for most kids, ranging from toddlers to preteens.
Those who don’t want to play can enjoy some shade under the cypress trees or enjoy a snack at one of the picnic tables.
Just a typical park most days, but if you happen to visit on a special event day, you may be able to catch a puppet show, bike race, or even free concerts. Many fun city events are hosted in the park, some just for fun and many others during special holidays like Easter, Halloween, and Christmas.
4. Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
A visit to Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve is one of the most educational and fun things to do in New Orleans with kids, especially if you want to offer your children the opportunity to explore the fascinating ecosystem in the area. You’re bound to see some wildlife, including alligators in their natural habitat, during your visit!
The preserve consists of six different sites, each showcasing the unique wetland environment and Canjun-inspired culture and history of New Orleans.
We’ve found that the Junior Ranger program is a great way to get our kids engaged when we visit national parks, monuments, and reserves. Check out the program here and help your kids learn something new as you wander through the park.
5. Barataria Preserve
Barataria Preserve is a specific portion of the Jean Lafitte National Historic Landmark Park and Preserve that you shouldn’t miss. With a hardwood forest and swamp within walking distance, this is a wonderland for any kid who enjoys the outdoors.
Explore the vast area on the nature trails, check out the bayous and marsh for wildlife, or even enjoy lunch at one of the picnic areas. There’s plenty to do to keep a family entertained here.
If you have the proper licensing, you can add fishing and hunting to your list of options at Barataria Preserve as well.
6. Shops at the Colonnade
If you’re looking to do some window shopping while in the French Quarter, we recommend visiting the French Market. This market area spans about six blocks in the French Quarter and includes the Shops at the Colonnade.
From baby clothing stores and toy stores to sunglasses and sports memorabilia, there’s a smattering of shops to browse through in this part of town.
If you decide to spend a little bit of dough, it’s a good place to shop for souvenirs, maybe even something made by a local artist, and bring a piece of New Orleans home with you.
7. Family Gras
Because Mardi Gras is generally considered an adult-themed celebration, Family Gras is a family-friendly alternative. The free celebration takes place two weekends before Fat Tuesday and includes parades, concerts, an art market, delicious food, and so much more!
Things to do With Kids in New Orleans City Park
We don’t know about you, about after traveling for several years with kids, we’ve really come to appreciate an impressive park.
Family vacation days can sometimes feel stuffy when they are packed with so many different places to explore or attractions to check out, so it’s really helpful when you discover a spot where the kids can play freely, and everyone can take a moment to recharge.
New Orleans City Park is that place. Keep in mind that it’s not just peaceful and serene; there are plenty of attractions and fun things to do in this park!
8. Storyland
Anyone traveling to New Orleans with toddlers should stop by Storyland. It’s a cute fairytale-themed play area showcasing some of your little one’s favorite characters.
Complete with Captain Hook’s ship and the whale from Pinocchio! We love the stepping stones across the pond, too!
We definitely think Storyland is one of the best things to do in New Orleans with young kids. It was a hit with our kids, and we’re sure it will be for yours, too!
9. Carousel Gardens
There’s something so special and nostalgic about a carousel in a park. With not many left to speak of, Carousel Gardens in City Park is a fun spot to stop by for a simple yet fun ride on the merry-go-round.
In operation since 1906, this carousel is actually on the National Registry of Historic Places. Your kids might not appreciate it, but if you have an eye for craftsmanship, be sure to check out the exquisite and ornate work on the historic carousel!
But it’s not all about the carousel, after all. This area is actually home to Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, complete with bumper cars, a roller coaster, a Ferris wheel, and much more!
Don’t miss the mini train ride! Your younger kids will love rolling through the park and hearing the steam whistle wail!
10. New Orleans Botanical Garden
New Orleans is a happening place to visit. Sometimes, the activity of the city can be overstimulating to both children and adults alike. If you’re looking for a little downtime or a place to retreat to for a moment, we recommend you visit the botanical gardens.
Did you know that the largest collection of mature live oaks is rooted in the New Orleans Botanical Gardens? Not only will your kids marvel at these gorgeous trees, but they are also likely to be enchanted by the fountains, the Butterfly Walk, the Lily Pond, and over 2,000 different types of plants!
Be sure not to miss the conservatory! Let your imaginations run wild as you enter the rainforest-like environment. You may even have to make your way through hanging vines on your journey to see geckos, tree frogs, and snakes! The kids can search for fossils here, too, which is a lot of fun.
The botanical garden also has an exhibit fit for any train lover. The New Orleans Historic Train Garden showcases a small model of the city, complete with historical landmarks.
Little trains power through the city streets, making stops at informative neighborhood stations, teaching kids about the city and its history along the way.
11. Magnolia Playground
Magnolia Playground is a fun place to climb, slide, and goof around while spending time in City Park. The playground itself is pretty standard, designed mainly for kids ages 5-12. The structure includes a slide, monkey bars, a balance beam, a rope wall, and many other fun activities to keep the little ones entertained and having fun!
We love the shade trees surrounding the park. It’s a nice place to sit and enjoy the beauty of the park and nearby lagoon.
12. Sculpture Garden
The Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden is one of the most interesting and beautiful places to explore with your kids in New Orleans. It’s so neat to explore because it combines the combination of the pretty greenery with contemporary, industrial-like metal sculptures.
Kids will love exploring the over 90 sculptures. Some of the statues are easily recognizable, while others will require the little ones to use their imaginations. They will be delighted to see how a group of rods can form the shape of a horse!
13. Go Boating
Getting out on the water is one of the most fun and memorable ways to spend time in New Orleans’ City Park with your kids. Pedal boats and kayaks are available to rent at the park. Some are even equipped with LED lights, so you can take a cruise at night!
Big Lake is one of the best places to have fun paddling around in the park.
For an extra-special experience, you can also book a gondola ride through the park’s bayous and lagoons. We recommend making a reservation ahead of time if you’re interested in this activity.
14. Go Biking
City Park is full of paths just waiting to be explored on two wheels! There are plenty of different bike rentals available to fit your family’s needs. From cruisers to tandems to children’s bikes, this is an activity the entire family can really enjoy!
15. Play Disc Golf
If your family enjoys disc golf, you have yet another reason to visit City Park in New Orleans. The 18-hole Disc Golf course runs through some beautiful and spacious fields, Oaktree passages, and even near swamp areas.
Making your way through this course is one of the fun things for kids to do in New Orleans. It allows the whole family to enjoy the park environment while getting caught up in some friendly competition!
Best Kid Friendly Tours in New Orleans
16. Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Historic Mississippi River Cruise
⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🕑 TOUR LENGTH: 2 Hours and 30 minutes | Check Rates and Availability
Trust us when we tell you that your trip to New Orleans won’t be truly complete until you embark on a river cruise. There are several river cruises to choose from in New Orleans, but we can’t recommend Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Historic Mississippi River Cruise highly enough!
Older kids will love the special experience of riding on an actual paddle-wheeler boat, and the historian guide’s expert and entertaining narration makes the whole experience doubly educational and enjoyable.
Nice relaxing cruise down the Mississippi River. There was a commentator throughout the cruise, so we definitely learned a lot of history!
– Candace (Read More Reviews)
You’ll learn about the Battle of New Orleans with the great option to purchase drinks and snacks along the way.
▶️ BOOK Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Historic Mississippi River Cruise
17. New Orleans Airboat Ride
⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🕑 TOUR LENGTH: 2-4 Hours | Check Rates and Availability
If you’re looking to get out of town during your visit to New Orleans, we recommend taking your family on an airboat tour adventure. This is definitely a kid-friendly tour. Our girls loved all the creatures they were able to see on our tour, and we’re sure your kids would love it, too!
We had a wonderful afternoon on the swamp with our captain. We learned so much and she was able to guide us to about 10+ gators even though we are at the tail end of the season.
– Mary (Read More Reviews)
The New Orleans Airboat Ride takes you through the swamp near Jean Lafitte National Park, showcasing the striking environment and pointing out all the local wildlife, especially the gators!
This particular tour offers hotel pick-up and drop-off in New Orleans if needed, or you can choose to drive yourself to the airboat departure spot.
▶️ BOOK New Orleans Airboat Ride
18. Spooky Family-Friendly Ghost Tour in New Orleans
⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🕑 TOUR LENGTH: 2 Hours | Check Rates and Availability
The home of Voodo and many haunting tales, there’s a spooky side of New Orleans that many might think is off-limits for kids. Families who are interested in introducing their kids to the darker side of New Orleans in a kid-friendly manner should check out the Spooky Family-Friendly Ghost Tour in New Orleans.
We had a great guide who was very knowledgeable and had a fun personality. I would recommend this tour to anyone traveling with kids.
– Jonelle (Read More Reviews)
The tour will take you through the French Quarter, detailing ghost stories of this historic city. The stories are entertaining and engaging but nothing too scary. Just enough for kids to handle while exploring the city in a new light.
▶️ BOOK Spooky Family-Friendly Ghost Tour in New Orleans
19. New Orleans: Guided Underground Donut & Beignet Walking Tour
⭐️ RATING: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | 🕑 TOUR LENGTH: 2 Hours | Check Rates and Availability
Eating is such an important part of visiting New Orleans. The city is known for some of the most amazing dishes, and a New Orleans food tour is the best way to sample all of what the city can offer.
If you’re looking for a New Orleans tour to show you the highlights of the city and just happen to have a sweet tooth as well, the New Orleans: Guided Underground Donut & Beignet Walking Tour is for you.
We loved this tour SO MUCH! Any tours in NOLA are about ghosts, cemeteries, and voodoo, which are fun but not for our daughter. This tour was all unicorns and rainbows. Each bite of food was better than the last! Definitely do this tour.
– Verified Traveler (Read More Reviews)
Your kids will be over the moon excited to taste the best of the best when it comes to donuts and beignets in New Orleans. Don’t worry; coffee is also available for the adults as you learn the ins and outs of the city’s history and culinary scene.
▶️ BOOK New Orleans: Guided Underground Donut & Beignet Walking Tour
20. Natchez VIP Jazz River Cruise
⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | 🕑 TOUR LENGTH: 3 Hours | Check Rates and Availability
If you’re looking to treat your family to a night out in New Orleans they won’t soon forget, book a Steamboat Natchez VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise!
Your family will be given the royal treatment on this cruise, beginning with a tour of the stunning river vessel and continuing on to an amazing Creole cuisine buffet dinner in an ornate dining room.
The band (Dukes of Dixieland) and service was exceptional, Gina was the consummate hostess. The Captain was informative and very charming. The food was very good.
– David (Read More Reviews)
The dining space will offer amazing views of New Orleans at night, and the dining mood will be enhanced by some amazing live Jazz music.
▶️ BOOK Steamboat Natchez VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise
21. Swamp Boat Adventure
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🕑 TOUR LENGTH: 2 Hours | Check Rates and Availability
New Orleans Swamp and Bayou Boat Tour with Transportation is one of the best tour options if you’re looking to explore the swamp areas around New Orleans. The tour includes round-trip transportation from New Orleans out to Honey Island swamp, which is one of Louisiana’s last protected wetland areas.
This is a must do! It was fabulous. You get to see so many animals out in the wild. Captain Zander was exceptional. He was so personable, funny and knowledgeable about the area and animals. My daughter loved it.
– Verified Traveler (Read More Reviews)
This is one of the best areas to explore for wildlife viewing, so be prepared to see some amazing sights. From wild boars to gators, snakes, and many species of birds, your guide will keep you informed and entertained as you make your way through this mysterious and fascinating part of the country.
Many of the swamp tours are combined with tours of some of the most notable plantations in New Orleans.
▶️ BOOK New Orleans Swamp and Bayou Boat Tour with Transportation
Things to Do With Kids When it’s Raining in New Orleans
22. Louisiana Children’s Museum
The Louisiana Children’s Museum is a great place to take shelter and waste away a day in a fun environment when the weather outside is stormy. This spot has some of the best indoor kid activities New Orleans has to offer!
One of the most impressive museums in town, it’s expertly crafted for kids to learn and grow in literacy, health and wellness, arts and culture, and so many other ways. A visit here is one of the best things to do with kids in downtown New Orleans!
We love how well organized the interactive exhibits here are. One section of the museum is geared toward toddlers and younger children, allowing for integrated play with adults.
Some of the other fun exhibits include “Dig Into Nature,” which offers activities focused on sedimentation and the bayou ecosystem.
While the “Follow That Food” exhibit teaches kids how some of their favorite foods make their way from the field to the table, showcasing a grocery store area as well as a kitchen for preparing Creole inspired dishes!
23. New Orleans Museum of Art
The New Orleans Museum of Art is home to over 40,000 pieces of art spanning 5,000 years. The works displayed come from around the globe, including pieces from North and South America, France, Japan, and various African countries.
Art museums can be tricky with kids; sometimes, they can get swept up in the works, and sometimes they don’t. That said, it may be worth a stop by to show them sculptures, paintings, prints, and drawings from around the world!
24. Ogden Museum of Southern Art
The Ogden Museum of Southern Art is a gem of a place to explore, especially if you have family members interested in fine and rare art. This museum houses the largest collection of Southern art and highlights the history of the region in such creative and beautiful ways.
Ranging from 19th-century inspired paintings to the contemporary perspective of the South today, it’s a fascinating and eye-opening place to spend time with your family in New Orleans.
25. Maskarade
Mardi Gras is a central element of the identity of New Orleans. That said, the nature and atmosphere of the celebration isn’t very suitable for kids. A visit to Maskarade, a fun costume store, is a wonderful way to let your kids experience a bit of the dress-up fun of Mardi Gras.
With hundreds of different mask options to choose from, there’s sure to be the perfect fit for everyone in your family! A stop here got my kids all excited about going to the Mardi Gras parade one day.
26. Mardi Gras Museum
After you pick up your masks, head over to the Mardi Gras Museum. This is another family-friendly attraction where your kids can learn about and participate in the fun surrounding Mardi Gras.
Museum admission includes a Mardi Gras-themed show, access to a fun closet full of colorful and sequined costumes, and even an indoor Mardi Gras parade that everyone can participate in!
27. Mardi Gras World
If your family is more interested in the history and craftsmanship side of Mardi Gras, we recommend checking out Mardi Gras World.
Not so much about the glitz and the glamour, this spot in the Arts District will fill you in on the details of how Mardi Gras came to be, as well as offer you an up-close look at some of the floats that have been featured in the annual parade throughout the years.
28. National WWII Museum
The National WWII Museum is an excellent place to visit if your kids are interested in history or you are interested in introducing them to this pivotal war that changed the world. The museum is located in the Warehouse District and aims to teach why the war was fought, how it was won, and what it means today.
We love the museum’s intention to educate and to get all of its patrons thinking about the price of freedom. A visit here is a great way to honor those who came before us and remember all the freedoms that we enjoy.
Fun Things to Do in New Orleans with Kids at Night
Everyone knows New Orleans really comes to life at night. The trouble is, many of the liveliest places in the city aren’t suitable for kids. But don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with a list of some ways to keep things family-friendly in New Orleans after dark.
29. Enjoy Some Jazz at Preservation Hall
Jazz music is the lifeblood of this historic city! If your kids aren’t already familiar with the genre, one of the most fun things to do with kids in New Orleans is to introduce them to the music style at a live show.
Most Jazz clubs in the city have very adult atmospheres, but Preservation Hall is a kid of all ages venue, which makes it a wonderful place to visit for a family-friendly Jazz experience.
There are multiple performances each evening, so be sure to check the schedule while planning your Family vacation to New Orleans.
We especially love that the venue even has family-friendly showtimes. With shows as early as 5 P.M., you’ll be able to enjoy some amazing music as a family and still have little ones to bed on time. Preservation Hall really is one of the best New Orleans Attractions for families.
If your family really enjoys the show, be sure to check out the New Orleans Jazz Museum while you’re in town as well!
30. Play a Round at City Putt
City Putt is a 36-hole miniature golf course located in City Park, which is a treasure trove of family fun in the city. Some of the best family things to do in New Orleans can be found within City Park.
Unlike the other attractions in the park, City Putt is a wonderful place to visit after the sun has gone down. It’s open till 10 P.M. during the week and 12 A.M. on weekends. Though you can play in daylight hours, it’s fun to make your way through the two different courses under the light of the moon.
The kids will learn a thing or two as well, as one course is themed after cities throughout Louisiana, while the other showcases the streets and themes of New Orleans itself. A visit to City Putt is fun, affordable, and a great way to spend your evening with kids in New Orleans.
31. Catch a Show at BB’s Stage Door Canteen
BB’s Stage Door Canteen is a special theater at the World War II Museum. Its performances honor the songs, style, stars, and spirit of the United States during the World War II era.
Enjoying a show at BB’s Stage Door Canteen could be one of the best things to do in New Orleans with teens and older children because they would be more likely to understand the nostalgia and purpose behind the performances of yesteryear.
Pair the show with a visit to the World War II Museum, and you’ve got a solid day of history in the Crescent City!
32. Visit the Superdome
Whether you’re visiting in the fall, during football season, or not, attending an event at the Superdome can be one of the most fun things to do in New Orleans with family. Check their schedule to see what family-friendly concerts or other events might be taking place during your visit.
33. Audubon Zoo
You might be confused by this one, but stay with us. Yes, we know that families don’t typically visit zoos at night, but if you happen to be in New Orleans during the months of November or December, you might want to do just that!
During the holiday season, the Audubon Zoo gets fancy and festive, lit up with fairy light displays that would warm even the coldest heart. Though the zoo is only open late during a short stint in the winter, it is considered one of the top zoos and is definitely worth a visit during the day.
If you happen to be visiting outside of the holiday season, we still recommend you check it out!
Kid-Friendly New Orleans Restaurants
Café Du Monde
You really shouldn’t leave New Orleans without first stopping at Cafe Du Monde. It’s the quintessential New Orleans coffee shop with the crowning jewel of the beignet. The powdered sugar-coated donuts alone are worth a stop!
We stopped by here on our last visit to New Orleans, and we were in heaven. We kept ordering another plate of beignets because they were so good! Also, don’t forget to grab a bag to go so you can enjoy more later.
Dat Dog
What kid doesn’t like hot dogs? Dat Dog is a go-to spot for families with picky eaters because everyone can find something they are happy with here! From a classic Chicago Dog to seafood dogs and even a vegan option, this is the place to get a hot dog in New Orleans.
We also love that the restaurant offers outdoor seating so the kids don’t feel stuffy or cooped up in a packed dining area.
Blue Oak BBQ
Nobody should miss out on some classic barbecue when visiting the South! Blue Oak BBQ is a casual eatery where families can feel at home while enjoying some of New Orleans’ best barbecue.
From brisket and wings to pulled pork and BBQ nachos, there are so many ways to feed your hunger at this joint!
Family Friendly Hotels in New Orleans
The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel – Luxury
⭐️ Rating 9.2/10 | 📍 Location: 130 Roosevelt Way in New Orleans | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel is one of the most beautiful and classiest family-friendly New Orleans hotels. The rooms are spacious and luxurious, many of which include a sofa bed, and roll-away beds are available upon request.
We thoroughly enjoyed our time at The Roosevelt; the staff was friendly and helpful, and hotel was beautiful. Our suite was comfortable and functional.
– David (Read More Reviews)
The multiple on-site restaurants and outdoor pool make it a dream getaway for families. It’s in a great location, too, if you want to stay close to the action. The hotel is only a short walk from both Canal Street and Bourbon Street.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at The Roosevelt New Orleans
Hotel Monteleone – Mid-Range
⭐️ Rating 9.4/10 | 📍 Location: 214 Royal Street in New Orleans | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
Hotel Monteleone is an excellent place for families to stay in New Orleans. It’s close to Canal and Bourbon streets and features a full-service spa and fun outdoor pool area.
Old world charm with NOLA character.
– Jacob (Read More Reviews)
Families can enjoy free wifi in their rooms, along with a convenient refrigerator. Cribs are also available upon request for those traveling with young children.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Hotel Monteleone
Hampton Inn & Suites New Orleans Downtown – Budget
⭐️ Rating 8.4/10 | 📍 Location: 226 Carondelet St in New Orleans | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
Traveling anywhere can be expensive, so it’s always nice to find a budget-priced hotel like Hampton Inn & Suites New Orleans Downtown that offers a comfortable experience.
The rooms here are cozy but not overly fancy. They do boast both a microwave and refrigerator, which can be really helpful when traveling as a family. The hotel also has DVD players and a collection of movies for those who fancy a movie night while they’re in town.
This was a great property that also included breakfast. Very walkable to Bourbon Street, the French Market, and the street car stops that also took us to Frenchman Street.
– Lenora (Read More Reviews)
This location also offers a free on-the-go breakfast each morning, which is a great way to start your day in New Orleans.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Hampton Inn & Suites New Orleans Downtown
Is New Orleans Good for Families?
New Orleans has a party town reputation, and that assessment isn’t wrong. That said, the historical value, the music, and the vibrant culture on display in full color down each street of this city holds significant value for children and adults alike.
With research and careful planning, New Orleans can be a great place for families to explore together. During our first visit to New Orleans, our kids were 7, 7, and 3.
They absolutely loved New Orleans. My three-year-old even had a New Orleans-style party after our visit there. They loved the live music in the streets as well as the Mardi Gras beads and masks.
However, a lot of what we saw went over their heads. We saw people doing drugs in the streets.
We decided to get back to where we were staying by around 6 pm because of the crime in the area. Where we were staying recommended not walking anywhere after dark and just being home if you could by dark. We spent the evenings swimming at the pool and had a great time.
With sticking together and being home by six p.m. we did not run into any issues and never felt unsafe. We had a great time exploring the French Quarter and New Orleans.
Is New Orleans Safe for Families
New Orleans has a reputation as a party city with a high crime rate. The city fits the bill for both of those claims. That said, it’s important to note that you can explore New Orleans safely with your family. The key to a fun and safe adventure in New Orleans with kids is preparation and awareness.
If you plan your day’s agenda beforehand and stay aware of what areas you’re crossing into depending on the time of day, you can stay perfectly safe. We recommend erring on the side of caution by staying aware and using common sense.
We were home by 6 p.m. each night and never ran into any problems.
FAQ: Things to Do in New Orleans With Kids
There are so many fun things to do in New Orleans with kids! Riding streetcars and wandering through old neighborhoods, learning in museums, enjoying live music by street performers street, or jumping abroad on a swamp tour, there’s plenty to do to keep your little ones entertained in The Big Easy.
Yes! Exploring New Orleans with kids can be tricky, but we still think it’s worth it. There’s so much colorful culture and life, past and present, to celebrate in the city. As long as you stay aware of your whereabouts and stick to a mainly daylight schedule, you can have a wonderful time on a New Orleans Family Vacation.
We do not recommend bringing your kids to Bourbon Street. It is the heart of New Orleans’ nightlife, so once the sun goes down, it’s party central. This is an inappropriate and sometimes even unsafe area for families with kids to end up.
There are many kid-friendly things to do in New Orleans! Some of our favorite family activities in New Orleans include exploring the museums and beautiful parks. And a riverboat tour is a must-do activity for kids visiting New Orleans!
Lunch is a great time to bring kids to Commander’s Palace, especially if you can score some outdoor seating. Keep in mind there is a dress code at this restaurant. Also, they do not have a kid’s menu, but there are off the menu kid friendly options the staff can prepare.
There are both indoor and outdoor ways to escape the heat in New Orleans during the summer. Some of our favorites include visiting the Audubon Nature Institute or taking a day trip out to Blue Bayou Waterpark!
Conclusion: Things to Do in New Orleans With Kids
All in all, we had a memorable time in New Orleans and were happily surprised by how many family-friendly activities and places to visit there are in this city.
We hope this list of the top things to do in New Orleans with kids has inspired you to pack up your family for your very own Gulf Coast adventure!
