Is Mardi Gras in New Orleans family-friendly? It is, and how!

Mardi Gras in New Orleans is probably the world’s most famous carnival, but is it family-friendly? Andrew Dent recently spent a week putting that to the test and here’s what he found out.

Mardi Gras floats, Mardi Gras World, New Orleans

The world is scattered with famous festivals, but perhaps the most famous of them all is Mardi Gras in New Orleans (Rio de Janeiro runs a close second).

A little-known fact, to me at least, was that Mardi Gras is a two month celebration which starts on Twelfth Night (January 6th) and runs all the way to ‘Fat Tuesday’ (Mardi Gras): the day before Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent each year.

The serious stuff happens in the last two weeks with massive floats and parades nightly. So, when I was offered the chance to visit for the last weekend it was too good an opportunity to let go. I expected vibrant parades, great music, and a lively atmosphere, but what we got was so much more: the chance to ride on a float in one of the Super Krewes  -the Krewe of Orpheus parade – thereby experiencing the magic of Mardi Gras from the heart of the action.

Krewe of Orpheus float, New Orleans ©Krewe of Orpheus

The Krewe of Orpheus: one of the most family-friendly Mardi Gras parades

The Krewe of Orpheus, co-founded by Harry Connick Jr., is one of Mardi Gras’ most spectacular and family-friendly parades. Known for its musical themes, elaborate super floats, and warm spirit, it was the perfect fit, and 2025’s theme was around Alice in Wonderland.

We joined over 1,300 fellow riders in this year’s procession. Thought, it’s important to say that this is not an experience you can just turn up to – a travel writers’ privilege – regrettably for you. People pay thousands of dollars to ride, and even then, need to participate in charity events throughout the year to claim their spots. But it’s worth it: from the moment we climbed aboard in our sequined costumes and masks, we were transported into another world. Then, for five dazzling hours, we threw beads, cups, plush toys and footballs into the sea of cheering faces below. The noise was insane and echoed down every block along our route.

There was no better way to feel a part of the city’s culture than participating in it directly, and Orpheus made us feel welcome from the first moment.

All dressed up for Mardi Gras, New Orleans

Mardi Gras: a celebration for all ages

Mardi Gras may have a reputation for wild parties, but I found it to be incredibly family-friendly. Many parades, including Orpheus, Krewe of Zulu (the first parade on actual Fat Tuesday), and Krewe of Iris (all female Krewe), cater to families, with beautiful floats, kid-friendly throws, and a safe, festive environment.

St. Charles Avenue and Canal are great spots for families. The vibe is lively but respectful, and many locals set up ladders with child-seating platforms so little ones can view the parades. The city feels safe, with clearly defined parade routes, barricades, and lots of volunteers around.

VIP Balcony, Cornet Restaurant ©Bourbon Street Balcony Rentals

Book a Bourbon Street balcony to rise above the revelry

If you’re planning a multi-gen trip to Mardi Gras – excellent plan – you could also think about booking a VIP balcony to give over-21s one of the best views in town, without the crowds.

Bourbon Street Balcony Rentals organise everything from a bar to classic Creole food, they’ll even help you mark a special occasion: some of our party were celebrating a birthday and had customised Mardi Gras T-shirts made for them. Plus, on top of a highly privileged view, the VIP balcony sits above the famous Cornet Restaurant, on the very Bourbon Street corner where a young, busking Louis Armstrong first learned to play…the cornet.

Mardi Gras World, New Orleans

Discovering the magic behind the scenes at Mardi Gras World

One of the most fascinating places on the trip was a visit to Mardi Gras World, the massive warehouse and museum where many of the iconic floats are designed and built. I would suggest going before you see your first parade to get a feel for the history and how all the floats are put together.

Located along the Mississippi River, just a short drive from downtown, Mardi Gras World gives an insider’s view of how this spectacular celebration comes to life each year: it’s full of massive papier-mâché heads, glittering dragons, and half-finished floats being painted and constructed right before your eyes.

The tour begins with a short film about the history of Carnival in New Orleans, followed by a walk through the working studio where artists and craftsmen were busy at work. It’s a hands-on and educational experience and one of the most family-friendly attractions in the city, which makes it a must do before heading out on the parade circuit.

MORE FAMILY FRIENDLY CITIES YOU MIGHT LIKE

How to really explore Naples on a short city break with kids

Little wonder: make more of a long weekend in Paris with kids

Seville city breaks sizzle with sunshine and things to do with kids

How to pack loads into a long weekend in Edinburgh with kids

French Quarter, New Orleans ©Paul Broussard

Getting to know New Orleans on Bourbon Street and the French Quarter

During our trip, we also took time to explore the heart of the city: the French Quarter. Walking through this historic neighbourhood was like stepping into another world: vivid architecture, wrought-iron balconies dripping with beads, and a mix of street musicians, artists, and performers lining every corner.

You can spend at least a half day dipping in and out of local shops, galleries, and sweet-smelling bakeries. Kids will love spotting Mardi Gras masks in shop windows and snacking on beignets at Café Beignet. We visited Jackson Square, watched a brass band set up on the corner, and even picked up a few small souvenirs from the many street stalls selling hand-made crafts and New Orleans-themed trinkets.

During the day, we also ventured down Bourbon Street which was colourful and bustling, filled with music and people in costume, and perfectly enjoyable for a family before sunset.

But, as evening approached, Bourbon’s energy definitely shifted toward a more adult crowd. By nightfall, it becomes louder and more crowded, with open-container bars, partygoers, and flashing lights: less ideal for families with younger kids. Experience it in the daylight, then retreat for a quiet evening meal at a nearby restaurant before heading back to the hotel.

New Orleans Marriott on Canal Street

The perfect home base: New Orleans Marriott on Canal Street

Our hotel, the New Orleans Marriott on Canal Street, couldn’t have been better located. Overlooking the main parade routes and just steps from the French Quarter, it provided easy access to everything without needing a car.  Uber works fine here, even during our hectic last weekend, and from my room you could see down Canal Street so I was able to time my ride to see the fanciest floats.

Although the hotel was packed and the lobby was full of revellers, it made for a fun vibe.  The staff were helpful and friendly, offering parade schedules and complimentary Mardi Gras beads at the front desk. But most of all, being able to walk directly from the festivities back into a (relatively) calm space made all the difference.

Traditional Mardi Gras King Cake ©Joyce Bracey

Tips for families visiting Mardi Gras in New Orleans

•  Stay Central: Choose a hotel on or near Canal Street or St. Charles Avenue. The New Orleans Marriott was perfect for walkability and views
• Go Early: Arrive at parade spots 1–2 hours before start time to get a good viewing area, especially on family-friendly sections of the route
• Dress the Part: Embrace the colors—purple, green, and gold—and let your kids wear fun costumes, masks, or face paint
• Pack Essentials: Bring snacks, water, sunscreen, and ear protection for younger children. Small bags of extra throws are also great to share
• Leave Bourbon Street for the Daylight: It’s fun and iconic, but not suited for kids at night.

Classic New Orleans beignet

In summary: a rare event that really lives up to its hype

Mardi Gras in New Orleans is one of those rare events that lives up to every bit of the hype, and then some.  It’s a joyful immersion into music, culture, and community, and riding with the Krewe of Orpheus was the highlight. But the entire experience, from the food and architecture in the French Quarter to waving at marching bands for two whole days and seeing actual Fat Tuesday kicking off at 6am, was an amazing experience.

I would recommend a seven day trip with the final two or three days dedicated to the parades. It’s safe, it’s welcoming, and it’s one of the most colourful family holidays you will take. Make sure you pack your sequins and beads!

MORE US CITIES YOUR KIDS WILL LIKE

10 top only in New York experiences for kids

Historic Boston is a blast of fresh air for fun family holidays

Why Chicago is your family’s kind of town, any time of year

How do you make Florida beach holidays more fascinating? Come to Pensacola!