Summer FREE Fun

School is out and the kids are ready to make this summer a great one. Who can blame them after all we’ve been through this past year? My kids made a point of telling me we were going to the beach this summer no ifs and or buts about it. I have to admit I’m looking forward to our yearly trek that was put on hold due to the pandemic. Having summer fun doesn’t require a lot of money either. Thankfully, there are lots of freebies to do in New Orleans that will expose our children to the richness our city has to offer.

The Audubon Zoo is hosting Orleans Parish Appreciation Days for New Orleans residents with proof of residency. One proof of residency can gain admission for up to four guests! That’s a deal you cannot beat. So pack those kids and head on down to the Audubon Zoo (and the Aquarium) where they all ask for you. You must reserve and book your tickets online here.

Summer 2021 Aquarium Free Days Summer 2021 Audubon Zoo Free Days

June 3, 2021 June 16, 2021

July 1, 2021 July 21, 2021

August 5, 2021 August 18, 2021

Thanks to the Helis Foundation, New Orleans residents receive free admission to the New Orleans Botanical Garden on Wednesdays. The New Orleans Botanical Garden has over 2,000 variations of plants from around the world as well as a Japanese Garden, Cactus Garden and so much more. The Botanical Garden is also a popular location for weddings and professional photoshoots. To see what’s in bloom for the month you visit click here.

The Louisiana Children’s Museum is opened May 29th and thanks to the Helis Foundation free admission is available on the second Sunday of every month. Please call or email the museum for more information.

Thursdays are free days at the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) courtesy of the Helis Foundation. The Buddha Shiva Exhibition is currently on display. After your tour, have a picnic in the park or walk over to Cafe du Monde and have some beignets.

Admission is also free on Thursdays for Louisiana residents at the Ogden Museum courtesy of our friends at Helis.

The New Orleans Public Library is now open during normal business hours making a nice chill spot on those sweltering Nola days. Children are eligible for free library cards where a world of adventure awaits them in the pages of books. They can even join the Summer Reading program and enter for a chance to win prizes.

NORD sponsors family-friendly Movies in the Park at various locations throughout the city. All you have to bring is your lawn chair, blanket, and snacks. Reservations are taken online.

Please visit each venue online or call before showing up. Some restrictions are in place due to Covid-19 and many require that you register online first. If you know of any free summer activities let us know in the comments.

Here’s hoping your family has a fun-filled summer!