Audubon Aquarium of the Americas

Travis, Holly, me and the kids all went to the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas in New Orleans on Wednesday, July 25.

The Aquarium is on what is called the Riverfront of New Orleans. The Riverfront runs along the Mississippi River and there's much to do there besides the aquarium, too.

We stopped and ate in the Riverfront shopping area before going to the aquarium. Travis then went to get us tickets while we waited on the plaza in front of the aquarium. A kind man serenaded us with some tunes from some jazz greats, which was fun for Holly, me and the kids. Blueberry Hill and another song I'm not familiar with are the two songs he sang for us.

All kinds of aquatic life are on display at the aquarium. There's the tunnel of fish we walked through. Seeing the penguins being fed was lots of fun. The kids (minus Jillian), Travis and Holly got to pet a sting ray and a shark. The sea horse and jellyfish exhibits were amazing. An impressive Amazon area simulated a walk through the Amazon, complete with piranhas, tropical foliage and a walk through the misty branches of the trees. True to New Orleans pride was a swamp display that showcased what's found in the swamps and Mississippi River.

We watched Hurricane on the Bayou at the IMAX theatre, as well. We all left there with a better understanding of Hurricanes, Louisiana culture, New Orleans and the wetlands. Maddie asked me at one point, "Is this for real?" I told her yes, but the video of Katrina seemed surreal. Holly commented that Hurricane Katrina seemed more real to her since she got to see some of the areas (now) in New Orleans that were featured in the film under feet of water and debris. I would agree with her. I think I need to get serious about putting together my hurricane preparedness kit!

We left the Aquarium with our minds SWIMMING with information new information. :) Bed time came early for everyone that night!