Audubon Aquarium and Insectarium

Hello all!

This is Grant from Coast N Tiki, here to talk to you all about our experience in New Orleans' Audubon Aquarium and Insectarium! This attraction, compared to other aquariums, was different in the sense that it already came bundled with the insectarium showcase as well, so let's dive in!

The aquarium is located on the Mississippi River near the French Quarter. According to their website at https://audubonnatureinstitute.org/aquarium, it is voted as one of the most exciting things to do in New Orleans. We got the opportunity to visit it on our trip there, and while I feel like there could be a little more substance to the attraction, it is very worthwhile.

You enter the insectarium, and within it are exhibits and facts about different kinds of insects and what they do for Earth. Like a normal exhibit, it is very much at your own pace, and they all have different styles of ways to represent their facts. Some have games, others have interactive objects. There is a lot of open space in there, some of which honestly could be taken up by more content, but it was relaxing and educational.

Next, you walk through the butterfly sanctuary. They check you as you enter and leave for butterflies, to protect them from outside elements. The sanctuary is beautiful, calming, and humid. It really feels like a habitat for the butterflies and a way for those who need the protection to have it while still providing context about their importance, and a unique experience to guests. It is also the gateway to the aquarium section as well.

The aquarium feels like a traditional one, but with a lot of different environments and regions represented. From penguins to crocodiles, there is a range of animals, taken care of by a dedicated team of staff that was even working while we passed by. The lighting in the different areas felt very unique too, almost like you were in their own habitats with that and the humidity or lack thereof. Finally, the trip ends and you leave through the gift shop.

The tickets start at around $45 for adults and $40 for children and seniors. It is overall a fantastic experience, even if it's a little short-lived, and we highly recommend going to the Audubon Aquarium and Insectarium if you are in New Orleans! Also, visit the French Quarter, which is close by, as well!

How We Rate It: Destination Experience: 4.5/5 Tikis

Parking: 4/5 Tikis (New Orleans parking is complicated by itself, no fault to the facility. Just be prepared to walk to it from a parking garage or parking lot.)

The Value: 4.5/5 Tikis

Accommodation for Special Needs: 4/5 Tikis

Images:

Penguins getting ready to be fed by an employee, its adorable!

A butterfly in the sanctuary. Note how the surrounding nature looks as well.

The (maybe too) spacious interior of the insectarium, with the educational value around you!

We have many images of the aquarium, but this one with its lighting stood out the most. It's beautiful and atmospheric!

Thank you for reading!

We have more experiences within New Orleans to share in the future, but for now, this is Grant, signing off!

As Always Keep On Coast’N’