And you thought New Orleans could get wild? Louisiana is known for its swamps and bayous, and just 20 minutes outside of the city, Westwego Swamp Adventures makes it possible to experience the area’s wilder side. Heron, snakes, nutria, raccoons,

And you thought New Orleans could get wild? Louisiana is known for its swamps and bayous, and just 20 minutes outside of the city, Westwego Swamp Adventures makes it possible to experience the area’s wilder side. Heron, snakes, nutria, raccoons, and alligators are just some of the wildlife you’re likely to see on the tour, and because the tour owners are licensed to care for animals, kids are often invited to hold a baby alligator in their hands or see a swamp owl or snapping turtle up close. Experienced guides give you the insider scoop on Louisiana wetlands and their wildlife.

The tour caters to kids, offering free admission to kids under six (accompanied by a paying adult) and a child-friendly pre-tour Bayou Nature Wildlife Show. The boats are big and stable enough to feel very safe bringing even the youngest children on board, and there’s a roof to provide some shade from the sun. Feel free to bring snacks to keep younger ones happy, and you can also stop at the family-friendly Wego Inn Café for a meal before or after the tour.