The 2024 Guide to Fall Fun in New Orleans With Kids :: 75+ Things to Do With Kids in New Orleans

It is time for Fall fun in New Orleans! There are so many things to do with kids in New Orleans this Fall! Below are over 75 of our favorite ideas for entertaining kids in New Orleans. There are ideas for every family’s budget and interests. Whether you are visiting New Orleans with kids or you live in New Orleans year-round, there are tons of kid-friendly outings to choose from. Fall is also pumpkin patch season in New Orleans, and we have that covered, too!

Are you looking for a day trip from New Orleans? Check out our Lafayette and Baton Rouge guides for more Louisiana fall fun ideas! 

Let’s get ready for Fall fun in New Orleans with this ultimate guide to things to do for families! Start planning your Fall fun today!

Special thanks to the local businesses and entities that made this Fall Fun Guide possible!

Tips For Visiting New Orleans With Kids!

Check out our event categories included below and jump straight to that section by clicking below to see all of the family friendly fall events taking place in and around New Orleans this year!

Fun for the Whole Family | Fall Fun for Littles | Fall Fun for Bigs (School Age & Beyond) | Fall MSY Love | Fall MSY Eats | Fall Outdoor Adventures | Fall Worth the Drive | Fall Learning Fun | Fall Sports & Fitness | Fall Date Night (or Day) | Fall Fun at Home

New Orleans Fall Fun for the Whole Family

• Head to Lakeside Shopping Center where there is something for everyone :: shopping, eating, and an awesome Kids’ Castle play area for the littlest members of your family. 
• Peek-a-Boo at the Zoo! This family-favorite Halloween tradition is back for another year (October 18th – 20th) of family-friendly fun. Take advantage of this great opportunity to safely celebrate Halloween with your little ghouls and goblins! The Zoo will be decorated with Spooktacular decorations to get you and your little creatures in the Halloween spirit! We’ll have extra Halloween hocus pocus for families, so join us … if you DARE!
• Speaking of the zoo, Celebracion Latina will take place on Sunday, September 22!
• Head over to Bogue Falaya Park for the Monster Mash held by the St. Tammany Parenting Center. Tickets go on sale September 27, 2024 and the event will be October 19, 2024 from 10 am – 2 pm.
• Spend a day at City Park :: visit Storyland, the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, or play a round of miniature golf at City Putt. Rent a paddleboat for a ride across Big Lake or rent a bike from the boathouse to trek across City Park’s natural wonders. Wheel Fun Rentals has bikes available to rent including surrey bikes, cruisers and bikes with trailers. They also have different boat options including canoes, kayaks and even swan boats! And did you know you can enjoy an authentic Venetian gondola ride through City Park’s Big Lake? Check out NOLA Gondola for details! Check out their annual Fall event, Ghost in the Oaks, on October 17 – 20. There is so much to explore at City Park for every member of your family. 
• Kids love to ride the iconic New Orleans Street Car and hop off for some shopping and dining. Some of our favorite restaurants along the Streetcar line include Camellia Grill, Superior Seafood, and brunch at the Columns Hotel. 
• Explore the French Quarter:: eat Beignets at Cafe Du Monde, shop at the French Market, take a tour of the Cabildo Museum while enjoying the A/C, and take a family selfie in front of Jackson Square.
• Escape the heat by catching a movie at one of the local theaters. The Broad Theater and Prytania Theatres are open and ready for business.
• For some more kid-friendly ideas in New Orleans, make sure to check this post out.
• Do some shopping at the French Market and enjoy the weather. For extra fun, make sure to check out their Boo Carre’ Halloween Haunt on October 19th from 11:00 am – 4:00 pm.
• Bring the kids on a French Quarter Kids Spooky History Tour! This tour is full of tricks, treats, spells, and superstitions. It is for kids 4-8 years old.
• A family favorite, Mrs. Heather’s Farm! We break down everything you need to know about this pumpkin patch that is within driving distance from New Orleans for you. It’s much more than just a pumpkin patch! Make sure to head over and check out all their outdoor fun including zip lines, a jumping pillow, tunnel slides, and much more. Open from September 25th – November 8th. Heads up that it’s $10 per child and cash only to get in!
• Divine Mercy Parish Seafood Festival is back! From the thrilling rides to the homemade jambalaya, and the energizing bands to the memories you’ll make, we hope you and your family will join us on October 4-6 for a weekend full of outdoor fun.
• Take a road trip and head out to Tabasco’s Avery Island!
• NOLA Craft Culture has multiple Halloween crafts for the whole family to enjoy! Check out their calendar of events which includes a spider web wreath class, Day of the Dead show workshops, and more.
• Get crafty at the Shard Shop! Class days and times vary. Reserve your spot in advance.
• Head on over to the beautiful Longue Vue Gardens! A festive Fall evening including trick or treating. Advance tickets are required. Check out their calendar for many other fall-themed events like twilight concerts, wreath-making, and harvest camp.
• A weekend full of fun at the Washington Parish Free Fair! Rides, attractions, and events for the whole family. October 16th-20th.
• Barktober at Coquille Park! Head to Bark Park on November 16th as we celebrate Howl-o-ween with our Furry Friends at the inaugural Barktober Fest event!
• The Mermaids are making their return to the Audubon Aquarium on November 7-10, 14-17, 21-24!
• Not into Mermaids but love Dinosaurs? Check out the Audubon Zoo from Thursday, September 12th – Saturday, November 2nd between 10 am – 5 pm for an immersive outdoor adventure where you can encounter iconic life-like dinosaurs! Zoo admission must be purchased separately and tickets are $10 per person for non-members and $8 per person for members. Tickets go on sale on Monday, August 12th!
• Speaking of Coquille Park, head over to their trunk-or-treat on October 25th for some candy and fun!
• Catch a Tulane football game. Check out the 2024 schedule HERE.
• Check out this NOM post for more family-friendly ideas at home and around town!
• Head on over to the Olde Towne Pumpkin Fest on Saturday, October 5 to join us for some amazing FAMILY FUN! Proceeds from the fest support East St. Tammany Rainbow Child Care Center- a non-profit child-care center serving low-income working families, and families in crisis in St. Tammany Parish.
• Live on or visiting the Northshore and are not sure what you are in the mood for? Check out this fall festivals and events guide in St. Tammany list for a plethora of options.
• The HIVE on Woodland is offering several Halloween and Fall events. Click here to check out details for Halloween Pop Up Play or Kid’s Night Out Halloween Party.
• The St. Rita Fall Fest is on Friday, November 1st – Sunday, November 3rd. Hours are 6 pm – midnight on Friday, 11 am – 11 pm on Saturday, and 11 am – 8 pm on Sunday. Check out their rides, food, auctions, and games!
• Join the St. Rita Dads’ Club on Friday, October 11th from 6 pm – 9 pm in the St. Rita Schoolyard for their trunk-or-treat! There is a $5 entry per child and concessions available for purchase.
• Costumes and Candy Day at the Garden Spot of Mandeville on October 31st from 9 am – 6 pm! Bring your kiddos and pets in their costumes for some candy and treats. Stop by the hay bale art for a photo op!
• Join in on the fun at the Abita Fall Fest on October 11th – 12th from 10 am – 7 pm! The kids will love the Kid Zone on Saturday including the pumpkin stage, crafts, games, face painting, and a petting zoo and the whole family will love the music and cuisine!
• Everyone loves a good beignet and you are sure to find one at the 2024 Beignet Fest on Saturday, November 16th from 10 am – 6 pm! Purchase tickets here.
• The Rougarou Fest is a free family-friendly event with a spooky flair. This fest takes place on Friday, October 18th – Sunday, October 20th (Friday: 5 pm – 10 pm; Saturday: 10 am – 10 pm; Sunday: 10 am – 5 pm). Enjoy live music, kid-friendly activities, delicious food, and the Krewe Ga Rou parade.
• The Halloween Fest at the Riverwalk Outlets on Saturday, October 19th from 3 pm – 6 pm offers fun for the whole family including trick-or-treating with various vendors, face painting, and photo ops with characters. Afterward, take the family to see the Krewe de Boo parade!
• Chafunkta Brewery in Mandeville will host their 8th Hops & Horrors night on Saturday, October 26th from 3 pm – 9 pm. Live music from The Tomb of Nick Cage will close out the night starting at 8 pm. Admission is $10 per person with kids 12 and under free. Face painting by Rose Studios Face Painting is included.
• Attend the drive-thru trick-or-treat at Elmwood Self-Storage & Wine Cellar on Friday, October 25th from 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm. Stay in your car and enjoy a spooky drive while stopping for treats!
• The 2024 Dia de los Muertos Festival will be held on Saturday, November 2nd from 12 pm – 6 pm in Lafayette Square. Admission is free to this family-friendly event with music, food, local vendors, family fun, and an altar to honor your loved ones! Dress to impress as there will also be a costume contest!
• The Annual Trunk-or-Treat at Lafreniere Park hosted by Dawn Busters Kiwanis will take place on Saturday, October 19th from 5pm – 9pm. Tickets will be $15 per child at the entrance.
• Harahan Halloween Fest at Zeringue Park will take place on Sunday, October 27th from 4 pm – 8 pm including a trunk or treat, live bands, food, and games.
• Behind St. Therese Academy, they do trunk-or-treat a little differently. Instead of cars, they will have boats! Put on your best costume and take your ghouls and goblins for some fun with games, music, and of course treats on October 19th from 4 pm – 7 pm!
• You probably need your car washed anyway so head over to Pelican Pointe Carwash in Metairie on October 18th and 19th from 7:30 pm – 10:30 pm for their annual haunted carwash! On the Northshore? Pelican Pointe Carwash in Covington will hold their haunted carwash on October 25th – October 26th from 7:30 pm – 10:30 pm. Washes are $25 each with a gift for each car.
• On Saturday, October 26th the Community Church Unitarian Universalist New Orleans will be hosting a trunk-or-treat event starting at 2 pm!
• Kreepy Tiki presents their Halloween Jamboree at Zony Mash on Saturday, October 12th from 4 pm – 7 pm for family-friendly fun including music, trick or treating, and kid crafts with a local artist for a small fee.
• Atonement Lutheran will host their trunk-or-treat event on Saturday, October 19th from 6:30 pm – 8 pm. This event is free but there will be concessions available for purchase.
• St. Matthew’s UMC will host their trunk-or-treat on Sunday, October 27th from 5 pm – 7 pm. There will be games, a costume contest, prizes, and more!
• Bring your furbabies over to Kingfish Cider on Saturday, October 5th from 12 pm to 4 pm for $20 Halloween pet portraits!
• Foundation Insurance & Droopy’s Snowballs presents their 4th annual fall festival in the VFW parking lot in Harahan on Saturday, October 19th from 6 pm to 9 pm! There will be free snowballs for the kids, pizza, music, games, trunk-or-treat, photos, and more!
• The City of Kenner will host their annual trunk-or-treat at Muss Bertolino Stadium on Saturday, October 19th, starting at 5 pm! Wear your favorite costume and stay for the outdoor showing of “IF”. Concessions will be available for purchase.
• St. Martin’s Episcopal will be hosting their Saints Spooktacular Trunk-or-Treat event on Saturday, October 19th from 5 pm – 7:30 pm and their Haunted House on October 18th and 19th with time slots available from 6 pm – 9 pm (not-so-spooky times available). These events are presale tickets only and can be purchased here!
• St. Matthew the Apostle Home and School Association presents their Fall Fest on October 19th from 3 pm – 8 pm. Come out to this family-friendly event for their “Anything Over Rice” competition, trunk-or-treating, inflatables, food, drink, & more! Tickets can be purchased here!
• The Garden of Memories Funeral Home & Cemetary will host its 1st annual Trunk or Treat and drive-thru scavenger hunt through the cemetery on October 27th from 12 pm – 3 pm! There will be fun, music, and exciting prizes! This event is free for all ages.
• Vintage Church NOLA will host their trunk-or-treat event on October 31st from 6 pm – 8 pm. There will be plenty of games and candy for the kids!
• The First Baptist Church New Orleans will host their Fall Festival on Sunday, October 27th, from 4 pm – 6 pm! Join them for inflatables, carnival games, face painting, free food, a small pumpkin patch, and more!
• On October 31st from 6 pm to 8 pm, the NOPD Sixth District will host Halloween with Heroes, a trunk-or-treat. Make sure to wear your costume!
• Confetti Kids introduces their Spooktacular at Delcazal Park on October 20th from 4 pm – 6 pm. Enjoy popcorn, drinks, face painting, carnival games, and trick or treating. Costumes encouraged.
• St. Elizabeth Ann Seton will host their trunk-or-treat on October 19th from 6 pm – 8:30 pm. Admission is 2 per person and includes candy, music, pizza, prizes, and more!
• Camp Soulgrow presents their Haunted House at Habana Outpost on October 29th from 5 pm to 7 pm. This family-friendly event is free for all kids! They will have a spook house for the kids, candy gift bags, outdoor games, Halloween-themed crafts, light food and refreshments, and more! Costumes encouraged!
• Walmart Kenner will host their first annual trunk-or-treat on October 19th from 3 pm – 5 pm! Be sure to wear your costume!

New Orleans Fall Fun for the Littles:

• Get your kiddos ready for Halloween at the Magnolia Play Cafe Costume Swap on Saturday, September 14th from 10 am – 12 pm! Reserve your spot if you plan on letting your little one play while you get them a gently used (but new to them) costume in exchange for their old costume!
• On Sunday, October 13th from 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm & 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm come join the fun at The Magnolia Play Cafe for Blueeey’s Boo Bash! They will have games, crafts, and a special visit from Bluey! Tickets go on sale on 9/17 for members and 9/19 for non-members. THe Magnolia Play Cade will also host many weekly events during October.
• The Kids’ Castle at Lakeside Mall is the perfect place to beat the heat with your littles and it’s free! In the Fall their spooky train is usually in service. Make sure to bring your little ghouls for a ride!
•  Looking for free enrichment to enjoy with your child? Then head to one of the New Orleans public libraries to read some books, enjoy story time, and grab a take and make craft. Check your local branch for story time and hours of operation.
• Visit The Louisiana Children’s Museum and enjoy the variety of indoor and outdoor hands-on play and learning areas. Get your tickets in advance online so you don’t have to wait!
• For the days when the weather isn’t sunny, check out our post for some fun until you can see the sun! 
• Head on over to the French Market for the Boo Carre Halloween Haunt. This event takes place on October 19th. The one-day kid-centric event encourages costumes for all ages and will feature live music, children’s activities, a Spooktacular Spooky Second Line, and trick-or-treating. Children wearing a costume are eligible to receive a free Boo Carre tote bag for trick-or-treating in the French Market District. This event is free and open to the public.
• Catch a movie on Friday, October 11th at the Old Metairie Civic Club. Music by School of Rock and Casper is the movie playing. “Tent or treat” starts at 5:30 pm followed by music at 6 pm and a movie at 6:45 pm.
• Paint-A-Pumpkin and enjoy a snowball from Frozen Bliss Snowballs at the Garden Spot of Mandeville on Saturday, October 5th at 11 a.m. The price will be $5 which will include a “paint-a-pumpkin” guided activity and a snowball!
• The St. John Parish Annual Drive-Thru Trunk or Treat will take place on Tuesday, October 29th from 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm at the Regala Gym parking lot in Reserve. All little monsters and witches are welcome to the family-friendly event.
• The 2024 Tots of Terror event hosted by the Hammond Area Recreation District will be held on Friday, October 25th from 5 pm – 7 pm for kids aged 1 – 5 years old. A special sensory hour will be held from 4 pm to 5 pm for kids 18 years old and under with mobility, sensory, or physical impairments. Admission is free and lots of fun will be had!
• Enjoy Kids Night Out Halloween at Fluff Gourmet Fairy Floss on Friday, October 11th from 5 pm – 8 pm for kids ages 4-12 years old. Stuff a pumpkin bear, join the costume contest, and more! Pizza and drink included. Register here!
• Head over to Touch-A-Truck at the Pontchartrain Center in Kenner on Saturday, November 2nd to see he big trucks and learn about the people who protect our city! Doors open at 9 am for Early Bird VIP and 10 am for general admission. Online ticket purchases close on October 31st but tickets will also be available at the door.
• Acorn Nola will host a Spooky Delicious Kid Table Cooking Series on several dates through October. Weekday classes begin at 5 pm and weekend classes begin at 10 am. Tickets can be purchased here! Costumes are encouraged but be warned that things could get a little messy!
• On Sunday, October 13th at 10 am the Create & Play Club will host a Simon Says pop-up event with lots of not-so-spooky sensory fun! Reservations open now!

NOLA Fall Fun for the Bigs (School Age Kids and Beyond):

• If you want to be a real MVP, take your crew to Adventure Quest Laser Tag where you can ride bumper cars, play laser tag, and battle it out in the arcade, challenge each other to a game of cosmic golf, and beat the escape room. 
• Want to carve some pumpkins? Want to do it for free? Check out the Port Orleans Brewery events page for more details.
• Bowl a STRIKE at one of the city’s bowling alleys. Colonial Lanes, Fulton Alley, Westside Lanes, and Rock N Bowl. 
• If you’re really trying to get the energy out, then a trampoline park is a great destination and New Orleans has lots of options. Visit SkyZone New Orleans, SkyZone Metairie,  Altitude and Surge. 
• Relive all of your best childhood memories at Airline Skate. 
• Make a custom piece of jewelry with your kiddo at The Bead Shop. 
• Get your craft on at NOLA Craft Culture and make something together! 
• Enjoy the mystery and challenge of a local escape room such as The Escape Game or Clue Carre. 
• Make a one of a kind piece of pottery at Posh Paint Pub.
• Play some arcade games at Dave & Busters, or at Game On Social Hub.
• Have messy fun with no cleanup at The Makery 504! They have crafty projects, classes and events for all ages. Check their calendar for Fall fun events. They are hosting a special Homeschool Halloween Craft on Monday, October 21st from 11am – 12 pm. 
• Let’s get cooking! Head to Acorn Cafe for their kid’s cooking classes. Mom and Dad can get some yummy food while the kids make their own pizza, ice cream or cupcakes. Head to their website to make reservations.
• Bring your kiddos 8 years and up to the Hocus Pocus Bracelet Workshop at NOLA Gifts & Decor on Saturday, October 5th from 9:30 am – 11 am for just $40 per person (plus tax) and you’ll create 5 enchanting bracelets, complete with step-by-step instructions. Plus, they will be serving up some witch’s brew and spooky snacks to keep the magic flowing! They also have tons of other workshops for all of your holiday needs!
• The Ghouls on the Run Fun Run will take place on Saturday, October 19th, from 8:30 am to 10 am at the Houma Terrebonne Civic Center parking lot. This is a 1.5 mile fun run and costumes are encouraged and a festival will follow the race. Tickets for participants of the run can be purchased here.

New Orleans Fall MSY Love:

• Take a stroll along Julia Street to check out the art galleries.
• Take a Swamp Tour and see if you can spot an alligator. 
• Shop the Crescent City Farmers Market and stock up on supplies to make your favorite New Orleans recipe. 
• Marvel at the creativity of our locals and purchase something for yourself or loved one at the Art Market of New Orleans. The market is on second and last Saturdays of the month from 10am-4pm. Check the website for dates! 
• Enjoy the Sculpture Garden at City Park. On Saturday, September 28th from 10 am – 4 pm, they will host their Fall Festival with live music, art, and food vendors. Entry to the event is free. 
• You can also enjoy the cooler weather with yoga or tai chi in NOMA’s Sculpture Garden. Yoga is held every Saturday morning and Tai Chi is held every Monday evening.
• The Music Box Village is made up of structures such as phone booths, houses, and Japanese pagodas that play music.  It’s a hands-on experience during public hours and hosts musical concerts as well. Fall opening weekend is September 7th at 10 am.
• LUNA Fête showcases our city’s dynamic contemporary art, film, and technology industries in a large-scale, free, public festival that inspires locals and visitors alike. LUNA Fête’s 11th Edition returns home to Lafayette Square and will be held November 14-17, 6-10 pm nightly! LUNA Fête is especially popular with young children and families, inspiring the addition of the new Little LUNA Kids Corner to an already vibrant campus. This kid-centered art space will feature a special art installation and encourage young children to dance and play in the light. LUNA Fête’s 11th Edition will feature LUNA Lounge presented by the Downtown Development District, a VIP oasis nestled in the festival grounds. Tickets will include complimentary bites, drink tickets, dedicated restrooms, and exclusive art installations. Get your tickets here! 

New Orleans Fall MSY Eats:

• Put the kids to bed for 30 seconds, then run in and tell them it’s time to get in the car and go get ice cream :: we particularly love Creole Creamery. Embrace Fall and try out their seasonal flavors!
• Enjoy a family-friendly dinner with fabulous tacos in a backyard setting at Barracuda.
• Even the name Picnic Provisions and Whiskey screams fall. Come enjoy a casual family dinner and some outdoor games for entertainment. 
• Saturday mornings are made for donuts. District Donuts is open and offers an assortment of gourmet food and beverage options.
• Watch the Saints or Tigers while grabbing a delicious burger. Check out some of our favorites Company Burger and Camellia Grill. 
• Enjoy a beer at one of New Orleans family-friendly breweries :: Miel, Urban South, Port Orleans, Second Line Brewing, NOLA Brewing, Parleaux.
• Enjoy the Lagniappe Cook-off of jambalaya, chili, gumbo, and pastalaya at the Halloween Fest at The Kamp on Sunday, October 20th from 2 p.m. – 7 p.m. There will also be face painting, treats, and a costume contest. Pre-sale tickets are available. See the social media flyer for details.
• Check out the Nacho Kat food truck at the Garden Spot of Mandeville on Saturday, October 26th from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.!
• Chick-fil-A on South Clearview in Metairie will host Chick-fil-A Fall Fest on Saturday, October 19th from 4 pm – 8 pm! This free event includes face painting, a petting zoo, a live DJ, trunk or treat, and photo ops with their Fall Cow.

New Orleans Fall Outdoor Adventures:

• Get moving at a favorite local park :: team favorites include Audubon Park, Lafreniere Park and City Park. 
• The New Orleans Fall Garden Festival is October 5th and 6th from 9 am – 4 pm at the New Orleans Botanical Gardens and includes kid-friendly events, music, and art.
• Get up close and personal with the wildlife at the Audubon Zoo. 
• Float down the Bogue Chitto River. At the Bogue Chitto Tubing Center, you can choose your means of transportation- tube, canoe, or kayak. 
• Rent a kayak for some water adventure with Bayou Paddle Sports in Mid-City (temporarily closed for construction) or Canoe and Trail Adventures on the Northshore. 
• Go fishing. You can catch and release in City Park or rent a boat from one of the many local fishing charters.
• The Barataria Preserve offers a taste of Louisiana’s wild wetlands. Take a self-guided tour on their boardwalks and dirt trails or enjoy the exhibits in their visitor center.
• Bring a picnic dinner and catch a gorgeous Louisiana sunset at The Fly on the Southshore or Sunset Point from the Northshore.
• Go camping at a park, or have a backyard camp-out at home.
• Spend the day at Fontainebleau State Park and enjoy their trails, beach or explore the lake on kayaks or canoes. You could even rent a cabin or reserve a camp site and stay the night. Check out their upcoming events for the month of October, too. 
• Explore 10 acres of cultivated gardens at The New Orleans Botanical Gardens. 
• Magnolia Ridge Adventure Park: The Largest Zipline Park in Louisiana! Magnolia Ridge Adventure Park is perfect for outdoors lovers, adventure seekers, family outings and reunions, field trips, and so much more! We have had zip-liners for ages 6 through 80! During your adventure, you’ll experience the largest zipline park in Louisiana with over 32 acres of fun, adventurous activities! This zipline course is extremely safe, as it uses patented Vertical Trek technologies, so guests are always secured with a safety line! You’ll wrap up your experience soaring along the LONGEST zip line in the state of Louisiana. Spanning almost 900 feet long and 50 feet high! Want to make your weekend perfect? Every Saturday and Sunday, Magnolia Ridge Adventure Park offers an Encounter Tour and Zipline Bundle where you can experience the entire zipline adventure experience AND take a guided, educational tour around Barn Hill Preserve where you’ll see over 50 species of animals. At the end of your tour, you’ll even feed a two-toed sloth! Book your adventure today!
• The 2024 Gretna Fest will be held on Friday, October 4th – Sunday, October 6th from 4 pm – 10 pm. Enjoy live music from Cowboy Mouth, Dierks Bentley, and many more while enjoying delicious food!
• The 2024 Alligator Fest is sure to be a hit on September 26th – 29th at Westbank Bridge Park. Enjoy live alligators, crafts, food, and music! Admission is $5 for those 11 and up with additional fees for food and rides.
• Interested in a trick-or-treating through the wooded trails of City Park? Loop NOLA has you covered! After the trails, join in on the games and smores on Saturday and Sunday, October 26th and 27th from 10 am – 7 pm. Get your tickets here.

New Orleans Fall Worth the Drive:

• Take a day trip to Avery Island home of Tabasco! Check out our experience here. Visit the factory or restaurant. Take a guided bird tour or take a self guided tour through the Jungle Gardens. Are you a foodie? Then sign up for one of their cooking classes or guided culinary tours through Cajun country. 
• Take a drive to Mississippi to visit the Infinity Science Center and tour the Stennis Space Center. 
• Enjoy an animal encounter at Global Wildlife. This wildlife sanctuary, located in Folsom, LA, includes zebras, giraffes, camels, and more! Feed these free-roaming animals located on over 900 acres of farmland from your own guided wagon ride. 
• Looking for something to do in the Hammond area? Take a look at our handy guide!
• Located a short ferry ride from Mississippi’s coast, you can find some of the last undeveloped barrier islands in America at Ship Island. Check out one NOLA mom’s experience here. Now booking Dolphin Cruises!. 
• Pack the family up and take the short trip out to Sugar Roots Farm to pet the animals, ride horses, and taste some of the deliciousness produced on the farm. Open to the public on weekends from 9 am – 1 pm. 
• Scale the colossal Climbing structure at Lynn Meadows Discovery Center. 
• Knock Knock Children’s Museum in Baton Rouge was voted “Best Family-Friendly Attraction” in 2024. 
• The 33rd Annual Wooden Boat Festival (October 19th & 20th from 10am – 6pm) on the banks of the beautiful Tchefuncte River. This family-friendly event attracts over one hundred classic boats as well as music enthusiasts for this two-day celebration. Come enjoy the great food, live music, children’s activities (10 AM-6 PM), arts and crafts, and don’t miss the Quick’n Dirty Boat Building Contest on Sunday!
• Explore the Louisiana Cane Syrup Heritage Expo, at the Blevins building in downtown Franklin. The event takes place on October 26th form 10a – 4p and includes fun for the young and old!
• The Corn Maze at Burden in Baton Rouge includes all kinds of quintessential fall activities including sunflower fields, a pumpkin patch, a petting farm, a hay mountain, fall food trucks, and of course, the corn maze! This takes place every Saturday in October and you must purchase tickets in advance. On October 26th from 6 pm – 9 pm grab your costumes, glow sticks, and flashlights and head on over to the Night Maze where you can take an evening stroll through the corn maze, roast marshmallows by the bonfire, and dance to live music. Concessions will be available for purchase from local vendors.
• Looking for another Fall Fest with a plethora of select dates? Look no further than the CM Farms Annual Fall Festival. The Fall Festival on September 28th kicks off the farm festival season running through December. Tons of special event weekends happening!  Flash Sale on tickets on September 16th!
• The St. Tammany Parish Fair will take place on Wednesday, October 2nd – Sunday, October 6th at the fairgrounds in Covington.
• Take a drive to the Pine Hills Nursery in Pass Christian, MS on Saturday, October 5th – Sunday, October 6th from 9am – 3pm for their 5th Annual Fall Frenzy! They will have pony rides, face painting, flower pot painting, a petting zoo, a llama kissing booth, and so much more! Get your tickets ahead of time and beat the line!
• The 5th Annual Boo in the Bay Parade in Bay St Louis, MS takes place on Saturday, October 19th starting at 5:30 pm. Our family loves this event and it is so much fun for all ages!
• St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic Church in Slidell will be kicking off their Family Bash with a fun weekend. On Saturday, October 12th they will have a race starting at 7:30 am including a 5K Run, a half-mile race for the kids, and a 2-mile walk. Saturday evening they will host their 2nd annual Trunk or Treat at 6:30 pm! Enjoy hot dogs, chips, and drinks for a minimal charge. Return on Sunday, October 13th at noon for their bash which includes food free of charge. Enjoy free snowballs, a bounce house, games, and a petting zoo. Visit the pumpkin patch with many photo opportunities and purchase a pumpkin. Enter their cupcake or patriotic hat contest (no politics, please). There is so much to enjoy and all details for the weekend can be found here.
• Many of us have heard of Zoo 2 U mobile birthday parties but did you know they hold holiday events at their farm in Folsom? My kiddos love these events and their Fall Fest will take place on October 5th and 6th, October 12th and 13th, and October 19th and 20th from 11 am – 4 pm. Admission is $25 cash per person at the gate and includes a pumpkin, face painting, inflatables, popcorn, cotton candy, and exotic and farm animal encounters. There is truly something for everyone here and you can make a day of it by bringing a picnic or purchasing good eats from Creole Tomateaux who will be on site.
• St. George Fire Department will host their annual Trunk-or-Treat SPOOKtacular on Saturday, October 26th from 11 am – 1 pm.
• PARD or Ponchatoula Area Recreation District will host their Halloween in the Park on Friday, October 18th from 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm at the big baseball complex. There will be food trucks, treats, a petting zoo, and more!
• The St. Timothy on the Northshore Fall Fest will take place on Sunday, October 20th from 3 pm  – 5 pm in their back parking lot. All are welcome to enjoy their trunk-or-treat, chili cook-off, and more! Not-so-scary costumes are welcome!

New Orleans Fall Learning Fun:

• New Orleans is home to the #3 museum in the country according to Trip Advisor! Our WWII Museum is a must-see attraction that really can’t be missed if you live in this city. They offer children’s programming, a wonderful camp, movies in their Stage Door Canteen and volunteer opportunities for  children aged 13-17. 
• Check out the Ogden Museum for art exhibits and events for kids, click here for their programs for kids! 
• Instill a love of reading and literacy in your children while you sing songs and play games together in New Orleans READ program. Click here to R.E.A.D. about our experience at READ NOLA. 
• The Backstreet Cultural Museum celebrates  New Orleans’ masking and processional traditions.  It houses a large collection of Mardi Gras Indian costumes and even gives children a chance to learn to sew the costumes themselves. 
• Visit the St. Tammany Children’s Museum and build your own rollercoaster. New location coming to Mandeville this fall! 

New Orleans Fall Sports and Fitness:

• The New Orleans Boulder Lounge is New Orleans premier indoor climbing facility.  They offer youth climbing teams for children aged 5-18. 
• Sign your littles up for Soccer Shots at one of their many New Orleans locations. For children ages 2-8. 
• Take a bike ride along the scenic Tammany Trace that spans from downtown Covington, through Abita Springs, Mandeville, Lacombe and ends in Slidell. 
• Fall is a time to slow down and take time to breathe. Lolo’s Youth Yoga specializes in Children’s yoga. 
• Go for a run along Crescent Park, a beautiful urban park along the riverfront. 
• Bring your little ninjas to Crescent City Ninjas. One mom shares her fun experience here. Please note, every Ninja will be required to take a free 30 minute intro class prior to starting any class.
• Make a trip to NOLA Motorsports Park! In October they will host Zombie Paintball on various days! Different packages are available for karting and/or paintball action! Perfect for all ages, this event offers a thrilling yet safe environment where everyone can enjoy the action. They have a kid zone along with face-painting booths as well. Take advantage of their Thursday specials for shorter lines.

New Orleans Fall Date Night (or Date Day): 

• Hit the town and enjoy a show at Saenger Theater. 
• Take a cooking class at the New Orleans School of Cooking. Book a demonstration class or hands-on class.
• Go for a wine tasting at Wild Bush Farm & Vineyard. You could even make a night of it and stay at the Southern Hotel, then enjoy brunch at The Gloriette the next day. Jazz’n The Vines takes place every Saturday in the Fall from September 14th – November 23rd from 6:30 pm – 9 pm with music and food trucks to enjoy. Tickets available for purchase on August 24th. 
• Spend the evening painting the town at an adult class with Painting with a Twist.
• Looking for a location that gives you all the laid-back romance vibes, then Bacchanal Wine is the perfect place to spend some one on one time with your love. Good food. Good Wine. Great Ambiance. 
• Leave your cell phone in your bag and spend the night catching up over Doberge cake, champagne, and board games in Rivertown at Debbie on the Levee. 
• Spend an evening out listening to music on Frenchmen Street. (Please check individual jazz clubs for updates.)
• Get crafty and have a date night at Hammer & Stain DIY Workshop. Feel like staying in? They also offer DIY Home Kits!
• For the couples who love to be scared, head over to the former House of Shock, New Orleans Nightmare. This season kicks off on Friday, September 13th, and will be open on select nights through Saturday, November 2nd. This long-standing haunted tradition takes visitors through an unforgettably frightening experience with thrills around every corner including three new attraction themes this year. Tickets are on sale now, starting at $19.99 on select nights. Add-on experiences such as escape games and phobia sensory overload are available as well as two secret bars for your liquid courage! Please note: This event may be too intense for children under 12.
• If you are looking for a good time with friends, check out the BOOzy Brunch Spooktacular at the Southern Hotel in Covington on Saturday, October 26th from 11am – 2pm. Enjoy good food, bottomless mimosas, great music, a costume contest, and tons more fun at this event! Early bird discounts on tickets are available here.
• Join The Sirens of New Orleans on Saturday, October 12th at 8 pm at Southport Hall for Mermaids & Mayhem: Bubble, Bubble, Toil, & Trouble. Dress up in your most bewitching costume and enjoy some great music!
• Enjoy a date night at the 12th Scales & Ales event hosted by the Audubon Aquarium on Friday, October 4th from 8 pm to 11 pm. This is an adults-only event as there will be ales served and live entertainment along with delicious bites! Get your tickets here!
• Attend the WYES Morgus Madness event on Friday, October 18th from 7 pm – 10 pm and enjoy edibles, libations, a costume contest, music, and more! Tickets are $45 and attendees must be 21 years old or over.
• Need some adult time? Head over to Zony Mash at 7 pm on Saturday, October 12th for their Monster Mash Burlesque! Tickets are to be purchased ahead of time.

New Orleans Fall Fun at Home:

Still Need More Ideas?

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