New Orleans in 3 Days - Audubon Aquarium of the Americas
A practical, gently paced 3-day plan ideal for families with young children. Prioritizes stroller-friendly routes, indoor options for warm/humid spring days, short transfers and regular naps/snack breaks.
Highlights
- Audubon Aquarium of the Americas
- City Park: Storyland & Carousel Gardens
- Audubon Zoo & Park
- St. Charles Streetcar and Garden District
More than 14 itineraries in New Orleans.
Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to New Orleans — easy indoor morning, relaxed afternoon exploring the riverfront and historic French Quarter, with afternoon rest and early family dinner.
Audubon Aquarium of the Americas — indoor, stroller-friendly sea life
Bright, accessible aquarium with touch tanks and kid‑friendly exhibits — good for toddlers through preteens. Plan for slower stroller pacing and bathroom/snack breaks.
- 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: stroller routes are flat and elevators connect floors; bring a small towel for touch tank play.
- Arrive at opening to avoid lines and the hottest midday crowds; baby changing stations are available near restrooms.
- Take the lower-level River Walk exit for a short, shady stroll to nearby lunch spots — avoids the busiest French Quarter streets.
Classic beignets & coffee/fresh juice at Café du Monde (short visit)
Quick, iconic stop for beignets — order to-go or sit at a shaded outdoor table. Good sugar treat for kids; wash hands and faces after.
- Monday7:15 AM – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday7:15 AM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday7:15 AM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday7:15 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday7:15 AM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday7:15 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday7:15 AM – 11:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Try to go mid‑morning (after aquarium) to avoid the largest breakfast rush; ask for a table with shade for stroller parking.
- If allergies are a concern, request fewer powdered sugar or clean plates; they serve simple items — ask staff for ingredient notes.
- Keep wet wipes and a change of clothes for younger kids (powdered sugar is messy but memorable!).
Midday rest / hotel nap (suggest central family hotel if you need a place)
Return to your hotel to rest, change, and recharge. If you're still exploring, use this time for a quiet, air‑conditioned break.
Tips from local experts:
- If you haven't booked a hotel yet, a central option near the French Quarter (recommended) shortens transfers for naps and diapers.
- Use this time to reapply sunscreen, hydrate, and let toddlers have a short screen or quiet toy session to reset.
- Confirm stroller storage with your hotel desk so you can drop it and move faster during the afternoon walk.
Jackson Square & St. Louis Cathedral — gentle outdoor stroll and people-watching
Shaded plazas, open space for kids to run, street artists at a distance. Short stroll to Woldenberg Park along the river.
- Monday8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- Best for ages 2–12: the square is flat and stroller friendly; watch for street performers and move to the side to avoid crowds.
- Plan a short 45–75 minute visit — bring a small blanket so little ones can sit and snack while you relax.
- If crowds are large, retreat toward the river and Woldenberg Park where there's more space and benches with shade.
Woldenberg Park — riverfront play & picnic benches
Shaded riverfront park next to Jackson Square with paved walkways, benches and open grassy spots — good for wiggle breaks and photos.
- 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:
- Perfect for ages 1–10: paved paths are stroller‑friendly; benches and shade mean easy snack and diaper breaks.
- Look for the public restrooms closer to the French Market entrance; carry hand sanitizer and travel wipes.
- Bring a small frisbee or ball — kids can burn off energy safely away from busy streets.
Early family dinner at Mother's Restaurant — casual, kid-friendly local food
Comfort food and sandwiches in a family-oriented setting — simple menus and quick service, good for tired kids.
- Monday7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- High chairs and quick service: try classic po'boys or the baked ham — portions are generous and shareable for kids.
- If someone has allergies, speak to staff — the kitchen is used to accommodating simple requests (no nuts typically in main items).
- Order early (5–6 PM) to avoid crowds and secure a corner booth if you have a stroller.
Day 2
A full City Park day: morning playground/fantastical Storyland, family rides at Carousel Gardens, children's museum time, and relaxed dinner nearby.
Storyland (City Park) — fairy-tale play area for young kids
Iconic storybook-themed playground with large, photogenic play sculptures — ideal for toddlers and early elementary children.
- 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:
- Best for ages 2–8: stroller parking is easy; bring sun protection (hats, sunscreen) — some play areas are in sun pockets.
- There are restroom/changing facilities nearby in City Park; bring a small first-aid kit for scrapes.
- Go early to use quieter equipment and avoid peak picnic times; bring a small snack to keep little ones happy between activities.
Carousel Gardens Amusement Park — gentle family rides and carousel
Compact, vintage-style amusement park inside City Park with kiddie rides and a carousel — tickets sold per ride for flexible pacing.
Tips from local experts:
- Best for ages 2–10: rides are mild; buy an all-ride wristband if your kids will go on multiple rides to save time and lines.
- Stroller parking at the entrance — keep valuables with you and bring tissues/wipes for sticky hands after rides.
- Plan a short rotation (30–60 min) to avoid overtired kids; there are shaded benches for caregivers close to the rides.
Lunch / beignets at Morning Call in City Park — kid-friendly and spacious
Relaxed café in the park with shaded outdoor seating — a good stop for sandwiches, juice, and beignets without the French Quarter crush.
- Monday7:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Tuesday7:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Wednesday7:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Thursday7:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Friday7:00 AM – 1:00 AM
- Saturday7:00 AM – 1:00 AM
- Sunday7:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Tips from local experts:
- Kid-friendly menu items and high chairs are available; choose shaded outdoor tables where strollers can park beside you.
- Morning Call can be allergy-aware for simple requests; ask staff about dairy alternatives if needed.
- Use this time for a calm, seated snack to reset before the museum — bathrooms and changing areas are nearby.
Louisiana Children's Museum — hands-on exhibits for a wide age range
Interactive, child-focused exhibits that encourage play, art, and learning — great for structured indoor time in case of warm weather.
- 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: exhibits are designed for little hands, with accessible restroom/changing facilities and quiet rooms for overstimulated kids.
- Buy timed or early-entry tickets if available — midday is often busiest; allow at least 90–120 minutes for exploration.
- Stroller parking is available; bring a small backpack with snacks and a water bottle (many areas allow quick nibble breaks).
Quiet park rest at Big Lake — stroller nap and low-sensory break
A shady lakeside spot in City Park perfect for brief naps, reading, or a calm play session after the museum.
Tips from local experts:
- Strollers can be wheeled onto shady paths for a nap while caregivers sit nearby — listen for park announcements and be aware of changing weather.
- Bring a lightweight blanket for kids to lie on and a refillable water bottle for quick hydration.
- If a child needs quiet time, the lakeside tends to be calmer than playground areas — keep an eye on water edges with little kids.
Early dinner at Parkway Bakery & Tavern — casual sandwiches in family-sized portions
Laid-back spot known for kid-friendly sandwiches and relaxed service — good for an early, easy dinner before bedtime routines.
- MondayClosed
- TuesdayClosed
- Wednesday10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tips from local experts:
- High chairs are usually available; portions are shareable which helps picky eaters try small bites.
- If someone has dietary restrictions, staff are used to simple substitutions — ask about bread and sides.
- Arrive early (around 5 PM) to reduce wait time and get a comfortable table where the stroller can stay nearby.
Day 3
Uptown and Garden District day — family-friendly zoo morning, lazy streetcar ride, and a quiet afternoon in Audubon Park with souvenir stops.
Audubon Zoo — well‑laid-out animal exhibits and shaded paths
Large zoo with playgrounds and shaded walkways; great for a full, flexible morning where kids can set the pace.
- 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:
- Best for ages 2–12: bring stroller or wagon for little legs — paths are stroller-friendly and there are quiet nursing rooms.
- Pack sunscreen and a refillable water bottle; the zoo has water fountains and family restrooms with changing tables.
- Start with the indoor exhibits (Reptile House, Tropical America) in the coolest hours and use playgrounds as natural nap triggers.
Lunch on Magazine Street — casual kid-friendly spot (Dat Dog)
Colorful, casual hot-dog spot on Magazine Street with flexible toppings and a relaxed vibe — easy for picky eaters.
- 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:
- High chairs and outdoor seating available; kids enjoy choosing fun toppings and the bright, casual setting.
- Dat Dog can accommodate simple allergy requests (avoid specific sausages); tell staff about severe allergies so they can advise.
- Take a short Magazine Street stroll after eating — many shops are kid-friendly and have ice cream or toy stops.
Garden District walk & Lafayette Cemetery (outdoor stroll)
Short stroller-friendly sections of the Garden District to view historic homes and the nearby cemetery (quiet, educational stop).
Tips from local experts:
- Best for ages 4+: keep little ones close around cemetery steps and remember some areas are uneven — choose a short loop rather than a long walk.
- Use shady sidewalks under oak trees for stroller comfort and stop for photos in quieter blocks.
- Avoid long cemetery tours if children are tired; a quick walkthrough and photo stop gives the experience without overstimulation.
Audubon Park lagoon & playground — unwind before heading home
Wide green space with paths, playground area and lagoon — ideal for letting kids run while caregivers relax on benches.
- 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:
- Stroller-friendly paved loops around the lagoon are ideal for a calm final outing; bring snacks for a picnic if the schedule allows.
- The park has public restrooms and shaded picnic tables — a good spot to change, rehydrate and regroup before departure.
- If a child is still wired, the playground and open lawns offer a safe place to expend energy close to transit points.
French Market & souvenir stroll — pick up treats and small mementos
Outdoor market near the river with local foods and crafts — compact browsing for last-minute souvenirs and kid-friendly snacks.
Tips from local experts:
- Look for small, light souvenirs (magnets, postcards) to avoid heavy luggage — sample local snacks at stalls if your kids are adventurous.
- The market is stroller-friendly but can be busy; keep a small daypack with essentials and a zippered pocket for valuables.
- If sugar treats are part of the plan, pick them up at the end of the day to avoid sticky hands during outings.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 3 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Families |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | 5 |
| Total Activities | 17 |
| Total Places | 17 |
| Activities Types | Attraction, Meal, Break, Neighborhood, Outdoor, Experience, Shopping |
Why this experience
New Orleans in spring is gentle, warm, and perfect for families. You'll move at a stroller-friendly pace through neighborhoods that welcome kids, with breaks built in for snacks, playgrounds, and naps. The Aquarium, Storyland, and Zoo are iconic stops that hold children's attention, and the St. Charles Streetcar offers a quiet ride through the Garden District. Creole restaurants serve family portions, Café du Monde's outdoor seating feels relaxed, and the pace never rushes. This is New Orleans without sensory overload.
Before you go
- Best time: Spring (March–May) offers warm, dry weather ideal for families. Summer heat and humidity make stroller-pushing harder; autumn is pleasant too.
- Budget: Aquarium, Zoo, Storyland, and Streetcar rides have separate entry fees. Restaurant meals average moderate cost.
- Difficulty: Easy
- What to bring: Lightweight stroller, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, light layers (AC vs. outdoor heat creates temperature swings)
- Getting there: Fly into Louis Armstrong Airport; take a taxi or rideshare to your accommodation. Most family-friendly spots are near the city center.
- Accessibility: French Quarter sidewalks are uneven and narrow; St. Charles Streetcar has a step-up entry. Aquarium, Zoo, and City Park are mostly accessible.
Frequently asked questions
Is New Orleans safe for families? Yes. Stick to the French Quarter, Garden District, and City Park areas, which are well-traveled and family-friendly. Avoid wandering far from these zones late at night.
What if my kids are very young? Strollers are essential and widely accommodated. Storyland and City Park have shaded seating; Aquarium has quiet zones. Nap timing matters — build downtime into your days.
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. Streetcars and rideshares work well. The French Quarter is walkable, and City Park is easily reached by rideshare.
Complete your trip in New Orleans
This 3-day plan covers the essentials for families with young children. If you want more adventure, longer days, or additional neighborhoods, explore these options.
- 2-Day Family-Friendly New Orleans (Spring) — Condenses the best stops into 2 focused days.
- Family-Friendly Day in New Orleans: City Park — A full day exploring just City Park's playgrounds and gardens.
- One Fun & Vibrant Day in New Orleans — Friends Edition — If kids are older and you want more social energy.
Browse all New Orleans itineraries at TheNextGuide.
*Last updated: April 2026*
