New Orleans is one of the most exciting destinations in the United States for families, offering a mix of history, live music, delicious food, adventure, and entertainment. Whether your teen is a history buff, thrill-seeker, foodie, or music lover, this guide covers the best teen-friendly activities in New Orleans to ensure your family vacation is packed with unforgettable experiences.
Table of Contents
Exploring the Historic French Quarter
The French Quarter is the heart of New Orleans, featuring street performers, local artists, historic architecture, and famous landmarks. It’s the perfect place for teenagers to explore, take photos, and experience the city’s unique culture.
Jackson Square & St. Louis Cathedral
One of the most iconic landmarks in New Orleans, Jackson Square is a lively hub filled with street performers, artists, and musicians. Surrounding the square are historic buildings, including the Cabildo and the Presbytère, which house the Louisiana State Museum. The St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in the United States, stands proudly in the square and offers stunning Gothic architecture and historical significance.
Teens who love history and photography will enjoy exploring the area and capturing the scenic views of the Mississippi River from Washington Artillery Park.
French Market
The French Market is a great place for teenagers who love shopping. This historic open-air market features local vendors selling handmade crafts, clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs. Food lovers will find plenty of delicious snacks, from pralines to po’ boys and gator bites.
Café du Monde
Just a few steps away is Café du Monde, one of the city’s most famous eateries. Teens can try New Orleans’ most beloved treat: beignets. These deep-fried pastries covered in powdered sugar are a must-try food and a great opportunity to grab Instagram-worthy photos.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides & Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore the historic French Quarter is by taking a horse-drawn carriage ride. A tour guide will provide fascinating stories about the city’s history, haunted past, and unique architecture. Alternatively, families can book a guided walking tour to learn about the rich history of New Orleans and its diverse influences.
Street Performers & Local Artists
Throughout the French Quarter, especially along Jackson Square and Canal Street, visitors will encounter street performers, musicians, and live artists showcasing their talents.
New Orleans City Park Attractions
New Orleans City Park is one of the largest urban parks in the United States, spanning 1,300 acres of lush green space, scenic walking paths, and family-friendly attractions. With a variety of activities, from mini-golf and museums to botanical gardens, nature trails, and amusement rides, City Park offers plenty of opportunities for teens to explore, play, and enjoy nature.
City Putt
City Putt is a fun and interactive mini-golf experience that features two 18-hole courses, each themed around New Orleans and Louisiana history. Teens can test their putting skills while learning interesting facts about the state’s culture, landmarks, and famous figures. With colorful obstacles and well-designed courses, this attraction is a great way for families to enjoy a little friendly competition in a lively outdoor setting.
City Park Botanical Gardens
The City Park Botanical Gardens is a serene escape within the park, featuring over 2,000 species of plants from around the world. Teens with an interest in nature, photography, or relaxation will appreciate the vibrant flowers, towering oak trees, the train garden, and peaceful garden paths. This attraction provides a beautiful backdrop for photos while offering a quiet break from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Storyland & City Park Carousel and Amusement Park
Storyland is a storybook-themed playground filled with larger-than-life sculptures of fairy tale characters, making it an enchanting stop for younger teens and tweens.
Just steps away, the City Park Carousel and Amusement Park features a classic wooden carousel from 1906 alongside small amusement rides like a Ferris wheel, tilt-a-whirl, and miniature train. Whether riding the carousel’s flying horses or enjoying gentle amusement park rides, this attraction is perfect for an afternoon of lighthearted entertainment.
New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) & Sculpture Garden
Located within City Park, the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) is the city’s premier fine arts institution, housing an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Teens with an interest in art and culture can explore exhibits featuring classical, modern, and contemporary works from around the world.
Just outside, the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden offers a stunning outdoor gallery with over 90 sculptures set among scenic ponds and ancient oak trees. This peaceful and inspiring free attraction is open to visitors.
Couturie Forest
For teens who love hiking, wildlife, and outdoor adventure, Couturie Forest is a hidden gem within New Orleans City Park. This 60-acre forest features winding trails, native Louisiana trees, and the highest natural point in New Orleans, Laborde Mountain, which stands at 43 feet above sea level. It’s the perfect place for a scenic nature walk, birdwatching, or simply escaping into the peaceful greenery of the park. Whether trekking through the shaded trails or spotting wildlife near the ponds, this urban forest offers a refreshing outdoor experience right in the heart of the city.
Bike Rentals
Exploring City Park by bike is a fun and active way to experience its scenic beauty. Visitors can rent bikes, surreys, and tandem bikes from the City Park bike rental stand and ride through the park’s many trails, across picturesque bridges, and under centuries-old oak trees. For teens who enjoy adventure and fitness, this is a great way to cover more ground while enjoying the park’s stunning landscapes.
Boat Rentals
For a relaxing experience on the water, families can rent pedal boats, kayaks, and canoes from Big Lake Boathouse within City Park. Teens can paddle across Big Lake, taking in views of the park’s lush surroundings, the picturesque fountains, and the distant skyline. Whether enjoying a leisurely float or getting in some exercise on the water, boat rentals provide a unique way to experience the beauty of City Park.
Louisiana Children’s Museum
Although traditionally considered a younger children’s attraction, the Louisiana Children’s Museum, now located in City Park, offers interactive exhibits that can engage older kids and teens alike. The museum’s STEM-based activities, environmental exhibits, and hands-on art experiences make learning fun.
Outdoor Attractions in New Orleans
New Orleans offers a variety of outdoor experiences for teens who love adventure, nature, and exploration. Whether it’s ziplining over the swamps, kayaking through Bayou St. John, or spotting wildlife at the zoo, there’s something for every type of adventurer.
Audubon Park
Located in the Garden District, Audubon Park is a beautiful green space filled with ancient oak trees, walking trails, and scenic lagoons. It’s a great place for biking, jogging, or having a picnic while enjoying nature. With its picturesque landscapes and peaceful atmosphere, this park is a relaxing retreat from the city’s bustling streets.
Audubon Zoo
Right next to Audubon Park, the Audubon Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals from around the world. Teens can get up close to majestic tigers, playful sea lions, and exotic birds while exploring interactive exhibits like the Louisiana Swamp Exhibit, which highlights the state’s native wildlife, including alligators and black bears. This is a must-visit for animal lovers and those interested in conservation efforts.
Swamp Tours
A swamp tour is one of the most thrilling ways to explore the natural beauty of Louisiana’s wetlands. Families can take an airboat or pontoon boat tour to see alligators, turtles, and wading birds up close while learning about the bayou’s unique ecosystem. With the help of experienced guides, visitors will hear fascinating stories about swamp legends and the local environment, making this an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Zip NOLA
Zip NOLA offers a thrilling way to experience Louisiana’s swamps from above, with multiple ziplines, suspension bridges, and a spiral staircase soaring over cypress trees and open marshlands. From 60 feet in the air, riders can spot alligators, turtles, and native birds while enjoying breathtaking views of the bayou. With expert guides ensuring safety and sharing insights about the ecosystem and wildlife, this adventure is the perfect mix of adrenaline and education for teens seeking excitement.
Sugar Roots Farm
Sugar Roots Farm is a working educational farm just outside New Orleans. It offers a hands-on experience with farm animals, sustainable agriculture, and environmental conservation. Teens can interact with horses, goats, pigs, and chickens while also learning about organic farming practices and composting. This peaceful retreat provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature, support local agriculture, and better understand where food comes from.
NOLA Motorsports Park
For adrenaline-seeking teens, NOLA Motorsports Park offers high-speed go-kart racing on a professional-grade track. Families can compete in a thrilling race, experience the excitement of real motorsports, and test their driving skills in high-performance karts. This is the ultimate destination for teens who love speed, competition, and excitement.
Crescent Park
Located along the Mississippi River, Crescent Park is a modern urban park with biking and walking paths, scenic overlooks, and unbeatable views of the New Orleans skyline. It’s a great spot for outdoor exercise, photography, or just enjoying a peaceful stroll along the waterfront. The park’s iconic Rusty Rainbow Bridge provides a fantastic panoramic view of the city and is a must-visit for anyone looking to capture stunning photos.
Streetcars in New Orleans
Taking a ride on a historic streetcar is a classic New Orleans experience and a great way for teens to see the city in a unique and budget-friendly way. The St. Charles Avenue Line, the oldest continuously operating streetcar in the world, runs through the Garden District, past stunning mansions and centuries-old oak trees. Whether heading to City Park, the French Quarter, or the Garden District, a streetcar ride is a fun and relaxing way to explore New Orleans.
The Fly
The Fly is a scenic riverfront park located behind Audubon Zoo. It offers expansive green spaces, picnic areas, and stunning views of the Mississippi River. It’s a popular spot for teens and families to relax, play sports, watch the sunset, toss a frisbee, have a picnic, or watch boats pass along the river.
Audubon Louisiana Nature Center
Audubon Louisiana Nature Center is a hidden gem for nature lovers. It features walking trails, interactive exhibits, and a planetarium that showcases Louisiana’s unique ecosystems and wildlife. Teens can explore swamp habitats, spot native birds, and learn about conservation efforts through hands-on educational programs. Whether hiking through the peaceful forest or attending a stargazing event at the planetarium, this nature center offers an immersive outdoor experience in New Orleans.
New Orleans Museums & Cultural Attractions
New Orleans is home to some of the best museums in the United States, offering interactive and engaging exhibits that bring history, music, and culture to life. Whether your teen is a history lover, an art enthusiast, or fascinated by marine life, these museums provide an unforgettable learning experience in an exciting and immersive way.
National WWII Museum
Located in the Warehouse District, the National WWII Museum is considered one of the top museums in the country. It features immersive exhibits, interactive storytelling, and 4D films that transport visitors into the experiences of soldiers and civilians during World War II. Teens can explore real war artifacts, step inside a recreated battlefield, and even take part in a submarine simulation to experience the intensity of the war firsthand.
Mardi Gras World
For a behind-the-scenes look at one of New Orleans’ most famous traditions, Mardi Gras World offers an interactive experience that showcases the history, artistry, and pageantry of Mardi Gras. Teens can see massive, elaborately designed floats, learn how they are created, and even try on costumes used in the parades. This attraction provides a fun and colorful way to learn about New Orleans’ festive culture while getting hands-on with the magic behind the city’s biggest celebration.
Aquarium of the Americas
Located on the Mississippi River, the Aquarium of the Americas is a top-tier New Orleans attraction featuring an incredible variety of sea creatures from around the world. Visitors can walk through a tunnel surrounded by fish, watch penguins play and dive, and even touch stingrays in an interactive exhibit. Teens interested in conservation will love learning about marine life protection and restoration efforts while exploring habitats from the Amazon Rainforest to the Gulf of Mexico.
Louisiana State Museums
The Louisiana State Museums offer a deep dive into the rich cultural history of New Orleans and Louisiana, covering topics like Creole heritage, jazz, and historical events.
At the Cabildo and Presbytère in Jackson Square, visitors can explore exhibits on Mardi Gras traditions and the impact of Hurricane Katrina.
Music lovers will enjoy the New Orleans Jazz Museum, which features rare instruments, live performances, and the stories of jazz legends who helped shape the city’s world-famous music scene.
Vue Orleans
Vue Orleans is an incredible observation deck that offers 360-degree views of New Orleans and the Mississippi River. Teens can learn about the city’s history through interactive displays while taking in the stunning skyline views.
New Canal Lighthouse
New Canal Lighthouse is a historic landmark on the shores of Lake Pontchartrain, offering a glimpse into New Orleans’ maritime history and coastal preservation efforts. Visitors can tour the restored lighthouse, explore exhibits on local ecology and hurricane recovery, and enjoy scenic waterfront views. It’s a great stop for teens interested in history, engineering, or environmental conservation while taking in the beauty of the lakefront.
JamNOLA
JAMNOLA is an immersive art and cultural experience celebrating the joy, art, and music of New Orleans through interactive exhibits and vibrant installations. Teens will love the Instagram-worthy displays, funky murals, and sensory experiences that highlight the city’s unique traditions, from Mardi Gras to local music and folklore. This colorful and engaging attraction is perfect for those looking to explore New Orleans’ creative spirit in a fun and modern way.
Ogden Museum of Southern Art
Ogden Museum of Southern Art is home to the largest collection of Southern art in the world, featuring paintings, photography, and sculptures that tell the story of the American South. Teens interested in regional history, culture, and artistic expression will enjoy the diverse works of contemporary and folk artists. With rotating exhibits and engaging programs, this museum offers a deep and thought-provoking look into Southern identity through art.
Contemporary Arts Center
Contemporary Arts Center New Orleans (CAC) is a dynamic space dedicated to modern and experimental art, featuring cutting-edge exhibits in painting, sculpture, photography, and performance art. The museum showcases local and international artists pushing creative boundaries, making it an exciting destination for teens who enjoy bold, thought-provoking, and unconventional artwork. With frequent live performances and multimedia installations, CAC is a hub for New Orleans’ vibrant contemporary art scene.
Live Music, Sports & Entertainment
New Orleans is a city that thrives on music, sports, and live performances, offering an exciting variety of entertainment for all interests. From world-class jazz on Frenchmen Street and thrilling Saints and Pelicans games to Broadway-style theater productions and scenic dinner cruises on the Mississippi River, there’s always something happening. Whether your teen loves live concerts, high-energy sporting events, or cultural performances, New Orleans delivers unforgettable experiences filled with energy and local flavor.
Frenchmen Street Live Music
For an authentic New Orleans music experience, head to Frenchmen Street, where local musicians bring the city’s vibrant jazz, blues, and brass music to life. Teens can enjoy live performances at intimate venues, outdoor jam sessions, and bustling night markets featuring local artists. Whether strolling along the street or stopping at a café with live music, this area offers a memorable and energetic introduction to New Orleans’ legendary music scene.
New Orleans Saints, Pelicans & NOLA Gold Rugby
Sports fans can experience the electric energy of New Orleans’ passionate fan base by catching a New Orleans Saints (NFL) game at the Caesars Superdome.
For basketball lovers, the Smoothie King Center is home to the New Orleans Pelicans (NBA), where fast-paced action and lively crowds create an exciting atmosphere.
Those looking for something different can check out a NOLA Gold Rugby match, where the city’s professional rugby team competes in an intense and thrilling display of athleticism.
Steamboat Natchez Cruise
Enjoy a classic New Orleans experience by taking a cruise on the Mississippi River aboard the historic Steamboat Natchez. This scenic riverboat ride features live jazz music, an open-air observation deck, and a menu of Creole and Cajun cuisine, allowing guests to soak in the city’s sights and sounds from the water. Whether admiring the glowing city skyline or learning about the region’s steamboat history, this cruise offers a unique and relaxing way to experience New Orleans.
Local Theater Shows
New Orleans is home to several historic theaters offering Broadway-style productions, concerts, and cultural performances.
The Saenger Theatre hosts Broadway shows, comedy acts, and world-class concerts in a beautifully restored, ornate setting.
For those interested in classic and contemporary plays, the Le Petit Théâtre, one of the oldest community theaters in the U.S., delivers engaging performances in an intimate venue.
Music lovers can also visit The Orpheum Theater, which features concerts, symphonies, and special cultural events in a grand, century-old setting.
Creole Queen
The Creole Queen offers scenic cruises along the Mississippi River, blending history, music, and stunning waterfront views. Guests can choose between a daytime historical cruise featuring a guided tour of the Battle of New Orleans site or an evening jazz dinner cruise with live music and classic Creole cuisine. With its elegant 19th-century design and relaxing atmosphere, the Creole Queen provides a unique way to experience the rich culture and history of New Orleans from the water.
Preservation Hall
Preservation Hall is a legendary New Orleans music venue known for its intimate setting and world-class jazz performances. Located in the heart of the French Quarter, this historic venue has been keeping traditional New Orleans jazz alive for over 60 years, with nightly concerts featuring some of the city’s most talented musicians. With no microphones or flashy production—just pure, authentic jazz in a cozy, atmospheric space- visiting Preservation Hall is a must for anyone wanting to experience the soul of New Orleans music.
Whitney Plantation
Visit Whitney Plantation for a powerful and educational experience. It offers a deep look into the lives of enslaved people in Louisiana through first-person narratives, preserved slave cabins, and historical exhibits. Visitors gain a moving and thought-provoking perspective on this chapter of American history.
Active Fun In New Orleans
For teens who love staying active while having fun, New Orleans offers exciting activities to challenge their skills and keep them entertained. From bowling at the stylish Fulton Alley to scaling climbing walls at NOLA Boulder Lounge, testing their swing at Five-O Fore Golf, or competing in arcade games at Dave & Buster’s, there’s no shortage of action-packed entertainment for teens looking for adventure.
Five-O Fore Golf
Five-O Fore Golf is a state-of-the-art virtual golf experience, perfect for golf enthusiasts and casual players alike. With high-tech simulators, interactive challenges, and a relaxed lounge atmosphere, teens can practice their swing or compete with family and friends in a fun and engaging setting.
Dave & Buster’s
For an action-packed indoor experience, Dave & Buster’s offers a massive arcade filled with classic and modern games, virtual reality experiences, and interactive challenges. Teens can enjoy everything from basketball shootouts and racing simulators to multiplayer games and high-tech VR attractions. With a full-service restaurant serving burgers, wings, and other favorites, this is a great spot for a casual meal and hours of entertainment.
NOLA Boulder Lounge
NOLA Boulder Lounge is a top-rated indoor rock climbing gym that offers a fun and challenging experience for climbers of all skill levels. Teens can test their strength, endurance, and problem-solving skills as they tackle the varied climbing routes and bouldering walls. With a welcoming community and expert instructors available, this is a great place to try something new, stay active, and build confidence.
Bowling at Fulton Alley
Fulton Alley is more than just a bowling alley—it’s a stylish entertainment venue featuring upscale bowling lanes and a full menu of delicious food. The sleek and modern atmosphere makes it a fun spot for teens looking to enjoy a friendly game in a lively setting.
Foodie Adventures & Shopping in New Orleans
New Orleans is a foodie’s paradise, offering iconic local treats, bold flavors, and one-of-a-kind culinary traditions that teens will love exploring. Pair these flavors with a shopping spree at local boutiques, open-air markets, and trendy stores, and you’ve got the perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and retail therapy.
Beignets at Café du Monde
A trip to New Orleans wouldn’t be complete without trying beignets at Café du Monde, the city’s most famous spot for this classic treat. These light, fluffy pastries are deep-fried to perfection and generously dusted with powdered sugar, making them a messy but delicious must-try snack. Paired with a cup of chicory coffee or hot chocolate, beignets are the perfect way to start the day or take a sweet break while exploring the French Quarter.
King Cake (Seasonal Treat)
If you’re visiting during Mardi Gras season, trying King Cake is an absolute must. This sweet, cinnamon-filled pastry is topped with colorful icing in purple, green, and gold, representing justice, faith, and power. Traditionally, a small plastic baby is hidden inside, and whoever finds it is responsible for buying the next cake, keeping the fun and festive tradition alive. Local favorites are Manny Randazzos, Caluda’s, Haydels, and Dong Phoung.
Central Grocery & Muffulettas
For a savory New Orleans classic, head to Central Grocery, the birthplace of the muffuletta sandwich. This legendary sandwich features layers of salami, ham, provolone cheese, and a signature olive salad, all served on a thick, round Sicilian loaf. Perfect for sharing, this flavor-packed sandwich is a must-try for teens who love bold and hearty flavors.
Creole Creamery
Ice cream lovers will want to make a stop at Creole Creamery, a local favorite known for its creative and bold flavors. With options like Black & Gold Crunch, King Cake, and Café Au Lait, there’s always something unique and delicious to try.
New Orleans Snowballs
During the hot Louisiana summers, nothing beats a refreshing New Orleans snowball. Unlike traditional snow cones, snowballs are made with finely shaved ice, allowing the flavored syrup to absorb perfectly for a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Popular flavors include tiger’s blood, wedding cake, and Mardi Gras king cake, and some spots even offer stuffed snowballs with ice cream inside. For an authentic experience, check out Hansen’s Sno-Bliz, Plum Street Snowballs, or Sal’s Sno-Balls.
Shopping in New Orleans
New Orleans isn’t just about the food—it’s also a great city for shopping, offering everything from local boutiques to major retail stores and historic markets.
• Magazine Street—This six-mile stretch is packed with local boutiques, vintage stores, art galleries, and trendy cafés, perfect for fashion lovers and creative teens.
• Canal Street—This street has a mix of major retailers, department stores, and souvenir shops, making it a great place for mainstream shopping and finding New Orleans-themed gifts.
• The Outlet Collection at Riverwalk – A great spot for discount shopping, featuring brand-name stores like Coach, Nike, and Levi’s with great deals.
• French Market – One of the oldest open-air markets in the U.S., offering handmade crafts, jewelry, artwork, and local delicacies for a truly authentic New Orleans shopping experience.
New Orleans is a fantastic destination for families with teenagers. It offers a mix of history, live music, adventure, and great food. Whether your teen enjoys shopping, kayaking, visiting museums, or trying local treats, there’s something for everyone.
Are you planning a New Orleans trip with teenagers? Comment below with your favorite activities!
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