It might not be the most known or statistically popular attraction, but make no mistake, no place is as beloved in New Orleans as the Audubon Zoo.
Originally opened in 1914, the zoo was named after New Orleans resident and noted ornithologist John James Audubon. Famous for his Birds of America, Audubon eventually settled in the city. When New Orleans decided to construct permanent facilities for the housing of animals, of course they would name their institution after him!
Located in historic Uptown in the Garden District and alongside the river, the Zoo was one of the largest and earliest major construction projects in the city around the turn of the century. Of note, the Zoo was constructed atop a low hill, some of the highest ground available in a famously bowl-shaped city. Nearly a century later, the zoo fared off better than most areas after Hurricane Katrina visited the city.
The first major renovation to the zoo came during the Great Depression. As part of the WPA, the Zoo applied for and received grant money for updated structures, with then-modern art. Of note, Monkey Island dates to this era, and the sea lion amphitheater is even older!
The third, modern incarnation of the zoo dates to the 1970s. After years of poor funding and decline, a $2 million fundraiser helped modernize the zoo. Several new areas were opened over the years, including the Asian Domain, African Savannah, and Louisiana Swamp.
In addition to these areas, the zoo features World of Primates, the South American Pampas, Jaguar Jungle, a birdcage, the amphitheater, Reptile House, and more recently, a Dinosaur exhibit. Hey, they were once animals too!
In addition to the zoo, the Audubon Institute also maintains an aquarium in downtown New Orleans. There's also an insectarium which previously had its own location on Canal Street, but now shares space with the aquarium.
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