Things to Do in New Orleans With Kids: A Family Guide to the Big Easy

Think New Orleans is just for adults? Think again. This incredible city offers a surprising mix of family-friendly adventures, from world-class zoos and interactive museums to sweet treats that'll make your kids' eyes light up. Sure, NOLA has its grown-up reputation, but scratch beneath the surface and you'll find a playground of cultural experiences, outdoor fun, and memorable moments perfect for little explorers. Get ready to discover the best kid-friendly attractions, where to stay, what to eat, and insider tips that'll make your family trip smooth and unforgettable.

What to Expect When Visiting New Orleans With Kids

New Orleans welcomes families with open arms, especially in neighborhoods like the Garden District, Uptown, and parts of the French Quarter during daytime hours. The city's compact size makes it surprisingly walkable, and the historic streetcar system turns transportation into an adventure itself. Strollers handle the mostly flat terrain well, though some French Quarter sidewalks can be narrow.

The best time to visit with kids is during cooler months (October through April) when temperatures are comfortable for walking around. Summer can be brutally hot and humid, so plan indoor activities during peak afternoon hours. Pack comfortable walking shoes, plenty of water, snacks, and maybe some noise-canceling headphones for sensitive little ears—New Orleans can get wonderfully loud with street music and celebrations.

The French Quarter transforms throughout the day. Morning and early afternoon offer family-friendly exploration, while evenings shift toward adult entertainment. Plan accordingly, and you'll find plenty of magic without any worries.

Top Kid-Friendly Activities in New Orleans

Ride the Historic St. Charles Streetcar

Best Ages: All ages (toddlers to teens)

Nothing beats the thrill of climbing aboard one of the world's oldest continuously operating streetcar lines. Kids love the open windows, the clanging bell, and watching the beautiful mansions roll by. At just $1.25 per ride (use the RTA GoMobile app), it's budget-friendly transportation that doubles as entertainment. The St. Charles line runs from downtown through the Garden District to Uptown, making stops near Audubon Park and Zoo.

Additional Tip: Grab seats on the right side heading uptown for the best mansion views, and avoid rush hours when cars get crowded with commuters.

Official RTA Info

Explore Audubon Zoo

Best Ages: 2-12 years (though teens enjoy it too)

This 58-acre zoo consistently ranks among America's best, and kids go crazy for the Louisiana Swamp exhibit with its white alligators and the Cool Zoo splash park (seasonal). The Audubon Zoo houses over 2,000 animals, including elephants, lions, and a fantastic reptile collection. The train ride around the zoo is perfect for tired little legs.

Additional Tip: Plan 3-4 hours, arrive early to beat crowds and heat. The splash park requires swimwear, so pack accordingly if visiting during warm months.

Audubon Zoo Official Site

Get Hands-On at Louisiana Children's Museum

Best Ages: 1-10 years (with special toddler areas)

This interactive wonderland in City Park keeps kids engaged for hours with exhibits on space, water play, and Louisiana culture. The museum recently moved to a beautiful new facility with outdoor learning gardens and age-appropriate zones for toddlers through tweens. Kids can pilot a space shuttle, explore a kid-sized grocery store, and learn about local ecosystems.

Additional Tip: Plan 2-3 hours, and check their website for special programs and workshops that might coincide with your visit.

Louisiana Children's Museum

Indulge in Beignets at Café du Monde

Best Ages: All ages

No New Orleans trip is complete without these pillowy squares of fried dough covered in powdered sugar. The original Café du Monde in the French Quarter operates 24/7 (except Christmas Day), and watching your kids' faces light up with their first bite is priceless. Fair warning: they'll get messy, so bring wet wipes and embrace the chaos.

Additional Tip: Go early morning or late afternoon to avoid the longest lines. The outdoor seating lets you people-watch while enjoying café au lait (or milk for the kids).

Discover City Park and Storyland

Best Ages: Storyland (2-8 years), broader park (all ages)

At 1,300 acres, New Orleans City Parki s one of America's largest urban parks, featuring the magical Storyland theme park designed for younger children. Kids can climb through fairy tale scenes, ride the antique carousel, and explore playgrounds. The park also houses the New Orleans Museum of Art and sculpture garden, perfect for a cultural break.

After a busy morning exploring the French Quarter, Hotel Perle's rooftop pool offers a refreshing escape where families can cool off and recharge before evening adventures.

Additional Tip: Bring a picnic, rent pedal boats, or grab snacks from the café. The Besthoff Sculpture Garden is free and offers beautiful art in an outdoor setting.

Take a Family-Friendly Swamp Tour

Best Ages: 8+ years

Older kids love spotting alligators, birds, and learning about Louisiana's unique ecosystem on a swamp tour. Companies like Cajun Encounters offer family-friendly trips that are educational and exciting without being scary. The boat rides typically last 1.5-2 hours and include transportation from downtown hotels.

Additional Tip: Book morning tours when animals are more active, and bring sunscreen and bug spray. Some companies have age restrictions, so check before booking.

Explore the National WWII Museum

Best Ages: 10+ years (history-loving families)

This world-class museum captivates older kids and history-loving families with interactive exhibits, authentic artifacts, and immersive experiences. The museum's Beyond All Boundaries 4D film and submarine experience are particular hits. Plan a full day if your family loves history, or focus on specific pavilions for shorter visits.

Additional Tip: The museum can be overwhelming for younger children, but the interactive elements and multimedia presentations keep engaged learners interested for hours.

Window Shop and Treat Hunt on Magazine Street

Best Ages: All ages

This six-mile stretch of local shops, cafes, and galleries offers perfect family strolling with plenty of stops for treats and bathroom breaks. Kids love the toy stores, bookshops, and frequent street art. Pop into Sucré for macarons and chocolates, or grab lunch at one of many family-friendly restaurants.

Additional Tip: The Lower Garden District section (near Washington Avenue) offers the most concentrated kid-friendly options within easy walking distance.

Go Behind the Scenes at Mardi Gras World

Best Ages: All ages

Even outside of Carnival season, kids are amazed by the massive floats, colorful props, and artistic process behind Mardi Gras magic. The guided tours explain how floats are built and decorated, and kids can try on costumes and take photos with giant sculptures.

Additional Tip: Tours run year-round and last about 45 minutes. The air-conditioned warehouse provides relief from heat, and the gift shop has kid-friendly souvenirs.

Dive into the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas

Best Ages: All ages

Located in the French Quarter, this aquarium features a walk-through tunnel surrounded by sharks, colorful Caribbean reef exhibits, and hands-on touch tanks. The penguin exhibit and jellyfish gallery are particular kid favorites. Plan 2-3 hours, and consider combo tickets with the zoo for savings.

Additional Tip: Audubon Aquarium's central location makes it perfect for a midday break from French Quarter walking, with nearby restaurants for lunch.

Ride the Algiers Ferry

Best Ages: All ages

This free ferry ride across the Mississippi River offers stunning views of the New Orleans skyline and gives kids a thrill of being on the mighty river. The short ride takes about 5 minutes each way, and you can walk around the historic Algiers Point neighborhood.

Additional Tip: Time your ride for sunset for spectacular photos, and bring jackets as it can get windy on the water.

Algiers Ferry Information

Explore the Cabildo and Presbytère Museums

Best Ages: 8+ years

These historic buildings flanking St. Louis Cathedral house fascinating exhibits about Louisiana history, including Mardi Gras traditions and the Louisiana Purchase. Kids enjoy the interactive displays and learning about pirates, explorers, and local legends.

Additional Tip: Combo tickets save money if you plan to visit multiple Louisiana State Museum properties.

Hunt for Street Art in the Bywater

Best Ages: 6+ years

The colorful Bywater neighborhood features incredible murals and street art that kids love discovering. Turn it into a photo scavenger hunt as you walk the tree-lined streets and spot unique architecture.

Additional Tip: Combine with a visit to the French Market for snacks and souvenirs.

Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride

Best Ages: All ages

Kids love the clip-clop of horses through the French Quarter while learning about the city's history from knowledgeable drivers. Most tours last 30-45 minutes and cover major landmarks.

Additional Tip: Book during cooler parts of the day for comfort, and ask your driver about kid-friendly stories and legends.

Visit the Insectarium

Best Ages: 4-12 years

Part of the Audubon family, this unique museum lets kids get up close with butterflies, beetles, and other fascinating insects. The butterfly garden is particularly magical for younger children.

Additional Tip: Check feeding times and special presentations for the most interactive experience.

Where to Stay in New Orleans With Kids

Choosing the right neighborhood makes all the difference when traveling with children. The Garden District and Uptown areas offer tree-lined streets, beautiful architecture, and easy streetcar access to major attractions. These neighborhoods feel safer and quieter than the French Quarter while keeping you close to the action.

Hotel Perle – A Top Pick for Families Visiting New Orleans

Hotel Perle strikes the perfect balance for families wanting style, comfort, and convenience. Located on historic St. Charles Avenue, you're steps from the streetcar line that connects to the zoo, aquarium, and French Quarter. The hotel's spacious suites work beautifully for families, giving everyone room to spread out after busy sightseeing days.

The rooftop pool becomes a lifesaver during hot afternoons, and the walkable neighborhood offers easy access to family-friendly restaurants and parks. Plus, the historic building's charm gives kids a taste of New Orleans' architectural magic without the French Quarter's evening intensity.

2-Day Kid-Friendly Itinerary

Day 1: Uptown Adventure

Morning: Ride the St. Charles streetcar to Audubon Zoo. Let kids pick their favorite animals and grab lunch at the zoo café.

Afternoon: Walk through Audubon Park's playgrounds and tree-lined paths. Head to Magazine Street for window shopping and treats at Sucré.

Evening: Early dinner at Dat Dog for kid-friendly fare, then return to your hotel for pool time and rest.

Day 2: French Quarter Family Fun

Morning: Start with beignets at Café Beignet (shorter lines than Café du Monde). Explore the French Quarter's street performers and artists around Jackson Square.

Midday: Cool off at the Audubon Aquarium, then grab lunch at a nearby café with outdoor seating.

Afternoon: Browse souvenir shops, listen to street musicians, and maybe catch a horse-drawn carriage ride around the Quarter.

Evening: Head back to your hotel area for dinner and relaxation.

Family-Friendly Restaurants & Treats

Sucré - Artisanal chocolates, macarons, and gelato that'll make kids (and parents) swoon. Multiple locations, including Magazine Street.

Dat Dog - Gourmet hot dogs with creative toppings. Kids love choosing their combinations, and there are locations throughout the city.

Café Beignet - Less crowded alternative to Café du Monde, serving the same powdered sugar magic with shorter waits.

La Boulangerie - French bakery perfect for breakfast pastries, sandwiches, and kid-friendly treats.

Willa Jean - Upscale brunch spot with a kids' menu and famous biscuits that even picky eaters love.

The Vintage - Casual spot serving beignets, coffee, and light meals in a relaxed atmosphere perfect for families.

District Donuts - Creative donuts and sliders that appeal to both kids and adults.

Pro Tips for Visiting New Orleans With Kids

1. Avoid Bourbon Street after dark - The daytime French Quarter is family-friendly, but Bourbon Street gets adult-oriented after sunset.

2. Pack ear protection - New Orleans gets wonderfully loud with street music and parades. Sensitive kids appreciate noise-canceling headphones.

3. Use rideshares strategically - While the city is walkable, Uber or Lyft can save energy for major attractions and beat the heat.

4. Go early everywhere - Beat crowds and heat by starting attractions when they open. Kids are fresher, lines are shorter, and temperatures are cooler.

5. Bring the essentials - Sunscreen, refillable water bottles, snacks, and wet wipes are your best friends in New Orleans.

6. Look for kid-friendly tours - Several companies offer family-focused walking tours that engage children with stories and interactive elements.

7. Plan indoor backup activities - Sudden rainstorms and heat waves happen. Know your nearest museum, aquarium, or air-conditioned café.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting New Orleans With Kids

Is New Orleans safe to visit with kids?

Yes, New Orleans is safe for families when you stick to tourist areas during appropriate hours. The French Quarter, Garden District, and Uptown are well-patrolled and family-friendly during daytime. Avoid Bourbon Street after dark and stay aware of your surroundings like you would in any major city.

What's the best age to bring kids to New Orleans?

New Orleans works well for kids of all ages, but children 4-12 tend to get the most out of the experience. They're old enough to appreciate the culture, food, and attractions while still finding magic in street performers and carriage rides. Toddlers enjoy the sights and sounds, while teens appreciate the history and unique atmosphere.

How many days should I plan for New Orleans with kids?

Three to four days gives families enough time to see major attractions without feeling rushed. This allows for a mix of must-see spots like the zoo and aquarium, plus time for spontaneous discoveries and rest breaks that kids need.

Can I bring a stroller to New Orleans with kids?

Absolutely! Most areas are stroller-friendly, though some French Quarter sidewalks can be narrow and uneven. The streetcars accommodate strollers, and major attractions have stroller parking. Consider a lightweight, compact stroller for easier maneuvering.

What should I pack when visiting New Orleans with kids?

Pack comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, refillable water bottles, snacks, wet wipes, and a small first-aid kit. Bring layers for air-conditioned spaces and light rain gear. Don't forget swimwear if your hotel has a pool and noise-canceling headphones for sensitive ears.

Are there kid-friendly restaurants in New Orleans with kids?

Yes! New Orleans has plenty of family-friendly dining options beyond the famous adult-oriented spots. Look for places with kids' menus, outdoor seating, and casual atmospheres. Many restaurants welcome families, especially during lunch and early dinner hours.

How do I get around New Orleans with kids?

The streetcar system is fun and practical for families. Uber and Lyft work well for longer distances or when kids are tired. Many attractions are walkable from each other, but plan for frequent breaks and bring a stroller for younger children.

What's the weather like in New Orleans with kids year-round?

Winter and spring (October-April) offer the most comfortable weather for families. Summer can be extremely hot and humid, requiring more indoor activities and frequent breaks. Always check the forecast and plan accordingly, as afternoon thunderstorms are common.

Are there any free activities to do in New Orleans with kids?

Absolutely! Riding the ferry across the Mississippi River is free, as is exploring Jackson Square, watching street performers, and walking through the French Quarter during the day. City Park's sculpture garden, many playgrounds, and window shopping on Magazine Street don't cost anything either.

What should I know about Mardi Gras season when visiting New Orleans with kids?

Family-friendly Mardi Gras parades happen throughout the season, especially on weekends. Kids love catching throws (beads, toys, cups), but crowds can be intense. Arrive early for good spots, bring folding chairs, and pack snacks and drinks. Some parades are specifically designed for families.

How do I handle the heat in New Orleans with kids?

Start early, take midday breaks in air-conditioned spaces, stay hydrated, and plan indoor activities during the hottest parts of the day (usually 11 AM - 3 PM). Many attractions like museums and the aquarium provide cool relief. Hotel pools become essential during summer visits.

Are there any cultural considerations when visiting New Orleans with kids?

New Orleans celebrates its unique culture openly, which includes music, food, and traditions that might be new to your family. Use it as a learning opportunity to discuss different cultures and histories. The city is generally very welcoming to children and families exploring its heritage.

Final Thoughts

New Orleans surprises families with its perfect blend of culture, adventure, and Southern charm that appeals to all ages. From feeding alligators on swamp tours to getting powdered sugar all over their faces with beignets, your kids will collect memories that last a lifetime. The city's compact size, friendly locals, and mix of indoor and outdoor attractions make it surprisingly manageable for family travel. For the smoothest experience, consider staying at Hotel Perle where spacious accommodations and a prime location create the perfect home base for your Big Easy family adventure.

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