Exploring Louisiana with your kids is an adventure filled with excitement and amazing things to do! You’ll find a variety of activities that cater to families. From vibrant festivals to stunning natural landscapes, Louisiana offers something for everyone. The state’s rich culture and history will captivate your family’s imagination. Get ready to create unforgettable memories as you dive into the amazing things to do in this beautiful state!
Key Takeaways
Explore the Audubon Zoo for a fun day with over 2,000 animals and a water park area for kids.
Experience the thrill of swamp tours to see wildlife like alligators and turtles in their natural habitat.
Visit the Louisiana Children’s Museum for interactive exhibits that make learning fun for all ages.
Attend a Mardi Gras parade to enjoy colorful floats and engage in creative activities like mask-making.
Take a family cooking class to learn about Louisiana’s culinary traditions while bonding over delicious food.
Amazing Outdoor Things to Do
When you think of family fun in Louisiana, outdoor adventures should top your list! Here are some amazing activities that will get your kids excited about nature and exploration.
Visit the Audubon Zoo
The Audubon Zoo in New Orleans is a fantastic spot for families. With over 2,000 animals, your kids will love seeing everything from alligators to exotic birds. Don’t miss the Cool Zoo, a water park area with splash pads and slides. Kids can also enjoy daily animal presentations and even get hands-on with the Alpaca Palooza Encounter. This zoo is a perfect blend of education and fun!
Explore the Swamp Tours
Swamp tours offer a unique way to experience Louisiana’s wetlands. You and your kids can spot wildlife like alligators, turtles, and egrets while gliding through the bayous. Family-friendly options, such as Cajun Encounters, provide guided tours that are both safe and exciting. Imagine the thrill of seeing a wild alligator up close!
Hike in the Kisatchie National Forest
If your family loves hiking, head to Kisatchie National Forest. With 128 miles of trails, you’ll find easy paths perfect for kids. The forest is home to beautiful scenery and diverse wildlife. It’s a great way to bond as a family while enjoying the great outdoors. Pack a picnic and make a day of it!
Enjoy the Beaches of Grand Isle
Grand Isle is a hidden gem for families looking to relax by the water. Kids can swim in Lake Champlain or learn to fish at the park’s fishing platform. The beach offers nature programs where park interpreters lead fun activities like night hikes and crafts. With plenty of amenities, including camping and biking, your family will have a blast!
Go Fishing in the Bayou
Fishing in the Louisiana bayou is an unforgettable experience. Kids can catch redfish and speckled trout while learning from experienced guides. Family-friendly fishing tours cater to young anglers, ensuring they have all the equipment and support they need. It’s a great way to teach your kids about patience and the joys of fishing.
Outdoor activities in Louisiana provide amazing things to do that foster family bonding and create lasting memories. So, grab your gear and get ready for an adventure!
Amazing Cultural Experiences
Louisiana is bursting with cultural experiences that your kids will love! These activities not only entertain but also educate, giving your family a deeper understanding of the state’s vibrant heritage. Here are some amazing cultural experiences to explore together.
Discover the Louisiana Children’s Museum
The Louisiana Children’s Museum in New Orleans is a must-visit for families. This interactive space offers hands-on exhibits that cater to various age groups. Check out the table below for some highlights:
Age Group | Exhibit Description |
|---|---|
Toddlers | Dedicated toddler area for safe exploration. |
All Ages | Interactive indoor and outdoor exhibits. |
Older Children | Art studio for creative expression and problem-solving. |
All Ages | Water play area and pretend play kitchen for imaginative scenarios. |
Your kids will have a blast learning through play!
Attend a Mardi Gras Parade
Mardi Gras is a unique experience that your family shouldn’t miss. Attending a parade is a fun way to immerse yourselves in the local culture. Kids can enjoy the colorful floats, lively music, and festive atmosphere. Plus, you can engage them in educational activities like crafting their own parade decorations or DIY Mardi Gras masks. This hands-on approach helps them understand the significance of the celebration while having a great time!
Visit Mardi Gras World
At Mardi Gras World, your family can dive deeper into the history of this iconic festival. You’ll see how the elaborate floats are made and learn about the artistry behind them. The interactive exhibits make it easy for kids to grasp the cultural roots of Mardi Gras. Activities like baking King Cakes together or having a dance party with Mardi Gras music can turn your visit into a memorable learning experience.
Explore the Historic French Quarter
The French Quarter is rich in history and perfect for family exploration. You can take a mule-drawn carriage tour, which is a fun way to see the sights while keeping little ones entertained. Don’t forget to visit Louis Armstrong Park for a peaceful stroll or check out the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas for some aquatic fun. Each stop offers a chance to learn about Louisiana’s past in an engaging way.
Experience Plantation Tours
Plantation tours provide a fascinating glimpse into Louisiana’s history. Places like Destrehan Plantation offer age-appropriate programming that keeps kids engaged. Guided tours feature costumed narrators who share stories about life in the 1800s. Activities like scavenger hunts help maintain interest while teaching important historical events, such as the 1811 Slave Revolt. It’s a powerful way to connect with the past.
These amazing cultural experiences in Louisiana will enrich your family’s adventure. They offer a blend of fun and education, ensuring your kids leave with lasting memories and a greater appreciation for the state’s unique heritage.
Amazing Food Experiences
Louisiana is a food lover’s paradise, especially for families! The state’s culinary diversity offers a range of delicious experiences that you and your kids will cherish. Here are some amazing food experiences to explore together.
Take a Cooking Class
Why not get hands-on with Louisiana’s rich culinary traditions? You can enroll in a cooking class designed for families. For example, Young Chefs® Academy in Baton Rouge offers weekly classes where kids learn culinary skills while having fun. Culinary Kids in Mandeville also provides family cooking classes, making it a great way to bond over food. You’ll create tasty dishes together and take home some new skills!
Enjoy Beignets at Café du Monde
No trip to Louisiana is complete without indulging in beignets at Café du Monde. This iconic café in New Orleans serves up fluffy, powdered sugar-covered pastries that kids adore. Grab a table outside and enjoy the lively atmosphere while savoring these sweet treats. Don’t forget to order a café au lait for yourself!
Sample Gumbo at Local Restaurants
Gumbo is a must-try dish in Louisiana, and many local restaurants serve family-friendly versions. Check out Li’l Dizzy’s Cafe for their surf-and-turf gumbo, which combines andouille sausage, ham, and crab. Dooky Chase Restaurant offers a delicious gumbo z’herbes, rich in seafood and flavor. Here’s a quick look at some popular spots:
Restaurant Name | Gumbo Variety | Description |
|---|---|---|
Li’l Dizzy’s Cafe | Surf-and-turf gumbo | Combines andouille sausage, ham, and crab in a seasoned broth, reflecting a family recipe. |
Dooky Chase Restaurant | Gumbo z’herbes | A seafood-rich gumbo with shrimp, crab, and okra, showcasing Creole cooking’s elegance. |
Heard Dat Kitchen | Seafood gumbo, chicken-and-sausage | Offers a variety of gumbo styles, including a unique “mumbo gumbo” that blends land and sea. |
Visit Farmers’ Markets
Farmers’ markets are a fantastic way to introduce your kids to fresh, local produce. The Downtown Hammond Farmers Market features fun activities for families, including games and live music. The Red Stick Sprouts program at the Baton Rouge market engages kids with food education and gives them tokens to spend on healthy choices. It’s a great way to teach them about nutrition while enjoying a vibrant community atmosphere.
Try Po’boys from Food Trucks
Po’boys are a Louisiana classic, and food trucks are a fun way to sample them. Check out Deliciousness to Go, which specializes in authentic seafood po’boys. Rich Boy Po’Boy is another family-owned favorite, offering a variety of options made with fresh ingredients. These food trucks provide a casual dining experience that kids will love!
With so many amazing food experiences in Louisiana, your family will have plenty of delicious adventures to savor together!
Amazing Special Attractions
Louisiana is home to some amazing special attractions that your family will love! These spots offer a mix of fun and education, making them perfect for a family outing. Here are some must-visit attractions:
Visit the Baton Rouge Zoo
The Baton Rouge Zoo is a fantastic place for families. With over 1,800 animals, your kids will be thrilled to see everything from lions to lemurs. The zoo offers exciting programs like Zoo Camps during school breaks and Zoo & Me Mornings for younger kids. You can even spend a night at the zoo during Safari Night, where you’ll learn about the animals while enjoying an overnight adventure.
Explore the Science Museum
The Louisiana Science Museum is a treasure trove of hands-on exhibits. Check out the table below for some highlights:
Exhibit Name | Description |
|---|---|
Hands-On Galleries | Explore interactive exhibits that encourage kids to make their own discoveries. |
The Mighty Mississippi | Learn about the river’s journey from the Twin Cities to the Gulf of Mexico through fun activities. |
Outdoor Adventures | Enjoy acres of outdoor space designed for kids to explore the fragile wetlands. |
Play With Me | A special area for children aged 3 and under to engage their senses in play. |
Your family will have a blast learning about science in a fun way!
Check Out the Children’s Theatre
The Children’s Theatre in Louisiana offers a variety of performances that will entertain your kids. From classic tales to modern stories, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a quick look at some upcoming shows:
Performance Title | Date & Time | Venue |
|---|---|---|
Footloose | August 15 @ 7:00 PM | Reilly Theatre, LSU Campus |
August 16 @ 2:00 PM | ||
August 17 @ 2:00 PM |
These performances provide a great way for your kids to experience the magic of live theatre!
Experience the Audubon Aquarium
The Audubon Aquarium in New Orleans is another amazing attraction. Kids can get up close with penguins and touch sea life at the interactive touchpool. The vibrant Amazon Rainforest exhibit lets you wander through a lush habitat filled with fascinating creatures.
Exhibit Name | Description |
|---|---|
Penguins | Watch these charming birds waddle and swim. |
Shark Discovery | Connect with sea life at our interactive touchpool. |
Amazon Rainforest | Experience the diverse ecosystem of the Amazon. |
Discover the Magic of the Louisiana Art & Science Museum
The Louisiana Art & Science Museum offers unique educational programs for kids. You can explore art and science through hands-on classes and guided tours. Check out the table below for some of their offerings:
Program Name | Description | Age Group |
|---|---|---|
Hands-on Classes | Engage in various art and science topics through interactive classes. | Pre-K – 12 |
Guided Tours | Educational tours tailored to enhance learning experiences. | Pre-K – 12 |
Planetarium Shows | Explore astronomy concepts in an engaging format. | Pre-K – 12 |
BASF’s Kids’ Lab | Hands-on chemistry workshops featuring different experiments each month. | Ages 6-12 |
These attractions provide amazing things to do that will entertain and educate your family. So, pack your bags and get ready for a fun-filled adventure in Louisiana!
Exploring Louisiana with your family creates unforgettable memories! You’ll enjoy unique experiences that foster learning and fun. Here are some benefits of family travel:
Exposure to different cultures through family travel experiences.
Learning opportunities from historical tours.
Interactive activities that promote curiosity and engagement.
Enjoyment and memorable experiences, as expressed by children during their travels.
While planning your trip, keep in mind some common challenges families face:
Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
Communication issues between co-parents | Engage in open dialogue and compromise on travel plans. |
Legal compliance with custody agreements | Review custody agreements and document any changes. |
Potential legal repercussions for unauthorized travel | Consult with an attorney before making travel plans. |
So, gather your family and dive into the adventures Louisiana has to offer. You won’t regret it!
FAQ
What is the best time to visit Louisiana with kids?
The best time to visit Louisiana is during spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). The weather is pleasant, and you can enjoy various family-friendly festivals and outdoor activities.
Are there any free activities for families in Louisiana?
Absolutely! Many parks, museums, and festivals offer free admission. Check out local events, farmers’ markets, and public parks for fun, budget-friendly activities that your family will love.
How can I find kid-friendly restaurants in Louisiana?
Look for family-friendly restaurants that offer kids’ menus and casual dining. Websites like Yelp and TripAdvisor can help you find local favorites with great reviews from families.
What should we pack for a trip to Louisiana?
Pack lightweight clothing for warm weather, comfortable shoes for walking, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Don’t forget swim gear if you plan to hit the beaches or pools!
Is Louisiana safe for families?
Yes, Louisiana is generally safe for families. Like any travel destination, stay aware of your surroundings and follow local guidelines. Stick to well-populated areas and enjoy your adventure!
