Audubon Zoo & Aquarium: Tickets and Info

This website offers official tickets for this venue. Please note, however, that it is not the official website of the venue.

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Audubon Zoo: Entry Ticket

Highlights

Discover habitats spanning more than 50 acres.

Observe over 1,700 animals representing upwards of 350 species.

Walk through the unique Jaguar Jungle exhibiting spider monkeys, ocelots, jaguar, and bats.

Experience the only urban swamp exhibit showcasing local wildlife like black bears and the white alligator.

Visit Watoto Farm to engage with farm animals and learn about sustainable agriculture.

Audubon Aquarium & Insectarium: Combo Entry Ticket

Highlights

Encounter thousands of aquatic creatures from diverse ecosystems.

Stroll through a lengthy tunnel offering close views of marine life.

Interact with species in the shark and stingray touch pool.

Explore varied habitats including the Caribbean, Amazon Rainforest, Mississippi River, and Gulf of Mexico.

Enjoy the serene indoor Butterfly Garden for a unique experience.

Audubon Zoo & Aquarium

Discover the Audubon Nature Institute in New Orleans, a renowned destination devoted to wildlife conservation and immersive educational experiences. Explore the diverse exhibits across the Audubon Zoo, Aquarium, and Insectarium, featuring unique habitats and interactive encounters that inspire appreciation for the natural world.

Whether visiting families or wildlife enthusiasts, the institute offers engaging activities for all ages. Secure your tickets today to experience this vibrant celebration of nature and animal conservation firsthand.

About Audubon Zoo & Aquarium

Zoo: Audubon Zoo, a key part of the Audubon Nature Institute in New Orleans, is dedicated to wildlife conservation, education, and community engagement. The zoo offers visitors an immersive experience featuring diverse animal exhibits, interactive encounters, and unique attractions like the Wings of the World and Jaguar Jungle.

Address: 6500 Magazine Street, New Orleans, LA 70118
Founded: 1914
Annual Visitors: Approximately 750,000
Aquarium: Located along the banks of the Mississippi River, Audubon Aquarium is a premier aquatic attraction that offers visitors an immersive journey through diverse water habitats such as the Caribbean, Amazon Rainforest, and Gulf waters.

Address: 1 Canal Street, New Orleans, LA 70130
Number of Annual Visitors: Approx 600,000
Founded: 1990

Why Visit Audubon Zoo & Aquarium?

Discover a World of Wild Wonders: Immerse yourself in a journey through diverse ecosystems from around the globe without ever leaving New Orleans. The Audubon Zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals, including magnificent big cats like the majestic Louisiana black bear, the endangered Amur leopard, and the powerful jaguars. Explore expertly designed habitats that give you an up-close look at everything from towering giraffes and playful monkeys to the unique and fascinating species of the Louisiana Swamp.

A World-Class Underwater Journey: Step into the breathtaking Great Maya Reef, a 30-foot underwater tunnel that makes you feel as though you've discovered a lost city beneath the waves. You’ll be surrounded by vibrant marine life, including graceful stingrays, mesmerizing moray eels, and thousands of other tropical fish. The exhibit’s stunning coral and ancient ruins provide a captivating backdrop for this truly immersive experience.

Experience Iconic Louisiana Culture: The Audubon Zoo is deeply rooted in the heart of Louisiana, celebrating the state's rich natural history and vibrant culture. Wander through the immersive Louisiana Swamp exhibit, where you can come face-to-face with alligators, and gain insight into the state's unique wetlands. This section of the zoo not only showcases native wildlife but also tells the story of Cajun traditions and the importance of conservation in this fragile ecosystem.

Encounter Giants of the Deep: The massive Gulf of Mexico exhibit is home to magnificent sharks and a majestic green sea turtle, all swimming around a realistic replica of an offshore oil rig. This 400,000-gallon tank allows you to get an up-close look at the incredible scale of these creatures. It’s a powerful and unforgettable showcase of the aquatic life that thrives in our local waters.

Timings

The zoo is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM.

Last ticket is sold at 4:30 PM.

The aquarium is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM.

Last ticket is sold at 4 PM. Last entry at 4:30 PM.

The Aquarium & Insectarium operate year-round, but are closed on Mardi Gras, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.

Audubon Zoo & Aquarium - How To Get There?

Address
By Car
By Streetcar
By Bus
By Rideshare/Taxi

Audubon Zoo
6500 Magazine St.
New Orleans, LA 70118

The Audubon Zoo is conveniently located in the heart of New Orleans at 6500 Magazine Street.

Situated within the beautiful and historic Audubon Park, the zoo is easily accessible from the Uptown neighborhood.

Its central location makes it a perfect destination for both local residents and tourists exploring the city's unique cultural and natural landmarks.

Audubon Aquarium Address:

1 Canal Street
New Orleans, LA 70130

The Audubon Aquarium is conveniently located on the banks of the Mississippi River, just a short walk from the historic French Quarter.

Zoo: Driving from Downtown/French Quarter: Take Magazine Street Uptown (west). You will pass through the Garden District and the university area. The zoo will be on your left, just past the Tulane and Loyola University campuses and across from Audubon Park.

Parking: Free parking is available in the zoo's main lot, located at 6500 Magazine Street.
Aquarium: From I-10 East (approaching from Metairie/the West):
Take Exit 234B toward US-90 BUS W/Westbank/S Claiborne Ave. Follow the signs for Poydras Street/Superdome and continue onto the U.S. 90 Business West ramp.

From I-10 West (approaching from Slidell/the East):
Take the U.S. 90 Business W exit toward the Westbank. Merge onto the Pontchartrain Expressway/US-90 BUS W.

For a classic New Orleans experience, take the historic St. Charles Avenue Streetcar for the zoo. This iconic line runs from Canal Street downtown through the beautiful Garden District and Uptown.

For the Aquarium Riverfront Streetcar line is one of the most scenic and direct ways. It runs along the Mississippi River, stopping directly in front of the venue.

The New Orleans RTA Bus #11 (Magazine) line provides direct service to the zoo.

The 11 Canal bus and the W2 Westbank Expressway bus are two of the most popular routes that stop nearby the Aquarium, making for a quick and easy trip.

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft or a traditional taxi can drop you off directly at the Zoo's main entrance or the Aquarium, offering a convenient door-to-door service. Simply input "Audubon Zoo" or "Audubon Aquarium" as your destination.

Things to Know Before Visiting Audubon Zoo

Purchase your tickets online in advance to save time and ensure entry on busy days.

Manual wheelchairs and Electric Convenience Vehicles (ECVs) are available to rent on a first-come, first-served basis at the front gate of the zoo.

Pets are not allowed inside the zoo, but service animals are welcome. However, the Aquarium doesn't allow pets.

Peak times often occur on weekends and holidays; visiting on weekdays may provide a quieter experience.

The venue is family-friendly and suitable for all ages with no specific age restrictions.

Cool Zoo Waterpark offers all-day admission during summer months for additional family fun.

Visitors are encouraged to respect conservation efforts and follow all rules & guidelines.

Strollers and wheelchairs are permitted, making navigation easier for families and guests with mobility needs.

Audubon Zoo & Aquarium - Additional Information

Food & Dining
Souvenir Stores
Special Events

Zoo: The main dining area is the Zoofari Café, which offers a range of classic meals from burgers and chicken tenders to pizza. Nearby, you can get a refreshing scoop of ice cream or a New Orleans sno-ball from Crescent City Creamery.

Throughout the zoo, you'll also find smaller stands for quick bites.
Aquarium: Guests can dine at Cafe Aqua, which features indoor seating with scenic views of the Mississippi River.

Audubon Marketplace

Location: Inside the zoo, near the front entrance.

Start your visit with a shopping adventure at the Audubon Marketplace, a spacious gift shop with a massive banyan tree and a life-sized elephant display. Filled with a diverse selection of items, the marketplace offers everything from official Audubon Nature Institute merchandise and books to unique New Orleans-themed gifts.

Signature events include Zoobilation, Boo at the Zoo during Halloween, Swamp Fête celebrating Louisiana’s natural heritage, and Dragons and Other Mythical Creatures showcasing themed exhibits and activities.

Seasonal programs and Wild Encounters offer immersive animal experiences for visitors seeking deeper interaction.

Accessibility Facilities at Audubon Zoo & Aquarium

For visitors who are visually impaired, the zoo offers tactile exhibits and descriptive signage throughout key areas, allowing for enhanced interaction with the animals and habitats. Audubon Aquarium offers tactile exhibits and descriptive signage throughout the facility as well to enhance the sensory experience. Additionally, audio guides and trained staff are available to assist at both venues.

For specially abled visitors, the zoo provides wheelchair rentals and accessible pathways designed to accommodate mobility devices. The Aquarium is fully full ADA compliant, which includes accessible pathways, restrooms, and seating areas. Manual wheelchairs are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis.

Guests who are hearing impaired benefit from visual aids and captioned video presentations located within various exhibits at the Audubon Zoo. At the Aquarium, visitors can make use of assistive listening devices and visual aids provided for select presentations and guided tours.

FAQs about Audubon Zoo & Aquarium

What is the mission of the Audubon Zoo?

The zoo is dedicated to wildlife conservation, education, and community engagement.

What are some of the most notable animals at the Audubon Aquarium?

Visitors can see a rare leucistic white alligator, endangered African penguins, and a green sea turtle named King Mydas.

Is the Audubon Zoo part of a larger organization?

Yes, it is a key part of the non-profit Audubon Nature Institute.

What is the Great Maya Reef exhibit at the Audubon Aquarium?

The Great Maya Reef is a 30-foot-long underwater tunnel that immerses guests in a recreated coral reef environment.

How many animals live at the Audubon Zoo?

The zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals from around the globe.

What animals are featured in the Gulf of Mexico exhibit at the Audubon Aquarium?

The massive 400,000-gallon tank is home to a variety of sharks, rays, and a majestic green sea turtle.

Are there any special or rare animals at the zoo?

The zoo is home to a rare leucistic white alligator and the critically endangered Sumatran orangutan.

Does my ticket purchase support conservation?

Yes, all ticket purchases help fund the Audubon Nature Institute's global conservation efforts.

What are some of the zoo’s key exhibits?

Major exhibits include the Louisiana Swamp, Jaguar Jungle, and African Savanna.

Can I see a behind-the-scenes tour of the aquarium?

Yes, the Audubon Aquarium offers a variety of "Wild Encounters" as an add-on, allowing guests to go behind the scenes.

Is a ticket to the Audubon Zoo also valid for the Audubon Aquarium and Insectarium?

No, a single ticket to the zoo does not include access to the other Audubon Nature Institute attractions.

What is the Audubon Nature Institute?

The Audubon Nature Institute is a family of museums and parks, including the Aquarium and the Audubon Zoo, dedicated to wildlife preservation.

Is parking available at the zoo?

Yes, free parking is available in the main lot located at 6500 Magazine Street.

How does the aquarium care for its animals?

The Audubon Aquarium is an AZA-accredited facility, committed to exceptional animal welfare through training programs and veterinary care.

Is the zoo wheelchair and stroller accessible?

Yes, the zoo is fully accessible with paved pathways and ramps throughout the park.

What makes the Louisiana Swamp exhibit unique?

The Louisiana Swamp exhibit showcases a rare leucistic white alligator and other animals native to Louisiana's wetlands.

What types of dining options are available at the zoo?

The zoo offers a variety of dining choices, from full-service cafes to snack stands and an iconic Roman Candy wagon.

Are there special tickets for the Cool Zoo water park?

Yes, the Cool Zoo water park and the carousel require a separate ticket for entry.

Can I purchase tickets at the gate?

Yes, but it is highly recommended to purchase your tickets online in advance to save time and ensure entry on busy days.

Where is the Audubon Aquarium located?

The Aquarium is located at 1 Canal Street, New Orleans, LA, at the edge of the Mississippi River.

Are there any indoor exhibits at the Audubon Zoo?

Yes, the zoo has several indoor areas, including the Tropical Bird House and indoor seating at the cafes.