Family-Friendly New Orleans

When it comes to kid-friendly fun, a trip to New Orleans is a lot like a choose-your-own-adventure story. Kids and families have plenty of options for experiencing the city, so whether you have a house full of aspiring artists, action-loving daredevils or curious future scientists, just choose an interest and get ready for a day of exploration and discovery.

Engineers in Training

From bellowing, steam-powered whistles to clanging trolley bells, you’ll know you’re set for an adventure once you step aboard one of New Orleans’ historic methods of transportation. The Steamboat Natchez is New Orleans’ only steamboat, and its elegant furnishings and antique accents transport passengers to a bygone era. Visit the steam engine room to see the riverboat’s inner-workings, and listen to melodic tunes from the authentic steam-powered calliope, which even can be heard from the banks of the mighty Mississippi River. For a ride through the city, hop aboard one of New Orleans' vintage streetcars, outfitted with brass accents and mahogany wooden seats. The St. Charles line is the world’s oldest continuously operating street railway and passes by notable areas such as Audubon Park and the Garden District.

Budding Scientist

The world is a fascinating place, and for inquisitive kids with an eye for science, there’s plenty to see and do in New Orleans. For one stop to satisfy them all, the Audubon Nature Institute has everything a curious kid could want—from insects to dinosaurs to underwater creatures. Visit the Audubon Zoo to see exotic animals, play in a water park, go on a dinosaur adventure and ride a colorful carousel. At the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, you can walk through an underwater reef tunnel, feel the fear at the tropical shark exhibit, watch penguins play and get a hands-on experience with hundreds of exotic birds. And don’t forget the Audubon Insectarium for an up-close glimpse of creepy crawlers, butterflies and edible insects.

Aspiring Artist

Little artists can turn to the greats for inspiration when they visit the New Orleans Museum of Art. From Degas to Picasso, this cultural institution showcases more than 40,000 pieces, as well as a beautifully landscaped sculpture garden for little ones to frolic in. Check the education schedule for upcoming workshops and age-appropriate art classes offered at the museum. 

Nature Lover

If gardens, flowers and the great outdoors sound exciting, take your kids to visit New Orleans City Park. This 1,300-acre green space has sprawling moss covered oak trees, lagoons, walking trails through Couturie Forest and plenty of opportunities to spot birds and wildlife. City Park also is home to the New Orleans Botanical Garden, a lush urban sanctuary filled with blooming flowers and exotic plants. 

Active Adventurer

For kids who like to stay active, New Orleans has a number of activities to keep the excitement level high. Start out with a thrilling game of laser tag at Adventure Quest Laser Tag. This massive facility features a 6,000-square-foot laser tag arena with a Mayan ruins theme, as well as arcade games, bumper cars and black-light miniature golf. 

Photo by Flickr/princedd/Edd Prince.