articles

Break the Winter Boredom Blues with these Low-Cost Fun Activities

Stay active this winter with our list of things to do from New Iberia to Morgan City!

By Tracie Ysaguire, Publisher for Macaroni KID New Iberia January 26, 2024

As residents in New Iberia, we know the winter season can take on different temperatures that usually happen all in the same day! No matter what the weather, local families are looking for activities and events that will get them out of the house and keep the kids entertained as well without breaking the bank. 

Whether we bundle up in our coats for a walk on a cool day or head out in what feels like springtime weather in the middle of winter, getting outside in fresh air is good for the soul — not to mention it helps get the wiggles out of the kids. 

Staying active and keeping up with our fitness are normally part of the resolutions many set for the beginning of each new year, but sometimes as busy parents we have a hard time fitting those new goals into our schedules. So we put together a list to help you find a few fun things to do this winter with your family from New Iberia to Morgan City. 

These activities are free or low in cost and may help keep the winter boredom blues set in. Here are some great local attractions you can make plans to enjoy with your family this winter. 



Images via CanvaPro


1. City Park, New Iberia - Iberia Parish 

City Park in New Iberia has a lot to offer the community when it comes to staying active. The recreation center is open for pickleball or basketball reservations and offers a skateboard park as well. You can play tennis or bike through the park on a beautiful winter day. Enjoy the walking tracks or spend some time in the playground areas with the kids. Grab some friends and start a game of baseball, play a round of hide and go seek, or family friendly football game. The New Iberia Parks and Recreation Department also offers many programs for children and adults from weekly yoga sessions to team sports for youth. 


2. Morgan City Petting Zoo- St. Mary Parish 

Get out and feed the animals! This is a great way to enjoy a day with the kids that will definitely keep you active and fits perfect for any family's budget. Admission is only $2 plus feed which ranges from $1 to $15 depending on how much feed you want to purchase. Children under 2 years are free. Dates open are subject to change due to weather conditions so be sure to contact the zoo before heading out. 


3. Longfellow-Evangeline State Park StoryWalkSt. Martinville - St. Martin Parish 

 The StoryWalk at Longfellow-Evangeline State Park was installed by the St. Martin Parish Library and features the children's book I Love Autumn (J’adore L’automne) by Shelley Admont. You can walk along with the kids, get some physical activity and have the opportunity to read the story in both English and French. The park is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Regular admission fees to the park apply which are $4 per person and free for children 3 years of age and under. Senior citizens (62 and older) are free. 



Image via CanvaPro


4. Trilingual New Iberia Historic Tour, New Iberia - Iberia Parish 

We all know our community in New Iberia is filled with history. Take the kids on this walking tour of New Iberia that features the trilingual markers in English, French, and Spanish and learn about the heritages that have formed our city while also getting in physical activity. Thanks to Iberia Travel for this downloadable map that points you in the direction throughout historic Main Street with 21 stops along the way. 


5. AA Comeaux Park, Abbeville - Vermilion Parish 

AA Comeaux Park is filed with tons of outside fun for families to enjoy. You can choose from walking paths, tennis courts, shuffle board courts, skateboard parks or just enjoy the play areas with the kids outside. The park is open daily from 7:00 am to 7:30 pm offering plenty of time to get in some outdoor activity with the kids. 


6. Breaux Bridge Walking Tour - St. Martin Parish 

Downtown Breaux Bridge is one of my favorite places in St. Martin Parish! Whether we are doing window shopping or grabbing a bite to eat, you can find plenty of fun things to do in Breaux Bridge. The St. Martin Parish Tourism Commission has a downloadable map that you can use to take a self-guided walking tour. Learn about the history of the area, get some steps in, and then make plans to stay for a treat at one of the local businesses. 


7. St. Mary Loop Birding Trail - St. Mary Parish

St. Mary Parish offers plenty of outdoor adventures for families with children of all ages. The St. Mary Loop Birding Trail gives you the opportunity the nature that Louisiana is know for. From walking trails in Berwick and Morgan City to cultural attractions as parks, visitors get the chance to enjoy the outdoors and learn about the history of St. Mary parish. Download the guide with all the specific information on several attractions throughout the parish.  


8. The Acadian Museum - Erath - Vermilion Parish 

If it happens to be a cold or rainy day in the area, then make plans to tour The Acadian Museum in Erath. The museum is open Monday through Friday from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. The museum holds plenty of history about the Acadian people, their culture, and how the Cajuns established themselves in our community. They also hold other events and support local historians, authors, and French immersion programs in Acadiana. The museum is operated on a volunteer basis and you also have the option to schedule a private tour. They continue to support the Cajun culture and ensure the traditions will be around for generations to come.  

   Looking for more fun in and around New Iberia?   

Be sure to check our event calendar to plan for your family fun! 

While you're there, be sure to sign up for our weekly FREE weekly newsletter so you never miss a thing.


Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for more content and updates about local events for our area too.