Audubon Aquarium Travel Guide — Louisiana

Our Audubon Aquarium guide covers practical planning for Audubon Aquarium Louisiana — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground.

Situated on the Mississippi River in New Orleans, the Audubon Aquarium showcases diverse marine life from North and South America, offering interactive exhibits and touch pools. The Audubon Aquarium Louisiana is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Crescent City, offering an immersive journey through aquatic ecosystems from around the globe. Recently reimagined and reopened in 2023 after an extensive $41 million renovation, the facility now also houses the Audubon Insectarium, providing two world-class attractions under one roof. We've put together this comprehensive guide to help you plan your perfect visit in 2026, ensuring you make the most of your time at this top-ranked attraction.

Why Visit Audubon Aquarium

We consider the Audubon Aquarium a cornerstone of New Orleans’ family-friendly attractions, consistently ranked among the top aquariums in the U.S. by publications like Travel + Leisure and USA Today 10Best. Our team believes its appeal lies not only in its impressive collection of over 3,600 animals representing more than 250 species, but also in its commitment to conservation and education. You’ll find unique and endangered animals, including the captivating African penguins and the rare Louisiana white leucistic alligator.

The recent merger with the Audubon Insectarium means you get two incredible experiences for the price of one ticket, exploring both aquatic marvels and fascinating insects. This combined facility offers a truly comprehensive look at biodiversity, from the smallest bugs to the largest sharks. Beyond the animals, the aquarium actively participates in conservation efforts, including rescuing and rehabilitating sea turtles along the Louisiana coast. Visiting supports these vital programs, making your trip both enjoyable and impactful.

Who It's Best For

The Audubon Aquarium truly caters to a broad audience. We find it to be an ideal destination for families with children of all ages, offering engaging hands-on experiences like the 60-foot touch pool where you can interact with sharks and stingrays. Children under two years old can even visit for free.

Beyond families, the aquarium is perfect for marine life enthusiasts, offering a deep dive into various ecosystems from the Amazon Rainforest to the Gulf of Mexico. Educational programs and animal presentations provide insightful learning opportunities for students and adults alike. Even solo travelers or couples looking for an enriching cultural experience will appreciate the beautifully designed exhibits and the tranquil atmosphere away from the bustling streets of New Orleans. With its accessible facilities, including options for strollers and service animals, it ensures a comfortable visit for nearly everyone.

Getting There & Parking

Learning how to get to Audubon Aquarium is straightforward, as it's conveniently located at 1 Canal Street, right on the Mississippi River, adjacent to the historic French Quarter.

For those relying on public transport, the New Orleans streetcar system has stops conveniently located near the aquarium, offering an affordable and scenic way to arrive. You can also enjoy a pleasant walk from the lower French Quarter, which typically takes about 15-20 minutes. This makes it easy to combine your aquarium visit with exploring other nearby attractions like the French Quarter.

When considering how to get to Audubon Aquarium by car, be aware that while accessible, parking can be a challenge and expensive in this bustling downtown area. The Audubon Aquarium does not have its own public parking lot or garage, so visitors should plan to use nearby public garages and lots. Several lots are available, including the Lot at 201 Canal Street (P403), which is about a 2-minute walk away, and the Lot at 300 N Peters Street (P402), a 3-minute walk. The cheapest garage option we found is the 333 Canal Street Garage (P400), starting from $25 for a typical 2-3 hour visit. Some parking garages, like the Canal Place garage, may offer a discount validation at the aquarium. We highly recommend researching parking options and booking in advance through services like SpotAngels or ParkWhiz to save time and potentially money. Metered street parking is available but limited and subject to strict time limits.

Top Things to Do

There are so many things to do at Audubon Aquarium that you could easily spend half a day or more exploring its diverse offerings. Here are our top recommendations:

• Explore the Great Maya Reef: Immerse yourself in a vibrant underwater world by walking through the 30-foot-long clear viewing tunnel, surrounded by a 132,000-gallon tank teeming with tarpon, angelfish, and other diverse aquatic life.
• Interact at the Shark Discovery Touch Pool: This 60-foot-long hands-on touch pool allows you to get up close and personal with sharks and stingrays, a truly memorable experience for all ages.
• Journey through the Gulf of Mexico Exhibit: Marvel at the aquarium's largest exhibit, a 450,000-gallon, 17-foot-tall tank showcasing sharks, sea turtles, and various marine life from the Gulf of Mexico. Keep an eye out for the rare white leucistic alligator.
• Wander the Amazon Rainforest: Step into a humid, climate-controlled greenhouse environment, complete with a waterfall and 60 free-flying tropical birds representing 15 species. You'll also encounter piranhas, pacus, and an anaconda.
• Visit the African Penguin Exhibit: Watch these playful birds and learn about their conservation efforts. You can even book a special "Penguin Party" for an exclusive, up-close encounter.
• Discover the Audubon Insectarium: Located within the same building, the Insectarium offers a fascinating journey into the world of bugs. Don't miss the Butterfly Garden, where hundreds of butterflies flutter freely, and the motion-reactive display wall. For the adventurous, try insect-based treats at Bug Appétit!
• Experience Wild Encounters: For an additional fee, participate in unique behind-the-scenes experiences like the Maya Snorkel Adventure or the Penguin Party, offering rare interactions with animals and insights into conservation work. Reservations are recommended for these limited-availability programs.

Beyond the aquarium, there are plenty of things to do in New Orleans to fill your itinerary. Consider a French Quarter walking tour, exploring its historic architecture and vibrant culture. We also highly recommend visiting The National WWII Museum, a truly world-class institution. For a different perspective, take a steamboat jazz cruise on the Mississippi River.

Best Time to Visit

We've found that the Audubon Aquarium is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM year-round. However, the best time to visit Audubon Aquarium to avoid peak crowds is typically during weekday mornings, right at opening. Weekends and holidays tend to be busier.

New Orleans weather can be quite warm, especially during the summer months, so visiting the indoor aquarium offers a welcome respite from the heat. While the aquarium is open year-round, be aware that it may close for hurricane preparedness during the hurricane season, as seen in May 2026. It's always a good idea to check the official Audubon Nature Institute website for the most up-to-date operating hours and any potential closures before your visit. Consider visiting during special events like World Ocean Day in June, which features extra activities and conservation-focused learning.

Where to Stay Nearby

Finding excellent Audubon Aquarium lodging is easy, given its prime location at the foot of Canal Street and its proximity to the French Quarter and Central Business District. We recommend staying in one of these areas for convenient access to the aquarium and other New Orleans attractions.

For upscale Audubon Aquarium lodging, consider options like The Westin New Orleans (0.3 miles away), DoubleTree by Hilton New Orleans (0.2 miles), or the New Orleans Marriott (0.4 miles). These hotels offer excellent amenities and are within easy walking distance. The Hotel Monteleone, a historic 4-star property in the French Quarter, is also highly rated and just 0.6 miles from the aquarium.

Other well-regarded hotels nearby include the Crowne Plaza New Orleans French Qtr - Astor by IHG and the Wyndham New Orleans - French Quarter. For those seeking good value, hotels like La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham New Orleans Downtown and Blake Hotel New Orleans, BW Signature Collection are popular choices in the Central Business District, offering walking access to attractions. You can find a wide range of hotels near the Audubon Aquarium starting from around $87 per night. Booking in advance is always a good strategy, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Sample 2-Day Itinerary

Here’s a sample 2-day itinerary designed by our team to maximize your New Orleans experience, with the Audubon Aquarium as a highlight:

Day 1: Aquatic Wonders & French Quarter Charm

• Morning (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM): Audubon Aquarium & Insectarium. Arrive early at the Audubon Aquarium Louisiana to beat the crowds. Dedicate ample time to explore all the exhibits, from the Great Maya Reef tunnel to the Gulf of Mexico tank. Don't forget to visit the Audubon Insectarium, included with your ticket, to see the Butterfly Garden and Bug Appétit!
• Lunch (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Riverside Dining. Grab a casual lunch at one of the cafes within or near the aquarium, or venture into the adjacent French Quarter for a classic New Orleans meal.
• Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM): French Quarter Exploration. Walk from the aquarium into the French Quarter. Explore Jackson Square, visit St. Louis Cathedral, and browse the unique shops and art galleries. Consider a short, guided walking tour to learn about the area's rich history.
• Evening (6:00 PM onwards): Dinner & Jazz. Enjoy dinner at a renowned French Quarter restaurant. Afterward, head to Frenchmen Street for live jazz music, where locals gather for an authentic New Orleans nightlife experience.

Day 2: History, Culture & Garden District Grandeur

• Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM): The National WWII Museum. Start your day at The National WWII Museum, a powerful and extensive institution that requires several hours to fully appreciate.
• Lunch (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM): Warehouse District Bites. Enjoy lunch in the Warehouse District, known for its contemporary restaurants, located near the WWII Museum.
• Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Garden District & Streetcar Ride. Take the historic St. Charles Avenue streetcar up to the New Orleans Garden District. Admire the stunning antebellum mansions and lush gardens. You can take a self-guided walking tour or join a local guide.
• Evening (6:00 PM onwards): Mississippi River Cruise. Conclude your New Orleans adventure with an evening jazz cruise on a steamboat along the Mississippi River, enjoying dinner and live music as the city lights pass by.

For those with more time, consider extending your trip to explore other incredible Best places in Louisiana, such as the historic Oak Alley Plantation or Whitney Plantation, or a thrilling swamp tour in the Atchafalaya National Basin.

Last updated: 2026-07-05 by the Roam States team.