Zoo Accessibility

Accessibility & Inclusion
at Audubon Zoo

We’re committed to fostering a welcoming environment where individual differences are respected and valued. This page provides resources and planning tips to help make your visit to Audubon Zoo comfortable, enriching, and enjoyable.

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Plan Your Visit

Location: 6500 Magazine Street, New Orleans, LA 70118

Hours: Open Thursday - Monday (Closed Tuesday & Wednesday), 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry 4:00 PM). Check current hours.

Tickets & Membership: Tickets are available online and in person. Buy Tickets or Join as a Member.

Visitor Map: Download our Audubon Zoo Map with restrooms, paths, and accessible areas clearly marked or get the Audubon Zoo app for our interactive map, Zoo daily schedules and events, and more.

Contact Us: For questions before your visit, call 504-861-2537.

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Getting Here & Entry

Parking: Free parking is available in the Zoo's main parking lot. Accessible parking spaces are designated near the entrance for vehicles with valid ADA placards or plates.

Public Transit: The St. Charles Avenue streetcar and RTA buses have stops near Audubon Park. From there, it's a short walk through the park to the Zoo entrance. Plan your route at norta.com.

ADA Guest Drop-off: A designated drop-off area for guests with disabilities is available near the Zoo's main entrance. Please follow signage or ask staff for directions upon arrival.

Entrance Process: All guests enter through the main gates. The entrance is wheelchair accessible, and staff are available to assist as needed.

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Mobility & Physical Accessibility

Wheelchairs: Strollers, manual wheelchairs, and electronic wheelchairs are available for rent at the Guest Services Information Booth.

Accessible Restrooms: Family and accessible restrooms are located throughout the Zoo.

Seating: Benches and rest areas are available throughout the Zoo.

Service Animals: Trained service animals are welcome. For the safety of our animals and guests, they are not permitted in Watoto Walk, Wings of the World, or the Audubon Aviary. Learn more from ADA.gov.

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Sensory & Neurodivergent Support

KultureCity Certified: Audubon Zoo is a certified Sensory Inclusive Venue through KultureCity.

Sensory Bags: Complimentary bags with fidget tools, noise-reducing headphones, and tactile items are available at the Zoo Information Booth.

Weighted Lap Pads: Available upon request at the Information Booth, subject to availability.

Quiet Zones: Designated areas to relax and regroup are marked throughout the Zoo.

Headphone Zones: Noisy areas are clearly marked with signage to help guests prepare or use sensory support items.

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Family & Infant Needs

Restrooms: Accessible and family restrooms are available across the Zoo, including two dedicated family restrooms.

Changing Tables: Located in all family and accessible restrooms.

Nursing Room: Please ask a staff member for assistance in locating a quiet and private space if needed.

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Inclusive Playground Nearby

Just outside the Zoo in Audubon Park, the Inclusive Playground offers wheelchair-accessible equipment and interactive physical, cognitive, visual, and hearing experiences. Located near St. Charles Avenue and Walnut Street.

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Onsite Guest Support & Safety

Staff Support: Trained staff and EMTs are available during operating hours. Visit the Information Booth or ask any uniformed team member.

Lost & Found: Located at the Zoo Information Booth.

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Dining & Shopping

Dining Options: The Zoo offers various dining options with allergy-friendly meals and labeled dietary choices. Please inquire with staff for specific dietary needs.

Water Stations: Bring your reusable bottle. Refill stations are available near restrooms and dining areas.

Gift Shops: Located near the entrance and exit, featuring inclusive and educational products. Fully wheelchair accessible.

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Exit & Re-Entry

Re-entry Policy: You may exit and re-enter the same day. Please retain your ticket or membership card for re-entry.

Exit Directions: Guests exit through the Zoo's main gates. Please follow signage or ask staff for directions upon arrival.

Pick-Up Zones: ADA and school bus pick-up is available near the main gates.

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Digital Accessibility

Audubon is committed to accessible digital experiences. Our website meets WCAG 2.1 AA standards for color contrast, keyboard navigation, and screen reader compatibility. We avoid flashing content and use descriptive alt text for all images.