What are the best things to do with kids in New Orleans, LA?

Some of the top-rated family activities in New Orleans, LA include McDonogh Memorial Park, Gretna Green Blacksmith Shop, German American Cultural Center, Arlene & Joseph Meraux Foundation, The National WWII Museum. We have 121 curated activities with ratings, age recommendations, and parent tips.

What are indoor activities for kids in New Orleans, LA?

New Orleans, LA offers a variety of indoor activities for kids including museums, indoor play areas, and entertainment centers. Browse our full guide for details.

Family Activities Guide

Things To Do With Kids in New Orleans, LA

Q: What are free things to do with kids in New Orleans, LA?

There are 51 free things to do with kids in New Orleans, LA, including City Park, Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, Sidney D Torres Memorial Park, Storyland, McDonogh Memorial Park, and more.

Discover 121 family-friendly activities, venues, and restaurants in New Orleans.

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🎨 Museum

Photo: Susan Travers Jones

The National WWII Museum

★4.8(29,079)$$

The National WWII Museum offers an immersive history experience that brings the 1940s to life through interactive exhibits kids can actually touch and explore. From climbing aboard authentic aircraft and submarines to experiencing the thrilling 4-D movie with moving seats and special effects, this isn't your typical 'look but don't touch' museum,it's designed to engage young minds through hands-on discovery.

🕑 4-6 hours for a thorough visit, or 2-3 hours if you focus on just the highlights and the 4-D experience

Swamp Tours New Orleans tourist attraction in New Orleans, LA

🧗 Adventure

Photo: Swamp Tours New Orleans

Swamp Tours New Orleans

★4.8(696)$$

Swamp Tours New Orleans offers an unforgettable airboat adventure through Louisiana's mysterious wetlands, where kids get the thrill of seeing alligators up close and even feeding them marshmallows! The high-speed airboat rides provide excitement while experienced guides share fascinating facts about the bayou ecosystem, making it both educational and exhilarating for the whole family.

🕑 1.5-2 hours for the tour itself, plus 30-60 minutes travel time each way from downtown New Orleans

German American Cultural Center cultural center in Gretna, LA

🎨 Museum

Photo: DS, D.

German American Cultural Center

★4.9(41)$3 mi · Gretna

The German American Cultural Center offers families a unique opportunity to explore German heritage through engaging exhibits and lively cultural festivals. With its impressive 4.9-star rating, this welcoming community center hosts kid-friendly events throughout the year, from traditional Oktoberfest celebrations to educational programs that bring history to life for young learners.

🕑 1-2 hours for a regular visit; 3-4 hours during festivals

Fleurty Girl Old Metairie clothing store in Old Metairie, LA

⭐ Activity

Photo: Silja Tanner

Fleurty Girl Old Metairie

★4.8(92)$4 mi · Old Metairie

While the description mentions indoor play features, Fleurty Girl is actually a beloved New Orleans-themed boutique specializing in locally-inspired clothing, gifts, and accessories that celebrate Louisiana culture. This charming store is perfect for families looking to pick up unique NOLA-themed souvenirs, cute kids' apparel with fun local sayings, and gifts that capture the spirit of the Big Easy.

🕑 30-45 minutes

Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church church in Harahan, LA

🌳 Park

Photo: Laurie Rials

Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church

★4.8(76)Free5 mi · Harahan

Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church serves the Westwego community as both a place of worship and a welcoming community space. While primarily a church, the property offers a peaceful setting where families can attend services together or participate in community events and faith-based activities that bring local families together.

🕑 1-1.5 hours for services; variable for community events

🌳 Park

Photo: Audubon Park

Audubon Park

★4.7(8,750)Free4 mi · Uptown

Audubon Park is a stunning 350-acre urban oasis in New Orleans' Uptown neighborhood that offers families endless opportunities for outdoor fun. With sprawling oak-shaded playgrounds, scenic walking paths around picturesque lagoons, and vast open lawns perfect for running, playing, and picnicking, it's a beloved destination where kids can burn energy while parents enjoy the beautiful Southern landscape.

🕑 2-4 hours

🎨 Museum

Photo: Spring Booth

New Orleans Museum of Art

★4.7(5,231)$

The New Orleans Museum of Art offers families a wonderful blend of indoor art exploration and outdoor adventure in its stunning 11-acre sculpture garden. With rotating family-friendly exhibits, hands-on art activities, and spacious grounds perfect for kids to roam, it's a cultural experience that won't feel like a forced march through a stuffy museum.

🕑 2-3 hours

🌳 Park

Photo: Jarret Miller

Lafreniere Park

★4.7(4,565)Free9 mi · Old Metairie

Lafreniere Park is Jefferson Parish's premier family destination, sprawling across 155 acres with something for every age. From multiple playgrounds and a seasonal splash pad to tranquil fishing lagoons and miles of shaded walking trails beneath stunning live oaks, this park offers a full day of outdoor fun without leaving the metro area.

🕑 3-5 hours for a full park experience, or 1-2 hours if visiting just one area like the splash pad or a specific playground

🌿 Nature

Photo: Paul Holmes

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

★4.7(2,129)Free

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve offers families an incredible introduction to Louisiana's wetland ecosystems without venturing deep into the swamp. Kids can safely explore elevated boardwalk trails that wind through authentic cypress swamps, spotting alligators, turtles, herons, and other wildlife while learning about this unique environment,all completely free!

🕑 2-3 hours

Ochsner Fitness Center - Harahan gym in Harahan, LA

⚽ Sports

Photo: Ryan Nguyen

Ochsner Fitness Center - Harahan

★4.7(1,682)$$7 mi · Harahan

Ochsner Fitness Center in Harahan is a family-friendly recreation facility that goes beyond just a gym, offering swimming pools, youth activities, and family programs designed to keep kids active and engaged. With a stellar 4.7-star rating from over 1,600 reviews, parents appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and variety of activities that make it easy to incorporate fitness into family time while kids have fun in age-appropriate programs.

🕑 2-3 hours

New Orleans Botanical Garden botanical garden in New Orleans, LA

🌿 Nature

Photo: Benjamin Raines

New Orleans Botanical Garden

★4.7(1,531)$

The New Orleans Botanical Garden offers 12 acres of lush gardens within City Park where kids can explore diverse plant collections, discover whimsical sculptures, and learn about nature in a beautiful setting. With winding paths, seasonal displays, and interactive elements throughout, it's a peaceful escape that keeps children engaged while giving parents a chance to enjoy stunning landscapes.

🕑 1.5-2 hours

🌳 Park

Photo: Gulya - (from Odessa)

Audubon Riverview (Butterfly) Park

★4.7(1,329)Free4 mi · Uptown

Audubon Riverview Park, affectionately known as 'The Fly' by locals, is a sprawling riverfront oasis where families can watch massive cargo ships glide along the Mississippi River while kids run free on open green spaces. This beloved Uptown gem combines stunning river views with plenty of room for bikes, picnics, and outdoor play, making it a go-to spot for New Orleans families seeking fresh air and adventure.

🕑 2-4 hours