New Orleans: Audubon Zoo or Combo Ticket

If you’re planning a visit to New Orleans and wonder whether the Audubon Zoo is worth your time, you’re not alone. This review takes a close look at what you can expect from this popular animal attraction, including the combo options that make it a versatile choice for families, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a relaxing day among animals. While we haven’t experienced it firsthand, a wealth of reviews and detailed descriptions help us paint an accurate picture to help you decide if this is the right stop for your trip.

What we love about the Audubon Zoo is how well it balances family-friendly fun with educational value. The chance to see endangered species like whooping cranes, Amur leopards, and Sumatran orangutans up close is truly compelling. Plus, the addition of award-winning exhibits such as the Louisiana Swamp and Jaguar Jungle adds depth and authenticity to your visit. However, one thing to consider is that some reviews mention that certain exhibits might be under renovation or temporarily closed, so checking current status before visiting could save some disappointment.

This experience is best suited for families with kids, wildlife lovers, or anyone simply looking for a leisurely day in nature. Whether you’re after a quick visit or planning to spend several days exploring the combo tickets, the zoo offers enough variety to justify a dedicated trip. Now, let’s get into what makes the Audubon Zoo a noteworthy stop on your New Orleans itinerary.

Key Points

• Large and well-maintained: Over 50 acres with naturalistic habitats and more than 1,700 animals.
• Educational demonstrations: Daily talks about animal care enrich your understanding.
• Variety of habitats: From the Louisiana Swamp to Jaguar Jungle, each zone offers unique animals and experiences.
• Combo ticket options: Access to the aquarium and insectarium for greater value and variety.
• Good value for families: Especially when booking combo tickets, which extend your visit across multiple attractions.
• Some exhibits may be under construction: Always check current status before your visit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes the Audubon Zoo Stand Out?

A Walk Through 50+ Acres of Natural Habitats

The Audubon Zoo sprawls across more than 50 acres, giving it space to create authentic environments for its residents. The various zones, such as the Louisiana Swamp and Jaguar Jungle, are thoughtfully designed to mimic the animals’ natural surroundings, making your experience more immersive and educational. As one reviewer noted, the zoo is “beautiful” and “well cared for,” offering plenty of shade and comfortable pathways that make wandering around pleasant even on warm days.

Close Encounters with Endangered Animals

For many visitors, the highlight is seeing rare and endangered species like the whooping cranes, perhaps the most iconic symbol of conservation efforts. The Sumatran orangutans and Amur leopards are also significant attractions. These animals are housed in spacious, modern habitats, and the zoo staff often provide animal care demonstrations at scheduled times, sharing fascinating facts that deepen your appreciation for conservation and animal welfare.

The Fun of Monkey Hill and Jaguar Jungle

Children and adults alike love the Monkey Hill, a 5-level treehouse where little ones can climb and explore while observing the monkeys up close. It’s a playful, interactive experience that adds a different dimension to the zoo visit. Meanwhile, the Jaguar Jungle transports visitors to Central America with its archeological-themed dig site, spider monkeys, ocelots, and the elusive jaguar itself. If you’re into wild cats or just enjoy lively, lush environments, this zone will satisfy your curiosity.

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The Louisiana Swamp and Other Unique Exhibits

One of the zoo’s most acclaimed features is the Louisiana Swamp exhibit, which showcases the only urban swamp in the world. Here, you’ll see animals native to South Louisiana, such as black bears, bobcats, foxes, and the distinctive white alligator. It offers a chance to learn about local ecosystems and the animals that thrive there — an authentic Louisiana experience, right in the city.

You might also enjoy the Watoto Farm, where you can interact with domestic animals like sheep and goats. It’s a neat addition for families, combining fun with lessons about sustainable farming practices.

Optional Add-Ons: Aquarium and Insectarium

Upgrade your visit by adding access to the Audubon Aquarium and Insectarium. The aquarium offers a window into marine life, with exhibits that are both educational and entertaining. The insectarium features fascinating displays of bugs from around the world, perfect for curious kids and adults alike. When you purchase a combo ticket, you get three days to explore these attractions, giving ample time to fit everything into your schedule.

Visiting Logistics and Practical Tips

Ticket Options and Access

• Standard Zoo Ticket: Valid for a single entry, ideal for a quick visit. Opens from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Combo Tickets: You can upgrade to include aquarium and insectarium access, extending your visit over three days (for two- or three-attraction combos). This flexibility is perfect if you want to spread out your experience or visit other nearby attractions.

Entry and Accessibility

The tickets allow you to skip the lines, which is a big plus during busy times. The zoo is wheelchair accessible, with paths designed for ease of movement. Children under 2 are free, making it a budget-friendly option for families.

What to Bring and What Not To

To keep your visit enjoyable, note that pets, smoking, food, drinks, bikes, coolers, skates are not allowed inside. The zoo provides shaded areas and benches for resting, but bringing some snacks or water bottles (if permitted) can be helpful, especially during hotter days.

Reviews and Visitor Feedback

Most visitors find the facilities clean and the animal exhibits well-maintained. Several reviews highlight the friendly and knowledgeable staff, which enhances the educational aspect. One reviewer remarked, “Very clean facilities”, while another appreciated the “big trees for shade”, making the zoo a comfortable outdoor outing.

However, some visitors expressed disappointment over exhibits being under construction or temporarily closed, such as the giraffe exhibit. It’s wise to verify the current status of popular exhibits before your visit.

Potential Drawbacks

A few reviews mention that some animals are difficult to see, and prices for food and drinks can be quite high. Also, on some days, certain exhibits may be closed or under renovation, which could limit what you see. It’s best to plan ahead, especially if specific animals or zones are your main interest.

The Value Proposition

When you consider the admission price and the scope of experiences available, the Audubon Zoo offers good value, especially with combo tickets. The opportunity to see endangered animals, enjoy interactive zones, and combine your visit with the aquarium or insectarium makes it a comprehensive wildlife experience for families and wildlife enthusiasts. The zoo’s commitment to animal welfare and education adds a meaningful dimension that elevates it beyond just a collection of cages.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This zoo is ideal for families with children, thanks to its interactive zones, playgrounds, and domestic animal encounters. Wildlife lovers will appreciate the rare species and conservation focus, while anyone looking for a relaxed outdoor outing in a scenic, shaded environment will find plenty to enjoy. If you’re willing to check ahead for exhibit renovations, this visit can be both fun and educational.

The Audubon Zoo in New Orleans offers a thoughtfully curated adventure into the animal world within a vibrant, lush setting. Its diverse habitats, endangered species, and interactive zones create a well-rounded experience that appeals to visitors of all ages. The availability of combo tickets adds a layer of flexibility and value, making it a practical choice for extended exploration.

While some exhibits may be temporarily closed or under renovation, the overall quality, cleanliness, and knowledgeable staff make it a worthwhile stop. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, traveling with kids, or simply seeking a peaceful day outdoors, this zoo can deliver a memorable experience.

FAQs

Is the Audubon Zoo suitable for young children?
Absolutely. The zoo features playgrounds, a treehouse, and domestic animals, making it very child-friendly.

Can I visit the aquarium and insectarium with my zoo ticket?
Yes, if you upgrade to a combo ticket. You then have three days to visit the aquarium and insectarium after your zoo visit.

Are the exhibits accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the zoo is wheelchair accessible, with pathways designed for ease of movement.

What are the opening hours?
All Audubon attractions open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with last entry at 4:30 PM.

Is there a discount for children?
Children under 2 may enter free; other discounts are not specified but check for family or combo ticket deals.

Are there guided tours or animal demonstrations?
Yes, daily animal care demonstrations are scheduled throughout the zoo, providing educational insights.

What should I know about exhibit closures?
Some reviews mention that certain exhibits, including giraffes, may be temporarily closed or under construction, so double-check current conditions.

How long does a typical visit take?
This depends on your interests, but many visitors spend 2-4 hours exploring thoroughly, especially if combining with other attractions.

Can I bring my own food?
No, outside food and drinks are not allowed inside, but there are food options available.

What’s the best way to get there?
Use the coordinates 29.9237, -90.1314 for your GPS. The zoo is conveniently located in New Orleans and accessible via public transport or car.

In sum, the Audubon Zoo is a well-maintained, engaging, and educational wildlife park that offers excellent value, especially if you take advantage of combo tickets. It’s a fantastic choice for families, animal lovers, or anyone wanting a peaceful outdoor escape in the heart of New Orleans.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby