Louisiana · Est. 1935
Jungle Gardens at Avery Island
A 170-acre botanical treasure and bird sanctuary created by the son of the Tabasco sauce inventor.
Founded
1935
Size
170 acres
Hardiness Zone
USDA Zone 9a
Best Season
March to May for spring blooms and egret nesting.
About Jungle Gardens at Avery Island
Jungle Gardens is a 170-acre botanical garden and bird sanctuary located on Avery Island, Louisiana. Created by Edward Avery McIlhenny, the gardens feature a diverse collection of azaleas, Japanese camellias, and live oaks draped in Spanish moss. The site is also home to abundant wildlife, including alligators, deer, and thousands of snowy egrets.
History & Heritage
Edward Avery McIlhenny founded a private bird sanctuary known as Bird City in 1895 to protect endangered snowy egrets. In the 1920s, he began converting his private estate into Jungle Gardens, decorating it with exotic botanical specimens. After years of transforming the landscape, the gardens were opened to the public in 1935.
Signature Feature
Bird City
Bird City is a renowned bird sanctuary within Jungle Gardens that provides roosts for snowy egrets and other wildfowl. Established in 1895 with just eight captive-raised egrets, it now hosts thousands of returning egrets each spring, playing a crucial role in saving the species from extinction.
Photo Gallery
Lush greenery and botanical collections at Jungle Gardens.
A snowy egret, one of the many bird species protected at Bird City.
Walking paths winding through the scenic landscapes of Avery Island.
Notable Collections
Azaleas and Camellias
Extensive plantings of vibrant azaleas and Japanese camellias that bloom beautifully in the southern climate.
Live Oaks
Majestic live oak trees draped in Spanish moss lining the four miles of gravel roads.
Asian-Influenced Garden
A serene garden setting featuring a pond, arched bridge, and a glass-enclosed shrine housing a centuries-old Buddha statue.
Louisiana Irises
Native Louisiana irises thriving in the marshy environments of the gardens.
Plan Before You Go
Hours, Parking & Accessibility
Hours & Seasonal Timing
Daily 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Best seasonal window: March to May for spring blooms and egret nesting.
Parking & Arrival
Free parking available on site.
Check the official visit page for event-day parking changes and arrival instructions.
Accessibility
Many areas are accessible by car via the driving tour route.
Contact the garden before visiting to discuss route conditions, mobility equipment, or support needs.
Visitor details are reviewed from the garden's public information and were last checked May 2026. Policies, prices, and route conditions can change; confirm final arrangements directly with the garden.
Recognition & Awards
- National Register of Historic Places
- Important Bird Area
Editorial Standards
This profile was prepared by the BotanicalGardens.blog editorial research desk using official garden pages and other named sources where available. Hours, admission, and access details can change; confirm them with the garden before a special trip. This profile was last reviewed May 2026. If you notice an inaccuracy, please contact us.
Plan Your Visit
March to May for spring blooms and egret nesting.
Address
Hwy. 329 (Avery Island Road), Avery Island, LA 70513
Phone
(337) 369-6243
Hours
Daily 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Admission
Adults: $15.50, Children: $12.50 (Credit/debit card only)
Parking
Free parking available on site.
Accessibility
Many areas are accessible by car via the driving tour route.
Insider Tips
- 1Take the driving tour to easily explore the expansive 170-acre property.
- 2Bring binoculars for excellent bird watching at Bird City.
- 3Combine your visit with a tour of the nearby Tabasco Factory.
- 4Watch out for alligators and other wildlife along the paths and waterways.
Nearby Attractions
- Tabasco Brand Factory Tour & Museum (0.5 miles)
- Rip Van Winkle Gardens (12 miles)
- Shadows-on-the-Teche (10 miles)