What should I do with kids in New Orleans for one day?

A great one-day itinerary: start at Lafreniere Park in the morning, grab lunch at The Hoot-n-Holler Inn, then visit Mardi Gras World in the afternoon. 2 of these stops are free.

How much does a day in New Orleans with kids cost?

A full day with a family of four costs roughly Free + Check current pricing via Facebook — smaller local venue with variable rates + Adults ~$22-25; children ~$15-18; under 2 free + Free. Every listing on KidPaths shows family-of-4 cost estimates.

What order should I visit New Orleans attractions with kids?

Start outdoors in the morning when kids have energy and it's cooler. Do indoor attractions after lunch when it's hottest. Save easy, free activities for late afternoon when everyone's winding down.

One Day in New Orleans with Kids

The perfect family day in New Orleans, morning to evening. 4 stops picked from 5 kid-tested activities based on ratings, variety, and parent tips. 2 stops are free.

9 AM

MorningStart the day with energy

Lafreniere Park

Lafreniere Park has pedal boats available seasonally on the park's lagoon, a feature that gives kids physical control of something on actual water, which they f

Best for all agesFree1.5-3 hours4.7 stars

Tip: One of the largest and most popular parks in Metairie — 4.7 stars with 4,500+ reviews

12 PM

LunchRefuel the family

The Hoot-n-Holler Inn

The Hoot-n-Holler Inn is a small, intimate children's venue in Mid-City New Orleans with a highly personal character that big commercial venues can't replicate,

Best for ages 2-10Check current pricing via Facebook — smaller local venue with variable rates1-2 hours4.8 stars

Tip: Small independent venue — check their Facebook page for current hours before visiting

2 PM

AfternoonThe main event

Mardi Gras World

Mardi Gras World lets kids stand next to the enormous float figures, some 20+ feet tall, that they've only seen on TV or parade videos, which creates genuine sc

Best for ages 5-14Adults ~$22-25; children ~$15-18; under 2 free1-1.5 hours4.4 stars

Tip: Arrive in the morning to potentially see float construction happening in real time

4 PM

Late AfternoonWind down

Audubon Park

Audubon Park has a beloved playground with a spray ground (splash pad area) that makes hot New Orleans days genuinely fun, kids run through the water jets with

Best for all agesFree1-3 hours depending on activities4.7 stars

Tip: The splash pad area is free and perfect for summer visits — bring a change of clothes

Tips for Your Day

→ Start outdoor activities in the morning before it gets hot.
→ Pack snacks and water — saves money and avoids meltdowns.
→ Check hours before you go. Museum hours change seasonally.
→ Lafreniere Park is stroller-friendly — bring it for little ones.

Common Questions

What should I do with kids in New Orleans for one day?: A great one-day itinerary: start at Lafreniere Park in the morning, grab lunch at The Hoot-n-Holler Inn, then visit Mardi Gras World in the afternoon. 2 of these stops are free.
How much does a day in New Orleans with kids cost?: A full day with a family of four costs roughly Free + Check current pricing via Facebook — smaller local venue with variable rates + Adults ~$22-25; children ~$15-18; under 2 free + Free. Every listing on KidPaths shows family-of-4 cost estimates.
What order should I visit New Orleans attractions with kids?: Start outdoors in the morning when kids have energy and it's cooler. Do indoor attractions after lunch when it's hottest. Save easy, free activities for late afternoon when everyone's winding down.

More Ways to Explore New Orleans

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