Free Things to do with Kids in NOLA

There’s nothing more meaningful than traveling with family, especially in New Orleans where you don’t have to break the bank to have a good time. Check out a few (or all) of our no-cost, kid-friendly activities that the entire family can enjoy.

1. Explore the Audubon Nature Center, an 86-acre hardwood bottomland community resource.  The nature trails and programming are always free and accessible to all. Bring the entire family for a day filled with outdoor fun and learning. 

2. Head over to any New Orleans Public Library branch for a host of free fun. Magic shows, storytime, card games and even free snacks during the summer are great no-cost, family-friendly resources. 

3. Before a classic Creole dinner, check out Arnaud’s Mardi Gras Museum. Admission to view the priceless collection of Mardi Gras memorabilia is always free and will keep kids intrigued with the unique costumes, culture and colors. 

4. Catch free seasonal concerts and movies in local parks. Each spring, the New Orleans Recreation Development Commission (NORD) hosts their annual 11-week movie series at different parks across New Orleans. The family-friendly features begin at sundown and always include fun pre-show games and activities. Wednesdays at the Square and Jazz in the Park are free concert series that are sure to get the entire family on their feet dancing. Each series features weekly performances from some of New Orleans’ most talented local artists.

5. Attend a free fest. New Orleans is known for its abundant list of festivals. Everything from food to music and culture to crafts are highlighted. Some of New Orleans’ best free and family-friendly fests include the French Quarter Festival, Fried Chicken Festival, Luna Fete, Carnaval Latino, Tet Fest, Beignet Fest and many more. Browse our list of New Orleans fests to find your favorite cost-free events. 

6. Tour the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve. Grab the gang and tour the historic park on foot. You might spy a few of South Louisiana’s native creatures like snakes and alligators. Or, opt for an indoor experience and enjoy any of the free programming offered inside their visitor center. Activities range from photo exhibits, a variety of history seminars, arts and crafts and much more at no cost! Check out their calendar for more info.

7. Free museum admission for Louisiana residents. If you’re planning a family trip to NOLA from a surrounding city make sure to visit one of New Orleans’ many museums that participate in Art for All. Made possible by the generous donations of the Helis Foundation, Art for All provides all LA residents free admission to participating museums on select days, including the LA Children’s Museum. Check out who’s participating and what days you can snag free admission.

8. Street performances in the French Quarter. Dancing, singing, live art and magic are all among the many talents of New Orleans’ local street artists.

For more low to no-cost fun in the Crescent City, check out our 50 Free Things to Do Page and Cheap Eats Round-Up.