Tips for Traveling with Kids in New Orleans, United States
1. Audubon Zoo
Spacious zoo with a variety of animals, including gorillas and penguins. Features a children's play area called Storyland.
- Wide Range of Animals: Offers an opportunity to see many different species in one location.
- Children's Play Area: Allows kids to burn off some energy while learning about wildlife.
- Accessibility: Wheelchairs and strollers are available for rent, making it easy to navigate with young children.
2. New Orleans City Park
Large park with numerous attractions, including Carousel Gardens and the Storyland playground.
- Multiple Attractions: Provides a variety of activities for kids to enjoy.
- Historic Carousel: Features a historic carousel dating back to 1906.
- Outdoor Spaces: Offers plenty of green space for picnics and outdoor play.
3. Insectarium
Museum dedicated to insects with interactive exhibits and a butterfly garden.
- Interactive Exhibits: Encourages hands-on learning about insects.
- Butterfly Garden: Provides a magical experience for kids as they walk among butterflies.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs and activities for kids of all ages.
4. Steamboat Natchez
Historic steam-powered riverboat offering lunch and dinner cruises.
- Historical Experience: Provides a unique glimpse into the city's steamboat history.
- Cruise Options: Offers lunch and dinner cruises with live jazz music.
- Kid-Friendly Cruises: Hosts pirate-themed children's cruises during certain times of the year.
5. French Quarter
Historic neighborhood filled with colorful buildings, shops, and restaurants.
- Unique Architecture: Showcases vibrant Creole and French-inspired architecture.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Features several restaurants with kid-friendly menus and activities.
- Street Performers: Offers entertaining street performances, including musicians and magicians.
6. Children's Museum
Interactive museum designed for kids to learn through play.
- Hands-On Learning: Encourages kids to explore and interact with exhibits.
- Temporary Exhibits: Regularly updates its exhibits, keeping things fresh and exciting for repeat visits.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs and activities for kids of all ages.
7. Swamp Tours
Boat tours through the Louisiana swamps to see wildlife such as alligators and pelicans.
- Wildlife Viewing: Provides an opportunity to observe local wildlife in their natural habitat.
- Knowledgeable Guides: Guides share fascinating facts about the swamp ecosystem and its inhabitants.
- Airboat Rides: Some tours offer airboat rides for a thrilling adventure through the swamps.
8. Mardi Gras World
Facility where floats and costumes for Mardi Gras parades are created.
- Behind-the-Scenes Look: Gives visitors a look at the process of creating Mardi Gras floats.
- Interactive Exhibits: Includes interactive exhibits for kids to learn about the history and traditions of Mardi Gras.
- Museum Gift Shop: Features a gift shop with unique Mardi Gras-themed items.
9. Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
Park with six sites showcasing the region's history, including Barataria Preserve and Chalmette Battlefield.
- Historical Significance: Provides a deep dive into the area's rich historical past.
- Outdoor Activities: Offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and canoeing.
- Educational Programs: Hosts educational programs and guided tours at various sites within the park.
10. Café Du Monde
Famous coffee shop serving beignets and café au lait.
- Iconic New Orleans Experience: A must-visit for experiencing authentic New Orleans cuisine.
- Kid-Friendly Treats: Beignets are a popular treat for kids and adults alike.
- Outdoor Seating: Features outdoor seating with umbrellas, providing shade and a breezy atmosphere.
11. Garden District
Historic neighborhood filled with beautiful mansions and gardens.
- Architectural Beauty: Showcases stunning examples of Greek Revival, Italianate, and Victorian architecture.
- Self-Guided Tours: Allows for easy exploration at your own pace with a map or smartphone guide.
- Garden Visits: Features several gardens open to the public, such as Lafayette Cemetery No. 1.
12. Aquarium of the Americas
Waterfront aquarium with over 10,000 sea creatures, including sharks and penguins.
- Variety of Sea Creatures: Offers a wide variety of marine life to learn about and appreciate.
- Interactive Exhibits: Includes interactive exhibits, such as the stingray touch pool.
- Location: Located on the waterfront with beautiful views of the Mississippi River.
13. Toulouse Street Wharf
Waterfront area offering riverboat cruises and dining options.
- Riverboat Cruises: Offers riverboat cruises, such as dinner jazz cruises.
- Dining Options: Features a variety of restaurants with waterfront views and kid-friendly menus.
- Outdoor Activities: Provides opportunities for fishing, walking, and picnicking.
14. Mardi Gras Parade
Annual parade featuring floats, costumes, and throws.
- Cultural Experience: Provides a unique cultural experience that showcases the spirit of New Orleans.
- Free Throws: Parade-goers can collect trinkets, beads, and other items tossed from floats.
- Festive Atmosphere: Creates a lively, energetic atmosphere that is fun for the whole family.
15. Audubon Aquarium of the Americas
Waterfront aquarium with over 10,000 sea creatures, including sharks and penguins.
- Variety of Sea Creatures: Offers a wide variety of marine life to learn about and appreciate.
- Interactive Exhibits: Includes interactive exhibits, such as the stingray touch pool.
- Location: Located on the waterfront with beautiful views of the Mississippi River.