Aquarium & Insectarium FAQs
🎟️ Tickets & Entry
How much is Aquarium & Insectarium admission?
Zoo Admission Ticket Pricing
Price Range
Adult
$45–$55
Child* / Senior
$40–$50
*Children under 2 years old are free and do not need a ticket.
Purchase tickets here. For assistance, contact [email protected] or call 1‑800‑774‑7394.
Do you offer discounts for seniors, military, or EBT cardholders?
- Seniors (65+) receive a $5 discount off standard admission. No promo code is needed—just select the senior ticket option when purchasing.
- Military personnel: We do not currently offer a military discount, though promotional offers may occasionally be available.
- EBT/SNAP cardholders: Visit https://audubonnatureinstitute.org/audubon-community-connect for information on our access programs for Orleans Parish residents.
We recommend checking our Special Offers page for any seasonal or limited-time discounts that may apply.
Do I need to reserve tickets in advance?
Tickets can be purchased in the lobby upon arrival. You can purchase advance tickets here.
Can I change my ticket date?
Ticket dates cannot be changed. If you need assistance, please contact us for help at (504) 861-2537.
Do I need to print my tickets?
No. Mobile tickets are fully accepted. Simply display your barcode on your phone at the entrance.
Can I re-enter after I leave?
You are welcome to exit and re-enter the Aquarium during your visit, provided you can show proof of purchase when returning.
What are the hours?
Audubon Aquarium & Audubon Insectarium:
Open Daily | 10 AM - 5 PM
Last ticket sold at 4:00PM. Last entry at 4:30PM.
The Aquarium & Insectarium operate year-round, but are closed on Mardi Gras, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. In case of inclement weather leading to closure, notifications will be posted on our website and social media channels. Refer to our Hours page for detailed information on hours.
What Membership options are available and what are the benefits?
Audubon Membership includes unlimited year‑round access to the Zoo, Aquarium, and Insectarium. Members enjoy perks like discounts on train rides, food, retail, special events and education programs, exclusive event invites, and more, all at varying Membership levels. Learn more about Membership here.
🚙 Getting Here & Parking
Where can I park?
The Aquarium does not have a private parking area, but street parking and several metered garages are available near the Aquarium. For detailed rates and map, see our Parking & Directions page.
Is the Aquarium & Insectarium accessible by streetcar or public transit?
Yes! We’re on the Riverfront streetcar line, and several RTA bus routes stop nearby. Plan your public-transit visit on the RTA website.
🍽️ Guest Services & Amenities
Are wheelchairs or strollers available?
Audubon Aquarium and Audubon Insectarium permit the use of certain strollers, but due to the flow of the facilities it is strongly recommended strollers are left home when possible. If you choose to or must bring a stroller during your visit, we ask that you follow the below guidelines to ensure you and other guests have the most safe and positive experience:
Strollers are permitted but within the following size restriction:
Cannot be larger than 29” (72 cm) in width and 52” (132 cm) in length.
Wagons, wagon strollers, push cars, and ride-ons are not permitted in order to ensure guests of all ages and abilities can maneuver through the Aquarium safely.
Stroller rentals are available for $11.00 during your visit.
Exceptions: Guests that need to utilize specialty strollers or wagons for medical or sensory purposes are exempt from this policy. For additional questions regarding the stroller policy and exemptions, please contact Guest Services via email at [email protected] or by phone at (504) 861-2537 or (800) 774-7394.
What accessibility services are available?
Audubon Aquarium & Audubon Insectarium are fully ADA-compliant. All pathways, exhibits, restrooms, dining areas, and water fountains are accessible to guests with disabilities. Manual wheelchairs are available at no cost on a first-come, first-served basis; please inquire at Guest Services upon arrival.
Sensory accommodations are also available, including weighted lap pads, sensory bags, quiet zones, and headphone zones (subject to availability).
A private nursing space is located near the Aquarium’s front entrance restrooms.
For full details, please visit our Accessibility & Inclusion page.
Where can I find restrooms and drinking fountains?
Accessible restrooms (including family/gender-neutral options) and water bottle refill stations are located throughout the Aquarium & Insectarium near the entrance, classroom, lobby, South Passage, and Active Exhibits.
Is outside food or drink allowed?
Outside food and drinks are not permitted; however, guests are encouraged to bring their own water bottles. Exceptions are made for medical needs and baby bottles.
Are there dining options in the Aquarium & Insectarium?
Yes! Visit the popular eatery located on the second floor of Audubon Aquarium, Cafe Aqua, for flavorful cuisine with something for everyone - including a variety of kids meals. Indoor seating overlooking the Mississippi River is a perfect stop during your visit. For additional details, visit our Dining page.
Is there a gift shop?
Yes. Our gift shop features marine-themed gifts, plush animals, educational toys, and souvenirs—located near the exit and open during operating hours. Learn more here.
Are there ATMs at the Aquarium & Insectarium?
Yes. A Hancock Whitney ATM is located at 1 Canal Street, just inside the entrance, and is available 24/7.
🐠 Experiences & Programs
Do I need a ticket for animal encounters?
Yes. These are separate from general admission. Visit our Wild Encounters page for availability and pricing.
Can I book a group trip or field trip to the Aquarium & Insectarium?
Yes! Visit our School & Group Visits page for more information.
ℹ️ Policies & Contact Info
What’s your refund policy?
All ticket sales are final. Audubon does not offer refunds or exchanges for unused tickets. If you experience an issue during purchase or have questions about your order, please contact Guest Services at [email protected] or call 1-800-774-7394.
Is smoking allowed?
No. Smoking, vaping, and the use of tobacco products are strictly prohibited inside all Audubon Nature Institute facilities.
Can I bring my pet or service animal?
Animals exhibiting signs of ill health or aggressive behavior will not be allowed. In the event that a guest's service animal is denied admittance, other assistance will be provided upon request. Animals whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support (ESA) or therapy animals do not qualify as "service animals" under the ADA and are not allowed in Audubon attractions.
Animals-in-training to be service animals are allowed in Audubon attractions.
In accordance with Louisiana State Law (1955. Service dog trainers and puppy raisers; rights, liability) during the training of a service dog, any trainer or puppy raiser of such dogs shall have the same rights and privileges as a person with a disability to be accompanied by a service dog in any place or facility without being required to pay an extra charge for such dog.
The only acceptable types of service animals allowed in Audubon facilities are dogs and miniature horses.
What's your address and phone number?
Audubon Aquarium & Audubon Insectarium
📍 1 Canal Street, New Orleans, LA 70130
📞 Phone: 1-800-774-7394
📧 Email: [email protected]