Audubon Park

The basics

As one of NOLA’s most significant green spaces, Audubon Park is featured on many sightseeing tours around town, including tours of the French Quarter. See it from the water during a sightseeing cruise aboard the historic Steamboat Natchez. Those looking for some exercise will find a 1.7-mile (2.7-kilometer) track, while families flock to the park to observe critters at the excellent Audubon Zoo.

Things to know before you go

• Audubon Park is an excellent choice for families and spontaneous travelers—no need to plan a visit in advance.

• Park admission is free, but the Audubon Zoo requires a separate entrance ticket.

• Nearly all of the park and its facilities, including the zoo, are accessible to strollers and wheelchairs.

How to get there

To get to the park by public transportation, take the St. Charles Avenue streetcar to the stop across from Tulane and Loyola Universities. If you're driving, there's free parking in lots along St. Charles Avenue.

When to get there

The best time to visit the park is between February and May, when temperatures tend to be cool and dry. If visiting in the summer, head to the park early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the midday heat. The Whitney Young Pool is open during summer months.

Bird Island

Spend some time in Audubon Park, and you’ll likely notice an island in the center of the park’s lagoon. This is Ochsner Island, also known as Bird Island for its thriving rookery. Hundreds of birds nest on the island each year, including great, snowy, and cattle egrets; little blue and tri-colored herons; black and yellow-crowned night herons; double-crested cormorants; and anhingas.

Ways to explore

As one of New Orleans’ most significant green spaces, Audubon Park, located in the city’s Uptown area, is also one of the city’s key tourist attractions. The free-to-visit site offers a wide range of recreational options, from tennis courts and playgrounds to jogging paths. It also features the excellent Audubon Zoo, a highlight of the Audubon Nature Institute.

The park features on a number of sightseeing itineraries, including driving tours, self-led audio tours, and custom New Orleans itineraries—you can even see it from the water on a sightseeing cruise aboard the historic Steamboat Natchez.

Accessibility

Audubon Park, including the Audubon Zoo, is broadly accessible to disabled visitors, with many paved, flat paths. Not all recreational facilities may be fully accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Empty water bottle, sun protection, umbrella, camera

What to wear

Wear loose, weather-appropriate layers and good walking shoes—or athletic gear if you plan to exercise.

Not allowed

Drones, unleashed pets, smoking in select areas, amplified music

Amenities

Restrooms, food and drink concessions, picnic areas, recreational facilities

Address

Audubon Park is located in Uptown, New Orleans. It’s easy to drive there yourself, use taxis and rideshare services, or book a tour that has transportation included. Public transit, including streetcars and buses, also serves the park.

Driving

Audubon Park is accessible via a number of major thoroughfares, including St. Charles Avenue and Magazine Street. Parking is available at several dedicated lots, including at the Audubon Zoo.

Public transportation

To get to Audubon Park using public transportation, take the St. Charles Streetcar (which serves the northern edge of the park). Alternatively, use bus routes such as the 31 or 32.

Best times to visit

Audubon Park is open daily, from early in the morning to late at night (the Audubon Zoo operates its own opening hours). Arrive early in the day, when the weather is cooler and the crowds haven’t yet descended.

Best days to visit

If you can, visit the Audubon Park (and Zoo) on a weekday; weekends and holidays are likely to be especially busy.

Best months to visit

Time your visit for spring and autumn, which generally offer optimal weather for outdoor sightseeing in New Orleans.

Special events

A number of special events are held at Audubon Park, including at the Audubon Zoo, throughout the year; research its calendar for more.