Bugged Out at the Audubon Institute's New Insectarium

As I mentioned, I usually try to avoid bugs at all cost. Even so, while spending some time in New Orleans this summer, I decided to brave Audubon Nature Institute's new Insectarium. Creepy crawlies and fliers of all shape, sizes and colors have taken over this historic building right on Canal Street in downtown New Orleans, and it's actually a great place to spend a hot summer afternoon. Among the highlights: a stick bug about two feet long, a butterfly garden, and a "bug café" where a chef cooks up fresh worms, crickets and other critters for those brave enough to snack on them.

All five of the Marriott and Renaissance Hotels in New Orleans have a package deal right now that includes four tickets to the Insectarium, overnight accommodations for a family of four, and breakfast for four. All the hotels are within walking distance to the Insectarium; other nearby family destinations include my son's favorite, the Children's Museum, and the Aquarium. Rates start at $179 a night, and are good through mid-November. The hotels are the the New Orleans Marriott, JW Marriott New Orleans, Marriott at the Convention Center, Renaissance Pere Marquette and Renaissance Arts Hotel.

More hot hotel deals

^{Image copyright Charlyn Keating Chisholm}