Photo: Katie Shubert
Photo: Noobtastic Lori
Photo: Marcus Pries
Mardi Gras World
★4.4(5,257 reviews)$$Museum
🕑 1.5-2 hours👶 Best for ages 4-12. Preschoolers and elementary-aged kids love the interactive costume try-ons and vibrant, oversized props, while older children appreciate learning about the cultural traditions and craftsmanship. Toddlers may enjoy the colors but might get restless during the tour portions.🧡 Saved by 70+ families
About
Mardi Gras World offers families a behind-the-scenes look at the magic of New Orleans' most famous celebration. Kids are mesmerized by the larger-than-life colorful floats, elaborate costumes they can try on, and watching artisans create new props right before their eyes,it's like stepping into a giant, whimsical art studio where creativity comes alive.
Highlights
- ✓Trying on authentic Mardi Gras costumes and posing for photos in elaborate feathered headdresses and sequined outfits
- ✓Standing next to gigantic, colorful float sculptures,some over 20 feet tall,featuring everything from dragons to fairy tale characters
- ✓Watching skilled artists paint and sculpt new float props in the working warehouse
- ✓Sampling traditional king cake, a sweet Mardi Gras treat kids love
- ✓Learning about Mardi Gras traditions and the meaning behind the purple, green, and gold colors
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early in the day (right at 9 AM) to beat tour groups and have more space for kids to explore and take photos with the floats
- 2.Don't miss the complimentary king cake samples,kids love this sweet treat and it's a fun cultural experience
- 3.Bring your camera with a full charge; kids will want photos in every costume and with every colorful float character
- 4.Visit the working warehouse area where artists are actively creating,kids are fascinated watching the behind-the-scenes craftsmanship
- 5.Check out the gift shop for affordable Mardi Gras beads and masks that make great souvenirs without breaking the bank
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday, 9-11 AM) for smaller crowds and a more relaxed experience. Avoid visiting during peak Mardi Gras season (January-February) when tours are packed, unless you want the heightened festive atmosphere.
What to Know
Admission is around $22 for adults and $14 for children (3-12), with kids under 3 free. The venue has free parking on-site, air conditioning throughout (perfect for hot Louisiana days), and stroller-friendly pathways, though some areas may feel tight during busy tours.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round, but the experience is especially magical in January and February leading up to Mardi Gras when energy is high and new floats are being completed. The venue may have adjusted hours during major holidays, so call ahead during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's.
Nearby Eats
Head to Dat Dog (about 10 minutes away) for creative hot dogs and sausages kids love, or try Café Du Monde for iconic beignets and hot chocolate,a New Orleans must-do that's family-friendly and casual.
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