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Zoo & Aquarium

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas

📍 1 Canal St, New Orleans, LA, USA
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4.3/ 5.0
★★★★☆

Quick Facts

Location
USA, New Orleans
Category
Zoo & Aquarium
Duration
1-2 hours
Address
1 Canal St, New Orleans, LA, USA
Coordinates
29.9509, -90.0632

Introduction

The Audubon Aquarium of the Americas sits on the banks of the Mississippi River near the French Market in New Orleans, opened in 1990 and ranked among the premier aquariums of the Gulf Coast. It houses more than 15,000 aquatic animals, tracing ecosystems from the Amazon rainforest to the Gulf of Mexico. The signature Gulf of Mexico exhibit features a 10-meter-tall tank with sharks, rays, and giant morays gliding around a 360-degree tunnel that lets visitors walk among them. The Amazon section displays piranhas, anacondas, and tree frogs in recreated rainforest habitats. After Hurricane Katrina the aquarium underwent major renovation, adding a rare white alligator exhibit and cylindrical jellyfish tanks. An on-site animal rehabilitation center shows sea turtle recovery to the public, blending entertainment with conservation education and making it a top family destination in New Orleans.

✨ Highlights

1
Gulf of Mexico Tank
10-meter tank with sharks and rays; 360-degree tunnel for immersive viewing
2
Amazon Rainforest Gallery
Piranhas, anacondas, and tree frogs in recreated rainforest habitats
3
Rare White Alligator
Post-Katrina addition; only a handful of these animals exist worldwide
4
Jellyfish Cylinders
Blue-lit jelly tanks feel dreamlike and are a photo favorite
5
Sea Turtle Rescue
Watch rehabilitated turtles up close; education meets conservation
6
Riverside Setting
Beside the Mississippi and French Market; easy to combine with nearby sights

🛈 Practical Info

→Best Time to Visit:Weekday mornings are quieter; weekend afternoons have feeding shows
→Duration:2 to 3 hours recommended
→Dining:On-site cafe; French Market offers many nearby options
→Opening Hours:Thursday to Monday 10:00-17:00; closed Tuesday and Wednesday
→Ticket Information:Adults about USD 35, children USD 25; combo tickets with Audubon Zoo available
→Transportation:Near French Market; take streetcar to Canal and walk

💡 Tips

• Combine with Audubon Zoo and Insectarium to save about 30 percent
• School groups crowd Saturday mornings; Sunday afternoon is calmer
• Air conditioning is strong; a light jacket helps even in summer
• Walk to the French Market afterward for beignets and coffee

FAQ

What are the opening hours of Audubon Aquarium of the Americas?

Thursday to Monday 10:00-17:00; closed Tuesday and Wednesday

How much is the admission for Audubon Aquarium of the Americas?

Adults about USD 35, children USD 25; combo tickets with Audubon Zoo available

Any practical tips for visiting Audubon Aquarium of the Americas?

Combine with Audubon Zoo and Insectarium to save about 30 percent School groups crowd Saturday mornings; Sunday afternoon is calmer

How long should I spend at Audubon Aquarium of the Americas?

A typical visit takes 1-2 hours.