Audubon Zoo is a 58-acre wildlife park at 6500 Magazine Street in Uptown New Orleans, with animals from Louisiana and habitats representing regions around the world. The Louisiana Swamp exhibit brings you close to alligators, including white alligators, while Jaguar Jungle, the primate areas and Reptile Encounter add very different stops along the way. Children have play areas to explore, and the grounds include shaded paths and gardens. Allow at least three hours if you want time to see the exhibits at an unhurried pace.
A zoo with Louisiana at its centre
Audubon Zoo is part of the Audubon Nature Institute and sits in Uptown New Orleans, at 6500 Magazine Street. Animals have been kept at this site since the 1884 World Exposition, when exotic animals were brought to Audubon Park. The zoo opened in 1914.
Its exhibits range from local swamp wildlife to animals from across Asia, Africa and South America. The design gives each area its own setting, so the walk moves between distinct habitats rather than a single run of enclosures. Oak trees, gardens and paths add shade across the grounds.
Louisiana Swamp and Jaguar Jungle
The Louisiana Swamp exhibit focuses on the wildlife and ways of life associated with the bayou. Look for alligators, including white alligators, as well as nutria and catfish. The display also includes structures that evoke homes in the bayou, connecting the animals’ environment with the people who have lived there.
Jaguar Jungle is another of the zoo’s named habitat exhibits. Other areas include the African Savanna, Gorilla Troop, World of Primates, Audubon Aviary, Bambu Village and Lion Exhibit. Reptile Encounter has reptiles from different regions, including a Komodo dragon. The collection also includes animals such as elephants, rhinos, orangutans and Amur leopards; which animals you see out and about can depend on conditions.
Planning your route
Set aside at least three hours to make time for the habitats and play areas. The zoo’s layout is described as easy to navigate, but the grounds have enough exhibits to reward a leisurely visit. If you are visiting with children, allow time for the interactive areas as well as the animal stops.
Check the presentation schedule near the entrance when you arrive, then plan your route around any talks or feedings you want to catch. Arriving near opening time can coincide with animals being active around their morning meal. On cold days, some animals may stay out of view; a train ride can improve the view of certain exhibits.
If you want to visit more than the zoo, a trio ticket option covers the aquarium and insectarium too. The three sites are in separate locations, so plan separate visits rather than expecting to see them all on the same walk. Tickets in advance are recommended, particularly during busy holiday periods.
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How long should you spend at Audubon Zoo?
Allow at least three hours if you want to see the exhibits at a relaxed pace.
What are the main exhibits at Audubon Zoo?
Highlights include the Louisiana Swamp, Jaguar Jungle, African Savanna, World of Primates and Reptile Encounter.
Can you see white alligators at Audubon Zoo?
Yes. White alligators are among the animals in the Louisiana Swamp exhibit.
Can you combine a zoo visit with the aquarium and insectarium?
A trio ticket option covers all three. The aquarium and insectarium are at separate locations from the zoo, so plan additional visits.
