Audubon Zoo

• Address: 6500 Magazine Street, New Orleans, LA 70118 (Map)
• Phone Number: (504) 581-4629
• Email Address: info@auduboninstitute.org
• Hours of Operation: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• Date Founded: 1914
• Accreditation: Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)
• Number of Animals: Over 2,000
• Number of Species: Over 350
• Park Size: 58 acres
• Website Link: https://audubonnatureinstitute.org/zoo

The Audubon Zoo is located in New Orleans, Louisiana, and is operated by the Audubon Nature Institute. The zoo first opened in 1914, and over the years it has undergone numerous renovations and expansions to become one of the top zoos in the country.

The zoo was named after John James Audubon, a naturalist and painter who is best known for his illustrations of North American birds. Audubon spent a significant amount of time in Louisiana and is credited with discovering many new bird species in the region. In 1937, the zoo was designated as a Works Progress Administration (WPA) project, which provided jobs during the Great Depression.

In the early years, the Audubon Zoo primarily housed exotic animals such as lions, tigers, and monkeys. However, in the 1970s, the zoo shifted its focus to become more conservation-oriented, and it began to prioritize the care and conservation of local wildlife, including the introduction of a Louisiana Swamp exhibit in 1980. Today, the zoo is home to over 2,000 animals representing more than 350 species, many of which are endangered or threatened.

In addition to its animal collection, the Audubon Zoo is also known for its beautiful grounds and exhibits. The zoo covers 58 acres and features exhibits such as the Louisiana Swamp (as previously mentioned), the African Savanna, and the World of Primates. The zoo is also home to a number of historical landmarks, such as the Monkey Hill and the Sea Lion Pool, which date back to the early days of the zoo.

Overall, the Audubon Zoo has a rich history and has played an important role in the conservation of wildlife in Louisiana and beyond. Its commitment to animal welfare, education, and conservation has made it a beloved destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

• The Audubon Zoo is home to two rare white alligators named “Two Spot” and “Antoine Blanc”.
• The zoo is located in Uptown New Orleans and is easily accessible by public transportation.
• Audubon Zoo has won numerous awards, including the 2020 Travelers’ Choice award from Tripadvisor.
• The zoo is part of the larger Audubon Nature Institute, which includes an aquarium, insectarium, and park.
• Audubon Zoo offers educational programs for children, including summer camps and school field trips.
• Audubon Zoo offers behind-the-scenes tours for visitors who want to learn more about the animals.
• The zoo has a wide variety of food options, including a restaurant that serves sustainable seafood.

• The Audubon Zoo was featured in the movie “Jurassic World” as the location of the fictional “Jurassic World Aviary.”
• The zoo’s Louisiana Swamp exhibit includes a replica of a Cajun cabin and offers visitors a chance to see alligators, nutria, and other swamp creatures up close.
• The zoo’s elephant exhibit includes a pool where visitors can watch the elephants swim.
• The zoo has a troop of Western lowland gorillas, which are critically endangered in the wild.
• The zoo offers a “Behind the Scenes” tour where visitors can see the animals up close and learn about their care.
• The zoo’s Jaguar Jungle exhibit features a waterfall and a misting system to keep the jaguars cool in the Louisiana heat.
• Audubon Zoo participates in conservation efforts, including breeding programs for endangered species and recycling programs to reduce waste.
• Some of the zoo’s animals received special COVID vaccinations.
• The zoo has a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs, including plush animals and t-shirts.

• The Audubon Zoo has a playground for kids to play on.
• Visitors can ride a train around the zoo to see the animals from a different perspective.
• The zoo’s Louisiana Swamp exhibit has a “Crawfish Cabin” play area where kids can crawl through tunnels and slide down a slide.
• The zoo has a “Butterfly Garden” where visitors can see butterflies up close and learn about their life cycle.
• The zoo offers a “Zoo Krewe” program for kids ages 11-13 where they can learn about animal care and conservation.