Explore all that awaits at Audubon's world-class attractions.
Image Courtesy of Audubon Nature Institute
New Orleans' Top Family Attractions: Audubon Zoo, Aquarium & Insectarium
Experience World-Class Wildlife & Interactive Museums in New Orleans
Step into a world of natural wonders at the Audubon Nature Institute, where three extraordinary attractions invite you to explore, discover, and connect with the marvels of our planet. Nestled throughout vibrant New Orleans, our family of premier attractions offers immersive experiences that captivate visitors of all ages, consistently ranking among the top destinations in the country.
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Plan ahead and save with multi-attraction ticket bundles to the Audubon Zoo, Aquarium, and Insectarium in New Orleans. Swipe through for options.
Experience exotic wildlife under majestic oak trees in historic Uptown New Orleans. From rare white alligators to the lush Jaguar Jungle, the Zoo offers stunning habitats.
Journey underwater from the Mississippi River to the Caribbean at this French Quarter gem. Marvel at endangered penguins, walk through tunnels surrounded by sea life.
Discover America's most unique interactive museum where tiny creatures make a big impression. Watch leaf-cutter ants march and be immersed in a butterfly garden.
Escape to a historic urban oasis featuring a scenic jogging path shaded by ancient live oaks. Enjoy picnic areas, lagoons, and an 18-hole championship golf course.
Explore Louisiana wetlands via accessible boardwalk trails just 20 minutes from downtown. Features include an interpretive center, educational displays and planetarium.
Beat the New Orleans heat at this exciting water park inside the Zoo. Float along the 750-foot Gator Run lazy river and enjoy interactive animal-themed splash zones.
Share your walks on the wild side at Audubon attractions – tag us @VisitNewOrleans.
Planning Your Visit - FAQs about Visiting Audubon Attractions
You've got questions; we've got answers!
Can You Visit Audubon Zoo and Aquarium in the Same Day?
Yes, many families combine the Audubon Zoo and Audubon Aquarium into a single day. The two are about six miles apart, connected by the St. Charles streetcar or a short rideshare. A common strategy is to start at the Audubon Aquarium and Audubon Insectarium downtown in the morning (they share the same building on the riverfront), then head uptown to the Audubon Zoo for the afternoon. Combo tickets are available through the Audubon Nature Institute and typically offer a discount over buying separately. For a guided experience, Beyond the Bayou Tours offers family-oriented outings that can help you make the most of your time.
What Family-Friendly Dining is Near Audubon Attractions?
After a morning at Audubon Zoo, walk over to Audubon Clubhouse by Dickie Brennan & Co., located inside Audubon Park just steps from the Zoo entrance. The restaurant serves elevated Louisiana cuisine in a relaxed, family-welcoming setting with views of the park's live oaks. It is a great spot for a sit-down lunch before heading to your next attraction. If you are spending the afternoon at the Audubon Aquarium in the French Quarter, you will find yourself surrounded by dining options along the riverfront and into the Quarter. For something a little off the beaten path, consider ducking a few blocks into the Warehouse District, where you will find less crowded restaurants with kid-friendly menus.
Can You Get to the Audubon Zoo or Aquarium by Streetcar?
One of the most enjoyable ways to reach Audubon Zoo is aboard the historic St. Charles streetcar, which is an attraction in its own right. Board at the Canal Street terminus (or any stop along St. Charles Avenue) and ride uptown for roughly 25 to 30 minutes. Exit at the stop near the 6300 block of St. Charles Avenue (across from Tulane and Loyola universities), then follow the signs through Audubon Park to the Zoo entrance, a pleasant 10-minute walk under centuries-old live oaks. The streetcar runs daily, and the fare is modest (exact change, a digital pass, or a Jazzy Pass is required). Streetcar passes can be purchased digitally via Le Pass App. Keep in mind that streetcars can run less frequently on weekends and holidays, so allow extra time. This route doubles as a sightseeing tour past the grand mansions of the Garden District and Uptown, making it a highlight rather than just a commute.
The Audubon Aquarium sits along the river along the riverfront streetcar route and the start of the Canal Street streetcar route. It's also just a short walk from the Canal Street stop on the St. Charles Avenue route.
Do the Audubon Attractions offer Combination Tickets? What else do I need to know about Auduon Tickets and Seasonal Hours?
Audubon Nature Institute offers individual tickets for each attraction as well as combo passes that bundle two or more venues at a discount. Pricing and hours shift seasonally, with extended hours common during summer and school holidays, so check audubonnatureinstitute.org before your visit for the most current information.
A few tips to keep in mind: purchasing tickets online in advance often saves time at the gate, and some combo passes include the Audubon Coach shuttle between the Zoo and Aquarium. If you plan to visit on a weekend or during peak season (late spring through early fall), arriving when the gates open helps you beat both the crowds and the midday heat.
Are the Audubon Attractions Part of The Good Times Pass?
Yes! If you're planning to visit multiple attractions in New Orleans in addition to Audubon Zoo, Audubon Aquarium, and Audubon Insectarium, the Good Times Pass is an excellent choice. The Zoo, Aquarium, and Insectarium are combined as a single ticket, so you get to choose five additional attractions to bundle with your Audubon admission.
