Curator’s statement
We may be biased, but we believe New Orleans is the best city in the United States. From its rich history and vibrant music scene to delicious food and unique architecture, the city offers experiences unlike anywhere else. To help you plan an unforgettable visit for your family, I’ve gathered top kid-friendly recommendations from my two in-house experts—my son and daughter.
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Things to do in New Orleans
Spend the day in City Park
Airboat: After 15 years in New Orleans, I finally experienced an airboat ride with my extended family this year—and it was a blast! The ride was exhilarating and scenic, and we gained valuable insights into coastal erosion.
City Park: City Park is a treasure trove of activities for all ages. Younger kids will delight in the Children’s Museum and playgrounds; older kids can appreciate the New Orleans Museum of Art, Sculpture Gardens, and Botanical Gardens; and the whole family can enjoy mini-golf, paddle boat or bike rentals, and Café du Monde beignets—without the long lines of the French Quarter location. All set beneath majestic oak trees draped in Spanish moss!
Carousel Gardens & Storyland: Carousel Gardens is in City Park but gets its own shout-out as one of our kids’ city highlights. This mini-amusement park features a Ferris wheel, carnival games, and a roller coaster. Adjacent to it, Storyland offers whimsical play areas inspired by classic tales, perfect for younger children.
The Cool Zoo (at Audubon Zoo): While the Audubon Zoo is a must-visit on its own, our kids especially love The Cool Zoo—a seasonal water park within the zoo. It boasts a lazy river and a fun splash pad, providing ample space for adults to relax while kids play.
Shopping on Magazine Street: If you have a shopper in your group, they’ll enjoy visiting kid-friendly shops like Fleurty Girl for New Orleans-inspired fun, Pippin Lane for kids’ clothes and accessories, the Antique Mall for vintage and antique finds, and Le Bonbon for international candies and treats. Bonus activity: Grab some cinnamon sugar beignet bites at Vintage and then explore the mansions of the Garden District.
Sporting events: If you’ve got a kid who is into sports, New Orleans is a great place to catch a game with the Superdome and the Arena located within walking distance of downtown hotels and restaurants. Who Dat!
A Mississippi River cruise: My daughter had a fantastic time on her school trip aboard the Creole Queen, a classic paddle-wheeler offering scenic views of the Mississippi River.
The Holidays: New Orleanians know how to celebrate. Whether it’s Mardi Gras, Halloween, or Jazz Fest (a local holiday!), our kids love joining in the festivities. These can be more complicated times to visit, so reach out for support!
While our kids are in elementary school, some other highlights for older kids include the National WWII Museum, Preservation Hall (under 21 are welcome), the Pharmacy Museum, and Kayaking on the Bayou. Younger children will enjoy the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas and Insectarium.
Places to eat & drink in New Orleans
Commander's Palace in the heart of the Garden District
From crawfish boils to po boys, snoballs to beignets, New Orleans has some of the most delicious food in the country. Our kids’ top picks are below:
Peche: This is our family’s top pick for visitors with kids—the food is outstanding, and the upscale casual vibe works well with young children. Get the fried bread—you won’t regret it!
Saba: A bright and inviting restaurant serving modern Israeli cuisine, Saba is both stylish and kid-friendly, offering a thoughtful children’s menu alongside vibrant, inventive dishes that adults will love.
Meril: Emeril Lagasse’s more casual spot is perfect for families, offering a broad menu with something for everyone—from playful small plates to flatbreads to hearty mains, all in a lively, kid-welcoming setting.
Willa Jean: A modern Southern bakery and café that’s especially family-friendly for breakfast or brunch—don’t miss the cookies and milk for dessert, complete with a pour-over of warm chocolate.
Brunch at Brennan’s or Commander’s Palace: For a splurge-worthy, fancy brunch that still accommodates kids, these two classic New Orleans institutions make a lasting impression—just be sure to dress up and make a reservation. Our kids especially love watching the table-side preparation of our Bananas Foster at Brennan’s.
Po-boys (Parkway Tavern): There are a million po-boy options in town, but our family favorite is Parkway Tavern—great for a delicious meal before or after a trip to City Park.
The Batture: A newer riverfront outdoor space with picnic tables and a laid-back vibe, the Batture is a hidden gem for families to relax and enjoy various food trucks, all while enjoying views of the Mississippi. Hours are limited.
Vintage: Stop by The Vintage for our family’s favorite beignets—cinnamon sugar beignet bites that offer a delicious twist on the classic preparation.
Hansen’s Sno-Bliz: This iconic New Orleans sno-ball stand is a must for families—expect a line, but we all agree the fluffy ice and house-made syrups are worth the wait.
Need to know
Avoid the heat by visiting in October–April.
No need to rent a car—it’s easy to get around with ride-shares.
It can be complicated to visit around Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, or college move-in/graduation dates. Reach out for support.
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our New Orleans page.
Travel Advisor
Abigail Gaunt
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