Whether you’re raising your kids here or just visiting for the weekend, New Orleans is a one-of-a-kind playground for families. The Crescent City offers more than just Bourbon Street and beignets; it’s a place where every corner holds a new surprise for little adventurers and grown-ups alike. This family-friendly bucket list blends iconic Nola traditions with hidden gems, giving you a go-to guide for memory-making across every season. 

Catch a Parade

Whether it’s Mardi Gras, Halloween, or a local second line, New Orleans knows how to celebrate. Colorful floats, catchy music, and flying beads make every parade a memorable family experience.

Eat Beignets at Café du Monde

Messy? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely. Let the kids go wild with the powdered sugar while you sip a café au lait and watch the world pass by at this open-air French Market classic. Or, check out the City Park location.

 

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Explore City Park’s Storyland and Train Garden

Let imaginations run wild in this whimsical playground where fairy tales come to life. Then, hop aboard the train or wander through the lush Botanical Garden next door. The possibilities are endless in this 1,300-acre wonderland!

Kayak Down Bayou St. John

Glide through one of New Orleans’ most scenic waterways, surrounded by charming houses, lush greenery, and the occasional heron. Kayaking on the bayou is a peaceful way to experience the city from a different angle.

Ride the Algiers Ferry

Take in skyline views and let the Mississippi River breeze blow through your hair on the Algiers Ferry. It’s just $2 for adults and $1 for kids two and under. Plus, there’s a playground waiting for you on the Westbank.

Stroll Down Frenchmen Street

Skip the chaos of Bourbon and head to Frenchmen Street for a taste of live local music, funky art markets, and colorful street murals, all in a more laid-back, family-friendly setting. While the nightlife is legendary, daytime is perfect for families to soak in the culture.

Take a Streetcar Ride Down St. Charles Avenue

No car seats required—just hop on, grab a window seat, and enjoy the oak-canopied ride past mansions, universities, and timeless charm. It’s a fun and affordable way to see the city.

Take a Swamp Tour

Hop on an airboat or flat-bottom boat and explore the wild side of Louisiana just outside the city limits. From spotting alligators to learning about local wildlife and wetland ecosystems, swamp tours are equal parts adventure and education.

Try a Snowball

Nothing says “New Orleans” quite like a cold, syrupy snowball on a warm day. These frosty treats are a favorite for kids and adults alike (fluffy ice, bold flavors, and plenty of napkins required!). Check out local spots like Hansen’s Sno-Bliz, Pandora’s Snowballs, or Sal’s Sno-Ball Stand.

Visit the Audubon Zoo

Watch the white alligators, feed the giraffes, or cool off at the splash pad or lazy river in the summer months. The zoo is one of the top-rated in the country and offers enough to fill a whole day with animal encounters, shaded walking paths, and hands-on exhibits.

Visit the Louisiana Children’s Museum

Located in City Park, this modern museum blends indoor learning exhibits with outdoor nature play. Perfect for curious minds and rainy days alike.

Walk Through the Garden District

Take a self-guided or guided walking tour through one of New Orleans’ most beautiful and historic neighborhoods. With towering oak trees, grand 19th-century mansions, and movie-famous homes (yes, that’s the house from American Horror Story), the Garden District offers a peaceful stroll packed with architectural charm and Southern history the whole family can enjoy.

Watch Street Performers in Jackson Square

From jazz trios to living statues, this is where New Orleans’ creative spirit truly shines. Don’t forget to take a family photo in front of the St. Louis Cathedral.

This city has magic in every neighborhood, and the best way to experience it is together. Because here, the bucket list never really ends… it just keeps getting better. You never know what one of these adventures may lead you to next. 

This article was originally published in June 2025.