10 AM – 5 PM

1 Canal Street, New Orleans, New Orleans

3 hours approx.

From $ 51.50

Audubon Aquarium: Tickets and Info

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Audubon Aquarium & Insectarium: Combo Entry Ticket

Highlights

Encounter more than 3,600 aquatic animals from over 250 different species.

Wander through immersive habitats such as the Caribbean reef, Amazon Rainforest, Mississippi River, and Gulf of Mexico exhibits.

Experience the Shark Discovery Touch Pool by interacting directly with sharks and stingrays.

Walk inside a 30-foot underwater tunnel offering a close-up view of marine life at the Great Maya Reef.

Visit the indoor Butterfly Garden to admire exotic butterflies in a naturalistic setting.

Audubon Aquarium

Nestled along the Mississippi River near New Orleans’ historic French Quarter, Audubon Aquarium offers an immersive journey through diverse aquatic habitats from the Amazon Rainforest to the Gulf of Mexico. Home to over 3,600 animals across 250 species, including endangered African penguins and rare white alligators, the Aquarium provides an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

With admission now including access to the Audubon Insectarium, you can explore two remarkable attractions with a single ticket. Secure your tickets today and embark on a captivating underwater adventure.

About Audubon Aquarium

Located along the banks of the Mississippi River near New Orleans’ historic French Quarter, 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. Home to over 3,600 animals spanning more than 250 species, including endangered African penguins and rare white alligators, the Aquarium provides an engaging and educational experience for international tourists and locals alike.

Admission includes access to the neighboring Audubon Insectarium, allowing guests to explore two unique attractions with one ticket. The Aquarium is part of the larger Audubon Nature Institute, which also manages a zoo, parks, and conservation programs dedicated to wildlife preservation and community education.

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

Why Visit Audubon Aquarium?

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.

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.

A Rainforest in the Heart of the City: Leave the Louisiana heat behind and step into a humid, lush rainforest habitat. The Amazon Rainforest exhibit is a living jungle filled with free-flying tropical birds, piranhas, and other fascinating creatures from the Amazon Basin. It’s an immersive, sensory-rich experience that transports you to a different continent without ever leaving New Orleans.

Meet Rare and Remarkable Animals: The Audubon Aquarium is home to some truly special creatures. The Louisiana Swamp exhibit features a rare leucistic white alligator, a ghostly and beautiful symbol of the state's unique wetlands. Visitors can also watch the playful antics of African penguins and charming sea otters, learning about their habitats and the conservation efforts dedicated to their protection.

A Unique Aquarium and Insectarium Experience: Your ticket provides access to more than just fish. The Audubon Aquarium is now home to a spectacular Insectarium, where you can walk among hundreds of free-flying butterflies in a peaceful, sunlit garden overlooking the Mississippi River. The "Bug Appetit" exhibit even offers the adventurous an opportunity to taste culinary dishes made with insects, making your visit a comprehensive journey through the animal kingdom.

Interactive and Hands-On Fun: Get a feel for marine life at the Shark & Ray Touchpool, a 60-foot-long, hands-on exhibit where you can gently touch the smooth skin of sharks and stingrays. The Aquarium also offers interactive displays throughout its galleries, making learning a fun and engaging activity for visitors of all ages. These experiences provide a memorable and personal connection to the animals.

Timings

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.

How To Get There?

Address
By Car
By Streetcar
By Bus
By Foot

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.

The Audubon Aquarium is located on Canal Street at the edge of the Mississippi River, making it a straightforward drive from major highways. Please be advised that the Aquarium does not have its own parking lot, but there are several public parking options nearby.

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. Stay in the right lane and take the Tchoupitoulas Street exit. Turn left onto Tchoupitoulas Street, then right onto Canal Street. The Aquarium will be at the end of the street on your left.

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. Take the Tchoupitoulas Street exit. Turn left onto Tchoupitoulas Street, then right onto Canal Street. The Aquarium will be at the end of the street on your left, at the corner of Canal Street and the Mississippi River.

Parking Information:
There are several paid public parking garages and lots within a short walk of the Aquarium. The most convenient are located on Canal Street and in the surrounding blocks. Look for signs for The Shops at Canal Place garage or other nearby lots. For the most convenient experience, we recommend using a parking app to find and reserve a spot in advance.

The Riverfront Streetcar line is one of the most scenic and direct ways to reach the Aquarium. It runs along the Mississippi River, stopping directly in front of the venue. The Canal Street Streetcar line also has a stop just a two-minute walk away from the Aquarium's front entrance.

Several bus routes have stops within a short walking distance of the Aquarium. The 11 Canal bus and the W2 Westbank Expressway bus are two of the most popular routes that stop nearby, making for a quick and easy trip.

The Aquarium's location is perfect for walking, especially if you are staying in or visiting the downtown area.

From the French Quarter: The Aquarium is located at the foot of Canal Street, making it a pleasant and straightforward walk from anywhere in the French Quarter. Simply head toward the river on Canal Street until you reach the end, where the Aquarium sits at the beginning of Woldenberg Park.

From the Central Business District: The Aquarium is also a short walk from the major hotels and businesses in the Central Business District (CBD). Just walk toward the river until you hit Canal Street and then turn left, following the directions for the French Quarter.

Things to Know Before Visiting Audubon Aquarium

Operating hours are daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, with last tickets sold at 4 PM and last entry by 4:30 PM.

The aquarium is closed on Mardi Gras, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.

Plan for a full-day visit, especially if exploring both the Aquarium and Insectarium.

The venue is fully ADA-compliant, offering wheelchairs, sensory accommodations, and accessible pathways.

No outside food or drinks are permitted, except for water bottles and medical or baby bottles.

Pets are not allowed, but service animals trained to assist visitors are welcome.

Re-entry is permitted during your visit with proof of ticket purchase.

Ticket options include general admission, VIP experiences, and combo tickets with the Zoo and Insectarium.

Expect peak visitor times on weekends and holidays; purchasing tickets online in advance is recommended.

Facilities at Audubon Aquarium

Audubon Aquarium offers a range of visitor facilities designed to enhance the experience for all guests.
Outside food and beverages are generally prohibited, with exceptions for water bottles, medical needs, and baby bottles. Strollers complying with size restrictions are permitted and can be rented on-site if needed.

Accessibility Facilities at Audubon Aquarium

For visitors who are visually impaired, Audubon Aquarium offers tactile exhibits and descriptive signage throughout the facility to enhance the sensory experience. Staff members are trained to provide assistance, and audio guides are available upon request to offer detailed information about the exhibits. These services can be accessed by informing Guest Services upon arrival or during ticket purchase.

Visitors with special abilities benefit from the Aquarium’s full ADA compliance, which includes accessible pathways, restrooms, and seating areas. Manual wheelchairs are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests can request these accommodations at the entrance or through Guest Services to ensure a comfortable and convenient visit.

Those who are hearing impaired can make use of assistive listening devices and visual aids provided for select presentations and guided tours. The Aquarium staff can arrange these aids in advance by contacting Guest Services, ensuring that hearing-impaired visitors fully engage with the educational programs and animal encounters. Additionally, clear signage supports communication throughout the venue.

Interesting Facts about Audubon Aquarium

The Audubon Aquarium of the Americas is consistently ranked as one of the top aquariums in the United States. It's home to more than 3,600 animals from over 250 different species.

A notable resident is a rare leucistic white alligator, which is not albino but has a genetic mutation causing its white skin and blue eyes. The aquarium features an Amazon Rainforest exhibit, a humid greenhouse with free-flying birds, piranhas, and an anaconda.

Its Great Maya Reef exhibit includes a 30-foot-long underwater tunnel, allowing visitors to walk through a tank surrounded by a variety of sea creatures. The Gulf of Mexico exhibit is the largest at the aquarium, containing 400,000 gallons of water and a replica of an offshore oil rig.

The Audubon Aquarium works on conservation and research, including a successful breeding program for endangered African penguins. The facility also includes the Audubon Insectarium, making it a unique dual-attraction.

A large shark and ray touch pool allows guests to safely interact with marine life. The aquarium is situated on the banks of the Mississippi River, offering scenic views and easy access to the French Quarter.

The Audubon Aquarium is renowned for its conservation efforts, participating in Species Survival Plans for endangered animals. It is home to a rare white alligator with a genetic condition called leucism, which is often mistaken for albinism.

The aquarium’s Gulf of Mexico exhibit is one of the largest in the country, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the Gulf. A unique feature is the Great Maya Reef, which includes a transparent tunnel for an immersive underwater experience.

The Amazon exhibit recreates a lush rainforest ecosystem, complete with piranhas, stingrays, and exotic birds. It houses a diverse collection of seahorses, jellyfish, and other delicate marine invertebrates.

The aquarium is located on the Mississippi River, with its windows offering views of passing ships and the riverwalk. Its shark and ray touch pool allows visitors to have a hands-on experience with marine life.

The facility has a dedicated sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation program. It’s part of the larger Audubon Nature Institute, which includes the Audubon Zoo and the Audubon Insectarium.

The penguin exhibit showcases both African penguins and rockhopper penguins, highlighting their unique behaviors. The facility also focuses on educating the public about the importance of protecting aquatic environments.

FAQs about Audubon Aquarium

What kind of conservation efforts does the Audubon Aquarium engage in?

The aquarium participates in Species Survival Plans for endangered animals and operates a dedicated sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation program.

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.

What is the Great Maya Reef exhibit?

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

What animals are featured in the Gulf of Mexico exhibit?

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

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.

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.

Are there any interactive exhibits?

Yes, the aquarium features a large Shark & Ray Touchpool where visitors can gently interact with marine life.

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.

Does the aquarium have a breeding program?

Yes, the aquarium has a successful breeding program for endangered species, including African penguins.

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.

Is my ticket valid for the Insectarium as well?

Yes, a single ticket now grants you access to both the Audubon Aquarium and the Audubon Insectarium.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?

While not required, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred date and time.

What are the hours of operation?

The Aquarium is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry at 4:30 PM.

Where is the Audubon Aquarium located?

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

Is there on-site parking available?

The Aquarium does not have its own parking lot, but several paid public parking garages and lots are nearby.

Can I re-enter the Aquarium after I leave?

Yes, re-entry is permitted on the same day with proof of your ticket.

Are outside food and drinks allowed?

No, outside food and beverages are not permitted, with exceptions for water bottles, medical needs, and baby food.

Is the aquarium accessible for visitors with disabilities?

Yes, the facility is fully ADA-compliant with accessible pathways, ramps, and free manual wheelchairs on a first-come, first-served basis.

Can I bring my pet with me?

Pets are not allowed, but trained service animals are welcome throughout the facility.

How long does a typical visit take?

Most visitors spend several hours exploring the exhibits, with a full day recommended to experience both the Aquarium and Insectarium.

Is there a place to eat inside the aquarium?

Yes, Cafe Aqua offers a variety of dining options with views overlooking the Mississippi River.

Are strollers or wagons permitted?

Strollers are allowed and are also available for rent, but wagons and ride-on toys are not permitted.