Kids are expensive, and a day out can easily cost a fortune. If your family, like ours, can’t shell out hundreds every weekend, then you need fun, budget-friendly options. That’s why we created this list of 40+ FREE things to do in New Orleans with kids!
Algiers Levee:
Take a scenic stroll or bike ride along the Mississippi River. The levee path stretches from the Todd Shipyard in Algiers to the Huey P. Long Bridge. However, for evening strolls, stick to the well-lit Algiers section.
Arnaud’s Mardi Gras Museum:
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Carnival at this fascinating museum. It’s open seven days a week during restaurant hours.
Audubon Nature Center:
Venture out to New Orleans East and discover this hidden gem. Explore walking trails and engage with hands-on exhibits that teach kids about the diverse wildlife of Southeast Louisiana. The trails are open daily, while the Exhibit Hall welcomes visitors Wednesday through Sunday. Note that the Planetarium requires an additional fee.
Audubon Nature Institute:
Orleans Parish residents are in for a treat! On Wednesdays, with a valid ID, enjoy free admission to various Audubon attractions, including the Zoo, Aquarium, and Insectarium. The attractions rotate weekly, so check the schedule for your favorites.
Orleans Parish residents with SNAP cards receive free entry to all Audubon attractions with valid ID and their SNAP card. New Orleans Library cardholders can also check out passes at their local library.
Audubon Park:
Nestled on Magazine Street across from the Audubon Zoo, this park offers a delightful escape. Take a leisurely walk or jog on the 1.8-mile paved loop, let the kids loose on one of the three playgrounds (including the new inclusive Walnut St. Playground), or cool off in the Whitney Young Pool. The park is perfect for a relaxing picnic and a fun-filled afternoon.
Baby ArtsPlay:
Young Audiences of Louisiana and The Helis Foundation present Baby ArtsPlay, a unique playtime experience for young children and their caregivers. This program supports children’s physical, social, and cognitive development while immersing them in the vibrant arts and cultural institutions of New Orleans. Locations and times vary, so check the Helis Foundation website for details.
Barnes & Noble:
On Saturday mornings at 11 a.m., the Metairie, Elmwood, and Westbank locations host a delightful storytime with an activity.
Barataria Preserve:
Venture to Marrero and explore the Barataria Preserve. The visitor’s center is open Wednesday through Sunday, while the trails are accessible daily (except on federal holidays and Mardi Gras Day).
Bonnabel Boat Launch:
Located at the foot of Bonnabel Blvd. and Lake Pontchartrain in Metairie, this spot offers more than just boat launching. Enjoy fishing, playground fun, a dog park, and scenic biking and hiking along the levees.
City Park:
This sprawling 1,300-acre park in Mid-City is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Discover biking, jogging, and walking paths, exciting playgrounds, and much more.
City Park Botanical Gardens:
Louisiana residents with valid IDs can enter for free on Wednesdays. Let the kids roam the gardens, explore the Historic New Orleans Train Garden, and have a blast in this picturesque setting.
Contemporary Arts Center:
Louisiana residents enjoy free admission on Sundays. Immerse yourselves in contemporary art at this renowned institution.
Couturie Forest:
Embark on a nature walk within the heart of New Orleans. This 60-acre forest in City Park boasts walking trails teeming with native trees, scenic waterways, and local wildlife.
Crescent Park:
This 20-acre park along the Mississippi River in the French Market District offers bike paths, a dog run, and stunning views.
Family Gras:
This free concert and festival takes place on the Veterans Blvd. neutral ground across from Lakeside in Metairie during the first week of Mardi Gras parades in Jefferson Parish.
French Market:
Soak in the history and music of New Orleans as you stroll through the French Market in the French Quarter. Check their calendar for free events throughout the year.
French Quarter:
Experience the heart of New Orleans for free. Stroll along the river and admire Jackson Square’s street performers and window shop on Royal Street.
Gretna Observatory:
The largest public observatory in the area, Gretna Observatory, offers free stargazing on Monday and Wednesday nights. Through its telescopes, visitors can learn about the wonders of the night sky.
Heritage Park:
Step back in time to this replicated village in Kenner’s Rivertown. Explore an ice house, blacksmith shop, 1930s gas station, and more. Open to the public on Saturdays.
Jazz Historic Park:
Located in the French Quarter, this park hosts monthly concerts, family-friendly events, and educational programs for kids.
Jefferson Parish Library:
The library system offers a wide array of free events for children and families, including parties, storytimes, crafts, and movie days.
Jefferson Parish Playgrounds:
There are numerous playgrounds across the East and Westbank, so you’re sure to find one near you.
Joe Brown Park:
Located in New Orleans East, this park boasts a playground, indoor pool, basketball courts, and various outdoor activities, such as camping, canoeing, and fishing.
Kenner City Park & Kenner Laketown:
These parks offer playgrounds, walking trails, fishing piers, boat launches, and more for family fun.
Kenner Playgrounds & Skate Park:
In addition to the parks, Kenner has playgrounds and a skate park for kids of all ages.
Kids’ Castle at Lakeside Shopping Center:
This indoor play area is perfect for young children, with soft climbing structures and a safe environment.
Lafreniere Park:
Located in Metairie, this park features playgrounds, a walking trail, and plenty of green space for outdoor activities.
LaSalle’s Landing:
Experience the power of the Mississippi River at LaSalle’s Landing in Kenner’s Rivertown.
LaSalle Park:
Enjoy playgrounds, walking paths, and a nature boardwalk at LaSalle Park off Airline Drive in Metairie.
New Orleans Lakefront:
The Lakefront offers green spaces, playgrounds, and beautiful views, perfect for picnics and outdoor play.
New Orleans Library:
The public library system offers a wide range of events for children and teens, including storytimes, crafts, movies, and more. Don’t forget to check out their free passes to Audubon attractions.
NORDC Playgrounds:
The New Orleans Recreation Development Commission (NORDC) manages over 100 parks and playgrounds in the city and offers various free family events and activities throughout the year, including swimming.
New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA):
Louisiana residents can enjoy free admission on Wednesdays. Explore the diverse art collections and exhibits at this renowned museum.
Mardi Gras Parades:
Experience the magic of this nightly, family-friendly street party! Catch parades, collect throws, and join in the festivities during this iconic New Orleans celebration.
Ogden Museum of Southern Art:
Louisiana residents get free admission on Thursdays. Discover the rich artistic heritage of the South at this fascinating museum.
Riverwalk Play Area:
This soft, swamp-themed play area is designed for small children and is conveniently located past the food court in the Riverwalk.
The Fly:
Located behind Audubon Zoo, The Fly offers playgrounds, green spaces for picnics, and breathtaking views of the Mississippi River. You might even spot some giraffes from the zoo!
Southern Candymakers:
Stop by this French Quarter shop for free samples of pralines and other local candies while watching them being made.
St. Louis Cathedral:
Marvel at the beauty of this iconic cathedral located behind Jackson Square in the French Quarter.
St. Patrick’s Day Parades:
Catch some festive fun and catch vegetables at one of New Orleans’ St. Patrick’s Day parades.
Wednesday at the Square:
This free concert series features live music every Wednesday from March to May in Lafayette Square.
Woldenberg Riverfront Park:
This park along the Mississippi River boasts green spaces, a paved riverfront path, and a playful fountain.
Did we miss any free activities for kids in New Orleans? Let us know in the comments!
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