New Orleans: Audubon Zoo Ticket and Combination Option

If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans and want to include some family-friendly, wildlife-filled fun, the Audubon Zoo is a top contender. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a very appealing picture for visitors eager to see rare animals in beautifully crafted habitats. The $39 ticket offers great value, especially when combined with access to the Aquarium and Insectarium, making it a flexible, full-day adventure for nature lovers.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see impressive animals like endangered whooping cranes, Amur leopards, and Sumatran orangutans — animals that are not easy to spot elsewhere. The zoo’s award-winning exhibits are designed to mimic natural environments, which makes viewing much more engaging and educational. The daily animal care demonstrations give a behind-the-scenes feel that adds depth to the visit. One potential consideration is the size of the zoo—covering over 50 acres—so comfortable footwear and planning your route is recommended. This experience suits families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a relaxed yet informative day in a lush setting.

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Key Points

Wide Variety of Animals: Over 1,700 animals across 350 species.
Excellent Value: Entry includes the zoo and optional combo tickets for the aquarium and insectarium.
Engaging Exhibits: From the Louisiana Swamp to Monkey Hill, each habitat offers something different.
Educational Experience: Daily demonstrations enhance understanding of animal care and conservation.
Accessibility Options: The tour is wheelchair accessible and flexible for 1-5 days.
Authentic Encounters: Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides and stunning views.

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An In-Depth Look at the Audubon Zoo Experience

The Audubon Zoo spans over 50 acres of beautifully maintained grounds. It’s a place where you can wander through various thematic environments, each designed to reflect the animals’ natural habitats. The ticket grants you a skip-the-line entry, which means less waiting and more time exploring the exhibits. If you opt for the combination tickets, you’ll get access to the Aquarium and Insectarium, adding layers of immersive experiences that are well worth the extra cost.

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The Animal Exhibits That Wow

One of the standout features of the zoo is the African lion habitat. Visitors frequently mention how close they can get to the lions, with some describing it as “breathtaking.” You might find yourself just a few feet away from these majestic creatures, which makes for memorable photos. The Sumatran orangutan habitat is equally impressive, especially since the zoo has successfully bred orangutan babies. As one reviewer noted, “It was great to see the baby orangutans and learn about their care.” These animals are kept in environments that replicate their native rainforests, making observation both easy and educational.

The Monkey Hill stands out with its 5-level treehouse, giving visitors a bird’s-eye view of the playful primates. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike. Elsewhere, the Jaguar Jungle transports visitors to Central America, complete with an archaeological dig site and a bat house. Animal encounters like these are what make the visit engaging beyond just looking at animals—they’re stories you can tell later.

Unique and Educational Exhibits

The Louisiana Swamp exhibit deserves a special mention. It claims to be the world’s only urban swamp, featuring animals native to South Louisiana such as black bears, bobcats, foxes, and the white alligator. Reviewers love this section, often mentioning how it offers a chance to see local wildlife that they might otherwise miss, all in a simulated swamp setting.

The Watoto Farm is a hands-on experience where visitors can interact with domestic animals like sheep and goats, while also learning about sustainable agricultural practices. It’s a fun, educational stop that appeals to children and adults who want to understand local farming efforts.

The Combo Experience: Aquarium & Insectarium

Upgrade options allow you to visit additional attractions. The Audubon Aquarium promises an immersive underwater world, with its reputation for knowledgeable guides enhancing the experience. The Insectarium offers a fascinating look at bugs and insects, making it a hit with those interested in the tiny creatures that make up so much of our ecosystem.

The combo tickets are flexible, giving you 3 to 5 days to visit the additional attractions after your initial zoo visit, which is perfect if you want to plan your day loosely or take your time exploring. Reviewers mention that the skip-the-line feature at these attractions saves valuable time, especially during busy periods.

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Practical Information for Visitors

The ticket prices are quite reasonable considering the size and variety of the attractions. For $39 per person, you get access to a vast outdoor zoo with over 1,700 animals. The experience is suitable for families, groups, or solo travelers interested in wildlife, with wheelchair accessibility ensuring everyone can enjoy the exhibits comfortably.

Opening hours are from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry half an hour before closing. The tickets are valid for 1 to 5 days, offering flexibility for travelers with busy schedules or those doing multiple attractions.

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What to Expect on the Day

Once inside, you’re encouraged to attend daily animal care demonstrations—these are typically led by knowledgeable staff who share interesting facts and stories. These short talks are useful, especially for families wanting to keep kids engaged and learning.

As one reviewer mentions, “Even on a cold, windy day, we still enjoyed the trip,” highlighting that the zoo offers enjoyable experiences regardless of weather, thanks to shaded pathways and indoor exhibits.

Tips to Enhance Your Visit

Wear comfortable shoes; the zoo’s expansive layout means a fair amount of walking.
Plan your route around the exhibits you’re most excited about—viewer favorites include the lion habitat, Monkey Hill, and Louisiana Swamp.
Take advantage of the skip-the-line tickets if you’re visiting during peak times.
If combining with other attractions, remember you have up to 3 or 5 days to visit the aquarium and insectarium, giving you flexibility.

Why the Audubon Zoo Stands Out

The authenticity of the natural habitats, combined with informative demonstrations and the opportunity to see rare animals like the whooping crane, makes the Audubon Zoo a special place. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who add context to the exhibits, making the experience feel more meaningful.

The stunning views and well-maintained environments make this zoo a pleasant escape from city bustle. Plus, the ability to upgrade for additional attractions means you can tailor your day to your interests, whether it’s marine life or insects.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This tour suits families with kids, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a relaxed day immersed in nature. It’s also a great choice for first-time visitors to New Orleans who want a break from city sightseeing but still want to enjoy a memorable adventure. The combination options are perfect for those who want to extend their experience without feeling rushed.

The Sum Up

The Audubon Zoo in New Orleans offers a well-rounded, engaging experience packed with diverse animals and beautiful habitats. The skip-the-line tickets ensure you spend more time exploring and less time waiting, while the combo tickets open up opportunities to see underwater life and insects, adding depth to your visit.

The experience’s value is reflected not only in the variety of animals and interactive exhibits but also in the knowledgeable guides and stunning views. It is especially ideal for families, wildlife lovers, and those who appreciate a mix of education and entertainment.

While it involves some walking, the overall layout and accessibility make it a manageable day out. The $39 entry fee, coupled with the option to explore other nearby attractions, makes this a cost-effective way to enjoy a day immersed in nature and animal encounters in New Orleans.

FAQs

Is the ticket valid for multiple days?
Yes, the ticket is valid for 1 to 5 days, depending on the option you choose, allowing you flexibility in planning your visit.

Can I combine the zoo ticket with other attractions?
Absolutely. You can upgrade to include access to the Audubon Aquarium and Insectarium, with a 3- or 5-day window to visit these additional sites after your zoo entry.

Are there guided demonstrations at the zoo?
Yes, there are daily animal care demonstrations led by staff, where you can learn interesting facts about the animals and their habitats.

What animals can I expect to see?
Over 1,700 animals representing more than 350 species, including endangered whooping cranes, Amur leopards, Sumatran orangutans, and local Louisiana wildlife.

Is the zoo accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the zoo is wheelchair accessible, and the experience is designed to be inclusive for all visitors.

What are the opening hours?
The zoo and other attractions are open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry at 4:30 PM.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Pre-booking is recommended to skip the lines and secure your preferred date. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. Visitors should plan to bring snacks or plan to purchase at the location.

Can I visit with children under 2?
Children under 2 may access the zoo for free, making it a family-friendly outing.

In summary, the Audubon Zoo in New Orleans provides a fantastic family-friendly day packed with engaging animal encounters, beautiful habitats, and flexible options to enhance your visit. With knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and good value, it’s a spot that genuinely brings wildlife closer to your everyday experience.