Louisiana is a state unlike any other in the United States — a vibrant gumbo of French, Spanish, African, and Native American cultures simmering along the Gulf Coast. Home to New Orleans' legendary French Quarter, Cajun country's cypress swamps, and world-class cuisine ranging from crawfish étouffée to beignets, Louisiana captivates visitors with jazz-drenched streets, extravagant Mardi Gras celebrations, and antebellum plantation grandeur set against a backdrop of moss-draped live oaks.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Audubon Zoo
Audubon Aquarium of the Americas
Louisiana Children's Museum
Jean Lafitte National Historical Park Swamp Boardwalk
New Orleans City Park Storyland
Carousel Gardens Amusement Park
Steamboat Natchez River Cruise
Blaine Kern's Mardi Gras World
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
Hilton New Orleans Riverside
Family features: Indoor pool, large rooms, kids' welcome amenity, walkable to Aquarium
Hampton Inn Garden District
Family features: Free breakfast, outdoor pool, free parking, streetcar access
Audubon Cottages
Family features: Private cottages with kitchens ideal for families; pool; quiet courtyard
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
Café Du Monde is family-friendly around the clock — kids love the beignets (prepare for powdered sugar avalanche on clothes)
Mother's Restaurant (401 Poydras St) welcomes families with simple, affordable Southern food that picky eaters tend to enjoy
Audubon Zoo has a family-friendly café inside the park — no need to exit for meals
Many New Orleans restaurants do not have dedicated children's menus; ask for half-portions or share entrées
Hansen's Sno-Bliz snowball stand (4801 Tchoupitoulas St) is a universal family favorite in warm months — award-winning flavors, lines can be 30 min in summer
Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Build downtime into every day — over-scheduled kids melt down faster than tired adults.
Carry snacks, water, and a small first-aid kit at all times.
Many attractions offer discounted family tickets — ask at the ticket window.