Audubon Insectarium Comes to New Orleans

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New Orleans, LA -
They outnumber people 1.5 million to one and comprise nearly 90% of all the animals on the planet – they are insects. The largest freestanding museum in the United States dedicated to insects opened on New Orleans's historic Canal Street this summer. Audubon Insectarium is a multi-sensory museum that explores insects from ancient history to modern day, touts numerous live insect interactions plus exquisitely mounted specimens, an immersion theater showing witty insect caricatures, a tranquil Japanese butterfly garden and much more. Visitors will marvel at the beauty, diversity and exoticism of the insect world.

From the beginning of time, insects have played an invaluable role in our lives. They pollinate plants, decompose waste material, are fundamental to our eco-system – and add intrigue, color and splendor throughout.

From the beginning of time, insects have played an invaluable role in our lives. They pollinate plants, decompose waste material, are fundamental to our eco-system – and add intrigue, color and splendor throughout. Audubon Insectarium helps visitors learn about insects through unique interactions with naturalists, engaging exhibitry, even a 'den' where people are the size of insects! This one-of-a- kind venue also spotlights the ongoing battle with termites foraging the country and narrates New Orleans history from a distinctive vantage point.

"Having a shrine to insects showcases their incredible beauty, strength and numbers, role in global cuisine and culture, and in our environment," said Ron Forman, Audubon Nature Institute's President and CEO. "As the story of New Orleans is entwined with insects, this is the ideal place and time for a unique experience like the Insectarium."

Audubon Insectarium is housed in the U.S. Custom House, the most historic building in New Orleans. The 23,000 square foot museum occupies a former carriageway, originally used for delivery of goods arriving via the port of New Orleans. The building was also a thriving center of business and immigration; at one time more immigrants came through this building than any other entry port in the U.S. Now, the building is once again the setting for history, this time as home to many thousands of insects (and anticipated visitors) from around the globe.

Audubon Insectarium is the first major attraction to open in New Orleans since Hurricane Katrina devastated the area in 2005. Its debut marks a major step forward for the city. "From a tourism perspective, Audubon Insectarium shines new light on New Orleans as a dynamic and thriving destination," said Stephen Perry, President of the New Orleans Metropolitan Convention and Visitors Bureau.

For more information visit auduboninstitute.org or watch Audubon Insectarium Now Open in our TripSmarter.Com Video Vault!