What are the Audubon Zoo's hours of operation?

The Audubon Zoo is generally open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., though hours can vary by season and on holidays. It's always best to check their official website for the most current schedule before your visit.

Is Audubon Zoo wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the Audubon Zoo is wheelchair accessible, featuring paved paths throughout the park. Wheelchairs are also available for rent to ensure all visitors can comfortably enjoy the exhibits.

Can visitors bring outside food and drinks into the Audubon Zoo?

Yes, outside food and drinks are permitted at the Audubon Zoo. Coolers, backpacks, or suitcases are allowed, but they must not be larger than 28-quart size and are limited to one per family. Glass containers, disposable straws, and lids are not allowed for the safety of the animals. Alcohol is also prohibited.

ZooLouisiana, US

Audubon Zoo

Nestled within the historic Audubon Park in Uptown New Orleans, the Audubon Zoo offers a vibrant and immersive escape into the animal kingdom.

Open in Maps

About

Nestled within the historic Audubon Park in Uptown New Orleans, the Audubon Zoo offers a vibrant and immersive escape into the animal kingdom. Spanning 58 acres, this top-ranked zoo is home to over 2,000 animals representing more than 350 species from around the globe, all showcased in thoughtfully designed natural habitats. As you wander beneath a canopy of 200-year-old live oak trees, you'll encounter diverse "worlds" that transport you from the steamy Louisiana swamps to the dense Jaguar Jungle and the vast African Savanna. The visitor experience is both engaging and educational, designed to captivate guests of all ages.

Interactive elements, daily animal presentations, and opportunities for hands-on animal encounters bring wildlife conservation to life. Explore the award-winning Louisiana Swamp exhibit, where you can observe native wildlife such as alligators, including rare white alligators, and black bears in a beautifully recreated wetland environment. Journey through the Mayan-themed Jaguar Jungle to marvel at powerful jaguars and colorful macaws, or witness the majestic giraffes and rhinos roaming the African Savanna.

The Audubon Zoo is more than just a collection of animals; it's an experience that blends entertainment with a strong commitment to conservation. It's consistently voted one of the top zoos in the country, thanks to its innovative exhibits and dedication to the well-being of its residents, including endangered species like Amur leopards and Sumatran orangutans. Whether you're watching the playful antics of capybaras, learning about primates in the World of Primates exhibit, or cooling off at the seasonal Cool Zoo water park, a visit here promises a memorable day filled with discovery and appreciation for the natural world. Planning to visit? Download the Snappit app to identify the wildlife you spot in real-time.

The Audubon Zoo's origins trace back to the 1884 World Cotton Centennial Exposition, which featured animal exhibits on the site of what would become Audubon Park. While the modern zoo began taking shape around 1914, its heritage is deeply rooted in the land's history, once part of Etienne de Bore's sugar plantation. Funds for a proper zoological garden were raised starting in 1919, and in the 1930s, the Works Progress Administration funded a significant expansion and renovation, including the creation of "Monkey Hill." By the 1950s, the zoo had declined, but a visionary plan in 1973 by Ron Forman led to a revitalization. This transformation expanded the zoo to its current size and shifted its focus to expansive natural habitats. This pivotal period saw the introduction of many of its current signature exhibits, solidifying its reputation as a leading institution in wildlife conservation and education.

What to do here

Don't miss the daily animal presentations, chats, and feeding times for a closer look at the animals and insights from zookeepers. Consider riding the Swamp Train for a narrated tour of the zoo's exhibits. The Gottesman Family Endangered Species Carousel is also a fun ride.

Seasonal info

The Cool Zoo water park is typically open during the summer months. The zoo also hosts special events throughout the year, such as "Boo at the Zoo." Weather can be hot, so plan accordingly by staying hydrated.

Accessibility

The Audubon Zoo is wheelchair accessible with paved trails, and a limited number of wheelchairs are available for rent. Service animals are also allowed.

Don't miss

Louisiana Swamp

An award-winning exhibit showcasing native wildlife like alligators (including mysterious white alligators), black bears, and raccoons in a natural wetland setting.

Jaguar Jungle

A Mayan-themed area home to jaguars, giant anteaters, ocelots, and various primates, with a special night-time "Criaturas de la Noche" exhibit for nocturnal animals.

African Savanna

Observe giraffes, rhinos, lions, African wild dogs, and various African birds in expansive habitats.

World of Primates

Features a diverse collection of primates, including western lowland gorillas, mandrills, and orangutans.

Wildlife you might spot

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

African Lion

Giraffes

Tiger

Cougar

Jaguar

Emu

Capybara

Bobcat

Asian Elephant

White Rhinoceros

American Alligator

American Flamingo

Tiger

North American River Otter

Wildebeest

Sea Lion

Red Tailed Hawk

Babirusa

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

Arrive early

Beat the crowds and the heat by arriving right when the zoo opens. This also gives you more time to explore.

Stay hydrated

Especially during warmer months, bring your own bottled water. While food venues offer free Wi-Fi and places to rest, having water on hand is crucial.

Consider combination tickets

If you plan to visit other Audubon Nature Institute attractions like the Aquarium or Insectarium, purchasing a combo ticket can offer significant savings.

Utilize the Swamp Train (if operating)

The Swamp Train provides a narrated tour and can be a great way to rest tired feet while still seeing key areas of the zoo. Check for its operating status.

Plan your route

The zoo is expansive, covering 58 acres. Grab a map at the entrance or online to prioritize the exhibits you most want to see and plan an efficient route.

Free Parking

Enjoy free parking in the zoo's private lot, making arrival convenient for those driving.

Frequently asked questions

: The Audubon Zoo is generally open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., though hours can vary by season and on holidays. It's always best to check their official website for the most current schedule before your visit.
: Yes, the Audubon Zoo is wheelchair accessible, featuring paved paths throughout the park. Wheelchairs are also available for rent to ensure all visitors can comfortably enjoy the exhibits.
: Yes, outside food and drinks are permitted at the Audubon Zoo. Coolers, backpacks, or suitcases are allowed, but they must not be larger than 28-quart size and are limited to one per family. Glass containers, disposable straws, and lids are not allowed for the safety of the animals. Alcohol is also prohibited.