8 Places To Take Your Kids So They Instantly Fall In Love With New Orleans

Seems like a no-brainer to put the zoo on this list, right? Kids of all ages will enjoy strolling through the Audubon Zoo checking out all of the exotic animals. From the tiniest of tots to teens, you can’t help but fall in love the Audubon Zoo. 6500 Magazine St., New Orleans, LA 70118.

Established in 1986, the Louisiana Children’s Museum has become of the most popular attractions for children in New Orleans, with almost 150,000 visitors each year. This interactive museum makes learning fun, and covers a variety of activities. From makin’ groceries to exploring cargo ships, your little one will have a blast here. 420 Julia St., New Orleans, LA 70130.

Watch your kid’s eyes light up as they walk through the aquarium, getting a chance to see all the beautiful fish swimming around. 1 Canal St., New Orleans, LA 70130.

Nestled within City Park, Storyland is a great attraction to take the younger kids. This fairy tale land brings your favorite storybook characters to life, truly a one-of-a-kind spot your kids are sure to love. They’ll love being able to climb into Captain Hook’s pirate ship, sitting in Cinderella’s pumpkin coach, and dancing with the three little pigs. 1 Palm Dr., New Orleans, LA 70124.

While you’re in City Park, pop on over to Carousel Gardens for a fun-filled day the entire family will enjoy. Take a ride on the ferris wheel for a beautifully scenic view of the city.

Who says you have to wait for a parade to see the floats? At Blaine Kern’s Mardi Gras World, you’ll be able to see the floats of different parades, meet the artists who work year-round to create these masterpieces, and learn about the history of this iconic New Orleans event. The history lesson is great for the adults, and the brightly colored floats are always a hit with the kids. Win-win! 1380 Port of New Orleans Pl, New Orleans, LA 70130.

Nicknamed "the flying horses" by locals, generations of New Orleanians have taken a ride on this historic carousel, and it’s become a tradition to take your kids. The carousel is over 100 years old and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Your kids will love getting to pick an animal and going for a spin on this local landmark. 1 Palm Dr., New Orleans, LA 70124.

Take a trip to the north shore for an epic day of fun. At Insta-Gator Ranch & Hatchery, you’ll learn all about these prehistoric beasts, their importance to our ecosystems, and even get to hold one! 74645 Allen Rd., Covington, LA 70435.