Description

There is nothing quite like the look of absolute awe and wonder on the face of visitors as they walk through Aquarium of the Americas. Adults, kids, toddlers -- even your typical teenagers -- are wide-eyed as they wander through this massive aquatic world perched at the edge of the Mississippi River.

The Aquarium is supported by Audubon Nature Institute and showcases the vast underwater worlds that stretch from North America to South America and the Gulf South to the Caribbean. Although you can see the highlights of the Aquarium in about one hour, if you want to linger in the special exhibits and absorb all the Aquarium has to offer, set aside three to five hours. Key exhibits include:

Caribbean Reef: Walk through the exhibit's amazing 30-foot underwater tunnel, completely surrounded by a 132,000-gallon tank filled with inhabitants of the Caribbean Ocean. Watch moray eels, cownose rays, angelfish and exotic sea creatures swim around you. Caribbean reef shows (including feedings) are scheduled throughout the day. Look for the times marked on a board near the entrance of the aquarium.

The Gulf of Mexico Exhibit: This ¼ scale replica of an underwater oil rig plays host to the aquatic life of the Gulf of Mexico. Be sure to ask for King Midas, the endangered sea turtle who lives in the tank along with shark, tuna, and schools of fish dancing across the huge viewing room on the ground floor.

The Mississippi River Gallery: This gallery holds a series of tanks that show a below-the-surface glimpse of different parts of the Mississippi River, including the creatures found in its tributaries and swamps, like the Aquarium's most famous attraction: a rare white alligator.

The Amazon Exhibit: Housed inside the mirrored glass cylinder that is the architectural calling card for the Aquarium of the Americas, this climate-controlled greenhouse holds one of the most realistic explorations of the mighty South American river habitat. It holds an amazing canopy of trees and wildlife indigenous to the Amazon, including macaws, piranhas, and an anaconda.

Parakeet Pointe: Don't miss one of the Aquariums best interactive features: an 800 square-foot aviary filled with hundreds of colorful, chirping parakeets. All visitors can walk through the bird sanctuary, and for a truly up-close encounter with the feathered residents, buy a "seed stick" for $1 to feed the parakeets.

Looking for a full day of family fun things to do in New Orleans? Check out New Orleans Tours and Activities including the Entergy IMAX® Theatre next door to Aquarium of the Americas, and Audubon Nature Institute's Audubon Zoo and Insectarium. 

Hours of Operation: Tuesday - Sunday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m (Closing time may vary seasonally). Closed on Mondays.