we assembled a panel of experts and asked them to consider some essentials: Are there lots of fun things for kids to do? Can kids get up close to the animals? Are barriers placed low enough for a stroller-eye view? Are the signs easy to read? Selecting the finalists was no easy decision, but all those chosen offer an unmatched opportunity for your little cubs to cozy up to Mother Nature at her finest. If your family is looking for a laid-back atmosphere, don't miss the Audubon Zoo in Louisiana, which is flavored by regional wildlife and culture.
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA
The reason New Orleans's Audubon Zoo is one of the country's best family zoos is families themselves. Up until the early eighties, the Audubon was a mess. In a burst of civic pride, local families came to the rescue, privatizing the zoo, organizing fund-raisers, and throwing their considerable support behind major renovations that transformed the ugly duckling into the Mississippi River-side jewel that it is today.The Audubon is kid-friendly through and through, from its Embraceable You petting zoo to its cutting-edge breeding program that rescues endangered species for future generations to enjoy.
SIZE: 58 acres, 7 major exhibit areas, 360 species and 1,600 animals.
ADMISSION: $12 for adults, $7 for kids ages 2 to 12 and $9 for seniors aged 65 and up.
DON'T MISS: Their unusual alligators, whose albinolike condition gives them snow-white armor and striking blue eyes.
KID THRILLS: This year's newest attraction is "The Treehouse at Monkey Hill." This structure stands 20 feet tall and gives visitors a monkey-eye view of Audubon Zoo from the tallest point in New Orleans, Monkey Hill. Kids can also help feed the sun bears by tossing them Wiffle balls stuffed with peanuts and peanut butter. Also, check out the uniquely humorous Louisiana Swamp exhibit, where gators swim in a bayou marked by a bullet-riddled Stop sign.
INSIDER TIP: Bring a picnic and lunch alfresco among the beautiful fountains.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Call 800-774-7394 or click here.
Lisa Stiepock is a FAMILYFUN contributing editor and Gregory Lauzon is a FAMILYFUN staff writer.
Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change.
