If you’re a mom in the Baton Rouge area, you know the struggle is real when it comes to finding fun, affordable, and actually enjoyable things to do with kids. Whether you’re filling a slow weekend, looking for a new routine outing, or just trying to get everyone out of the house for a few hours, there are so many family-friendly places in and around Baton Rouge that are worth exploring.
From hands-on museums and splash pads to nature trails and hidden gems, this guide is packed with the best things to do in Baton Rouge with kids, all tried-and-loved spots that make family days a little easier (and a lot more fun). As a family photographer in the Baton Rouge area, my hope is to provide you with some of the best resources for your family, so you can spend less time searching and more time making memories together.
Plan A Kid-Friendly Outing That’s Fun For The Whole Family In the Baton Rouge Area
My top pick has to be BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo. With it being centrally located in the north Baton Rouge area, a trip can be squeezed in between kids’ naps or can easily be a day outing for you and the family. Plus, they even have a place to grab lunch if you want to make it a day trip. Just be sure to bring water and a wagon for the kids during the summer; it can get hot in the afternoon. The best time to go is in the morning when the weather is nice and the animals are active.
2. Liberty Lagoon – Baton Rouge’s Premier Water Park
The summer time can be so hard for moms in the Baton Rouge area because of the high temps in the afternoon. It’s easy to get stuck in the house all day if you don’t think proactively. Beat the heat and take the kids to Liberty Lagoon! It’s a kid-friendly water park with pavilions and plenty of spaces to keep cool. I personally like this water park because it’s kid-friendly and isn’t a huge water park. I don’t feel like I can lose track of my kids easily. It’s gated, the water level stays low, and there are life guards on duty. You can even request a life jacket for weak swimmers. Of course, children must always be accompanied by an adult.
3. Knock Knock Children’s Museum
This is an easy go-to if you want to stay in-doors for the day with the unpredictable weather here in Baton Rouge. You can easily squeeze an outing in between naps, so it’s an easy yes for stay at home moms in the area.
4. Blue Zoo Aquarium at the Mall of Louisiana in Baton Rouge
This is another great indoor spot for Baton Rouge families. You can buy annual and day passes or host birthday parties for the kids. It’s an easy go-to to keep the kids occupied or to get out of the house for the day.
5. Mike the Tiger Habitat at Louisiana State University
This is a good one! The kids love seeing Mike and it’s a good opportunity to revisit campus. They also have a clothing shop nearby if you need a break from the weather and want to grab some new LSU gear.
6. Bluebonnet Nature Center
Need an all-day outing in the Baton Rouge area? This might be a good choice! It’s within driving distance, has pavilions and restrooms on site, in-door and out-door spaces, nature trails with wifi…it’s an easy yes for the family.
7. All Star Lanes For Family Fun in the Baton Rouge Area
The bowling alley is my husband’s personal favorite when it comes to family fun in the Baton Rouge Area. You can keep it short and sweet or book several hours.
8. The Play District
Similar to the Knock Knock Children’s Museum, this is a great spot to bring the kids for a few hours or even host your kid’s next birthday party. It’s so cute and mom-owned too! It’s within driving distance from Baton Rouge and you can purchase a membership for unlimited open play and discounts on birthday parties.
9. Little Town Zachary
This is another great spot for the kids if you need something in the Zachary area. It’s within driving distance from Baton Rouge and there is a CC’s coffee shop right next door! An easy ‘yes’ for moms who need a break from the kids and a pick-me-up for the day.
10. Airborne Extreme
This is a great option if you have teens and pre-teens near the Baton Rouge area. The teenagers love getting to climb the obstacles and test their strength and balance. They have comfy spots for the adults too…or play if you want.
I hope you and your family enjoy the day together as you explore the Baton Rouge area!
Baton Rouge, La is truly a gem when it comes to family friendly activities. You can always find something that the family loves no matter what age group your kids fall into.
Let’s chat if you are looking for other great ways to connect with your spouse and kids. I am a Maternity, Newborn, Family and Senior Photographer in the Baton Rouge area who is passionate about seeing families thrive. Let’s document the best years before they pass by too quickly. You can contact me here and say hello!
- Prepping Your Toddler for Family Photos (preventing meltdowns before they start)
- Making sessions fun for kids who hate looking at the camera
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