Audubon Insectarium
About
The Audubon Insectarium offers an unforgettable bug adventure for curious kids in the heart of New Orleans. As North America's largest insect museum, it features hands-on exhibits where children can observe live insects up close, walk through a butterfly garden, and even taste bug-based snacks if they're feeling brave. The interactive displays transform squeamish kids into bug enthusiasts while teaching them about the vital role insects play in our world.
Highlights
- ✓Walk-through butterfly garden where butterflies land on visitors
- ✓Louisiana Swamp exhibit featuring live termites, spiders, and other local insects
- ✓Interactive 'Metamorphosis' theater experience
- ✓Asian-inspired bug gallery with giant walking stick insects
- ✓Bug Appétit café offering cricket snacks and bug-themed treats
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive right at 10:00 AM opening to experience the butterfly garden before it gets crowded and while the butterflies are most active
- 2.Don't skip the 'Bug Appétit' café where adventurous eaters can try insect-based foods like cricket cookies, it's a conversation starter kids never forget
- 3.The insectarium is located along the riverfront, so park at the Canal Street ferry parking or use the streetcar to avoid downtown parking hassles
- 4.Combine your visit with the Audubon Aquarium nearby using a combo ticket for better value
- 5.Bring hand sanitizer and prepare kids that some exhibits involve touching real insects, set boundaries beforehand if your child is anxious
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday) right at opening for the smallest crowds and most interactive experience with staff. Avoid visiting during school field trip season (April-May) when large groups pack the exhibits.
What to Know
Admission is around $25 for adults and $20 for children (2-12), with combo tickets available for multiple Audubon attractions. The museum is fully accessible and stroller-friendly, though smaller kids may prefer being carried through some darker exhibit areas.
Seasonal Notes
The insectarium is open year-round with consistent indoor exhibits, making it a perfect rainy day activity. During summer months, the museum can be a welcome air-conditioned break from New Orleans heat. Check their calendar for special seasonal events like Bug Fest celebrations.
Nearby Eats
The nearby Café du Monde (3 blocks away) is perfect for beignets and hot chocolate after your visit. For a full meal, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. on the riverfront offers kid-friendly seafood options with fun movie-themed décor.
More Activities Near New Orleans
The National WWII Museum
The National WWII Museum offers an immersive history experience that brings the 1940s to life through interactive exhibits kids can actually touch and explore. From climbing aboard authentic aircraft and submarines to experiencing the thrilling 4-D movie with moving seats and special effects, this isn't your typical 'look but don't touch' museum,it's designed to engage young minds through hands-on discovery.
New Orleans Museum of Art
The New Orleans Museum of Art offers families a wonderful blend of indoor art exploration and outdoor adventure in its stunning 11-acre sculpture garden. With rotating family-friendly exhibits, hands-on art activities, and spacious grounds perfect for kids to roam, it's a cultural experience that won't feel like a forced march through a stuffy museum.
Louisiana Children's Museum
The Louisiana Children's Museum in City Park offers 30,000 square feet of interactive, hands-on exhibits that celebrate Louisiana culture while encouraging creative play and learning. Recognized as one of the top 9 children's museums in the nation, this New Orleans gem features everything from a kid-sized grocery store to water play areas, all designed to engage young minds through discovery and imagination.
City Park
City Park is a massive 1,300-acre urban oasis that offers families an entire day's worth of outdoor adventures. From paddling swan boats across scenic lagoons to exploring the enchanting botanical gardens, this New Orleans treasure provides endless opportunities for kids to run, play, and discover nature without leaving the city.