New Orleans in 2 Days - Louisiana Children's Museum (hands-on play)
A relaxed 2-day spring itinerary for families with young children. Focused on hands-on museums, parks, gentle rides, short transfers, and kid-friendly meal stops with facilities for strollers, changing tables and quiet breaks.
Highlights
- Louisiana Children's Museum (hands-on play)
- Carousel Gardens & Storyland in City Park
- Audubon Zoo (animal exhibits & train)
- Audubon Aquarium of the Americas (indoor, stroller-friendly)
- Relaxed riverfront time at Woldenberg Park
More than 14 itineraries in New Orleans.
Itinerary
Day 1
City Park focus — interactive play, gentle rides, playgrounds and a relaxed evening near Uptown.
Louisiana Children's Museum — hands-on play for little ones
Interactive exhibits designed for ages ~1–8. Plenty of floor-level activities, sensory play areas and family restrooms.
- MondayClosed
- TuesdayClosed
- Wednesday9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Thursday9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Friday9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Saturday9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Sunday11:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Best for ages 1–8 — arrive at opening to avoid any school-group crowds and give kids the most space to explore.
- Stroller tip: there’s stroller parking at the entrance — bring a lightweight stroller you can fold quickly; indoor paths are stroller-friendly.
- Facilities: the museum has family restrooms and changing tables; there are quiet corners for sensory breaks or nursing.
Morning Call (City Park) — kid-friendly beignets & light lunch
Casual café in City Park for a relaxed, family-friendly snack or light lunch. High chairs available and both indoor/outdoor seating under shade.
- Monday5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Order milder items for kids (beignets can be messy) and ask for a to-go box for leftover sugar — great for a picnic at a bench.
- Stroller parking and shaded outdoor seating make it easy to keep children comfortable during warm spring afternoons.
- Allergy note: let staff know about nut/dairy/gluten concerns — they are used to adjusting simple items (eggs, toast) for kids.
Carousel Gardens Amusement Park — gentle rides for younger children
A small, historic amusement area inside City Park with a restored carousel and kid-appropriate rides (tokens/tickets).
Tips from local experts:
- Great for ages 2–8 — rides are short and family-friendly; bring a small amount of cash for tokens though many booths accept cards.
- Paths around Carousel Gardens are stroller-friendly; pick a bench in the shade for a calm wait while little ones ride multiple times.
- If a nap looks likely afterwards, schedule no more than two rides in a row and plan a quiet walk toward Storyland for a wind-down.
Short walk through City Park to Storyland (gentle playground time)
Story-themed outdoor playground with larger-than-life sculptures — great for imaginative play and a calm place to run off energy.
Tips from local experts:
- The walk is stroller-friendly along paved paths; use this as a quiet transition spot if a child needs to nap after play.
- Storyland has shaded benches and restrooms nearby with changing tables; plan this as a calmer post-ride activity.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat in early April — mornings/late afternoons can be sunny even when temperatures are mild.
Storyland playground — fairy-tale play structures
Outdoor play area best for ages 2–10 with safe climbing features and imaginative photo ops.
- MondayClosed
- Tuesday10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Wednesday10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Thursday10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Friday10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Saturday10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Sunday10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Ideal for a shorter play session (30–60 min) — saves energy for the rest of the afternoon and keeps naptime manageable.
- There are covered picnic tables nearby for snacks and a shaded spot for a quick quiet time or story with the kids.
- Check restroom locations on arrival; restrooms in City Park generally have changing tables and are kept clean in spring.
Hotel / Park rest & nap break
Unstructured break for naps, calm time or stroller naps — essential buffer to keep the day low-stress for little ones.
Tips from local experts:
- If staying nearby, aim for a 1–2 hour rest so children recharge — quiet hotel rooms with blackout shades are ideal in spring when daylight is long.
- If you remain in the park, find a quiet shaded bench or rent a small pavilion spot for a calm nap; bring a lightweight blanket for stroller naps.
- Use this time to rehydrate, change diapers/clothes and do a quick snack refill before an early evening outing.
Early family dinner at Camellia Grill — classic diner comfort food
Counter-serve diner with a friendly vibe and simple kid-pleasers (burgers, milkshakes). Quick service is helpful for tired families.
- Monday8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Tuesday8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Wednesday8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Thursday8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- High chairs available; order simple familiar dishes for picky eaters — the counter setting is fun for kids to watch cooks.
- If someone has allergies, the staff are used to substitutions — mention dietary needs when you order to keep it simple.
- Try to arrive before typical dinner rush (~5:30 PM) to avoid crowding and secure a seat together with a stroller.
Short evening stroll in Audubon Park (sunset and calm paths)
Gentle walk under oaks along wide paths — soothing end to the day for kids and parents.
- Monday5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Paths are stroller-friendly and mostly level — perfect for a slow walk after dinner and a last bit of energy release before bedtime.
- Look for the large lagoon area where ducks and turtles often appear — a quiet nature moment that kids love in spring.
- Bring a small flashlight if you'll be walking near dusk; spring sunsets can be late, but the park remains calm and family-oriented.
Day 2
Audubon-focused day with zoo and aquarium, a casual local lunch, and a relaxed riverfront finish. Short transfers and indoor options if weather changes.
Audubon Zoo — animals, playgrounds & small train ride
Family-oriented zoo with stroller-friendly paths, shaded exhibits and a toddler play area. Great for ages 2–10.
- Monday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- TuesdayClosed
- WednesdayClosed
- Thursday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive at opening to see the most active animals and avoid midday heat — the zoo paths are shaded which helps in spring warmth.
- Stroller-friendly routes throughout; the zoo offers quiet benches and family restrooms with changing tables near main exhibits.
- Bring snacks and refillable water bottles — concessions can be busy; pack a small cooler for allergy-safe food if needed.
Short transfer / drive toward Magazine Street for lunch
Quick 15–25 minute drive depending on traffic — use this window for a calm car snack or diaper change.
Tips from local experts:
- Carry a small travel kit (wipes, diapers, spare change of clothes) to handle quick cleanups between attractions.
- If strollers are folded and stored in the car, keep a lightweight travel stroller in reach for the next stop.
- Check traffic on Magazine Street during late morning — a quick detour through side streets can save time and stress.
Lunch at Dat Dog (Magazine Street) — casual, customizable hot dogs
Colorful, casual eatery with many kid-friendly options, high chairs, and quick service; easy to accommodate food preferences and allergies.
- Monday11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Tuesday11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Wednesday11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Thursday11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Kids love making choices — Dat Dog’s menu is customizable and staff are used to making simple swaps for allergies or picky eaters.
- Indoor seating plus shaded outdoor tables make it easy with strollers; ask for a lower table if your stroller needs to park nearby.
- If you want quieter seating, ask to sit toward the back; early lunch (right at opening) is less busy and easier with little ones.
Transfer to Audubon Aquarium of the Americas (short drive into the French Quarter)
A short drive or rideshare to the riverfront aquarium; allow time for stroller folding if needed.
Tips from local experts:
- Plan a 20–30 minute transfer window to allow for traffic and stroller transitions — keep snacks for a quick calm-down if needed.
- If you have a stroller, check the vehicle clearance — some rideshares have limited trunk space; bring a compact foldable stroller.
- Use this time to apply sunscreen and hats if the afternoon will include some outdoor time on the riverfront.
Audubon Aquarium of the Americas — indoor sea life and touch exhibits
Large indoor aquarium with a walkthrough tunnel, touch exhibits when scheduled, and plenty of stroller room — great for ages 2–12.
- Monday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Best for ages 2–12 — aquarium is an excellent quiet indoor option if spring weather turns wet or windy.
- Stroller-friendly ramps throughout; family restrooms and changing tables are available inside the facility near main entrances.
- Check feeding/talk times at the front desk on arrival for short, kid-focused presentations to time a calm sit-down viewing.
Woldenberg Park riverfront — run-off energy & riverside views
Open grassy area along the Mississippi River: benches, shade and space for little ones to run before dinner.
- Monday6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Great for a gentle wind-down after the aquarium — short riverside walks are stroller-friendly and scenic in spring.
- There are safe railings and open sightlines for parents; bring a small ball or bubbles for easy entertainment.
- Use nearby restrooms in the Aquarium complex if needed; the park has benches and shady trees for snack or diaper changes.
Early casual dinner at Café Beignet — simple plates and beignets
Kid-friendly menu with light meals and dessert beignets — relaxed atmosphere with options for children and allergy-aware requests.
- Monday7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- High chairs and quick service make it easy for families — choose a table away from the street for a quieter meal.
- Ask staff about less-sugary options or fruit for kids if you're avoiding beignets right before bedtime.
- If your child needs a calm corner, request seating in the indoor dining room where noise is usually lower than sidewalk tables.
Optional slow stroll back to hotel / final packing & quiet time
Use this buffer for a calm end to the day — prepare for departure or an easy evening depending on travel plans.
- Monday6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Use this final hour as needed — diaper changes, last photos, or a gentle stroller ride so kids fall asleep early for travel.
- If heading to the airport the next day, consolidate items now: snacks, medications, and a comfort item for the kids.
- If you have time, pick up a simple picnic from a nearby café to enjoy in your room — keeps bedtime routines familiar for little ones.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 2 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Families |
| Transfers | 3 |
| Restaurants | 4 |
| Total Activities | 13 |
| Total Places | 13 |
| Activities Types | Attraction, Restaurant, Transfer, Break, Outdoor |
Why this experience
Two days with family in New Orleans is tighter than three, but you can still hit the moments that matter: beignets at Café du Monde, the French Quarter at a slow walk, City Park's playgrounds and carousel, the Zoo, and a calm meal at a Creole restaurant that doesn't rush families. Spring weather stays mild and dry, perfect for stroller-pushing without the summer sweat. You'll move at a pace that lets kids engage rather than melt, with built-in time for playground breaks, snacks, and naps. This isn't a box-checking tour — it's a gentle introduction to the city.
Before you go
- Best time: Spring (March–May) is ideal — warm, dry, and not oppressively hot. Summer is stroller-unfriendly; autumn is pleasant but can feel crowded.
- Budget: Zoo, City Park, Streetcar rides, and casual Creole meals have individual costs. Most family-friendly restaurants are moderately priced.
- Difficulty: Easy
- What to bring: Lightweight stroller, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, light layers for AC/heat swings, snacks (bring extras)
- Getting there: Fly into Louis Armstrong Airport; take a taxi or rideshare to your accommodation near the French Quarter or City Park.
- Accessibility: French Quarter sidewalks are uneven; City Park and Zoo are mostly flat and accessible. St. Charles Streetcar requires a step-up.
Frequently asked questions
Can we do this in one day? Not comfortably. You'd skip the Zoo or Storyland, and kids would tire quickly. Two days gives you the pace a young family actually needs.
What if kids get overwhelmed by crowds? City Park is quieter than the French Quarter. Start your days there in the morning when it's least crowded, then move to the Quarter in the afternoon.
What's included in this itinerary? This itinerary on TheNextGuide is free to read and follow at your own pace. It's a self-guided plan — you book and pay for each venue individually.
Do we need a car? No. Rideshares and the Streetcar handle distances well. The French Quarter is fully walkable.
Complete your trip in New Orleans
This 2-day gentle itinerary gives families the core experience without exhaustion. For longer stays or different needs, explore these alternatives.
- 3-Day Family-Friendly New Orleans (Spring) Itinerary — Adds a day for more depth and less rushing.
- Family-Friendly Day in New Orleans: City Park — A full deep-dive into City Park alone if that's your focus.
- Gentle New Orleans: French Quarter, Garden District & River Cruise — Similar pacing if kids are older and can handle longer walking.
Browse all New Orleans itineraries at TheNextGuide.
*Last updated: April 2026*
