Discover mixed-age attractions and memorable things to do in New Orleans with kids and teens, plus planning tips for a multigenerational NOLA gathering
Planning for a reunion can be tricky when considering a variety of ages. Kids and teens, not to mention grandparents, require unique activities. Luckily, we have found the perfect family-friendly things to do in New Orleans that will keep even the rowdiest kids and moodiest teens engaged.
One-of-a-kind experiences and locations that have a little something for everyone, regardless of age, can be found throughout New Orleans. And for those days where no one agrees, plan to split up, enjoy the day, and regroup later. There are so many things to do in New Orleans with kids, if you know where to look.
Check out our full New Orleans roundup for reunion groups to get inspired.
New Orleans City Park
Family-Friendly Things to Do in New Orleans
The Audubon Aquarium is an ideal location for multigenerational groups who want to explore the magic of marine life, or look at the creepy crawlies with included admission to the Insectarium. With varied ways to interact, play, and explore, the aquarium is great for children, teenagers, adults, and seniors. Plan to spend the better part of the day as you wander from the deep-sea exhibits to the rainforest and beyond. For a less crowded experience, visit during November through February.
New Orleans City Park is the epicenter of family-friendly things to do in New Orleans. Make kids’ dreams come true at Storyland and have teens screaming with delight at
Carousel Gardens Amusement Park. With so many things to explore here for younger family members, plan a day or two to get the most out of your visit. Make sure to check the open dates for seasonal activities and events before you go.
Explore the most vibrant year-round attraction at Mardi Gras World, where every day is a celebration. Get your group excited with unique activities including mask-making, behind-the-scenes tours, and mini float builds. Come for a tour or make it a longer adventure with customizable group workshops. And with complimentary shuttle services, getting your whole group here is easy.
Take in the stunning views of New Orleans up at Vue Orleans, a historic and visual experience. With 360° views, historical shows in the unique theatre, smooth jazz from Louisiana legends, and a cafe for a quick bite, all ages will have plenty to explore. This is the ideal place for a relaxing afternoon or sunset stop for the perfect group photo.
JAMNOLA encapsulates joy, art, and music with immersive exhibits. The entire group can engage with the interactive elements and vibrant displays, perfect for snapping a few photos. The whole experience takes around 45 minutes, making it a great pitstop for some casual fun. Purchasing tickets online in advance is strongly encouraged, as spots fill quickly.
Things to Do in New Orleans with Teens
Preservation Hall welcomes visitors to explore New Orleans’ vibrant music history with nightly concerts. If rich history doesn’t pique the interest of teens, the lively jazz performances have a way of drawing visitors in. Enjoy illuminating performances and dramatic retellings at one of the city’s many theaters. From locally inspired shows to nationally known favorites, the performing arts are one of the best things to do in New Orleans with teens.
The Besthoff Sculpture Garden hosts a variety of engaging events–from Tai Chi tolocal music. Teens can also explore the grounds, which host larger-than-life installations that make for great photos. Discover more NOLA gardens here.
Find the epicenter of natural enchantment at the New Orleans Botanical Garden. Groups will be delighted to find the train garden tucked in the northwestern corner, fullof history and operational mini trains.
Saddle up and tap into the equestrian roots of the city. Cascade Stables offers guided trail rides, a novel way to experience New Orleans’ scenic beauty. Not only will teensget a new perspective atop a horse, but who doesn’t love an animal selfie?
Teens can get hands-on with food at The Mardi Gras School of Cooking. Celebrate the local culinary traditions as you learn to cook local favorites, and get that perfect Instagram food picture of the finished product.
Find more multigenerational vacation ideas and activities with these exciting things to do in New Orleans
New Orleans Museum
Break Up into Sub-Groups
Time to break out into smaller groups and explore the city in a variety of ways:
Keep kids engaged with hands-on activities and exciting events that are sure to engage their short attention spans. A trip to a children’s museum or outdoor playground will have them happy and tire them out.
Let teens forge their own path. Independence for older groups helps them take the reins on their vacation, freeing them to engage in immersive experiences they will truly enjoy.
Adults can take it easy with a quiet meal or a historic stroll. Use the free time to your advantage by taking in the sights, sounds, and food at a leisurely pace.
Before you split up, secure a time to regroup. Pick a central landmark or enticing restaurant where everyone can meet back up and share their stories from the day.
Planning Tips to Best Explore New Orleans
Crowds & Timing
Get going early and hit up the big attractions in the morning to avoid midday crowds. Then you can spend a more casual afternoon at the park or wandering through some easy-going activities. Come night, you can wind down with a nice meal or get your second wind at one of New Orleans’ many after-dark venues.
Weather Reality
New Orleans is known for its eerie atmosphere, in part because of the year-round rainfall. Locals are more than used to the unpredictable weather, and therefore, many activities run rain or shine. However, it is best to check weather policies in advance for any attractions you book, and have some indoor backup plans ready.
Meet-Up Points
Does your group need a little extra help getting everyone together? Consider setting up a designated home base. A specific meeting area or a distinctive landmark helps keep the group on the same page when meeting up before and after activities.
Getting Around
Don’t spend your whole day going back and forth to the hotel or across town for different excursions. When planning your trip itinerary, consult a local map and group activities by location. You don’t want to have travel fatigue before the fun has even begun.
Want more options to plug into your schedule? Start with our full roundup of things to do in New Orleans for families.
Sample Itinerary for Things to Do in New Orleans with Kids & Teens
MORNING: Start the morning off with a high-energy activity. Think big, like an in-depth exploration of Audubon Aquarium or a swamp tour through the bayou. It’s best to do robust activities in the morning, to ensure you have the time and energy to explore to the fullest.
LUNCH: Find a nearby restaurant to grab lunch and recharge your vacation energy. Or if you pack your own food ahead of time, take in the natural beauty of New Orleans at a city park with a picnic.
AFTERNOON: Time to split up for some afternoon leisure geared toward each age group. Take the kids to the Storyland playground to let off some steam. Encourage teens to explore independently at the local shopping centers or take photos at the sculpture garden. Adults can enjoy a walking tour or a sip at one of the city’s historic bars. This is also an optimal time to fit in rest breaks for younger children and seniors.
EVENING: Regroup and enjoy mouth-watering meals while sharing your afternoon activities. Nothing is better than swapping stories and creating memories over a shared meal. And don’t forget dessert! New Orleans is known for some uniquely delicious delicacies that you can’t miss out on.
FAQs
- Q: Is New Orleans a good place to visit with kids?
- A: New Orleans offers a variety of experiences perfect for multigenerational family vacations or reunions with kids. From deep-sea days at the aquariums to interactive playgrounds straight from a storybook, there is not a dull day for kids in New Orleans.
- Q: What are the best things to do in New Orleans with teens?
- A: There are nearly endless things to do in New Orleans with teens. Try an outdoor adventure in the Botanical Gardens, a showstopping performance at one of the city’s theaters, and then hit up a local food truck for memorable meals.
- Q: Are swamp tours OK for kids?
- A: Swamp tours are a great way to see stunning Louisiana nature for all ages. There are many family-friendly options that allow kids and teens to get an up-close glimpse of local wildlife.
- Q: What can we do that works for both grandparents and teens?
- A: There are many activities and events that bridge the age and energy level gap between teens and grandparents. Lively musical performances, explorations of local history and culture, and unique cuisine are just the start. For a truly unique experience, have the generations bond over a Mardi Gras World workshop.
- Q: What are the best indoor activities in New Orleans for kids?
- A: There are many great indoor things to do in New Orleans with kids, depending on their interests. For engaging underwater exploration, visit the Audubon Aquarium. Aunique artistic adventure awaits at JAMNOLA. And Vue Orleans offers a full view of thecity from inside.
Start Planning Your NOLA Reunion Today
Get the most out of your next trip with family-friendly things to do in New Orleans. Whether you are looking for mixed-age activities or the coolest teen events, there is a little something for every age here. Explore together or split into smaller groups to getthe most out of your NOLA vacation. Browse the full list of things to do in New Orleans and check out the contact form for additional planning help.
Don’t plan alone. Receive inbox inspiration for unforgettable reunions. Subscribe to the Destination Reunions newsletter — FREE tips, real ideas, no fluff.
