Best Museums in New Orleans

By Sarah Harris

Best Museums in NO

An undoubtedly unique city with a heck of a lot of history, New Orleans is a total dream for those who are looking to incorporate a little education into their travel experience. Whether you’re looking for a bustling institution offering a comprehensive survey of the history of the city, or a small specialty spot devoted to Mardi Gras, The Big Easy has you covered. Each one has its own distinctive personality, focus and atmosphere, though all are as fascinating as one another. If you’re a first time visitor, you might feel a little overwhelmed by all the possibilities – but don’t worry, that’s where we come in! If you’re making your way over to New Orleans and aren’t quite sure about where to spend your time, have a read through our list of the best museums in the city. However you choose to explore the Big Easy, we’re sure it’ll be wonderful.

LEARN SOMETHING NEW

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If you only go to one museum in New Orleans, make it the Historic New Orleans Collection. Perfect for those who are looking to learn more about the history of the region, this place is truly passionate about educating its visitors. Its impressive and expansive collection consists of 35,000 library items and approximately 350,000 photographs, prints, drawings, paintings and other artefacts. Needless to say, you’ll need to set aside a good amount of time in order to see everything. Exhibitions have been presented on a wide variety of topics, ranging from the Battle of New Orleans and the development of local cuisine to more modern subjects like the Sugar Bowl and life after Hurricane Katrina. The institute often has special talks, events, and concerts, so be sure to check online before you head out. We love this spot because it's impossible to leave without having learned something new.

GET CULTURED

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If you’re looking for something a little more niche, New Orleans has plenty of cool specialty museums to fit that very brief. Standing out as one of our favorites on the list, Backstreet Cultural Museum works to present, preserve and interpret the history of New Orleans. Located in Tremé, the oldest African American neighborhood in the United States, the institute works to educate visitors about the social development of the city and particularly shed light on the relationship between Black and Native American culture. The museum is best known for holding the city’s largest collection of beautiful and intricate Mardi Gras Indian costumes. Still, that’s not all there is to see here. Aside from these wonderful artistic treasures, visitors can also enjoy an amazing assortment of memorabilia pertaining to Mardi Gras, jazz funerals and other traditions which derive from New Orleans. Both fascinating and fun, this place works to provide a fantastic cultural experience for those of all ages.

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For creative types visiting New Orleans, the Ogden Museum of Southern Art is the perfect stop. A Smithsonian affiliate, the museum is recognized for housing the largest and most comprehensive collection of Southern art. The institution prides itself on diversity, working to highlight some of the best female and POC artists of the south. Its impressive permanent collection holds over 4,000 pieces from 15 southern states, with works dating way back to 1733. The exhibits feature everything from paintings and drawings to photographs and sculpture, so there’s a little something for everybody here. Though it might be one of the smaller art galleries in the city, this place packs a lot of punch, presenting some of the rarer and lesser-known pieces from the city’s creative history. It remains one of the south’s finest art collections, so don’t miss it!

TRY SOMETHING DIFFERENT

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Of course, nowhere is known for fun and festivities quite like New Orleans. Even if you’re not visiting during Mardi Gras, you can still get a taste of the real thing at Mardi Gras World. Breaking away from the typical museum experience, this place offers an inside look into the nation’s biggest party. The massive 400,000 square-foot complex, just upriver from the New Orleans Morial Convention is actually a working warehouse where the megafloats, characters and costumes for Mardi Gras are made. Walking through this unique space, you’ll be able to learn more about all of the work and detail which goes into making these spectacular pieces, as well as how technology plays into the creative process. Along the way, your tour guide will also talk you through the history and beautiful traditions of this exceptional holiday. Don’t forget to check out the gift shop, which sells masks, beads and Mardi Gras posters to take home for your loved ones. A total Instammer’s dream, this spot is not to be missed!

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If you’re a seasoned visitor to New Orleans, you might be looking for a new museum to check out. Well, don’t worry – you've come to the right place! The city is jammed-packed with great cultural amenities, though we especially love the Pharmacy Museum for bringing something new to the table. Located at the site of the first licensed apothecary shop in the United States, this unique attraction is great for those visitors of a curious mind. The institute is still set up today the way it was back in the 1800s, and works to showcase the history and development of medicine since that time. From hand-blown apothecary bottles and potions once used by Voodoo practitioners to surgical instruments and old wheelchairs, there’s most certainly a lot to see here. In true New Orleans style, this place is rumored to be haunted by a doctor who used to work here – but don’t let that stop you from checking this place out! A wonderful speciality museum to remember, it would be easy to get lost in this space for the whole day!

Some of the best vacations include a day or two spend deep inside the halls of a museum. Thankfully, New Orleans presents a myriad of options to choose from, no matter where your interests may lie. Explore the city to its full potential with GoCity’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.

Sarah Harris
Go City Travel Expert

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New Orleans Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving in New Orleans is a magical experience. From holiday lights and special traditions to festivals and historic landmarks, there is always something to see. For those who are thinking about making the trip, we decided to put together a list of the best things to do during November in the city. So, pack your puffer coat and prepare to rock your winter wardrobe. Thanksgiving is on its way and it’s time to get planning! With Go City, you can see more, for less. New Orleans has everything you’d expect from a big city: elite museums, beautiful architecture, and exceptional food, just to name a few. Thanksgiving is a great time to visit since the weather is not too hot and there’s still plenty to see. With Go City, you grab a New Orleans attraction pass and make the most of your Thanksgiving in the city!. For more details, make sure to connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. 
Sarah Harris
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Adventurous Things to do in New Orleans

When we think of New Orleans, we think of beautiful architecture, jazz shows, and authentic southern cuisine. What many visitors don’t often consider is the surprising amount of adventurous things there are to do in the Big Easy. Indeed, there are countless things to do here for the daring explorer – that is, if you know where to look. From beautiful hiking trails and swamp tours to spooky cemeteries, New Orleans is a total haven for plucky explorers. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff or just looking to try something new, you’re sure to find something to pique your interest. Still not sure how to make the most of your time in New Orleans? Don’t worry! We’ll take you through the best adventurous activities and attractions in the Big Easy! Keep scrolling to find out more. See the City Of course, it’d just be wrong to travel all the way to New Orleans without taking a ride across the magnificent Mississippi River. While there are a number of ferries which sail across the mighty Mississippi, we recommend taking the Algiers Ferry. The ferry stops at Algiers Point, a location on the lower end of the river which retains much of its 19th-century charm. This neighborhood is best explored on foot, so make sure to wear your comfiest walking shoes and bring plenty of water. Take time to explore the area and check out the village’s small art galleries, friendly pubs and quaint Creole cottages. There are also a lot of unique stores around this area which are great for picking out souvenirs for friends and family, so be sure to have a good look. We suggest taking the ferry back to the city around sunset, since it will grant stunning views of the skyline. Trust us on this one! Amongst other things, New Orleans is well-known as the City of the Dead. If you’re curious about learning more, there are many cemetery tours on offer across the city, though the most popular ones are at St. Louis No. 1 and 2. Located on the further parameter of the French Quarter, these cemeteries are included on the National Register of Historic places, with St. Lous No. 1 being the oldest place of its kind in the city. Though it might sound a little strange, these spots draw in around 100,000 visitors annually for their fascinating history and distinctive above-ground gravestones. On the tour, you can learn more about burial practices unique to this area of the United States, including jazz funerals and Voodoo traditions. In addition, these cemeteries are where some of the most famous New Orleans residents have been laid to rest: Voodoo queen Marie Laveau is buried in St. Louis No. 1, and jazz musicians Danny Barker and Ernie K. Doe are buried in St. Louis No. 2. A thoroughly enthralling cultural experience, this one is not to be missed. Get in Touch with Mother Nature Seated right by the Gulf of Mexico, New Orleans has a wealth of tropical lush greenery to be explored. Since the city lies along the southeastern coastline, outdoor activity is almost always a good idea because of the city’s perennial warm weather and clear blue skies. Still, we actually recommend hiking during the winter months, so it won’t be as humid during this time of the year. Of all of the outdoorsy visitor sites in the city, we strongly suggest checking out the Barataria Preserve, located just outside of Marrero. This popular nature reserve covers over 26, 000 acres of flatwoods and wetlands, making it the perfect spot to get in touch with Mother Nature. In addition, this place is home to a wide array of unusual wildlife, so it’s great for all animal lovers – visitors can expect to see everything from deer and minks to alligators and water snakes. This place is also a prime destination for birdwatchers, with over 300 species making the attraction their home. For those who are eager to learn more about the environment, the site’s visitor center offers educational films and exhibits. We honestly couldn’t think of a better way to spend a sunny day in New Orleans! Take advantage of the beautiful weather in New Orleans by spending some time in the outdoors. There are a lot of cool things to do for nature lovers in this neck of the woods, though we recommend taking a swamp tour – this way, you’ll be able to glide straight through the area and get close up with the wonderful natural attributes of New Orleans. The best place to do this is at Honey Island Swamp, which is recognized as one of the most pristine swampland habitats in the United States. Take a flat-bottomed boat through the area to experience the distinctive beauty and incredible biodiversity of the south. Visitors can expect to see all types of wildlife on the tour – there are deer, turtles, alligators, and more – you name it, they’ve got it! As you ride, a professional guide will take you through the ins and outs of one of the United States’ most unique ecosystems. This interpretative boat tour is great for those of all ages, offering a fun way to learn about the environment. Have a Blast! If you’re looking to unlock your sense of childlike wonder, look no further than Carousel Gardens Amusement Park. Breaking away from the typical theme park experience, this spot is more of an old-fashioned fairground offering a true sense of the old south. This place features around 18 rides and attractions to be enjoyed, so you know that there’s something for everybody here. For younger visitors looking to have a blast, there are classics like the Ferris Wheel and bumper cars. If you want to kick it up a notch, rides like Coney Tower should be right up your alley. In addition, the park has traditional fairground treats like sliders, corndogs and cotton candy. This spot captures all of the charm and whimsy that you’d expect from a place with a name like Carousel Gardens. Whether you’re a kid or just young at heart, this attraction would make the perfect day trip! New Orleans is bursting with adventurous things to do, no matter what your style. And now, you don’t have to miss out! Explore the city to its full potential with GoCity’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
What to do on Memorial Day Weekend in New Orleans
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What to do on Memorial Day Weekend in New Orleans

Did you know that over 6 in 10 Americans have family members who serve or have served in the armed forces? That's...a lot of Americans. It's no wonder that Memorial Day is one of the most venerated days on the calendar. A day to pay respects to fallen soldiers, Memorial Day gives non-serving people the opportunity to give thanks for what we have and the sacrifices others made to provide us with so much. So, if you're in New Orleans and wondering what to do on Memorial Day weekend, we've created this guide that gives you the low down on all the goings on in the city. When is Memorial Day? Memorial Day lands on the last Monday of May. In 2023, that's Monday, May 29. What to do on Memorial Day Weekend in New Orleans? Now you know what and when Memorial Day is, let's explore what to do in New Orleans on the weekend. Attend the Memorial Day service at the National WW II Museum On any other day, the National World War II Museum is one of New Orleans' best attractions. History buffs will love exploring the 6-acre site, which features numerous exhibits that honor the courage and sacrifice that brave American soldiers made during one of the worst conflicts humanity has ever seen. Covering everything from D-Day to the invasion of Tokyo, you'll read personal stories from soldiers on the frontlines, follow the troops as they make their push east and then west toward Berlin, and see authentic weapons, clothing, and equipment used during the Second World War. On Memorial Day, a ceremony is held there between 11AM and 12PM. It gives participants the opportunity to remember the people who paid the ultimate price for their country. Without them, you may not even exist today. Servicemembers get free entry to the ceremony, and they'll also get admission to the rest of the museum for free. Memorial Day Ceremony at Chalmette Cemetery Chalmette National Cemetary is one of the city's biggest grave sites. The ground it sits on now was where the Battle of New Orleans was fought back in 1815. On top of that, soldiers from wars through the years have been buried there, including those lost in the Vietnam War. So it's only appropriate that a Memorial Day Ceremony is held there every year. The ceremony takes place on Monday, May 29, at 12.30PM. It includes a color guard, a bagpiper, and veterans, who often say some words to see out the ceremony. Anyone is free to attend and pay their respects. You can even volunteer to place flags on the headstones and then remove them at the end of the day. However, it's worth noting that, given New Orleans' hot and humid climate, you should make sure you're capable of the often-hours worth of work, including bending over to place the flags and walking among the hundreds of headstones. Still, if you're willing and able, it's a great way to say thanks. Other things to do in New Orleans on Memorial Day weekend The above two are the biggest Memorial Day events in New Orleans, but you'll still find plenty of local services and events happening in the city. Feel free to check social media before you head out, or simply walk the streets and see what's happening. If you're staying in New Orleans over the whole Memorial Day weekend and want to know what to do on the other days, we've got some suggestions down below. Take the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Cruise If you're keen to discover more of New Orleans' 300-year history, or enjoy riding boats, consider a Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Cruise. The luxury liner looks like it was ripped out of the Wild West era, but don't let your eyes decieve you - the boat boasts luxurious decor and air conditioning, ensuring your trip will be pleasant regardless of New Orleans' sticky temperatures! Your trip passes through all the city's best bits, like the French Quarter, the Port of New Orleans, and Jean Lafitte National Park. Your guide will point out landmarks as you pass them, all while filling you in on the history of each location. Highlights include the founding of present-day New Orleans by the LeMoyne brothers, the expansion of the city into the French Quarter, and the Louisiana Purchase. You'll then reach Chalmette Battlefield, which seems like an appropriate stop for Memorial Day weekend. You'll disembark and be taken on an hour-long guided tour led by National Park Rangers. You'll learn more about the Battle of New Orleans and why the city was so important for Louisiana and the US as a whole. Dare to undertake an Ultimate Swamp Adventure If you want to feel closer to nature and have a daring streak in you, why not take a tour of the bayou, courtesy of an Ultimate Swamp Adventure? Gorgeous scenery and deadly wildlife await! You'll hop aboard a boat and set out into Louisiana's thick wetlands on an adventure you won't soon forget. Your experienced guide and sea captain will expertly navigate the waters, taking you on a tour of the best sites. Make sure you take a camera, or make some space on your phone, because you'll want to take as many pictures as possible. With any luck, you'll see alligators, snapping turtles, and wild hogs, to name but a few. Get some grub And finally, you may need to refuel at some point on Memorial Day weekend, so if you're wondering what to eat in New Orleans, check out our picks for the places that do BBQ right! The Joint, Central City BBQ, Devil Moon BBQ, and Blue Oak BBQ all offer quality smoked and grilled meats in different parts of the city, so check out their menus and locations and see which is right for you! Whichever you go to, you're bound to be stuffed and satisfied. Now there's no need to wonder what to do on Memorial Day weekend in New Orleans! We hope this guide helps you enjoy the weekend in whichever way you choose. However, if you're looking for some different suggestions for the Memorial Day weekend itinerary, check out Go City. With our All-Inclusive Pass, you can see all of New Orleans' best bits at one low price.
Dom Bewley

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