Discover Family-Friendly Fun in New Orleans: Six Must-Visit Activities and Attractions
New Orleans is renowned for its vibrant culture, music, and cuisine, but it’s also a fantastic destination for families. From fascinating museums to thrilling outdoor adventures, the city offers a variety of activities that kids and adults alike will love. Here are six family-friendly attractions in New Orleans that promise fun and memorable experiences for everyone.
1. Audubon Aquarium of the Americas
Located along the Mississippi River, the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas is a must-visit for families. Dive into the underwater world and explore exhibits that showcase marine life from the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean, and the Amazon Rainforest. Highlights include a walk-through tunnel surrounded by sharks and rays, a playful sea otter exhibit, and the colorful Great Maya Reef. The interactive touch pool allows kids to get up close with starfish and other sea creatures, making it an educational and exciting experience for all ages.
2. Audubon Zoo
A trip to New Orleans wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Audubon Zoo, situated in the historic Uptown district. This beautifully landscaped zoo is home to a diverse array of animals, including Louisiana swamp creatures, exotic wildlife, and endangered species. Don’t miss the zebras, elephants, orangutans and lions. The zoo also features a splash park called Cool Zoo, perfect for cooling off on a hot day, and a train ride that offers a fun way to see the zoo’s highlights.
City Park is a sprawling urban oasis offering endless family-friendly activities. One of the park’s gems is Storyland, an enchanting playground featuring larger-than-life sculptures of fairy tale characters and classic nursery rhymes. Kids can climb aboard Captain Hook’s pirate ship, explore the house of the Three Little Pigs, and slide down Jack and Jill’s hill. After exploring Storyland, take a ride on the park’s antique carousel, enjoy a game of mini-golf at City Putt, or rent a paddleboat and glide across Big Lake.
4. Louisiana Children’s Museum
The Louisiana Children’s Museum, located in City Park’s scenic setting, is an interactive wonderland for young minds. With exhibits designed to stimulate curiosity and learning, kids can engage in hands-on activities related to science, art, and culture. Popular exhibits include a kid-sized grocery store, a bubble studio, and a water play area. The museum also features a literacy center, an edible garden, and a café serving healthy, kid-friendly meals. It’s a perfect spot for a day of educational fun.
5. Steamboat Natchez River Cruise
Experience the charm of New Orleans from the water with a family-friendly cruise aboard the Steamboat Natchez. This authentic paddlewheel boat offers scenic cruises along the Mississippi River, providing stunning views of the city’s skyline and historic sites. The daytime jazz cruises are perfect for families, featuring live music and fascinating narration about the history and culture of New Orleans. Kids will love exploring the boat and watching the mighty paddlewheel in action. Don’t forget to enjoy a tasty meal on board while taking in the sights and sounds of the river.
When visiting New Orleans, a family swamp tour is a must-do adventure that offers a unique glimpse into the region’s stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Glide through the mysterious bayous and wetlands, where you’ll encounter alligators, turtles, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. Knowledgeable guides bring the swamp to life with captivating stories about the ecosystem and the local culture. It’s an educational and thrilling experience that’s sure to be a highlight of your family trip, providing unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders of Louisiana.
Located in the family-friendly Arts Warehouse District, Loews Hotel is ideal for mutli-generational families interested in exploring the best of Crescent City by foot (or stroller). The hotel features 285 spacious guestrooms, including 75 luxury suites. Families love that all of our double occupancy rooms are equipped two queens and some include the option of a convertible sofa bed. On the 8th floor of the hotel, enjoy a dip in the indoor lap pool or enjoy the wellness benefits of the adjacent cedar wood sauna, while a locally-inspired menu is available at its locally-inspired restaurant, Poydras & Peters, on the main lobby level.
In the Big Easy, Loews New Orleans makes it especially easy for families through its Loews Love Families enhancements, where cribs, playmats, coloring books, toys, nightlights, age-appropriate treats are all available at no extra cost. Pets also receive special attention with gourmet meals prepared fresh by the Executive Chef, plush bedding, water bowls and more.
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New Orleans is a treasure trove of family-friendly attractions that offer fun, adventure, and education. From exploring the wonders of the animal kingdom and interactive museum exhibits to enjoying outdoor play and scenic river cruises, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Plan your visit to these fantastic attractions and create unforgettable memories in the vibrant city of New Orleans.
