At 1 Canal St in New Orleans, the Audubon Insectarium brings live insects and interactive exhibits together under one roof. Explore more than 50 displays of arthropods, learn about insects found in Louisiana, and step into a garden where butterflies and moths fly freely. Children can get close to some insects, while clear exhibit information gives curious adults plenty to explore too. Bug Appétit adds an unusual stop for edible insect cuisine. The Insectarium shares a campus with the Audubon Aquarium, so you can plan a visit to both.
Live insects and interactive exhibits
The Audubon Insectarium focuses on insects and other arthropods, with more than 50 displays featuring live specimens. Exhibits introduce species from around the world alongside insects found in Louisiana. Informative displays explain what you are seeing, and some encounters let visitors get close to insects.
For children interested in nature, the exhibits offer a chance to look carefully at creatures they might otherwise avoid. The range of live displays also gives adult visitors plenty to explore, from colorful beetles to colonies of social insects.
The butterfly garden
The butterfly garden is a central part of the visit. Butterflies and moths fly freely through an Asian-style garden, where you can watch them at close range. The calm setting is a change of pace from the busier exhibit areas, and you can take time to observe the insects moving among the plants.
The Insectarium also includes a swamp exhibit focused on insects found locally. Together, these areas connect the museum’s wider collection to the habitats and species of Louisiana.
Bug Appétit and extras
At Bug Appétit, edible insect cuisine gives you a chance to encounter insects in a different way. Chocolate chirp cookies and roasted mealworms are among the treats mentioned in visitor accounts; the menu can change, so check what is available during your visit.
Other extras mentioned include VR chairs and a hurricane simulator. These can add variety to a family visit, though the insect displays and butterfly garden remain the main reasons to come.
Planning your visit
The Insectarium is at 1 Canal St and shares a campus with the Audubon Aquarium. That makes it possible to plan both attractions for the same day. Allow at least an hour for the insect exhibits, and more if you want time for the garden, food or additional activities.
Advance tickets are recommended. For a quieter start, the suggested approach is to visit on a weekday at opening time, 10 am. The official website also has information about ticket options for visiting other Audubon attractions.
FAQ
How long do you need at the Audubon Insectarium?
Allow at least an hour to explore the exhibits. Add time if you want to visit Bug Appétit or try the extra activities.
What can you see at the Audubon Insectarium?
The museum has more than 50 displays with live arthropods, exhibits about Louisiana insects, and a garden with free-flying butterflies and moths.
Can you eat insects at the Audubon Insectarium?
Yes. Bug Appétit serves edible insect cuisine. Chocolate chirp cookies and roasted mealworms have been available, but check the current menu.
Should you buy tickets in advance?
Advance tickets are recommended. Check the official website for current ticket information.
Can you visit the aquarium and Insectarium together?
They share a campus, so you can plan visits to both on the same day. The official website has information on ticket options for multiple Audubon attractions.
