Aquarium of the Americas photo
AquariumLouisiana, US

Aquarium of the Americas

Step into an aquatic wonderland at the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, a captivating destination nestled on the banks of the Mississippi River in the vibrant heart of New Orleans.

About

Step into an aquatic wonderland at the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, a captivating destination nestled on the banks of the Mississippi River in the vibrant heart of New Orleans. This world-class aquarium invites visitors on an immersive journey through the diverse aquatic ecosystems of North, Central, and South America, showcasing thousands of fascinating creatures from the Caribbean, Amazon Rainforest, Gulf of Mexico, and the mighty Mississippi River itself. It's a place where education meets excitement, offering an unforgettable experience for all ages.The visitor experience is designed to be interactive and awe-inspiring.

Imagine walking through the 30-foot-long underwater tunnel of the Caribbean Reef, where colorful angelfish, graceful stingrays, and elusive moray eels glide above and around you, recreating the sensation of diving into a vibrant coral city. Further exploration leads you to the impressive Gulf of Mexico exhibit, a 400,000-gallon tank featuring a ¼-scale replica of an offshore oil rig, home to majestic sharks, schooling fish, and a beloved green sea turtle named King Mydas.Beyond the ocean depths, journey into the lush, climate-controlled Amazon Rainforest exhibit, a glass-encased cylinder that transports you to a verdant world where free-flying birds soar amidst exotic plants. Here, you can encounter formidable piranhas, gentle pacu fish, and even an anaconda, alongside freshwater stingrays, offering a unique glimpse into this biodiverse region.

Don't miss the playful antics of the African Penguins and Southern Sea Otters, or the mesmerizing grace of the seahorses and jellyfish. The Aquarium's commitment to conservation is evident throughout, making every visit an opportunity to learn about protecting these incredible species and their habitats. Don't forget to bring the Snappit nature identification app along to scan local species.

The Audubon Aquarium of the Americas first opened its doors on September 1, 1990, as a pivotal part of a broader initiative to revitalize the New Orleans downtown riverfront and provide public access to the Mississippi River. Conceived by the Audubon Nature Institute, the facility quickly gained recognition, attracting an impressive 13,623 visitors on its opening day, a record for any U.S. aquarium at the time.The Aquarium faced a significant challenge during Hurricane Katrina in 2005, which caused substantial damage and led to the tragic loss of many animals. However, it demonstrated remarkable resilience, reopening in May 2006, symbolizing the city's recovery efforts. In a recent development, the Aquarium underwent a major $41 million renovation and reopened in summer 2023, now housing the Audubon Insectarium under the same roof, enhancing its diverse offerings.

What to do here

Walk through stunning underwater tunnels, marvel at diverse marine life, watch daily diver shows in the Caribbean Reef, and observe scheduled feedings of penguins and sea otters. You can also interact with marine life at touch pools, such as the Shark Discovery touchpool, which features various shark and ray species.

Seasonal info

The Audubon Aquarium of the Americas operates year-round. While there are no specific seasonal animal activities mentioned, it offers a climate-controlled environment, making it a great destination regardless of New Orleans' weather.

Accessibility

The Aquarium is fully wheelchair accessible, with all entrances, exhibits, restrooms, and elevators designed to accommodate guests with disabilities. Wheelchairs are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis at the entrance.

Don't miss

1

immersive Caribbean Reef walk-through tunnel

2

expansive Gulf of Mexico exhibit with its sharks and the green sea turtle

3

vibrant Amazon Rainforest

4

Penguin and Sea Otter habitats

Wildlife you might spot

12

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

Loading map…

Good to know before you go

Purchase Tickets Online in Advance

To save time and avoid potential lines, especially during peak seasons, it is highly recommended to buy your tickets online before your visit. This often ensures your entry window.

Arrive Early

Visiting right when the Aquarium opens at 10 AM, particularly on a weekday, can help you avoid larger crowds and allow for a more peaceful viewing experience.

Consider Combo Tickets

If you're interested in seeing more, look into combo tickets that include admission to the Audubon Zoo or the Audubon Insectarium (now co-located with the Aquarium) for cost savings.

Check for Feeding Schedules and Shows

Consult the daily schedule upon arrival or on the Aquarium's website for feeding times, diver presentations, and other interactive shows to enhance your visit.

Utilize Public Transportation

The Aquarium is easily accessible via New Orleans' public transportation, including the Riverfront Tram Line and Canal Street Tram Line, which can be a convenient alternative to driving and parking.

Photography is Welcome

Feel free to bring your camera, as photography, including flash photography, is generally allowed throughout the Aquarium to capture your memories.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas is fully wheelchair accessible, including all entrances, exhibits, restrooms, and elevators. Wheelchairs are also available for rent at the entrance on a first-come, first-served basis.
Most visitors find that 2 to 3 hours is sufficient to explore all the main exhibits at a relaxed pace. If you plan to also visit the Audubon Insectarium (located in the same building) or take part in special animal encounters or feedings, you should set aside approximately 4 to 5 hours.
The Aquarium does not have its own dedicated parking lot. However, there are multiple public parking garages and lots available nearby, particularly around the Canal Place Mall. Some of these offer discounted rates if you get your parking ticket validated at the Aquarium's guest services.

Recent snaps at this place

View all