The National WWII Museum

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.

• ✓Climbing inside a real C-47 cargo plane and exploring authentic WWII aircraft up close
• ✓Walking through the interior of an actual submarine and seeing where sailors lived
• ✓The immersive 4-D 'Beyond All Boundaries' movie with moving seats, wind effects, and dramatic storytelling
• ✓Interactive exhibits where kids can send secret coded messages and try on replica uniforms
• ✓The Final Mission exhibit featuring a B-17 bomber suspended dramatically from the ceiling

1. 1.Arrive right at opening (9 AM) to beat tour groups and have the interactive exhibits to yourselves, especially the popular submarine and aircraft displays
2. 2.Download the museum's free app before visiting,it includes a special kid-friendly tour and scavenger hunt that keeps children engaged throughout
3. 3.The 4-D movie 'Beyond All Boundaries' is narrated by Tom Hanks and is a huge hit with kids, but purchase tickets when you arrive as showtimes fill up quickly
4. 4.Wear comfortable shoes,this museum spans multiple buildings and you'll easily walk 2-3 miles exploring everything
5. 5.Pack snacks or plan for a meal break at the American Sector restaurant inside, which offers kid-friendly options like burgers and has a fun 1940s atmosphere

Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday) right when doors open at 9 AM to avoid school groups and cruise ship crowds. Summer can be extremely busy, so early arrival is crucial. Overcast or rainy days are perfect since it's entirely indoors with climate control.

General admission starts around $32 for adults and $19 for kids 5-12 (under 5 free), with additional fees for the 4-D theater. Parking is available in nearby lots ($15-25) or street parking if you arrive early. The museum has a café and full restaurant on-site, plus the campus is fully accessible with elevators and ramps.

Open year-round with consistent hours. The museum hosts special Memorial Day and Veterans Day programs that are educational and moving. Summer months (June-August) are the busiest with family travel. The indoor setting makes it an ideal rainy day activity during New Orleans' wet season (July-September).

Cochon Butcher (2 blocks away) offers casual sandwiches and house-made meats in a kid-friendly counter-service setting. Mother's Restaurant (0.3 miles) is a New Orleans institution serving baked ham po'boys and comfort food that appeals to picky eaters, though expect lines during peak hours.