Top Activities in New Orleans for Kids

Bugs, Bugs, and more Bugs at the Audubon Insectarium. Which kid doesn't love bugs!

The Audubon Zoo is a world-class facility located in Audubon Park and is easily accessible by streetcar, bus or boat. Its' Louisiana Swamp Exhibit is a popular place with locals, who flock to see alligators and nutrias up close. Watch for the Loup Garou (say "loo garoo"), a legendary Cajun swamp monster.

This animal-themed water park is a big hit with kids and parents. Located in the Audubon Zoo, the Cool Zoo has three areas, with one for toddlers and younger kids. There are water slides, one is a large alligator. There is also a giant spider monkey that dumps water, water-spitting snakes, jumping water spouts and much more. There are also shaded benches for Mom and Dad.

The Aquarium of the Americas, located at the foot of Canal Street on the Mississippi River, is among the five top aquariums in the nation. It showcases the aquatic life of the Americas. Don't miss the 400,000 gallon Gulf of Mexico tank.

The Louisiana Children's Museum is in the Arts District on Julia Street and is a favorite of the children of all ages. Here, the little ones can shop in a pint-sized grocery store or serve you lunch in the cafe. Older children can pilot a life-size tugboat on the Mighty Mississippi.

Preservation Hall, dedicated to the preservation of New Orleans Jazz has a family-friendly policy of no drinking or smoking and all ages are invited.

Easily accessible by streetcar from downtown, New Orleans City Park is a 1500-acre park that offers boating, fishing, and nature trails. Two miniature trains tour the perimeter of the park. Take younger children to Storyland, a magical play area featuring 26 nursery rhyme exhibits. You'll also find an amusement park featuring a fully restored antique wooden carousel, one of only 100 left in the country. (Sons and daughters of New Orleans of every age call carousels the "Flying Horses.")

New Orleans sits on the banks of the Mississippi River. There are several river boats that dock near the foot of Canal Street that provide a great experience for families. The Natchez is a real steamboat that has Jazz dinner​ cruises. The Creole Queen is a beautiful Paddlewheeler. Both riverboats offer daytime or night cruises, with or without a meal. All ages are welcome.

Imagine enjoying world-class art with your children and not worrying about whether they will touch anything. This beautiful part of New Orleans City Park may change your children's view of museums. It's a beautiful setting and accessible art is inviting, not intimidating to kids.

The National World War II Museum is filled with planes, boats, and items from World War II Museum, along with special programs, make this museum something kids will love.

Another museum that kids actually like is the Pharmacy Museum

What, Mardi Gras? If you're thinking, who in their right mind would take a child to Mardi Gras, you have either never been here or you've only stayed in the French Quarter when you came. It's true that the media loves to show the "exposures" for beads that go on Bourbon Street. But, there's a side of Mardi Gras few outsiders even know about and it can be one of the best vacations your family ever had.

• Safety Tips for Kids at Mardi Gras
• How to Plan a Trip to Mardi Gras
• Photos of Family-Friendly Mardi Gras

There's a lot of fun to be had in your own streetcar. Decorate it and bring food for a great birthday celebration. This is a unique way to celebrate any special occasion.

Bourbon Street is not a street for kids. But there are other streets in the French Quarter that are great for kids during the day. Decatur and Royal don't have the strip clubs and bars that are on Bourbon Street. There are some interesting shops, one with nothing but toy soldiers, and there are street performers, artists, palm-readers all around.

• Take a walk around Jackson Square
• Take a Self-guided tour of the Mississippi Riverfront