Audubon Aquarium

The Basics

Run by the respected National Audubon Society, the Aquarium of the Americas opened in 1990 and is one of the largest facilities of its kind in the United States, housing an incredible 10,000 creatures representing more than 500 different species. The exhibits are grouped by habitat, and information panels offer detailed insights about the different ecosystems. Highlights include the Great Maya Reef, an Amazon Rainforest habitat, and the Stingray Touchpool, where visitors can interact with the rays.

Many combine a visit to the aquarium with trips to some of the other Audubon Nature Institute’s attractions in the city, including Audubon Zoo, butterfly garden, and insectarium. Combined entry passes make it easy to switch between the different parks. You can purchase skip-the-line admission in advance.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Choose between single entry to the aquarium or a combined pass for two or more attractions.

• A number of special experiences, including penguin encounters and snorkeling in the Great Maya Reef, must be prebooked.

• A giant screen theater shows films about the natural world several times per day (included with admission tickets).

• The aquarium has two restaurants and an ice cream stand.

• The aquarium is wheelchair accessible, and there are a limited number of wheelchairs available to borrow.

How to Get There

Aquarium of the Americas is at 1 Canal St. in NOLA’s Central Business District. The Riverfront and Canal St. streetcar lines, and bus line 5, Marigny-Bywater, run close by. The aquarium is within walking distance of Downtown New Orleans, and there are paid parking lots nearby for those planning to drive.

When to Get There

The aquarium is open from Monday to Sunday, 10am–5pm. Weekends can get very busy, and school trips often visit on weekday mornings. Visit on weekday afternoons to enjoy plenty of space. The aquarium is closed on selected holidays, so check before visiting.

Audubon Zoo

Located in Uptown New Orleans, the Audubon Zoo brings together animals from across the world for a memorable day out. Visitors can feed the giraffes, explore the swamp habitats native to New Orleans, and see animals, including rhinos, tigers, elephants, zebras, and more. Children will love the “Cool Zoo” splash park, with lazy river, splash pads, and a huge alligator water slide.

Ways to explore

The Audubon Aquarium is especially popular with families, so booking tickets in advance is a smart way to secure entry and skip the long lines at the ticket desk. Admission often includes access to both the aquarium and the insectarium. Once inside, you’re free to explore at your own pace, without a guide. You can visit as part of a hop-on hop-off bus tour, which stops nearby. Or, opt for a self-guided smartphone audio tour that visits multiple highlights in the city.

Accessibility

The aquarium is wheelchair-accessible, with manual wheelchairs available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Contactless payment method, refillable water bottle, portable power bank

What to wear

Comfortable footwear, layers

Not allowed

Outside food and drinks, smoking, vaping

Amenities

Restrooms, café, gift shop, nursing lounge

Address

Audubon Aquarium is situated along the riverfront in New Orleans’ central business district. It’s easy to reach by car or public transportation from most parts of the city due to its central location.

Driving

If driving from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, follow I-10E for approximately 15 miles (24 kilometers)—roughly 25 minutes—until you reach the aquarium, with metered parking nearby.

Public transportation

If traveling by public transit, Canal Street Station is close. You can take the No. 49 streetcar there and then take the 3-minute walk to the aquarium.

Best times to visit

The aquarium tends to be quieter a few hours before closing time.

Best days to visit

Weekends can get busy, especially in peak season, so come on a weekday, such as Mondays to Wednesdays, for a quieter experience.

Best months to visit

The aquarium is open year-round, but New Orleans is lovely to visit in April or May.

Special events

The aquarium hosts events year-round, with a busy summer calendar, especially for families; check the schedule before visiting.