New Orleans: Audubon Zoo Ticket and Combination Option

Visiting the Audubon Zoo in New Orleans offers a chance to see more than 1,700 animals across vibrant natural habitats, all within a sprawling 50-acre site. Whether you’re traveling with family, wildlife enthusiasts, or just looking for a fun and educational outing, this zoo ranks as a top attraction in Louisiana. The ticket options, especially with combine-access to the aquarium and insectarium, give you a flexible way to explore multiple facets of Louisiana’s wildlife and ecosystems at your own pace.

What sets this experience apart is the quality of exhibits and the effort to showcase endangered species like the whooping crane, Amur leopard, and Sumatran orangutans. Plus, the daily animal care demonstrations add an educational touch that keeps visitors engaged. Our favorite aspect? The stunning views at Monkey Hill and Jaguar Jungle—not just for the animals but for the well-designed, immersive habitats that feel like stepping into a different world.

That said, one thing to consider is that the ticket price of $39 per person might seem a tad steep if you’re not planning to upgrade to the combo tickets for the aquarium or insectarium. Still, the overall value is quite high when you factor in the quality of exhibits and the chance to see rare species. This tour suits travelers who appreciate wildlife, family outings, or those wanting a flexible exploration that can match a 1-5 day window.

Key Points

• Flexible Duration: Valid for 1 to 5 days, giving you plenty of time to plan your visit.
• Combo Options Save Money: Access to Aquarium and Insectarium can be added for enhanced experiences.
• Educational Touch: Daily animal care demonstrations enrich your visit with insights about the animals.
• Kid-Friendly: The zoo’s interactive exhibits, like Monkey Hill and Watoto Farm, appeal to children and families alike.
• Endangered Species Focus: Opportunity to see rare animals such as the whooping crane and Sumatran orangutans.
• Accessibility & Convenience: Skip-the-line tickets and wheelchair accessibility make the visit smoother.

A Closer Look at the Audubon Zoo Experience

What to Expect When You Arrive

Upon entering the Audubon Zoo, you’re greeted by a lush, expansive setting that immediately feels like a escape into nature. The ticket grants you entry to a place where natural habitats are thoughtfully recreated. The zoo spans over 50 acres, so wear comfortable shoes and prepare for a fair amount of walking.

The zoo’s main highlights include incredible animal habitats like the Louisiana Swamp, Jaguar Jungle, and Monkey Hill. Each of these exhibits is designed to mimic the animals’ natural environments, offering an immersive experience that’s both educational and entertaining.

The Endangered and Iconic Animals

One of the most praised features is the chance to see endangered species up close, such as the whooping crane, a bird often called the “rarest of the cranes,” and the sleek, elusive Amur leopard. The Sumatran orangutans are a particular highlight, especially with orangutan babies born at the zoo, making for heartwarming viewing.

The African lion habitat is another crowd favorite, offering breathtaking views of the pride—three females and a male—through thoughtfully designed enclosures that keep the animals comfortable while allowing visitors close enough to appreciate their majesty.

Interactive and Educational Features

The zoo doesn’t just display animals; it’s committed to education and awareness. Throughout your visit, you’ll find daily animal care demonstrations—these are led by knowledgeable staff who share interesting facts about the animals and conservation efforts. Reviewers like Juan noted how the demonstrations added depth to their visit, making it both fun and informative.

The Unique Sections

• Monkey Hill: A multi-level treehouse that lets visitors observe monkeys in a tall, forest-like setting. Its design creates a sense of adventure and offers excellent photo opportunities.
• Jaguar Jungle: Set in a lush, tropical environment, this area includes a prehistoric-inspired archeological dig for kids, spider monkeys, ocelots, and a jaguar. It’s a favorite for its authenticity.
• Louisiana Swamp: This urban swamp exhibit displays animals like black bears, foxes, and white alligators, giving insight into the local ecosystem. Travelers like Shannon appreciated the cleanliness and shade provided by the many large trees.

The Optional Combo Access

By opting for the combo tickets, you can extend your Louisiana wildlife journey to include the Audubon Aquarium and Insectarium. The aquarium is particularly well-regarded for its diverse marine life, while the Insectarium offers fascinating insights into the insect world, making it ideal for curious minds.

You have up to 3 days from your scheduled ticket date to visit the aquarium and/or insectarium if you purchase the combined ticket, adding flexibility to your trip planning.

How the Pricing Stacks Up

At $39 per person for a ticket, the zoo offers solid value, especially if you upgrade to bundle access with the aquarium or insectarium. Considering the quality of exhibits, the opportunity to see rare species, and the educational activities, many review this as a worthwhile expense. The ability to skip lines and access the attractions smoothly enhances the experience, especially during peak times.

For families or wildlife lovers, the overall cost-per-enjoyment ratio is quite favorable. Plus, children under 2 enter free, making it easier for families to budget.

What Reviewers Say

Juan mentions that his teenagers found the zoo “great for the teenagers,” highlighting its engaging exhibits and the variety of animals. Shannon appreciated the park’s cleanliness and the shading provided by its large trees, which is vital on hot days. Felix E., despite the cold and windy weather, still found the visit enjoyable—showing that the zoo’s attractions can shine even in less-than-perfect conditions.

Practical Tips for Visiting

• Arrive early: The zoo opens at 10:00 AM, and last entry is at 4:30 PM, so plan to get there shortly after opening.
• Wear comfortable shoes: The sprawling layout means lots of walking.
• Plan for the weather: Louisiana can be hot and humid, but in winter, it can also be quite chilly—dress accordingly.
• Upgrade if possible: The combo tickets add significant value, especially if you’re planning to visit the aquarium or insectarium.
• Check the schedule: Animal care demonstrations are scheduled daily, so ask staff or check the map for times.

The Audubon Zoo in New Orleans delivers a well-rounded wildlife experience that balances beautiful, naturalistic exhibits with an educational focus. It’s an ideal stop for families, animal lovers, or anyone interested in exploring Louisiana’s native and endangered species in a thoughtfully designed setting. The option to combine the zoo visit with the aquarium and insectarium makes it versatile and worth considering for a multi-day wildlife adventure.

While the entrance fee might seem moderate, the quality of the habitats, the chance to see rare animals, and the engaging demonstrations justify the cost. Plus, the skip-the-line advantage helps you maximize your time, especially during busy seasons.

If you’re looking for a fun, informative way to spend a day or more in New Orleans that offers both entertainment and insight into conservation efforts, this experience will serve you well. The thoughtful layout, beautiful settings, and dedicated staff make it a worthwhile addition to your Louisiana itinerary.

This zoo is perfect for families with kids, wildlife enthusiasts, and conservation-minded travelers. If you enjoy close-up views of animals in realistic habitats, want to learn from knowledgeable guides, or simply love discovering endangered species, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. The flexibility of the ticket options makes it suitable for short visits or extended explorations over several days.

For those who appreciate stunning views and well-maintained grounds, and want a break from the city’s hustle, the Audubon Zoo provides a calming yet fascinating journey into the animal world. Just remember to wear comfy shoes and prepare for a day full of awe-inspiring sights.

FAQ

Can I visit the zoo multiple times within the ticket validity period?
Yes, if you purchase a combo ticket, you have 3 days from your scheduled date to visit the aquarium and/or insectarium, allowing flexible planning.

Are children under 2 allowed free entry?
Yes, children under 2 may access the zoo for free, making it an affordable outing for families.

What are the zoo’s opening hours?
All Audubon attractions are open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry 30 minutes before closing.

Is the ticket I buy valid for a single entry?
Yes, tickets (not part of combo deals) are valid for one entry on your specified date. Combo tickets can be redeemed over multiple days within the allowed time frame.

Can I buy tickets on the day of my visit?
While same-day purchase is possible, pre-booking ensures skip-the-line access and availability, especially during busy seasons.

Is the zoo wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the zoo is wheelchair accessible, and the skip-the-line tickets help facilitate easier access for all visitors.

Are there food and drinks available inside?
Food and drinks are not included, and outside food is not allowed inside. Expect to find dining options nearby or plan to bring snacks.

What should I wear for the visit?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to the large area, and dress according to the weather, as Louisiana can be hot, humid, or chilly depending on the season.