Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium

About

The Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium, located inside the Audubon Aquarium on Canal Street in New Orleans, is one of the largest museums in North America dedicated entirely to insects. It's a one-of-a-kind destination where visitors can get up close with thousands of live bugs, butterflies, and crawling creatures in immersive, interactive exhibits.

The highlight for many visitors is the Butterfly Garden, a lush enclosed space where hundreds of free-flying butterflies drift around you. The species you'll encounter change with the seasons, but expect a dazzling variety of colors and sizes. It's a peaceful, almost magical experience that appeals to visitors of all ages.

Beyond the butterflies, the Insectarium offers hands-on exhibits that bring the world of insects to life. You can watch leaf-cutter ants march along their elaborate trails, see exotic species from around the globe, and learn why insects matter so much to our ecosystems. Interactive displays and kid-friendly programming make this a great stop for families, though adults will find plenty to hold their attention too.

The Insectarium shares space with the Audubon Aquarium at 1 Canal Street, right at the foot of Canal Street near the Mississippi River. This puts it within easy reach of the French Quarter, the Riverwalk, and other popular New Orleans attractions. If you're planning a full day, combo tickets for the Aquarium and Insectarium are available and offer solid value.

Plan to spend about one to two hours exploring, though butterfly enthusiasts may want to linger longer in the garden. The facility includes dining areas and a gift shop. Visiting on a weekday or arriving early on weekends will help you avoid the biggest crowds.

Whether you're a bug lover, a curious traveler, or just looking for something different to do in New Orleans, the Insectarium delivers an experience you won't find many other places in the country.

Accessibility

The Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium is fully ADA-compliant. All pathways, exhibits, restrooms, dining areas, and water fountains are accessible to guests with disabilities. The facility is designed so wheelchair users and visitors with mobility challenges can enjoy every exhibit area without barriers.

Manual wheelchairs are available at no cost on a first-come, first-served basis. Ask at Guest Services when you arrive. An ADA-accessible guest drop-off is located at 302 North Front Street, New Orleans, LA 70130. There is also an accessible entrance at 423 Canal Street near North Peters Street, which may be helpful for visitors who need a more direct route into the building.

The Insectarium shares its location with the Audubon Aquarium at 1 Canal Street. Because the exhibits are indoors with smooth, level flooring throughout, visitors using wheelchairs, walkers, or other mobility devices should find movement between areas straightforward.

For visitors with sensory sensitivities, be aware that the Butterfly Garden is a warm, humid enclosed space with free-flying insects. Some visitors may find this overstimulating. Contact the venue directly for information about quiet hours or sensory-friendly programming, as availability may vary.

Contact Audubon Nature Institute for current details on service animal policies, assistive listening devices, or any other specific accessibility needs before your visit.

More accessible places in Louisiana

• New Orleans Museum of Art (New Orleans)
• The National WWII Museum (New Orleans)
• The National WWII Museum (New Orleans)
• Audubon Aquarium (New Orleans)
• Louisiana Children's Museum (New Orleans)
• New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint (New Orleans)