Family-Friendly Things to Do in New Orleans
New Orleans, a city brimming with vibrant culture, rich history, and unique attractions, is a popular destination for family vacations. Whether you’re looking to immerse your children in educational experiences or simply want to enjoy some fun and relaxation, the Crescent City offers plenty of activities that will entertain, educate and delight kids of all ages. To help you plan your next family road trip, here are some things to do in New Orleans with kids.
JAMNOLA
A Journey Through New Orleans Art and Music
Start your Cajun vacation with a visit to JAMNOLA (Joy, Art & Music – New Orleans). This immersive art experience is designed to celebrate the city’s rich cultural heritage through the lens of art and music. Each room in the exhibit is a unique, interactive space that will capture the imaginations of both kids and adults.
From whimsical installations to engaging multimedia displays, JAMNOLA offers a colorful introduction to the sights and sounds of New Orleans. It’s a perfect spot to kick off your exploration of the city with a burst of creativity and fun.
Mardi Gras World
Behind the Scenes of the Big Easy’s Biggest Celebration
Mardi Gras World is another must-see attraction, providing an inside look at the preparations for New Orleans’ most famous festival. Here, families can tour the workshop where the elaborate Mardi Gras floats are made, learning about the history and artistry that go into creating these spectacular parade pieces.
Kids will love seeing the vibrant costumes, gigantic props, and intricate designs up close. Plus, there’s an opportunity to try on some costumes and take fun photos, making it a memorable experience for the whole family.
Swamp Tour with Cajun Encounters
An Adventure into the Bayou
For a taste of Louisiana’s natural beauty and wildlife, schedule a swamp tour with Cajun Encounters. These guided boat tours take you deep into the bayous and swamps, where you can spot alligators, amphibians, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. The tour guides share fascinating insights about the ecosystem and the unique Cajun culture that thrives in these wetlands. It’s an exciting and educational outing that offers a firsthand perspective on the region’s diverse environment.
Audubon Nature Institute
Explore the Aquarium, Zoo, and Insectarium
The Audubon Nature Institute encompasses several attractions that are perfect for family outings. The Audubon Aquarium showcases marine life from the Gulf of Mexico and beyond, featuring exhibits like the immersive Maya Tunnel and a rare white alligator. At the Audubon Zoo, kids can see animals from around the world, including a white tiger, a Louisiana swamp exhibit, and a statue of Louisiana’s local cryptid – the Rougarou.
The Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium is a delightful experience where children can learn about insects and get a closer look at some of Louisiana’s smallest critters. Together, these attractions offer a comprehensive exploration of the animal kingdom. They’re some of the most popular things to do in New Orleans with Kids.
Louisiana Children’s Museum
Play and Learn in City Park
The Louisiana Children’s Museum, located in scenic City Park, is a space for interactive learning and play. The museum’s exhibits are designed to engage young minds through hands-on activities that explore topics like water, wellness, and local culture.
Outside the museum, in City Park, families can rent bikes to explore the park’s nature trails. Plus, don’t forget the beautiful sculpture garden, which provides a tranquil space for a leisurely stroll amidst stunning artwork. The combination of indoor and outdoor activities makes the museum and connected park a versatile destination that can accommodate a full day of fun.
The National World War II Museum
History Comes to Life
While it might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about things to do in New Orleans with kids, The National World War II Museum offers a variety of exhibits that can captivate older children and teenagers. The museum’s interactive displays and immersive experiences, such as the 4D movie “Beyond All Boundaries,” provide a compelling look at this pivotal period in history. It’s an educational opportunity that can spark meaningful conversations about bravery, sacrifice, and the impact of global events on individual lives.
New Orleans Pharmacy Museum
A Fascinating Peek into Medical History
Step back in time at the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, where you can learn about the history of medicine and healthcare in the 19th century. The museum is housed in a historic apothecary shop and features a wide array of artifacts, including antique medical instruments, potions and remedies.
The guided tours are particularly engaging, offering stories about the practices and beliefs of early pharmacists. It’s a quirky and intriguing stop that will appeal to curious minds and history buffs alike.
St. Charles Streetcar
A Ride Through History
No visit to New Orleans would be complete without a ride on the historic St. Charles Streetcar. This iconic tour takes you on a scenic journey through the city’s picturesque neighborhoods, including the Garden District, known for its grand mansions and oak-lined streets. The ride itself is an enjoyable experience for kids, and it’s a convenient way to see some of New Orleans’ most beautiful architecture. Hop on and off as you explore different areas, making it a flexible and fun part of your itinerary.
New Orleans African American Museum
Celebrating Culture and Heritage
The New Orleans African American Museum is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the contributions of African Americans to the city’s rich cultural tapestry. It’s located in the Tremé neighborhood, the oldest surviving Black community in the United States. The museum’s exhibits cover a range of topics, from art and music to social and political history. Interactive displays and engaging programming make it a family-friendly destination where children can learn about the significant impact of African American culture on New Orleans and beyond.
New Orleans Jazz Museum
The Soundtrack of the City
Immerse your family in the musical heritage of New Orleans at the New Orleans Jazz Museum. Located in the historic Old U.S. Mint building, the museum showcases the history and evolution of jazz with exhibits, artifacts, and live performances. Kids can learn about legendary musicians, try their hand at playing instruments and even participate in music workshops. It’s a lively and educational experience that highlights why New Orleans is known as the birthplace of jazz.
Plan Your RV Adventure with Courvelle’s RV
As you explore all these wonderful things to do in New Orleans with kids, consider making your trip even better by traveling in an RV. Courvelle’s RV, located just two hours from New Orleans in Opelousas, offers a wide selection of RVs for sale that are perfect for family vacations. Traveling by RV provides the flexibility to explore at your own pace, enjoy the comforts of home on the road, and create lasting family memories. Stop by our dealership to browse used and new RVs for sale and start planning your trip to the vibrant city of New Orleans.
From interactive museums and historical sites to thrilling outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of things to do in New Orleans with kids. So, pack your bags, hit the road in your RV from Courvelle’s, and get ready to experience the magic of the Crescent City with your family.
