Audubon Zoo
Audubon Zoo
4.5
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
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About
Located in historic Uptown New Orleans Audubon Zoo offers an exotic mix of animals from around the globe, engaging educational programs, hands-on animal encounters and lush gardens. Unique natural habitat exhibits—such as the award-winning Louisiana Swamp and Jaguar Jungle—showcase the relationship between people and nature. Don't miss the daily animal presentations, chats and feeds; our highly endangered whooping cranes, Amur leopards and orangutans; our white tiger; and our mysterious white alligators. Audubon Zoo is often ranked among the country’s best for innovation and entertainment value!
Suggested duration
More than 3 hours
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The area
Address
Neighborhood: Uptown / Carrollton
Very much their own self sufficient unit within the greater metro area, Uptown and Carrollton tone down the urban edge with a friendly attitude and collegiate feel. Home to Tulane and Loyola Universities, all the students living in the area ensure that Uptown and Carrollton stay youthful, cosmopolitan and vibrantly fun. Two of the liveliest thoroughfares for nightlife and socializing (and yes of course more of the city’s outstandingly good food and live music) are Oak Street and Maple Street. For a truly wild time, the expansive acreage of Audubon Park, with its zoo, golf course, and actual patches of swampy wetlands, means peace and quiet are never too far away.
See what travelers are saying
  • PopPopEd
    30 contributions
    Habitats and happy animals
    We've visited many zoos across the country. This one is really unique. The variety of animals and quality and creativity of the habitats was spectacular. Mixed in with the landscaping along the walking paths is some phenomenal art, metal sculptures, paintings and bronze life-sized sculptures of animals that are extremely beautiful. This stop is worth the 4 hours and depending on where you are staying in town, take the St. Charles rail trolley. That adds so much to the atmosphere of the trip.
    Hi PopPopEd - Thank you for your feedback! We are glad you enjoyed your visit to Audubon Zoo.
    Written January 6, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited January 2020
    Written January 3, 2020
  • V R
    Salt Lake City, Utah31 contributions
    The Secret of the Star Parking Spots
    This is a world class zoo. And that means crowds, although the zoo is so big you don't feel crowded once you are inside. The parking lot is another story. Recent we visited after Christmas and the parking lot was packed tight except for these star parking spots which charge money. The rest are free. I'm used to paying for parking so after two laps through the parking lot. I went for it. The idea is that part of your parking will benefit be donated to a certain kind of animal. The cost was 8.99 for three hours. Not the $20 I had feared. 3 hours is the minimum for good visit. When I went to add an additional hour later, the cost was 5.50 so I didn't do it. Since these spaces are close it was nice for tired grand children at the end of the day.
    Hi Vicky - Thank you for your feedback! We are glad you enjoyed your visit to Audubon Zoo.
    Written January 18, 2022
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited December 2021
    Written January 15, 2022
  • sabrinak136
    New Orleans, Louisiana685 contributions
    Audubon Zoo+Cool Zoo=Happiness!!!
    I didn’t realize how much I missed Audubon Zoo since our last visit in August 2020 until I arrived at the front gates on today.  It has been such a long year with this pandemic so I was excited as a child would be when I returned to the Audubon Zoo for our first visit in such a long time. Audubon Zoo has embedded in my mind such fond lifelong memories for me as a child growing up in New Orleans. Now all of my new memories revolve around my son who has visited the zoo with me since he was a toddler.  Today, our visit was wonderful and once we entered the zoo it was like old times.  Our second stop was at the fountain with the elephants to take a photo.  It is the second stop for most visitors to the zoo. It is only second to the cute flamingos who are always my first stop. Next, we saw the orangutans and even had a glimpse of the new baby orangutan (such cuteness). We also visited the elephant den; however, we only saw one elephant today. The zoo volunteer had a nice presentation regarding the elephants and the kids enjoyed receiving this information.  Our favorite place to visit was the new lion exhibit.  This exhibit is really nice and the lions are both beautiful and amazing to see.  The kids absolutely loved Monkey Hill.  It is a favorite of most kids because it was originally built in the 1930s to give kids an idea of what a hill looks like in a city that is below sea level and flat. Kids truly enjoy rolling down one of the high points in New Orleans.  I think the best part for kids is playing in the water. Once we completed Monkey Hill it was time to visit the Cool Zoo.  The cost of Cool Zoo is $10.00 for nonmembers and $8.00 for members. The Cool Zoo has a lazy river which kids love,  a variety of sprinklers, and the famous Alligator that releases bunches of water to the anxious kids waiting below. This alligator is a dream come true for children. In addition, there are cabanas that can be rented for nonmembers at a cost of $75.00 and members for $50.00 I believe. Patrons can find tables and umbrellas to sit and enjoy a snack or just a place to watch the kids.  I must admit we had a fun day at the Audubon Zoo.  We even had a great time in the gift shop. It was great to find our way back to one of our happy places in NOLA. Thanks Audubon Institute for being one of the best places in New Orleans for kids to build lifelong memories. I continue to cherish my memories so many years later.
    Hi sabrinak136 - Thank you for your feedback! We are glad you enjoyed your visit to Audubon Zoo.
    Written July 7, 2021
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited July 2021
    Traveled with family
    Written July 4, 2021
  • Missangelcs
    178 contributions
    Sorry excuse for a zoo
    1st they make you purchase tickets online at a certain time to make you think they are controlling the crowd due to covid. You arrive and the parking lots are full and there are people everywhere. It was so packed we were forced to squeeze past people to literary get away from crowds instead of viewing animals. It was WAY to over crowded, strollers and wagons running into you. We choose not to eat or drink but there were very long lines at confession/ gift shop. People had mask on but no one was practicing socially districting. The zoo itself looked sad, lots of dead greenery, tons of closed exhibit, lack of animals in general. They are changing full ticket prices for half the zoo. Plus Packing people in to make money without any disregard for safety. We have been to Zoo's in several other states, Denver being the best, this was very disappointing and quite pitiful.
    Hi Missangelcs - Thank you for your feedback and we apologize for any inconvenience during your visit to Audubon Zoo. We will share your feedback with management.
    Written March 24, 2021
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited March 2021
    Traveled with family
    Written March 21, 2021
  • TheJAllenWalker
    Jacksonville, Florida43 contributions
    One Great Zoo Experience
    Let me take a few moments to set the stage: I’m a Disney Annual Passholder and a Busch Gardens Annual Passholder. I love all things that are remotely like zoos, aquariums, theme parks... You name it, I love it. This was probably one of my favorite zoos that I’ve visited in my travels. It was a nice 80 degrees outside, and because it’s still early March, I was definitely not ready for it. Nevertheless, the staff was personable and helpful. The animals were unusually active for a zoo, I’ve spent many days at the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens trying time see the Jaguar for it to stay hidden in its enclosure. At the Audubon Zoo, the animals were quite visible and mobile. The layout and overall structure of the exhibits were fascinating and well done. There were a lot of fun facts and tidbits around the area that allowed for additional learning. I loved the Disney-esque sculptures and attention to detail in some of the regionally themed areas (Asia, Africa, Etc) Overall, I certainly plan on returning some time VERY soon!
    Hi TheJAllenWalker - Thank you for your feedback! We are glad you enjoyed your visit to Audubon Zoo.
    Written March 16, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited March 2020
    Traveled as a couple
    Written March 13, 2020
  • Whitney U
    Cleveland, Mississippi42 contributions
    We enjoyed it!
    We prepaid for tickets over a week ago and when we got there yesterday, there were a ton of people waiting. We got there early so we were one of the first in there. Most of the walkways are narrow when you add in multiple families with strollers. There were a couple exhibits that it was difficult to see due to other families blocking the view and some panels being out due to replacement, according to the signs. We were able to do the entire zoo in almost 2 1/2 hours, but that was rushing through some parts to make it to the aquarium by our scheduled time. There are still multiple exhibits closed due to Covid, which was a disappointment but we will just have to come back post-Covid. Next time we will a lot a little more time to spend there. The little food place near the fountain was very good and VERY fast. My husband said their chicken sandwich was great! My daughter loved that a peacock was standing right outside the exit door so we got to see it up close. I was a little concerned because there was no keeper nearby and no enclosure so I don’t know how they keep it from being injured by children or keep a watch on it for safety. We were also very disappointed at first because many of the first several exhibits we saw, there were no animals in the exhibits and no sign saying why or anything. It was so many at first that I told my husband if the rest of the zoo was like that, I was asking for a refund. After we saw the elephant, it wasn’t much of an issue. Also, there is a levee in the park behind the zoo so we were able to walk around there while waiting on the zoo to open! Rating it a 4 due to the lack of animals in some of the exhibits in the beginning with no explanation (I’m not referring to the Covid related closures) and since it was difficult to see some of the animals due to paneling being covered/crowds.
    Hi whitneyu2018 - Thank you for your feedback and we apologize for any inconvenience during your visit to Audubon Zoo.
    Written March 31, 2021
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited March 2021
    Traveled with family
    Written March 28, 2021
  • K. T
    New Orleans, Louisiana1,346 contributions
    Bigger than it appears
    I took my crew along with my nieces,nephews and a friend of my son. We visited on a Saturday afternoon. There is ample parking however keep it mind that the zoo becomes very crowded on the weekend making parking difficult. Price affordable however if you are New Orleans resident you can obtain a culture pass and visit for free. The zoo is bigger than you think. Wear comfortable shoes. There is a reptile section, there are a number of gift shops,there are restaurants for you to grab a bite to eat . There was also a sno cone truck which came in handy due to NOLA humid weather. Typical zoo animals only thing special to me was the albino alligator. Overall great visit kids loved it .
    Hi 1stpriority - Thank you for your feedback! We are glad you enjoyed your visit to Audubon Zoo.
    Written May 10, 2022
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited May 2022
    Traveled with family
    Written May 9, 2022
  • theironman2020
    Oxford, Mississippi3 contributions
    Audubon Zoo
    We went to the Audubon Zoo on a Friday morning and was there for around 3 and half to 4 hours. And I’ve got to say.. This was one of the best zoos I’ve been to. The animals were very active, and the scenery was beautiful. I also really liked how they had such a large section dedicated to the swamp since we were in Louisiana. I look forward to going back next time in the area!
    Hi theironman2020 - Thank you for your feedback! We are glad you enjoyed your visit to Audubon Zoo.
    Written March 18, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited March 2020
    Traveled with friends
    Written March 17, 2020
  • Patricia G
    Arlington, Virginia21 contributions
    Beautiful day at the zoo
    We went to the zoo today, having bought timed tickets last night. There was no crowd at the gate to get in at 1pm. I had last been there about 30 years ago (we live in Virginia) and really enjoyed it. Not everything is open, but we spent 3 1/2 hours there and didn’t see everything. Everyone was supposed to be wearing a mask and most people were. I especially appreciated the zoo employees who were gently reminding people who weren’t complying.
    Hi PatriciaG729 - Thank you for your feedback! We are glad you enjoyed your visit to Audubon Zoo.
    Written November 13, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited November 2020
    Written November 1, 2020
  • wendy L
    Evanston, Illinois498 contributions
    Best Natural Environment Zoo
    I love animals, and have visited many zoos, but always feel conflicted about the environment in many facilities. Although I believe most zoos truly care for their animals it sometimes pains me to see them in small enclosures where they do not have much room to roam. The Audubon Zoo, however, is one of the few I've seen where space is abundant for most of the animals, at the expense of having fewer species on display. This means that even though they house fewer animals, the ones they do have are living in more spacious, natural enclosures. Overall, it is less walking through glassed-in structures, and more exploring the outdoors. Natural outdoor display areas are around every corner, and animals seem playful and look healthy. Audubon's jewel in the crown is "the Swamp", a very large outdoor exhibit area with a wooden walkway over a swamp which houses otters, gators, bears, raccoons and the like (snakes are enclosed!) It is so well done, and has a real charm about it. Spend a day with the family, and feel good about doing it!
    Hi wendyl901 - Thank you for your feedback! We are glad you enjoyed your visit to Audubon Zoo.
    Written January 3, 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited December 2019
    Written January 1, 2020
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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4.5
2,933 reviews
Excellent
1,756
Very good
791
Average
286
Poor
73
Terrible
27

Missangelcs
178 contributions
Mar 2021 • Family
1st they make you purchase tickets online at a certain time to make you think they are controlling the crowd due to covid. You arrive and the parking lots are full and there are people everywhere. It was so packed we were forced to squeeze past people to literary get away from crowds instead of viewing animals. It was WAY to over crowded, strollers and wagons running into you. We choose not to eat or drink but there were very long lines at confession/ gift shop. People had mask on but no one was practicing socially districting. The zoo itself looked sad, lots of dead greenery, tons of closed exhibit, lack of animals in general. They are changing full ticket prices for half the zoo. Plus Packing people in to make money without any disregard for safety. We have been to Zoo's in several other states, Denver being the best, this was very disappointing and quite pitiful.
Written March 21, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Missangelcs - Thank you for your feedback and we apologize for any inconvenience during your visit to Audubon Zoo. We will share your feedback with management.
Written March 24, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

TheJAllenWalker
Jacksonville, FL43 contributions
Mar 2020 • Couples
Let me take a few moments to set the stage: I’m a Disney Annual Passholder and a Busch Gardens Annual Passholder. I love all things that are remotely like zoos, aquariums, theme parks... You name it, I love it.

This was probably one of my favorite zoos that I’ve visited in my travels. It was a nice 80 degrees outside, and because it’s still early March, I was definitely not ready for it.

Nevertheless, the staff was personable and helpful. The animals were unusually active for a zoo, I’ve spent many days at the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens trying time see the Jaguar for it to stay hidden in its enclosure. At the Audubon Zoo, the animals were quite visible and mobile.

The layout and overall structure of the exhibits were fascinating and well done. There were a lot of fun facts and tidbits around the area that allowed for additional learning.

I loved the Disney-esque sculptures and attention to detail in some of the regionally themed areas (Asia, Africa, Etc)

Overall, I certainly plan on returning some time VERY soon!
Written March 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi TheJAllenWalker - Thank you for your feedback! We are glad you enjoyed your visit to Audubon Zoo.
Written March 16, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Whitney U
Cleveland, MS42 contributions
Mar 2021 • Family
We prepaid for tickets over a week ago and when we got there yesterday, there were a ton of people waiting. We got there early so we were one of the first in there. Most of the walkways are narrow when you add in multiple families with strollers. There were a couple exhibits that it was difficult to see due to other families blocking the view and some panels being out due to replacement, according to the signs. We were able to do the entire zoo in almost 2 1/2 hours, but that was rushing through some parts to make it to the aquarium by our scheduled time. There are still multiple exhibits closed due to Covid, which was a disappointment but we will just have to come back post-Covid. Next time we will a lot a little more time to spend there. The little food place near the fountain was very good and VERY fast. My husband said their chicken sandwich was great! My daughter loved that a peacock was standing right outside the exit door so we got to see it up close. I was a little concerned because there was no keeper nearby and no enclosure so I don’t know how they keep it from being injured by children or keep a watch on it for safety. We were also very disappointed at first because many of the first several exhibits we saw, there were no animals in the exhibits and no sign saying why or anything. It was so many at first that I told my husband if the rest of the zoo was like that, I was asking for a refund. After we saw the elephant, it wasn’t much of an issue. Also, there is a levee in the park behind the zoo so we were able to walk around there while waiting on the zoo to open! Rating it a 4 due to the lack of animals in some of the exhibits in the beginning with no explanation (I’m not referring to the Covid related closures) and since it was difficult to see some of the animals due to paneling being covered/crowds.
Written March 28, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi whitneyu2018 - Thank you for your feedback and we apologize for any inconvenience during your visit to Audubon Zoo.
Written March 31, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

K. T
New Orleans, LA1,346 contributions
May 2022 • Family
I took my crew along with my nieces,nephews and a friend of my son. We visited on a Saturday afternoon. There is ample parking however keep it mind that the zoo becomes very crowded on the weekend making parking difficult.

Price affordable however if you are New Orleans resident you can obtain a culture pass and visit for free.

The zoo is bigger than you think. Wear comfortable shoes. There is a reptile section, there are a number of gift shops,there are restaurants for you to grab a bite to eat .

There was also a sno cone truck which came in handy due to NOLA humid weather.

Typical zoo animals only thing special to me was the albino alligator.

Overall great visit kids loved it .
Written May 9, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi 1stpriority - Thank you for your feedback! We are glad you enjoyed your visit to Audubon Zoo.
Written May 10, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

theironman2020
Oxford, MS3 contributions
Mar 2020 • Friends
We went to the Audubon Zoo on a Friday morning and was there for around 3 and half to 4 hours. And I’ve got to say.. This was one of the best zoos I’ve been to. The animals were very active, and the scenery was beautiful. I also really liked how they had such a large section dedicated to the swamp since we were in Louisiana. I look forward to going back next time in the area!
Written March 17, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi theironman2020 - Thank you for your feedback! We are glad you enjoyed your visit to Audubon Zoo.
Written March 18, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Patricia G
Arlington, VA21 contributions
Nov 2020
We went to the zoo today, having bought timed tickets last night. There was no crowd at the gate to get in at 1pm. I had last been there about 30 years ago (we live in Virginia) and really enjoyed it. Not everything is open, but we spent 3 1/2 hours there and didn’t see everything. Everyone was supposed to be wearing a mask and most people were. I especially appreciated the zoo employees who were gently reminding people who weren’t complying.
Written November 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi PatriciaG729 - Thank you for your feedback! We are glad you enjoyed your visit to Audubon Zoo.
Written November 13, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

wendy L
Evanston, IL498 contributions
Dec 2019
I love animals, and have visited many zoos, but always feel conflicted about the environment in many facilities. Although I believe most zoos truly care for their animals it sometimes pains me to see them in small enclosures where they do not have much room to roam. The Audubon Zoo, however, is one of the few I've seen where space is abundant for most of the animals, at the expense of having fewer species on display. This means that even though they house fewer animals, the ones they do have are living in more spacious, natural enclosures. Overall, it is less walking through glassed-in structures, and more exploring the outdoors. Natural outdoor display areas are around every corner, and animals seem playful and look healthy. Audubon's jewel in the crown is "the Swamp", a very large outdoor exhibit area with a wooden walkway over a swamp which houses otters, gators, bears, raccoons and the like (snakes are enclosed!) It is so well done, and has a real charm about it. Spend a day with the family, and feel good about doing it!
Written January 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi wendyl901 - Thank you for your feedback! We are glad you enjoyed your visit to Audubon Zoo.
Written January 3, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Mommaof5kiddos
Elgin, IL195 contributions
Mar 2022
I would view us as zoo people as we tend to visit them in all the areas we stay in on vacation. This was priced comparably and was nicely laid out. I was irritated by the lack of food available throughout the zoo. The only restaurant open had such a long line. The animals seemed healthy and the grounds were clean.
Written April 3, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Mommaof5kiddos - Thank you for your feedback! We are glad you enjoyed your visit to Audubon Zoo.
Written April 5, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Navigate170353
1 contribution
Aug 2022
Just returned from an afternoon at the zoo. I don’t usually go to zoos as I don’t like the way the animals are treated, but a friend said that this was a good zoo. It was just ok. The area is beautiful, and clean. But it looked a bit neglected. Animals were pacing in boredom (wild spotted dogs, the big cats for example), some cages looked under sized. Exhibits were closed, water park was closed, concessions were closed, yet we had to pay full price. It was a bit sad.
Written August 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Lynn S
1 contribution
Mar 2021 • Family
This zoo has the potential to be fabulous!!!! We went last week March 24. They have a lot of good animals and the exhibits are very well laid out to mimic the animals natural environment. The staff was very helpful. Several parts were closed and the grounds appeared to be unkept. I assume it is because of lack of funding due to recent Covid shut downs- not sure. I would LOVE to go back when they are operating at full capacity and the mask is not mandated.
Written March 25, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi lynnsD9285ZK - Thank you for your feedback and we apologize for any inconvenience during your visit to Audubon Zoo.
Written March 31, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

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Audubon Zoo (New Orleans) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Frequently Asked Questions about Audubon Zoo

Audubon Zoo is open:
  • Wed - Fri 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
  • Sat - Sun 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM



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