The Audubon Aquarium of the Americas in New Orleans is a leading marine attraction that presents a detailed look at aquatic life across the Western Hemisphere. Positioned along the Mississippi River near the French Quarter, the aquarium reopened in 2... read more023 following a major renovation that expanded both its exhibits and visitor amenities. It features more than 10,000 animals from over 500 species, showcasing habitats from the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean, and the Amazon.

A central highlight is the massive Gulf of Mexico exhibit, a 400,000-gallon tank designed to mimic the environment surrounding an offshore oil rig. It features sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, and a range of fish. The Caribbean Reef tunnel allows guests to walk through a fully immersive coral habitat, while the Amazon Rainforest exhibit recreates the jungle’s humidity and houses piranhas, anacondas, and tropical birds in a living rainforest setting.

The aquarium now also includes the Audubon Insectarium, which moved into the same building during renovations. This addition offers interactive exhibits on insect behavior, a live butterfly garden, and educational stations on pollination and biodiversity. There’s also a large touch pool where guests can safely interact with stingrays and small sharks. Open daily, the aquarium is a family-friendly destination that blends entertainment with environmental education.