New Orleans is full of energy, flavor, and culture, and it’s a surprisingly great destination for families with teens. Between spooky ghost tours, vibrant street performances, hands-on museums, and delicious food, there’s plenty to keep older kids entertained. The city’s mix of history and modern excitement makes it easy to plan activities that feel both fun and meaningful. Whether your teens love music, adventure, or storytelling, these 11 experiences capture the best of New Orleans in a teen-approved way.
1. Explore the French Quarter’s Street Performers
The French Quarter is full of vibrant street life that teens instantly connect with, from jazz musicians to break-dancers and creative artists painting right on the sidewalk. It’s a great first stop to soak in the city’s energy, grab iconic snacks like beignets, and take Insta-worthy photos. The mix of live entertainment, colorful buildings, and lively crowds gives teens a fun, immersive introduction to what makes New Orleans so unique.
2. Take a Ghost or Vampire Tour After Dark
New Orleans is famous for its spooky stories, and teens love the thrill of nighttime ghost tours through historic streets. Guides share legends of haunted mansions, mysterious happenings, and famous characters from the city’s past. It’s eerie without being too scary and offers a fun way to learn about local history. Teens enjoy the mix of comedy, storytelling, and light suspense, all wrapped in the charm of the French Quarter after dark.
3. Visit the National WWII Museum
One of the top museums in the country, the National WWII Museum offers immersive exhibits that bring history to life in a way teens find engaging. Interactive displays, personal stories, and dramatic multimedia experiences make the past feel real and relevant. Teens can explore planes, submarines, and recreated streets while learning about global events. It’s educational without feeling like schoolwork, and often becomes a trip highlight for curious minds.
4. Ride the St. Charles Streetcar
The St. Charles Streetcar is one of the easiest ways for teens to explore New Orleans while enjoying a relaxed sightseeing ride. Its vintage wooden seats, open windows, and slow pace make the journey feel like stepping back in time. As it rolls past oak-shaded streets, historic mansions, and classic neighborhoods, teens can snap great photos and take in the city’s charm without rushing. It’s inexpensive, scenic, and a fun break between busier activities.
5. Walk Through City Park and the Sculpture Garden
City Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country, and teens love its open spaces, quirky art, and peaceful atmosphere. The Besthoff Sculpture Garden features dozens of creative, thought-provoking installations that make exploring feel like an outdoor treasure hunt. Teens can wander shaded pathways, admire giant sculptures, and take fun photos. The park’s lakes, bridges, and lush landscaping create a calm, refreshing escape from the busy French Quarter.
6. Enjoy Beignets and Hot Chocolate at Café du Monde
Café du Monde is a New Orleans tradition, and teens love the fun, messy experience of eating warm beignets showered in powdered sugar. The casual, open-air café gives them a taste of local culture while offering a relaxed break from sightseeing. Watching the kitchen churn out fresh batches is part of the charm. Pairing beignets with hot chocolate or iced coffee makes it even better. It’s an iconic treat that feels like a celebration in every bite.
7. Tour Mardi Gras World
At Mardi Gras World, teens get an inside look at how New Orleans’ most famous festival comes together. Giant parade floats, bright costumes, and huge sculptures fill the warehouse, making every corner feel Instagram-worthy. Guides explain the artistry, engineering, and creativity behind the celebrations, giving teens a deeper appreciation for local culture. They can even see artists at work, making it an exciting behind-the-scenes experience that blends fun and education effortlessly.
8. Explore the Audubon Aquarium
Located on the riverfront, the Audubon Aquarium lets teens get close to sharks, stingrays, penguins, and tropical fish from the Gulf of Mexico and beyond. Interactive touch pools and immersive tunnels make the experience exciting and educational. Teens can learn about marine conservation while enjoying colorful exhibits and lively animal interactions. It’s a great indoor option on hot or rainy days and appeals to both science-minded and adventurous travelers.
9. Paddle Through Bayou Swamps
A guided kayaking or boat tour through Louisiana’s bayous offers teens a real-life adventure they’ll remember. Surrounded by cypress trees, hanging moss, and wildlife, the experience feels like stepping into another world. Teens might spot alligators, turtles, and countless bird species while learning about local ecosystems. It’s thrilling without being extreme, making it a perfect balance of nature, excitement, and hands-on learning for Outdoorsy families.
10. Visit the Musical Legends Park
Musical Legends Park is a lively spot where teens can relax and enjoy live jazz performances throughout the day. Statues of New Orleans music icons offer great photo opportunities, while small cafés and shaded seating make it a pleasant place to unwind. Teens enjoy the upbeat, welcoming atmosphere and the chance to experience local music without needing tickets or a late-night venue. It’s a simple, fun stop that captures the spirit of the city’s sound.
11. Shop and Snack at the French Market
The French Market is a bustling open-air marketplace where teens can explore food stalls, artisan crafts, handmade jewelry, vintage clothing, and unique souvenirs. The atmosphere is lively and colorful, giving them a chance to sample local treats while browsing rows of creative vendors. Teens love the freedom to wander, discover quirky finds, and taste foods they’ve never tried before. It’s an engaging, affordable way for them to experience authentic New Orleans culture.
