When your baby isn’t quite old enough for independent play, but is old enough to need constant entertainment, it can be exhausting trying to keep them occupied while also feeling life you’re doing something meaningful. Going stir-crazy at home is almost inevitable. While endless neighborhood walks can start to feel old, you eventually find yourself asking: What else can I do?
Bonus points if it’s FREE!
The good news? There are plenty of free (and low-pressure) ways to get out of the house with your little one. Some of these spots might feel unconventional, but they’re surprisingly great for babies. At this age, anything new to look at is entertaining. As a parent, simply exposing your baby to different environments and helping them engage with what’s around them goes a long way. Here are a few easy, baby-friendly ideas:
Free Places to Go With Your Baby
- Grocery stores: Trader Joe’s, Target, Breaux Mart, the French Market District, and The Fresh Market are great stores in New Orleans that have eye-catching products and packaging.
- Farmers markets: Crescent City Farmers Market, Algiers Farmers Market, and other local art markets always offer engaging products and social aspects to the experience. Check out our monthly calendar for dates and locations.
- Antique stores: For this one, make sure your child is strapped closely. But, Dop Antiques, Left Bank Market, Hidden South, and shops along Magazine Street always have captivating inventory.
- Pet stores: Stroll through creative animal sanctuaries at Petco, Southern Paws, Causeway Pets, or even local animal shelters, where there are always fun and furry friends to meet.
- Home improvement stores: Flip through the paint sample aisle or stop in the lights and ceiling fan section at Lowe’s, Home Depot, or The Green Project.
- Art museums and city parks: New Orleans has a fabulous collection of local galleries and parks to stroll through. Check out where kids get in free here.
- Shopping centers: Lakeside Mall, and–again–Magazine Street counts, too.
- Libraries: Check out our monthly calendar for New Orleans Public Library’s weekly events suitable for children of all ages (and parents, too).
How to Engage Your Baby While You’re Out
- Take your time. Wander around and take it all in–you’re not in a rush. Moving your body is as equally important as entertaining your child.
- Whether you are wearing your baby or keeping them in a stroller, talk to them about the colors, shapes, letters, and textures that you see. This creates a fun story-like banter.
- Don’t underestimate conversation. Simply talking to your baby is an enriching, educational experience for them.