things to do in new orleans with kids

New Orleans is a vibrant city that offers a wide range of activities and attractions that are perfect for families with kids. Here are some things to do in New Orleans with kids:

1. Audubon Zoo: Home to over 2,000 animals, including giraffes, monkeys, and penguins. The zoo also offers a petting zoo, playground, and a train ride.
2. Audubon Aquarium of the Americas: Located in the Central Business District, this aquarium features a variety of marine life, including sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles.
3. New Orleans Museum of Art: The museum offers family-friendly activities, including art classes and workshops, and a sculpture garden with interactive exhibits.
4. City Park: This 1,300-acre park offers a variety of activities, including a playground, a lake, and a zoo. You can also rent bikes or take a horse-drawn carriage ride.
5. Steamboat Natchez: Take a scenic cruise along the Mississippi River and enjoy live jazz music and delicious Creole cuisine.
6. New Orleans Children’s Museum: This museum features interactive exhibits and play areas, including a mini-grocery store, a doctor’s office, and a construction zone.
7. Louisiana Children’s Discovery Center: This center offers hands-on activities and exhibits focused on science, art, and imagination.
8. Storyland: This theme park features fairy tale characters and storybook settings, including a castle, a dragon, and a pirate ship.
9. New Orleans Botanical Garden: This beautiful garden features a variety of plants and flowers, as well as a children’s garden with interactive exhibits.
10. Take a swamp tour: Explore the Honey Island Swamp or the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve with a guided tour.

Family-friendly festivals and events:

1. Mardi Gras: While Mardi Gras can be overwhelming for young children, there are many family-friendly events and parades throughout the city.
2. French Quarter Festival: This festival features live music, food, and activities for kids.
3. New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival: This festival features live music, food, and activities for kids.
4. Voodoo Fest: This festival features live music, food, and activities for kids.
5. New Orleans Christmas Parade: This parade features festive floats, marching bands, and Santa Claus.

Kid-friendly restaurants:

1. Cafe du Monde: This famous cafe serves beignets and coffee, and is a great place to people-watch.
2. Dooky Chase’s Restaurant: This restaurant serves Creole cuisine and has a fun atmosphere.
3. Cafe Maspero: This cafe serves Creole cuisine and has a fun atmosphere.
4. Parkway Bakery and Tavern: This restaurant serves po’ boys and has a fun atmosphere.
5. Jacques-Imo’s Cafe: This restaurant serves Creole cuisine and has a fun atmosphere.

Tips and recommendations:

1. Be prepared for crowds: New Orleans can be crowded, especially during peak tourist season.
2. Bring sunscreen and hats: The sun can be strong in New Orleans, especially during the summer months.
3. Try beignets: Beignets are a classic New Orleans treat that kids will love.
4. Take a stroll through the French Quarter: The French Quarter is a great place to explore with kids, with its historic architecture and lively atmosphere.
5. Be respectful of the city’s culture: New Orleans is a city with a rich cultural heritage, and kids should be taught to respect the city’s traditions and customs.