New Orleans is renowned for its vibrant culture, lively music, and delicious cuisine. While the city offers plenty of outdoor activities, the weather or other circumstances sometimes call for some indoor entertainment. Luckily, there are numerous fun and affordable indoor family activities near New Orleans. Let’s check them out!
Bumper Cars
Bumper cars are a classic amusement that never gets old. These electric-powered cars allow you to bump, dodge, and swerve your way around an arena. The thrill of colliding with family members, friends, and even complete strangers brings endless laughter and excitement.
With safety features like seatbelts and padded bumpers, parents can rest assured that their kiddos are protected. For safety and maximum fun, it’s crucial to follow the bumper car rules, which typically include wearing seatbelts, avoiding head-on collisions, and adhering to the designated ride area.
For the best experience, consider the size of the arena and the duration of each session. Some venues offer bumper car rides in themed settings, adding an extra layer of excitement. Additionally, keep an eye out for combo deals that include bumper cars along with other activities for added value.
Who Can Ride?
Children as young as five years old can typically join in on the fun, making bumper cars an excellent choice for a wide range of ages. The activity is also a great way for siblings to bond and engage in friendly competition. Some facilities use bumper cars that comfortably fit two riders, which can double the fun.
Laser Tag
Laser tag is an exhilarating activity that combines physical exercise with strategic thinking. In laser tag, players use infrared-emitting guns to tag targets worn by opponents. The main goal is to score points by accurately hitting the sensors on opposing players’ vests while avoiding being tagged yourself. Playing in a dimly lit arena full of obstacles and barriers encourages players to strategize and work together to outsmart the other team.
Ideal for kids aged seven and up, laser tag is something the whole family can enjoy. The activity encourages teamwork and communication, making it a great way for family members to work together toward a common goal. The adrenaline rush from dodging lasers and making strategic moves makes this one of the best indoor activities for families near New Orleans.
When choosing a laser tag venue, consider the number of players allowed per game and eligibility requirements. At Adventure Quest Laser Tag, an indoor family entertainment center in Harahan, LA, players must be at least 48 inches tall to wear the vest properly. Players race through Mayan-themed ruins, tagging opposing players and rushing to destroy the opposing team’s base. The thrill of evading and attacking makes laser tag an exhilarating game like no other.
Arcade
An arcade offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane for parents while introducing kids to a variety of fun and interactive games. From classic pinball machines to modern video games, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Many arcades also feature ticket redemption games where players can win prizes.
Arcades are suitable for children of all ages, as most venues have a mix of games that cater to different skill levels. Younger kids can enjoy simple games like whack-a-mole, while older children and adults can handle more challenging options like racing simulators. The variety of games ensures that no one gets bored.
Additionally, many modern facilities have replaced tickets and tokens with player cards, which are easier to carry and store all the information you need to play. Simply purchase the card to receive credits that give you access to arcade games.
Escape Rooms
Escape rooms are immersive experiences that require participants to solve puzzles and riddles to escape from a themed room within a set time limit. Each room has a unique storyline, ranging from heist scenarios to mysterious haunted houses. The challenge of figuring out clues and working as a team makes escape rooms incredibly engaging.
While some escape rooms might be too complex for younger children, many venues offer family-friendly options suitable for kids aged ten and up. The activity fosters critical thinking, communication, and cooperation among participants. It’s a fantastic way for families to bond and experience the satisfaction of solving a mystery together.
When selecting an escape room, consider the difficulty level and theme to ensure it’s appropriate for your group. Some venues also provide hints and guidance for stuck players. Additionally, booking your session in advance is recommended, as escape rooms can be quite popular.
Consider using some or all of these tips to increase your chances of solving the escape room’s mystery:
- Communicate effectively with your team to share discoveries and insights.
- Stay organized by keeping used clues separate from unused ones.
- Pay attention to every detail in the room, as the smallest hint could be crucial.
- Think creatively and be open to unconventional solutions.
- Keep a positive attitude to maintain team morale and momentum.
- Don’t hesitate to ask the Game Master for hints if you’re stuck for too long.
- Revisit previous clues and solved puzzles for potential hidden insights.
- Listen to everyone’s ideas, as fresh perspectives can lead to breakthroughs.
Mini Golf
Indoor mini golf combines the fun of traditional golf with whimsical settings and creative obstacles. Courses are often themed, featuring everything from pirate ships to enchanted forests. The objective is simple yet entertaining—navigate the ball through various challenges and into the hole with as few strokes as possible.
Mini golf is an excellent activity for families with children of all ages. Younger kids can enjoy the colorful and imaginative environments, while older children and adults can appreciate the friendly competition. It’s a leisurely activity that doesn’t require prior experience, making it a crowd favorite.
To enhance your mini golf experience, look for courses that offer glow-in-the-dark or blacklight mini golf. Be sure to wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and standing.
Whether you prefer the adrenaline-pumping action of laser tag, the strategic challenges of escape rooms, nostalgic bumper cars and arcades, or leisurely mini golf, you have endless opportunities for hanging out and having fun together. Try these activities to foster family bonding, enjoy friendly competition, and engage in creative teamwork.
