Family Fun in NOLA
New Orleans is a great city for kids, from hands-on fun to outdoor play and unforgettable experiences that keep kids smiling. Whether you're planning a weekend outing or making lasting family memories, there are plenty of spots around the city where fun comes to life.
Here are the 10 best spots for kids to play, learn, and explore in New Orleans.
1. Audubon Zoo
6500 Magazine St., (504) 861-2537
audubonnatureinstitute.org
The Audubon Zoo is home to hundreds of animals representing species from around the world including elephants, giraffes, sea lions, and Louisiana's white alligators. The zoo also features themed habitats including the Swamp Monster, educational programming, and seasonal events throughout the year. Its grounds are located in Audubon Park in Uptown New Orleans.
2. Louisiana Children's Museum
15 Henry Thomas Dr., (504) 523-1357
lcm.org
Located in City Park, the Louisiana Children's Museum focuses interactive exhibits centered around science, art, nature, and early childhood learning. Children are encouraged to engage with hands-on displays rather than traditional museum exhibits. The museum also includes outdoor spaces that connect visitors to the surrounding park.
3. Audubon Aquarium & Insectarium
1 Canal St., (504) 565-3033
audubonnatureinstitute.org
The Audubon Aquarium features exhibits dedicated to marine ecosystems from the Gulf of Mexico, the Mississippi River, and waters all over the Americas. Visitors can see sharks, penguins, stingrays, sea turtles, and tropical fish throughout the aquarium. Additionally, the building also contains the Audubon Insectarium, which allows visitors to see and learn about insects.
4. Zero Latency
733 St. Joseph St., (504) 300-9794
zerolatencyvr.com
Zero Latency is a free-roam virtual reality venue where groups can play cooperative games inside large-scale virtual environments. Rather than remaining stationary, players move through open spaces while wearing VR equipment. The experience includes a variety of game options ranging from science fiction adventures to zombie survival scenarios.
5. Storyland
5 Victory Ave., (504) 483-9402
neworleanscitypark.org
Storyland is a children's playground in City Park inspired by classic fairy tales and nursery rhymes. The park includes play structures based on stories such as Cinderella, Pinocchio, and Jack and the Beanstalk, along with the park's well-known pirate ship. Its shaded paths and interactive exhibits have made it a longtime favorite for local families.
6. Mardi Gras World
1380 Port of New Orleans Pl., (504) 361-7821
mardigrasworld.com
Mardi Gras World offers guided tours of its working studio, where many of New Orleans' Carnival floats are built. Visitors can see parade floats in various stages of construction while learning about the history and traditions of Mardi Gras. The attraction also displays costumes, props, and artwork created for past parade seasons.
7. City Park's Train Garden
5 Victory Ave., (504) 483-9386
neworleanscitypark.org
City Park's Train Garden, located inside the New Orleans Botanical Garden, combines model railroads with miniature recreations of local landmarks and landscapes. Multiple trains travel through detailed displays featuring recognizable scenes from around the city. The attraction is designed to reflect both New Orleans architecture and Louisiana's natural environment.
8. Museum of Illusions
600 Decatur St., (720) 769-6505
moineworleans.com
The Museum of Illusions features interactive exhibits that explore visual perception through optical illusions, perspective rooms, and hands-on puzzles. Many of the installations encourage visitors to participate rather than simply observe. The museum blends science, psychology, and art into a series of immersive displays.
9. Game On Social Hub
2421 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Kenner, (504) 469-7475
gameonsocialhub.com
Game On Social Hub is an entertainment venue that combines arcade games, interactive attractions, and social gathering spaces under one roof. The venue also serves food and drinks, making it a destination for groups, parties, and casual outings. Activities are designed for both families during the day and adults in the evening.
10. K1 Speed
800 Webb St., (504) 943-6040
k1speed.com/new-orleans
K1 Speed is an indoor go-kart racing facility featuring electric karts and a professionally designed race track. In addition to racing, the venue includes an arcade and event spaces for birthdays, corporate events, and group gatherings. Lap times are tracked electronically, allowing drivers to compare their performance after each race.
