Are you tired of the same old stroller walks around the mall or park? New Orleans is full of exciting attractions perfect for families with young children (and their trusty strollers)! From the Northshore to the Westbank, discover hidden gems and popular spots where you can explore, learn, and play without sacrificing convenience. Our guide to stroller-friendly attractions in New Orleans will help you ditch the boring routine and create unforgettable memories with your little ones.
Stroller-Friendly Nature and Parks in New Orleans
Armstrong Park/Congo Square
A sprawling 32-acre historic park in New Orleans’ historic Tremé neighborhood, Louis Armstrong Park offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Take a stroll through the park’s pathways, admire the cool sculptures scattered throughout, or simply relax by the peaceful duck ponds. Don’t miss out on Congo Square, which happens to be the birthplace of jazz music. Just a stone’s throw from the French Quarter, Louis Armstrong Park offers a perfect blend of history and culture.
Audubon Aquarium
Nestled near convenient Canal Place parking, the Audubon Aquarium offers a fascinating underwater world for all ages. Explore the diverse marine life and discover the wonders of the deep sea. The aquarium is stroller-friendly and perfect for family outings. The Gulf of Mexico exhibit is even a great place for little ones to nap!
Audubon Louisiana Nature Center
Discover the beauty of Louisiana’s natural landscape at the Audubon Louisiana Nature Center. Embark on an easy, stroller-friendly adventure along the scenic one-mile boardwalk. Keep an eye out for native wildlife, and don’t forget the bug spray and sunscreen to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for the whole family.
Audubon Park
Audubon Park is a 350-acre park in Uptown, New Orleans, with something for everyone. Enjoy walking, jogging, or biking on the paved loop, have a picnic under the oak trees, or let the kids play on the playgrounds. There are also sports fields, tennis courts, and a lagoon for fishing. The park is easily accessible by public transportation and has plenty of parking.
Audubon Zoo
Embark on an unforgettable animal adventure at the Audubon Zoo, where little legs won’t tire easily as you explore captivating exhibits. The Zoo comes alive in the cool fall weather, offering a perfect opportunity to soak up the sun and create lasting family memories. Make the most of your visits with an Audubon membership, granting you unlimited access to the Zoo and other Audubon attractions throughout the year.
Barataria Preserve
Venture to the Barataria Preserve, a hidden gem nestled on the Westbank near Marrero. This unique natural area offers an immersive experience in Louisiana’s iconic swamplands. Wander along the boardwalks, keep an eye out for alligators, turtles, and a wide array of birds, and discover the beauty of this vibrant ecosystem.
Crescent Park
Discover a unique urban oasis at Crescent Park, a 20-acre linear park stretching along the Mississippi River. With its modern pavilions, a dedicated dog run, scenic bike paths, and eye-catching landscaping, this park offers a diverse range of activities for everyone. Capture breathtaking views of the city skyline and the mighty Mississippi, creating unforgettable moments with family and friends.
Gretna Centennial Library Park
A gated park conveniently located across from the Gretna Library. Stroll along the peaceful walking trail, admire the charming gazebo, and relax by the soothing fountain. This hidden gem is perfect for a quiet afternoon or a family outing.
Lafitte Barataria Museum and Wetlands Trace
At this unique attraction, discover the exciting world of pirate Jean Lafitte and Louisiana’s wetlands. Explore the museum’s exhibits about Lafitte’s life and the local culture, then venture onto the Wetlands Trace boardwalk to see alligators, turtles, and birds in their natural habitat. It’s a fun and educational adventure for all ages!
Lafreniere Park
Lafreniere Park, a sprawling green oasis in Metairie, offers a 2-mile paved track ideal for leisurely stroller walks. Explore the park’s scenic beauty while your little ones enjoy the fresh air. The boardwalk provides easy access to playgrounds, a refreshing splash pad, and ample opportunities for wildlife viewing. Lafreniere Park is a perfect destination for a family day out with its diverse amenities and serene atmosphere.
LaSalle Park
This family-friendly park, near the Shrine on Airline, offers a paved fitness trail perfect for stroller walks, engaging playgrounds for children of all ages, and a scenic nature boardwalk to explore the local flora and fauna. With its diverse amenities and stroller-friendly accessibility, LaSalle Park is a great choice for a fun and active day out with the little ones.
Levees/Lakeshore Drive/Bonnabel Boat Launch
Enjoy a refreshing stroll or bike ride along the picturesque Lakeshore Drive, offering breathtaking views of both the tranquil Mississippi River and the vast Lake Pontchartrain. The paved path is perfect for a leisurely walk with the family or a more energetic jog or bike ride. Don’t miss out on Bonnabel Boat Launch, a fantastic spot featuring a scenic walking path, a fun playground for the kids, and even a dedicated dog park for your furry companions to stretch their legs.
Pontiff Playground
Discover a piece of Jefferson Parish history at Pontiff Playground, the oldest playground in the area. This sprawling park offers a variety of amenities for families, including scenic walking paths perfect for strollers, engaging playgrounds for children of all ages, and ample green space for picnics and outdoor activities. With its rich heritage and modern facilities, Pontiff Playground is a cherished community gathering spot that provides fun and recreation for everyone.
Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden
Immerse yourselves in the beauty of art and nature at the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden, nestled within New Orleans City Park. Stroll through this enchanting outdoor museum, where over 90 modern and contemporary sculptures dot the landscape. Toddlers will delight in discovering shapes and colors, while older children can explore various artistic styles and techniques. This free and accessible attraction offers a unique educational and engaging experience for the whole family.
The Fly
This sprawling green space is located just behind Audubon Zoo. This expansive park boasts open fields perfect for picnics, frisbee games, or simply relaxing in the sunshine. Sports enthusiasts can use the various sports fields, while families with children will appreciate the playground and nearby restrooms. Stroll along the Mississippi River levee and watch the barges float by, creating a serene and picturesque setting for a leisurely afternoon.
Trailheads on the Northshore
A short drive across the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway unveils the charming towns of Abita Springs and Mandeville, both boasting unique trailhead experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.
Mandeville Trailhead: This vibrant trailhead boasts a cultural interpretive center, an amphitheater for live music performances, and a bustling farmers market on Saturday mornings. It also provides access to the Tammany Trace and a plethora of other recreational activities in the area.
Abita Trailhead: Nestled in the heart of Abita Springs, this trailhead is part of the Tammany Trace, a 31-mile paved rails-to-trails path perfect for walking, biking, and rollerblading. The Abita Springs trailhead offers a historic pavilion, a small museum, and access to the charming town’s restaurants and shops.
Stroller-Friendly Attractions and Activities in New Orleans
Algiers Point/Ferry
Hop on the ferry from Canal Street for a short ride to Algiers Point, a historic neighborhood with a charming, small-town feel. Explore the levee walking paths with scenic river views, let the kids loose at Confetti Park, and enjoy a meal at one of the many kid-friendly restaurants.
Art Markets
Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene of New Orleans by exploring its eclectic art markets. These open-air markets showcase a diverse array of local artists, offering unique handmade crafts, paintings, jewelry, and other treasures. Introduce your children to the city’s rich cultural heritage while discovering one-of-a-kind gifts and souvenirs.
Breweries
The city boasts a thriving craft beer scene with several family-friendly breweries where you can enjoy a cold one while the kids have a blast.
Urban South Brewery: With ample covered/indoor seating and a bounce house on Sundays, this brewery is a haven for families. Kids can run around while parents sample the diverse beer selection and enjoy food trucks and live music.
Abita Brewery: This iconic brewery offers a sprawling outdoor beer garden with games and activities for kids. You can also tour the facility, grab a bite at the pub, and enjoy live music on weekends.
NOLA Brewing: Known for its Hopitoulas IPA and pizza, this brewery offers a spacious taproom with games and ample seating. Kids will love the outdoor patio with a play area.
Second Line Brewing: This Mid-City brewery features a large beer garden with plenty of room for kids to roam. They also host family-friendly events throughout the year, like crawfish boils and movie nights.
These are just a few of the many family-friendly breweries in New Orleans. With their welcoming atmosphere, diverse beer selections, and kid-friendly amenities, they’re the perfect spot for a fun and relaxing day out with the whole family.
French Market
Explore the historic open-air market in the French Quarter with its diverse shops selling local crafts, souvenirs, and unique finds. Treat yourselves to beignets at Café du Monde, and enjoy the lively atmosphere with live music and street performers.
Farmers Markets
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and indulge in the freshest flavors of New Orleans at its various farmer’s markets. These bustling hubs offer a delightful array of locally grown produce, artisanal goods, and unique finds, providing a fun and educational outing for the whole family.
Mardi Gras World
This immersive experience takes you behind the scenes of Mardi Gras, where skilled artisans craft the elaborate creations that parade through the streets each year. Your kids will be mesmerized by the towering figures, sparkling decorations, and intricate details of the floats while learning about Mardi Gras history and traditions.
Kids’ Castle
A magical play area nestled within Lakeside Shopping Center. This medieval-themed wonderland features a towering castle to climb, interactive play elements like dragons and a beanstalk, and even a special area for toddlers. Parents can relax in the comfortable seating area while keeping an eye on their little adventurers.
Louisiana Children’s Museum
Spark your child’s imagination at the Louisiana Children’s Museum in New Orleans City Park. Toddlers will love the sensory-rich Toddler Play area. “Little Port of New Orleans” and “Mr. Okra’s Mini Mart” offer hands-on fun. Older children can create in the “Art + Design” studio, experiment in the “STEAM” lab, or explore nature in “Play With Me.” The museum’s outdoor spaces offer fun and exploration of nature. It’s a perfect place for children to learn through play and create lasting memories.
Longue Vue House and Gardens
This historic estate boasts eight acres of meticulously landscaped gardens, a stunning neoclassical mansion filled with art and antiques, and a variety of family-friendly programs and workshops. Stroll through the lush gardens, let the kids explore the interactive Discovery Garden, and learn about the house’s history and architecture.
National WWII Museum
Experience the dramatic story of World War II at the National WWII Museum, a top-rated attraction in New Orleans. Explore immersive exhibits, discover personal stories, and see artifacts that bring history to life. The museum also offers dining options and a dinner theater with live music and entertainment.
New Orleans and Jefferson Parish Library
These vibrant community spaces offer a wealth of free activities and resources, including storytimes for children of all ages, a vast collection of books and DVDs to borrow, and special events throughout the year. Whether you’re seeking a quiet place to read or a lively space for learning and play, the libraries are the perfect destination for family fun.
Snowball Stands
No matter which stand you choose, a snowball is a refreshing and delicious way to beat the heat and experience a true taste of New Orleans culture. And don’t forget the stroller to corral busy toddlers!
The Riverwalk
While you browse the diverse array of shops and indulge in delicious dining options, the kids can burn off energy in the bayou-themed play area located near the food court. This whimsical space features soft play structures, slides, and interactive elements, providing a safe and entertaining environment for children of all ages.
Storyland
A whimsical playground nestled in New Orleans City Park, Storyland is a beloved attraction featuring larger-than-life storybook characters, inviting children to climb, slide, and explore their favorite fairy tales. Kids can sail away on Captain Hook’s pirate ship, venture into the belly of Pinocchio’s whale, or scale Jack and Jill’s hill. With its colorful sculptures, engaging play structures, and shady oak trees, Storyland offers a magical experience for children of all ages.
From sprawling parks and enchanting playgrounds to captivating museums and vibrant art markets, New Orleans offers a wealth of family-friendly experiences to explore. Pack your stroller and embark on an unforgettable journey through this vibrant city. Discover the wonders of nature, immerse yourselves in history and culture, or indulge in local flavors. New Orleans is sure to create lasting memories for the whole family.
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