US Custom House: Marble Hall and Insectarium in New Orleans

Why go

The US Custom House gives visitors two distinct reasons to stop. The building itself draws attention for its architecture, especially the Marble Hall, while the Audubon Insectarium and Butterfly Garden bring insects, butterflies and other small animals into the visit. Public reviews rate the landmark 4.6 out of 5 from 335 reviews, with strong enthusiasm for both sides of the experience.

Architecture-minded visitors may find the building’s scale and materials more memorable than expected. One reviewer singled out Marble Hall as a classic grand public space and noted its cool temperature. Another described the visit as worthwhile for anyone interested in architecture. The setting is formal and historic, with the building’s federal character visible before visitors reach the exhibits.

What the reviews highlight

The insectarium is the main draw for many families. Reviewers describe butterflies in different sizes and colors, hands-on projects, and live animals that include turtles, fish and baby alligators. One review says the visit can take an hour or more, giving families time to move through the displays without treating it as a quick photo stop.

Children and adults both receive repeated mention in the public feedback. The exhibits focus on animals that are easy to overlook, with opportunities to learn about them in a direct, accessible way. The glass-floor enclosure above scorpions is one of the more distinctive details mentioned by reviewers. It may not appeal to every visitor, but it gives the experience a memorable focal point.

Practical details

The public reviews describe the visit as free, though the remarks do not clarify whether that applies to every part of the building or to the attraction experience as a whole. Visitors should check current access information before going.

Security is part of the arrival process. Reviews consistently mention a metal detector, a bag check and the need to empty pockets. The guards are described as helpful, including guidance on which areas are interesting to see. That makes the entry routine easier, but it still adds time at the door.

A rainy day may be a particularly comfortable time to visit. One reviewer reported having the place almost to themselves in wet weather. The reviews do not establish a reliable quiet period, so visitors seeking a calmer stop should allow extra time for security and avoid assuming the building will be empty.

Who should stop here

The US Custom House suits families looking for an educational indoor activity, especially those interested in butterflies, insects and live animal displays. It also works for visitors who appreciate historic public architecture and want to see a grand interior while in New Orleans.

The strongest plan is to allow at least an hour for the insectarium and leave time to look closely at Marble Hall. Visitors who dislike security checks, or who only want a brief exterior photograph, may find the entry process disproportionate to the stop. For everyone else, the reviews describe a distinctive New Orleans attraction with substance beyond its landmark label.

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