New Orleans Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in New Orleans
This itinerary focuses on a mix of free outdoor activities like parks and markets, combined with engaging, ticketed children's attractions. Transportation notes assume personal vehicle use, with parking suggestions where available. Public transit is an option for many city locations but may require transfers.
Friday Evening - Family Fun
Friday, March 6Italian Heritage Festival
Spend the evening at the Kenner Italian Heritage Festival in Rivertown, enjoying great food, live music, entertainment, and celebrating Italian culture.
The festival runs throughout the weekend.
Suitable for all ages. Lively atmosphere with cultural performances, food vendors, and rides (rides may have additional costs). Expect crowds. Duration: 2-3 hours.
Ample parking usually available in Rivertown. Stroller friendly. Consider driving as Kenner is a suburb of New Orleans.
Arnaud's Mardi Museum
Explore the free Arnaud's Mardi Gras Museum, showcasing a 'priceless collection of Mardi Gras memorabilia' including unique costumes, culture, and colors that will intrigue kids.
Self-guided tour within a historic restaurant. Best for children ages 5 and up who can appreciate visual displays and costumes. Duration: 1 hour.
Located in the French Quarter, street parking can be challenging. Consider nearby paid parking garages or ride-sharing. Stroller accessibility may be limited in some areas due to historical building.
Saturday - Adventure Day
Saturday, March 7Easter Bunny Celebration
Welcome the Easter Bunny at Lakeside Shopping Center's Arrival Celebration, featuring a parade, treats, games, and crafts.
Geared towards younger children (ages 3-8). Expect a festive atmosphere with interactive activities and photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny. Duration: 1.5-2 hours.
Ample free parking available at the shopping center. Stroller friendly.
Freret Market Fun
Enjoy the vibrant Freret Market, featuring local food vendors for lunch, arts, crafts, and live music.
The market also includes a dedicated kids' area.
Open-air market suitable for all ages. Plenty of options for a budget-friendly lunch. Kids can enjoy the designated play area. Duration: 1.5-2 hours.
Street parking is available on adjacent streets, and there's a lot at the corner of Cadiz and Magnolia. Stroller friendly.
Children's Museum Play
Immerse yourselves in hands-on learning and play at the Louisiana Children's Museum.
The museum offers indoor and outdoor exhibits focusing on literacy, health, arts, environmental education, and STEM.
Designed for children aged 0-12. Features interactive galleries and an outdoor area. A cafe is available on-site. Allow 2-3 hours for exploration.
Located in City Park, paid parking available. Stroller and wheelchair accessible.
City Park Playground
Let the kids burn off energy at the Stanley Ray Playground in New Orleans City Park, a classic playground with slides, swings, and tunnels suitable for younger children (2-5).
The park also offers other playgrounds for older kids (5-12).
Multiple playground areas cater to various age groups. Plenty of open green space for running around. Restrooms are conveniently located nearby. Duration: 1-1.5 hours.
Free parking generally available within City Park. Stroller friendly paths.
Sunday - Relaxed Day
Sunday, March 8Farmers Market Visit
Start your Sunday at the Crescent City Farmers Market in City Park, where you can find fresh local produce, baked goods, and artisanal foods.
Open-air market with a variety of vendors. Great for a leisurely stroll and finding fresh snacks. Stroller friendly. Duration: 1-1.5 hours.
Free parking available in the City Putt parking lot.
St. Patrick's Celebration
Join the St.
Patrick's Celebration at Deutsches Haus, a free, family-friendly event with a festive atmosphere.
Expect a cultural celebration that is welcoming to families. Food and drinks will likely be available for purchase. Suitable for all ages. Duration: 2-2.5 hours.
Limited on-site parking may be available for a fee, with additional paid parking at Cabrini High School. Consider public transport or ride-sharing. Stroller friendly.
Audubon Park Play
Enjoy some free outdoor play at Audubon Park's Walnut Street Playground, which features adaptive and wheelchair-accessible equipment.
The park is a large green space with ancient oak trees.
Spacious park with diverse playground equipment for various ages (3-12). Shaded areas available. Great for a relaxed afternoon. Duration: 1-1.5 hours.
Street parking along St. Charles Avenue and surrounding streets. Stroller and wheelchair accessible paths.
This weekend itinerary for New Orleans can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.