If you are looking for things to do with kids in New Orleans, a playground can be a natural (and free!) choice– and we’ve got many that provide fun in the sun! Even if summer in New Orleans sounds too hot to handle, be sure to check out the covered or indoor playgrounds list. Whether you’ve got a day off from summer camp that needs filling or are bringing a favorite snoball to beat the heat, you’re sure to find a playground that your kids love. Please note that this list is not inclusive of all New Orleans playgrounds; rather, it represents what local moms have expressed to be their favorite playgrounds in New Orleans and the surrounding areas. 

Best Playgrounds in New Orleans

BEST COVERED PLAYGROUNDS 

Kids Konnection (Mandeville – check out a fellow mom’s experience here), Little Farms (River Ridge), Palmer Park (Uptown), Wilson Street Playground (Metairie), Kenner City Park (Kenner), and Lafreniere Park (Metairie), Donnelly Playspot (Uptown) all have sunshades covering the playground equipment, making them ideal for rainy days and days when you don’t feel like slathering on sunblock.

BEST NEW ORLEANS PLAYGROUNDS FOR DIVERSE ABILITIES

Miguez Park “Missing Pieces” Playground (Kenner), Bonnabel Boat Launch (Metairie), Pontiff Playground (Old Metairie), Kids Konnection Koop Drive (Mandeville), East Bank Bridge Park (Destrehan), Desmare Playground (Mid-City), Audubon Park (The Walnut Street Playground at the front of the park near St. Charles Avenue, Uptown), Bluebird Park (Chalmette), Tripp’s Treehouse (Metairie), and Royland Playground (Harahan) were cited by local moms as being their favorite options for children with special needs.

BEST NEW ORLEANS PLAYGROUNDS FOR SMALL TODDLERS 

Cleary Playground (Metairie), Danneel Playground (Uptown), Pontiff Playground (Old Metairie), Mike Miley (Metairie), LaSalle Park (Metairie), Stanley Ray Playround and Magnolia Playground (in City Park, Mid-City), PARD Playground (Marrero), Oak Forest Tot Lot (Marrero), Tripp’s Treehouse (Metairie), and Royland Playground (Harahan) are our favorite playgrounds with toddler-friendly features (wide stairs, small slides, etc.), also known as “tot lots.”

BEST NEW ORLEANS PLAYGROUNDS FOR ACTIVE MOMS

Audubon Park (Uptown), City Park (Mid-City), Lafreniere Park (Metairie), Goldring Woldenberg Riverfront Park (Downtown), and Kenner City Park (Kenner) all offer large walking/biking tracks, fields for group sports, and additional fitness features.

BEST NEW ORLEANS PLAYGROUNDS WITH WATER FEATURES

Lafreniere Park (Metairie), Ormond Park (Destrehan), East Lakefront Children’s Park (Mandeville), and Heritage Park (Slidell) are all well-maintained splash pads where you can take the kids to beat the heat. Don’t forget about the Cool Zoo inside Audubon Zoo, opening for the summer on May 2! Check out our post for some of the best places for water fun here!

The new Goldring Woldenberg Riverfront Park (Downtown) has a 90-foot linear water feature that is open to visitors during Aquarium business hours, weather permitting. It is accompanied by five varying light shows for evening events on the plaza and is a destination point on steamy summer days for kids to run through to cool off.

BEST NEW ORLEANS PLAYGROUNDS FOR SWINGING

Pontiff Playground{1521 Palm St, Metairie, LA 70001} :: Pontiff Playground has two play areas, both with excellent swinging options. The larger of the play areas has a row of baby swings and several special needs swings. The smaller play area has 2 swings for bigger kids or moms (a rare sight these days!), a baby swing, and a special needs swing.

City Park {1 Palm Drive, New Orleans, LA 70124} :: You will find a long row of swings for kids of all ages and abilities in the play area near Popp Bandstand. In the field across from City Putt, there are also rows of porch swings for those who want to swing in groups.

The Fly {6500 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70118} :: The Fly is newly renovated and ready for play time! Also known as Riverview Park, and located near Audubon Park and Audubon Zoo, The Fly is ideal for walking, jogging, family picnics, youth baseball, or just unwinding with a Mississippi River sunset. Amenities include restrooms, multiple parking lots, running paths, and fields for soccer, baseball, and more. They have a great playground for kiddos of all ages with swings!

BEST PLAYGROUNDS WITH GATED PLAY AREAS

Bonnabel Boat Launch (Metairie), Confetti Kids (Algiers Point), Munholland (Metairie), Lafreniere Park (Metairie), Williams Playlot (Metairie), Wilson Street Playground (Metairie), Kenner City Park (Kenner), Little Farms (River Ridge), and Bluebird Park (Metairie) are all excellent playgrounds with gated play areas so you don’t have to worry about your kiddos running into the parking lot.

BEST INDOOR PLAYGROUNDS IN NEW ORLEANS

Lakeside Shopping Center {3301 Veterans Memorial Blvd, Metairie, LA 70002} :: Located at the Food Court entrance of Lakeside Shopping Center, The Kids’ Castle is pretty much a mom’s dream come true. You can get some shopping checked off your list, grab lunch or dinner, and, once the kids start getting antsy, take them to the Kids’ Castle, which features a climbing castle and cool medieval elements for the kids. For parents, it offers precious amenities like a hand-washing station (no need picturing germs on everything, mama!), baby changing counters, a family restroom, and three private nursing rooms. It is colorful, clean, FREE, and offers generous hours of 10:00 am – 7:00 pm Monday-Friday, 11:00 am – 7:00 pm on Saturday, and 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm on Sunday. Time slots must be booked on their website. Check out a local mom’s review.

NOLA Kidsground {5700 Citrus Blvd. Ste D, New Orleans, LA 70123} :: Located in the Elmwood area of New Orleans, NOLA Kidsground features a toddler room with soft toys and a reading nook for the younger guests, and a sustainable wood play structure for older guests. In addition to the play structure, kids can enjoy an oversized Lite-Brite and a magnetic ball run. There is a snack bar and seating area for adults.

The Hive on Woodland {1510 Woodland Hwy, Belle Chasse, Louisiana 70037} :: The Hive’s play spaces are designed for children ages 1 and up and packed with imaginative, multi-sensory, movement-based fun in a safe and clean environment. It’s perfect for meetups, playdates, or spontaneous fun, and they offer complimentary water and coffee. Check out their website for pass options as well as for events that they may be hosting.

The Magnolia Play Cafe {1325 Gause Blvd, Units D-F, Slidell, Louisiana 70458} :: This play cafe is a peaceful, bright, comfortable space where little ones can learn in an environment with clean & safe, hand-picked toys that encourage play and imagination while not overstimulating. Enjoy relaxed seating for adults and a cafe for a coffee or snack break.

We PLAY – The We PLAY Center is filled with age-appropriate toys and activities where caregivers and children (ages birth through age 3) can have quality PLAYtime while developing social and emotional skills in a safe PLAY space. NOTE :: Starting January 19, 2026, the location at the East Bank Regional Library will be closed due to construction.

Bubblegum Tree Playhouse – Bubblegum Tree Playhouse offers interactive classes for children aged 6 months to 4 years. During each class, they incorporate age-appropriate activities that allow children to develop cognitive, social, and physical skills, all while they play. Check out their website for more information on their summer sessions and open play options.

Tigers & Tots – This indoor playground is a vibrant, inclusive space where learning, play, and therapeutic growth come together. Designed to support the developmental and emotional needs of young children, the playground offers a welcoming environment for families with children ages three and under at no cost and can benefit from access to developmental screenings, assessments, parenting education, and support through the LSU School of Allied Health Professions. In addition to being a play space, the indoor playground serves as a hands-on training environment for students enrolled in LSU Health School of Allied Health Professions programs, including Physician Assistant Studies, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech-Language Pathology, Child and Family Counseling, Audiology, and Early Childhood Initiatives.

Trampoline playgrounds such as Airborne, Surge, and Sky Zone are also great solutions to get your kids active while you enjoy the A/C. This is a great idea right before nap time to get all of their wiggles out!

BEST PLAYGROUNDS BY NEIGHBORHOOD

DOWNTOWN/FRENCH QUARTER/MARIGNY

Mickey Markey Park {701-799 Piety Street, New Orleans, LA 70117} :: Located in the Bywater section of Downtown, Mickey Markey Park underwent an extensive renovation in 2013. It has a full, modern play set including swings. Neighborhood moms love it for the large grassy area for picnicking and soccer, and the sidewalk that is perfect for riding bikes.

Goldring Woldenberg Riverfront Park {1 Canal Street, New Orleans, LA 70130} :: Goldring Woldenberg Riverfront Park is 16 acres of sprawling green space stretching between the Mississippi River and the historic French Quarter. Begin or end your walk in the Park with a visit to Audubon Aquarium and Audubon Insectarium, both adjacent to the Park. The riverside jogging path is popular with city dwellers, as are the sculptures and artwork. Don’t be surprised if the sights include a strolling band, an impromptu second line, or a bustling festival! The prime location makes Goldring Woldenberg Riverfront Park a perfect setting to escape and unwind. It has a 90-foot linear water feature that is open to visitors during Aquarium business hours, weather permitting. It is accompanied by five varying light shows for evening events on the plaza and is a destination point on steamy summer days for kids to run through to cool off. There are always fun events happening at the park. Check their calendar here!

GENTILLY/NINTH WARD

Donnelly Playspot {6013 Wildair Drive, New Orleans, LA 70122} :: Donnelly features two small play areas: one for toddlers and one for older kids. And they are both covered! One local mom noted that the playground also has hills that are perfect for wearing out the kids for naptime.

Oak Park Playspot {5134 Perlita Street, New Orleans, LA 70122} :: This is sometimes referred to as the Arthur Ashe Playspot because it is next to Arthur Ashe Charter School. Designed for kids from ages 2 to 12, this is a great spot for play dates because there is a little something for everyone. There are two play structures (one with smaller slides and stairs and one with larger slides), swings for big kids as well as special needs swings, a large jungle gym climbing feature, and a bouncy motorcycle. The playground is surrounded by lots of trees, providing welcome shade.

St. James Playspot {2400 Filmore Ave, New Orleans, LA 70122} :: St. James is a Kaboom playground. The play equipment is low to the ground and excellent for toddlers. It also has an area for older kids, swings, and a grassy area with picnic tables.

HARAHAN/JEFFERSON/RIVER RIDGE

Harahan Playground {6601 10th Street, Harahan, LA 70123} :: Located in a quiet neighborhood, Harahan Playground offers an excellent play area flanked by two picnic pavilions and surrounded by a walking track.

Jefferson Playground {4100 South Drive, Jefferson, LA 70121} :: This playground includes two slides, a jumpy bridge, a ropes wall, a rock climbing wall, two baby swings, and a wheel-chair accessible ramp with interactive games. There is a small set of fitness equipment next to the playground and a covered pavilion with picnic tables about fifty feet away.

Little Farms Playground {10301 South Park, River Ridge, LA 70123} :: Little Farms has two play areas. One is an older, metal play area that is gated and next to the tennis courts. The second play area is on the left side of the gym, across from the baseball field. The equipment has a cool pirate ship theme with cannons, slides, a steering wheel, and is covered by a large sunshade, making it perfect for hot and/or rainy days.

Royland Playground {800 Randolph Avenue, Harahan, LA 70123} :: Royland Playground is designed for everyone. There are unique recreation spaces specifically designed for toddlers, young children, teens, and young adults, all the way up through adults and seniors! The park features several inclusive and accessible components, ensuring everyone feels welcome. The PlayCubes also feature interior sensory panels, providing stimulation and inclusive play experiences. The combination supports cooperative play and helps children build strength, balance, and confidence.

LAKEVIEW/MID-CITY

City Park {1 Palm Drive, New Orleans, LA 70124} :: Does any other park in the city even compare to City Park? What New Orleans childhood is complete without days spent climbing the live oaks in City Park? There are so many fun things to do for families of all ages. Older kids will love renting bicycles and pedal boats at the Big Lake and playing miniature golf at City Putt. Younger kids (and those young at heart) will love stepping into their favorite fairy tales at Storyland and running around the playgrounds. And everyone will love Carousel Gardens Amusement Park (open seasonally) and snoballs after a fun morning with family and friends. For rainy or unbearably hot days, spend a few hours strolling through the New Orleans Museum of Art, where children 12 and under get free admission.

Desmare Playground {3430 Esplanade Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70119} :: Desmare Playground, located next to Cabrini High School, is an ongoing love project for the residents of Bayou St. John. The playground is a neighborhood favorite because it is small and gated.

Lakeview Playground {5501 General Diaz St, New Orleans, LA 70124} :: This playground is housed at the same complex as Lakeview Playground rec sports.

Lakeview Presbyterian Church Playground {5914 Canal Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70124} :: Lakeview Presbyterian is a favorite spot for the Lakeview/Mid-City Community group to meet for play dates.

McKay Playspot{405 Mound Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70124} :: This neighborhood gem features a small playset, swings, and a slide. There’s also plenty of open space for running around.

Fleur De Lis Park {6701 Fleur De Lis Drive, New Orleans, LA 70124} :: Neighborhood playground with a playground and basketball court.

METAIRIE/KENNER

Bonnabel Boat Launch {1599 Bonnabel Blvd., Metairie, LA 70005} :: Although the Bonnabel Boat Launch doesn’t have swings, it is still a favorite among moms in the New Orleans area. The entire play area is gated to keep kids from wandering into the parking lot. There are a good number of picnic tables and lots of slides. The ramps make it wheelchair and toddler accessible, and it still has plenty of climbing features to keep the older kids interested. The best part about this playground is that it is practically on the water, supplying parents with nice views and cool breezes. Bonus: There is a nearby bark park for your fur babies!

Lafreniere Park {3000 Downs Boulevard, Metairie, LA 70003} :: What City Park is to New Orleans, Lafreniere Park is to Metairie and Kenner. This expansive park offers so many options for family entertainment. At the center of the park is a beautiful carousel that is $1 per ride when open to the public. (It can also be rented.) There are playgrounds throughout the park and large fields for team sports or just running wild. The best part about Lafreniere Park may be the large pavilion and the lagoon where you can feed the ducks. It also has a walking track and a fitness center on each side of the park. Bonus: There is a dog park for your fur babies!

Lakeshore Playground {1125 Rosa Avenue, Metairie, LA 70005} :: This playground is in the heart of Bucktown. They offer several types of sports amenities, but also have a renovated gymnasium, a tot lot, and an outdoor workout area. Their new outdoor pavilion can be rented for parties and gatherings as well. Don’t forget to stop by the concession stand for some sno-balls Monday–Saturday!

Miley Playground & Stadium {6716 W. Metairie Avenue, Metairie, LA 70003} :: Mike Miley playground on West Metairie Avenue is one of the best options in the city for parents with children of various ages. It has two play areas – one with high slides and a rock climbing wall for older kids and one with smaller slides and musical elements for toddlers. The best part is that the play areas are right next to each other, so parents can easily keep an eye on their 2-year-olds and their 6-year-olds at the same time.  Across from the play areas is a set of swings with two baby swings and two special needs swings. On either side are covered picnic tables, and the gym with restrooms is right across the parking lot. Some moms might not like that the playground is off of such a busy street, but it is gated, and the kids get a kick out of seeing all of the different cars pass.

Munholland Church Playground {1201 Metairie Rd, Metairie, LA 70005} :: Located on Metairie Road in Old Metairie, Munholland Playground is a gem for local moms. Its gated play area is shaded by trees and perfect for toddlers. Please note: it is open to the public on weekends, but it is only open to the public after 2:00 pm on weekdays during the school year, since Munholland Church utilizes the playground for its Kid Day Out program.

Pontiff Playground {1521 Palm Street, Metairie, LA 70001} :: Formerly Metairie Playground, Pontiff Playground has two play areas. The larger of the play areas is located to the right of the gymnasium. It has four sets of play equipment for children of various ages. Across from this play area is a long row of swings. The smaller play area is across from the gym, in between the running track and the tennis courts. This play area is a favorite among the toddler mom set for its easily accessible toddler equipment (including a small slide set that looks like a bulldozer). The smaller play area has a clear view of the train tracks, so it provides excitement for any train fans in your family. Surrounding the playground is a walking track that is largely shaded.

Wilson Street Playground {Corner of Wilson & 39th Street, Metairie, LA 70003} :: A hidden gem in Metairie for toddlers. Located in the neighborhood adjacent to the Wilson Canal, it is the perfect spot where smaller kids can play on shaded equipment and roam free within the gates. There are tables to sit and have a snack. The only drawback is no restroom.

Miguez Park “Missing Pieces” Playground {67 Baron Ln, Kenner, LA 70065} :: Known for being Louisiana’s only Inclusion Playground, there is a multitude of ramps allowing wheelchairs to access the playground’s many features. This includes a wheelchair-accessible seesaw, a zipline with stability features for kids, and even a “quiet cove” for when sensory overload threatens to overwhelm. The main play feature looks like a large firetruck, though there is another, smaller playset on the grounds as well.

Tripp’s Treehouse {3000 Downs Blvd, Metairie, LA 70003} :: Tripp’s Treehouse is a fully immersive, all-inclusive playground where children of all abilities can explore, play, and grow together. This playground was thoughtfully created to promote graduating complexity, independent access, parallel play, sensory engagement, and social inclusion. Tripp’s Treehouse provides a safe place where children with and without disabilities can be challenged and have the option to choose how they engage in play. Choosing to create an inclusive play space benefits the entire community because it recognizes everyone as an important member who is valued.

UPTOWN

Alma Peters Playspot {346 Eleonore St, New Orleans, LA 70115} :: This favorite neighborhood spot is affectionately referred to as the “Toy Graveyard” because locals donate toys like tricycles and ride-ons to it once their kids have outgrown them. It’s gated and tucked in a friendly neighborhood.

Audubon Park {6500 Magazine St. New Orleans, LA 70118} :: You can’t overlook the splendor of Audubon Park. The largest play area is located at the front of the park off of St. Charles, with public bathrooms nearby. The 1.8-mile walking/jogging trail is canopied by Spanish moss-covered trees, and it is great for people watching. Do your kids like feeding the ducks? Well then, bring your oats and seeds with you when you visit Audubon because there are plenty of ducks to feed in the pond. Those driving can access parking through the Magazine Street entrance. Streetcar access is on St. Charles across from Loyola University.

Danneel Park {5342 St. Charles Avenue, 70115} :: Located on the iconic St. Charles Avenue, Danneel Park seems to be the overwhelmingly favorite neighborhood play spot for our Uptown moms. The equipment is clean and well-maintained, and though there is no covering, the beautiful trees around it provide ample shade. Just note that there aren’t any nearby bathrooms.

Palmer Park {Claiborne and Carrollton Avenues} :: Palmer Park has a sunshade covering the play area, making it one of our favorite Uptown spots to play. In addition to the modern jungle gym, Palmer also has a rock climbing wall and a large field for picnicking or letting your kids let off steam. Its convenient location makes it easily accessible by bus or streetcar.

The Fly {6500 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70118} :: The Fly is newly renovated and ready for play time! Also known as Riverview Park, and located near Audubon Park and Audubon Zoo, The Fly is ideal for walking, jogging, family picnics, youth baseball, or just unwinding with a Mississippi River sunset. Amenities include restrooms, multiple parking lots, running paths, and fields for soccer, baseball, and more. They have a great playground for kiddos of all ages with swings!

RIVER PARISHES

East Bank Bridge Park {9762 River Road, Destrehan, LA 70047} :: The playground was created by a local mother with the United Way of St. Charles Parish as a play spot where children of all abilities can have fun and play together.

Monsanto Park {12501 River Rd, Luling, LA 70070} :: Monsanto Park is a favorite in the River Parish area for large get-togethers. It has lots of large grassy patches for running around, picnic tables, and new play equipment to entertain the kids.

Ormond Park {1901 Ormond Blvd, Destrehan, LA 70047} :: Ormond Park is a favorite of River Parishes moms for many reasons. Not only does it have a FREE spray park, but it also has new playground equipment, a walking trail, and covered area bathrooms close to the play area.

ST. BERNARD

Sidney D. Torres Memorial Park {Patricia Street, Chalmette, LA 70043} :: According to the moms we asked from St. Bernard, Sidney Torres is by far their favorite park. It was recently rebuilt and is now a very large, multi-colored playground with both plastic and metal parts. It has covered areas to play as well as open areas and is completely gated. There’s also an exercise station with workout equipment, a track, and a skateboard/bike park. It also has games that can be played with a certain app that is downloaded. Friendly for ALL ages and interactive.

Bluebird Park {24 E. Chalmette Circle, Chalmette, LA 70043} :: According to local moms, Bluebird Park is a great park for those kiddos that are special needs and has a universal playground design that the entire family can enjoy together. It also features 34 different accessible play unit components, including a sensory play center, spinners, a roller slide, specialty swings, a central play structure, an accessible covered picnic area, an off-street parking lot, and specially designed handicapped restrooms.

WEST BANK

Confetti Kids Park {451 Pelican Ave, New Orleans, LA 70114} :: Located near the ferry, Confetti Kids is the favorite neighborhood spot for play dates in Algiers Point. Although it is small (you won’t find large areas to run around in the grass here), the playground equipment provides lots of climbing and sliding fun, and there are swings for babies and older kids, picnic tables with painted chess and checkers boards, and ride-on toys.

Gretna Heritage Playground {1035 Huey P Long Ave, Gretna, LA 70053} :: Built in 2013, Heritage Playground has a lot going for it. There are three sets of climbing/sliding equipment that are covered in sun shades, swings for children of various ages, and a merry-go-round. Add picnic tables and space to run wild, and you’ll see why moms on the West Bank love taking their children here.

Mel Ott Park Playground {2301 Belle Chasse Hwy, Gretna, LA 70053} :: This park was updated in 2024! Bring your kids out to enjoy the all-new equipment for tons of summer fun.

Oakdale Playground {650 Wall Boulevard. Gretna, LA 70056} :: This playground has something for everyone, from its half-mile walking track to the tot lot. It also has many covered shelters for picnics, as well as tons of areas for sports.

BEST PLAYGROUNDS ON THE NORTHSHORE

Kids Konnection {21490 Koop Dr., Mandeville, LA 70471} :: Kids Konnection was overwhelmingly the favorite playground recommended by moms on the Northshore. It was created by parents of children with special needs to be a place where children of all abilities can have fun and play together. Featuring a gated play area, equipment covered by a sunshade, and a pavilion with picnic tables, it is easy to see why moms and kids alike love spending time here.

Paul D. Cordes Park {3101 E Causeway Approach, Mandeville, LA 70448} :: You would be hard-pressed to find a park where you would feel safer than Cordes Park, which is next to City Hall and the police station. The park has two play areas (one of which is a fenced-in toddler area), tennis and basketball courts, and covered pavilions.

Heritage Park {1701 Bayou Lane, Slidell, LA 70458} :: Heritage Park near Old Towne Center features a huge children’s play area, a walking track, several public shelters, and picnic tables. Heritage also has an amphitheater where it hosts free concerts.

John Slidell Park {105 Robert Rd., Slidell, LA 70459} :: The favorite among the Slidell moms we asked was John Slidell Park, which is a beautiful park with tons of trees offering shade. There are two playgrounds, multiple walking trails, a pavilion, and a lovely area with flowers.

Coquille Park {13505 LA-1085, Covington, LA 70433} :: Coquille Park on the border of Covington and Madisonville, offers two parks, a splash pad, a walking trail, and a pond. There are also plenty of soccer and baseball fields and basketball courts for older kids.

Tree Frogs Adventure Park {19112 W. Front St, Covington, LA 70433} :: This park is a great place for family-based activities and is the sister location to Zip NOLA. There is truly an adventure for everyone with their Adventure Course and Tadpole Adventure Zone.

Please let us know if we are missing any of the best playgrounds in New Orleans on this list!