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7. New Orleans Is A Great Destination For Kids — And These Activities Prove It

From beignets and jazz to thrilling carriage rides and hands-on museums, discover the best of New Orleans with kids in tow.

New Orleans may be famous for its lively music, rich history, and vibrant nightlife, but it’s also a fantastic destination for families travelling with kids. From exploring fascinating museums and spotting alligators on swamp tours to indulging in sweet beignets and catching live jazz, there’s something for every age group to enjoy.

Here’s a guide to the best family-friendly activities across the city’s most exciting neighbourhoods.

French Quarter: History, Sweets, and Evening Entertainment

Beyond its elegant architecture and lively streets, the French Quarter offers plenty of family-friendly activities. Begin your day on a sweet note at Café du Monde, where you can share a plate of warm, powdered beignets paired with café au lait or hot chocolate for the little ones. After breakfast, soak in some history and stunning city views at Vue Orleans, an interactive experience located in the Four Seasons New Orleans. For lunch, grab an authentic po’boy sandwich at Johnny’s Po-Boys.

As the sun sets, head to Jackson Square for street performances, artists, and a picturesque mule-drawn carriage ride through the French Quarter. For dinner, enjoy classic New Orleans flavours at Deanie’s Seafood or Oceana Grill, or opt for a casual Italian meal at Mona Lisa. End the evening with a live jazz set at Preservation Hall or a spooky yet family-friendly twilight tour with French Quartour Kids—ideal for daring tweens and teens.

Arts/Warehouse District: Museums, Games, and Hands-On Fun

Spend the day immersed in history and hands-on fun in the Arts/Warehouse District. The National WWII Museum is a must-visit, offering interactive exhibits and experiences that bring history to life for all ages. Stop by The American Sector for a classic American lunch before challenging your family to a round of bowling at Fulton Alley or solving puzzles together at Escape My Room.

Uptown/Garden District: Nature, Animals, and Iconic Eats

For a laid-back day, hop on the historic St. Charles Streetcar, which takes you past charming mansions and oak-lined streets. Start with breakfast at the Camellia Grill, a beloved diner known for its classic fare and entertaining service. Then, make your way to the Audubon Zoo, home to the famous white alligator, roaming peacocks, and lion pride. Refuel with a picnic at Audubon Park, grabbing provisions from Domilise’s or St. James Cheese Company.

End your day with a New Orleans staple—snoballs! Sno-LA and Plum Street Snoballs serve up some of the city’s best icy treats in a variety of flavours.

Mid-City / Esplanade Ridge: Parks, Playgrounds, and Interactive Museums

For a more local experience, head to City Park, where kids can enjoy the Botanical Gardens, the newly expanded Sculpture Garden, and the Louisiana Children’s Museum, featuring curated exhibits and interactive activities. Little ones will love Storyland, while older kids can enjoy the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and City Putt mini-golf. Grab lunch at Acorn, a family-friendly café inside the museum, or let the kids burn off energy while rocking out at Rock ‘n’ Bowl before ending the day with a relaxed dinner at Katie’s Restaurant.

Marigny/Bywater: Colorful Streets, Art, and Music

For a vibrant and artistic vibe, explore the Marigny and Bywater neighbourhoods. Start the day at The Ruby Slipper Café, where kids can indulge in Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes while parents sip on award-winning Bloody Marys. Then, dive into New Orleans’ contemporary art scene at StudioBE, a massive warehouse gallery highlighting Black history through large-scale murals. Another interactive option is JamNOLA, an immersive exhibit showcasing the city’s music and culture.

For fresh air, take a stroll through Crescent Park, which runs along the Mississippi River. Grab a bite at Dat Dog on Frenchmen Street, where the whole family can sample fun hot dog varieties while enjoying the sounds of street musicians.

Tremé/Gentilly: Culture, History, and Waterfront Dining

Discover the deep roots of New Orleans’ Tremé neighbourhood, the oldest African American neighbourhood in the U.S. Explore the New Orleans African American Museum or stroll through Armstrong Park and Congo Square to learn about the city’s jazz heritage. When hunger strikes, enjoy delicious Creole food at Dooky Chase or Lil’ Dizzy’s.

Drive through the peaceful Gentilly neighbourhood to reach the Lakefront, where kids can visit the Lighthouse Museum and watch sailboats drift by. Wrap up the day with a waterfront dinner at Landry’s or The Blue Crab.

Beyond New Orleans: Swamps and Plantation Tours

Venture outside the city for an exciting swamp tour, where kids can board an airboat and toss marshmallows to alligators. Many tour operators provide transportation from downtown New Orleans for added convenience.

For a meaningful educational experience, visit the Whitney Plantation, the only plantation museum in Louisiana dedicated to telling the stories of enslaved people. The immersive tour is suitable for all ages and provides an important perspective on history.

New Orleans is more than just a party town—it’s a city brimming with family-friendly fun, hands-on learning experiences, and unforgettable moments. Whether you're indulging in local treats, exploring historic districts, or embarking on outdoor adventures, this city promises a magical trip for kids and parents alike.