New Orleans might not be the first destination that pops into your head when planning a family getaway, but don’t let its raucous reputation fool you. The Big Easy has plenty to offer young travelers, including outdoor adventures, kid-friendly attractions, and food that even the pickiest of eaters won’t be able to resist.

The secret to traveling to NOLA with the whole family is knowing where to go and what to do when you get there. Seeing the city with kids looks a little different than an adults-only trip or a weekend getaway with the girls, but that doesn’t mean it’s not an incredible place for a family vacation.

Family-Friendly Things to Do in New Orleans

You’ll find plenty of things to do with kids in New Orleans. Even strolling through Jackson Square and checking out the talented street performers and artists sparks excitement (and it’s free)! 

Another thrilling moment for many children and adults is to hop on a streetcar to see the city and give their feet a break. It’s a unique form of transportation that many people haven’t experienced.

Here are some stand-out items that should be on your itinerary if you’re planning a family vacation to New Orleans.

Audubon Attractions

The Audubon Nature Institute encompasses popular attractions such as the zoo, the Aquarium of the Americas, the Insectarium, and several parks. Learn about hundreds of animal and sea life species, enjoy the outdoors, and experience frequent hands-on exhibits and educational sessions.

Louisiana Children’s Museum

Located in the sprawling and beautiful City Park, this museum offers fun-filled exhibits for all ages. There are indoor and outdoor exploration areas designed to inspire creativity, learning, and curiosity.

Carousel Gardens, Storyland, and City Putt

Also in City Park, you’ll find City Putt mini-golf, Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, and Storyland, a park for younger children that showcases famous nursery rhymes and fairy tale characters. Even adults find the displays charming and the perfect spot to capture Instagrammable moments.

A Steamboat Ride

See the city from the mighty Mississippi River as you take a relaxing steamboat ride on the Natchez or the City of New Orleans riverboat. Choose from various excursions, including a jazz brunch or evening jazz cruise. Other tour options are available on the Creole Queen paddlewheeler and the Louis Armstrong riverboat. 

Mardi Gras World

Experience the wonders of Mardi Gras and the carnival season from a different perspective with a trip to Blaine Kern’s Mardi Gras World. Kids love to see the floats up close, and everyone will enjoy learning about the history of one of New Orleans’s most celebrated traditions.

Swampboat Tour

Explore the Louisiana swamps with an authentic airboat experience or pontoon ride. Discover the wildlife that call the swamp home, including raccoons, gators, and wild hogs, and learn about the history of the New Orleans bayous.

More Fun Places for Families in NOLA

If you have a few more slots to fill on your agenda, consider adding these attractions to your list!

• Museum of Illusions — What’s real and what isn’t?
• Clue Carré — Can you find your way out of New Orleans’s first escape game?
• World War II Museum — This is a must for history lovers, with plenty of interactive exhibits for the kids.
• Saenger Theatre — Depending on what’s playing while you’re in town, theatre lovers won’t want to miss seeing a production in this beautifully restored historic performance space.

Eating With Kids in NOLA

It’s not hard to find a place to eat in New Orleans. The real challenge is deciding where to go, because you’ll want to eat everywhere! Many restaurants welcome families and offer special children’s menus.

Some kid-friendly favorite foods include po-boys, beignets, fried shrimp, and a few familiar options with a local twist. And if you’re traveling in the warmer months, make sure to get a snoball!

Where to Stay During a New Orleans Family Vacation

If you’re traveling with a larger group, a suite is a great option to keep everyone together while still giving everyone space. Staying in the heart of the French Quarter or near downtown puts you in the middle of plenty of the excitement and near many of the attractions on your list.

Consider rentals that offer multiple bedrooms, such as The Eleanor or The Theodore. Depending on the size of your party, it’s also worth inquiring about group specials.

Tips for Traveling to New Orleans With Kids

Check the weather, don’t assume. New Orleans typically has two kinds of weather — hot and hotter, at least when you’re visiting in the spring and summer — and even in the fall. However, winter can bring a few frigid temps, too, bouncing from 80-degree days to 30-degree nights in one week.

Therefore, always check the weather, pack sunscreen, lightweight clothing, and layers. If you’re traveling in the winter, don’t be surprised if you need to include jeans, shorts, and maybe even a bathing suit in your suitcase. 

Set a slow pace. It’s best to enjoy the city and soak in what it has to offer without rushing. Aim for one or two main activities per day, allowing time for spontaneity, like stopping to watch a street performer.

Block in time for breaks so everyone can rest and recharge. Also, bring plenty of snacks and water with you to stay happy and hydrated.

Choose walkable neighborhoods. Staying in areas like the French Quarter, Garden District, or Warehouse District makes it easier to get around without constantly loading kids and booster seats into the car. Don’t forget to pack comfy shoes!

Use strollers strategically. Strollers are helpful for younger kids, but many sidewalks are uneven, so keep them lightweight. A travel stroller is often your best option, as it folds quickly and fits into tight spaces.

Talk about the culture beforehand. A little context goes a long way. Explaining the music, food, and traditions before you arrive can help kids feel more connected—and more excited—about what they’re experiencing.

Bring the Family to the Big Easy!

New Orleans is full of music, magic, and memories in the making. With a bit of planning and a flexible mindset, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable family vacation that everyone, both the kids and adults, will talk about for years to come.