Top 100 best museums in Louisiana

The National World War II Museum, initially known as the National D-Day Museum, is a significant historical site located in the Central Business District of New Orleans, Louisiana. The museum offers a deep dive into the contributions of the US forces to the victory in World War II, with a particular focus on the Battle of Normandy (Operation Overlord).

The New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum is a unique cultural institution located in the heart of the historic French Quarter. It is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and practices of Louisiana's voodoo religion. This small museum offers a fascinating insight into a significant aspect of the region's cultural heritage.

The New Orleans Museum of Art is conveniently located at One Collins C. Diboll Circle in City Park. This central location makes it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike, providing a cultural hub within the city's vibrant park.

Audubon Zoo, situated in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a part of the Audubon Nature Institute. The zoo spans across 58 acres and houses over 2,000 animals. It is a significant attraction for both locals and tourists, offering a wide variety of species to observe and learn about.

Louis Armstrong Park, named after the New Orleans-born Jazz legend, is a 32-acre park situated in the Tremé neighborhood of New Orleans, Louisiana. Its location is just across Rampart Street from the French Quarter, making it easily accessible for tourists exploring the city. The park was created after a controversial urban renewal project in the 1960s and has since become a significant part of the city's landscape.

Mardi Gras World, also known as Blaine Kern's Mardi Gras World, is a unique tourist attraction situated in the vibrant city of New Orleans. This 300,000 square foot warehouse is where the magic happens - it's the place where the iconic floats for the Mardi Gras parades are crafted. Visitors have the opportunity to tour this working warehouse and get a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of these spectacular floats.

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 in New Orleans holds the distinction of being the city's oldest cemetery. It was established in 1789, a time when Louisiana was under French rule. This historical site offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the city's rich history and cultural heritage.

The New Orleans Botanical Garden, located in City Park, is a significant part of the city's history. Originally known as The Rose Garden, it was unveiled in 1936 as part of a massive development project of City Park. The garden was designed in the style of the popular art deco era of the 1930s, making it the first public classical garden in New Orleans. It was intended to be a place where families from all around New Orleans could enjoy the City Park.

The Cabildo, once the seat of the Spanish colonial city hall in New Orleans, Louisiana, now serves as the Louisiana State Museum Cabildo. This historic building has transitioned from a place of governance to a space dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history of Louisiana.

Destrehan Plantation is a significant historical site, being one of the oldest plantations in the Southern United States. It is located in the town of Destrehan, Louisiana. This location offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience a piece of America's past.

The Presbytère is a significant architectural landmark located in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana. It is situated next to the St. Louis Cathedral, adding to the historical and cultural richness of the area. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists who are exploring the French Quarter.

The Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, located in New Orleans, Louisiana, is recognized as one of the leading aquarium facilities in the United States. It is part of the Audubon Nature Institute, which also operates the Audubon Zoo and Audubon Park in other parts of the city. The aquarium is situated right on the banks of the Mississippi River, on the edge of the historic French Quarter on Canal Street.

The Southern Food and Beverage Museum, located in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a non-profit institution dedicated to exploring and showcasing the culinary history of the American Southern states. The museum's exhibits cover a wide range of topics related to food in the South, from cultural traditions to basic recipes and the communities formed around food.

The Whitney Plantation Historic District is a significant site that is maintained by the Whitney Institute. This non-profit organization is dedicated to educating the public about the history and legacies of slavery in the Southern United States. Visitors to the plantation can gain a deeper understanding of this important aspect of American history.

The Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve is a unique American National Park located in Louisiana. It is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich natural and cultural resources of the Mississippi Delta region. The park is named after the buccaneer Jean Lafitte and aims to illustrate the influence of the environment and history on the development of a unique regional culture.

The 1850 House, part of the Louisiana State Museum, is an antebellum row house that offers a glimpse into life in mid-nineteenth-century New Orleans. It is conveniently located at 523 St. Ann Street on Jackson Square in the heart of the French Quarter. This historic house is furnished to reflect the period, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the lifestyle of the era.

The Audubon Insectarium is a unique museum located in New Orleans, Louisiana, dedicated to the study and display of insects. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the fascinating world of insects and their importance in our ecosystem.

Poverty Point is a significant historical monument and World Heritage Site located in the southern United States. It is a prehistoric earthwork of the Poverty Point culture, which is a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. Visitors can explore the site and gain insights into the lives and practices of the Poverty Point culture.

The Confederate Memorial Hall Museum, located in New Orleans, is a repository of historical artifacts related to the Confederate States of America and the American Civil War. This museum provides a unique opportunity for visitors to delve into the history of the Civil War era and gain insights into the Confederate States of America.

Take a tour of this peculiar museum dedicated to pharmaceutical history, featuring numerous historical artifacts.

The building that houses the New Orleans Mint has served various purposes over the years. It has been an Analysis Office, a warehouse for the United States Coast Guard, and even a nuclear shelter. Since 1981, it has been part of the Louisiana State Museum, adding another layer of historical significance to its existence.

The Longue Vue House and Gardens, also known as Longue Vue, is a significant site in New Orleans, Louisiana. It is a botanical garden and mansion that has been included in the National Register of Historic Places. This historic site offers a unique blend of nature and architecture, providing visitors with a glimpse into the past.

Laura Plantation is a historic Louisiana Creole plantation located on the west bank of the Mississippi River near Vacherie, Louisiana. This restored plantation is open for guided tours, offering visitors a chance to explore a significant part of Louisiana's history. The plantation was formerly known as Duparc Plantation and is known for its early 19th-century Créole-style raised big house and several surviving outbuildings, including two slave cabins.

The Backstreet Cultural Museum is a unique institution situated in the Tremé neighborhood of New Orleans, Louisiana. It was established by Sylvester Francis, a dedicated individual who aimed to preserve and showcase the rich African American culture of the city. The museum serves as a testament to the vibrant cultural heritage of New Orleans and offers visitors a chance to delve into the city's history and traditions.

The Nottoway Plantation, also known as the Nottoway Plantation House, is a historic site located in White Castle, Louisiana, USA. This location is significant as it provides a glimpse into the past, specifically the era of cotton plantations.

Oak Alley Plantation is a historic site located in the community of Vacherie, in Saint James Parish, Louisiana. It is situated on the west bank of the Mississippi River. This plantation is known for its rich history and its unique path leading to the house, lined with centuries-old oak trees on both sides.

The American Rose Center, located in Shreveport, Louisiana, is a rose garden owned and operated by The American Rose Society. This garden is a testament to the beauty and diversity of roses, with over 20,000 rose bushes of 100 varieties spread across 65 separate rose gardens. The center's mission is to present the rose, America's National Floral Emblem, in a natural setting for pleasure, education, and preservation.

The Hermann–Grima House, located in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana, is a historic house museum that offers a glimpse into the past. This Federal-style mansion, complete with a courtyard garden, was built in 1831. The house has been meticulously restored to reflect the 19th-century New Orleans lifestyle, making it a unique destination for those interested in history and architecture.

Jackson Barracks, located in the Lower 9th Ward of New Orleans, Louisiana, serves as the headquarters of the Louisiana National Guard. The base was established in 1834, originally known as New Orleans Barracks. However, in 1866, it was renamed in honor of Andrew Jackson, the seventh President of the United States, who was a prominent general during the War of 1812.

The Houmas, also known as Burnside Plantation and Houmas House Plantation and Gardens, is a historic site located in Burnside, Louisiana. The main building, which was constructed in 1840, is a testament to the plantation's rich history that dates back to the late 18th century. This former plantation now serves as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.

Take a tour of the distillery and discover the production process of top-notch and world famous rum.

The Beauregard-Keyes House, located at 1113 Chartres Street in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana, is a historic residence that now serves as a museum. Known as the BK Historic House and Gardens, the museum provides a glimpse into the lives of the house's past residents and associates. This includes a diverse range of individuals, from wealthy pre-civil war French Creole inhabitants and the people they enslaved, to Italian immigrant families who moved in after the civil war, their tenants, and American author Frances Parkinson Keyes.

The New Canal Lighthouse, first established in 1838, is located at the north end of the New Basin Canal. This canal used to run from Lake Pontchartrain to the Uptown or 'American' section of the city, which is now known as the New Orleans Central Business District. This historical context provides a unique backdrop to the lighthouse and its surroundings.

Fort Jackson, a National Historic Landmark, is a historic masonry fort situated 40 miles upriver from the mouth of the Mississippi River in Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana. Constructed between 1822 and 1832, the fort served as a coastal defense for New Orleans and was a significant battle site during the American Civil War.

Fort St. Jean Baptiste, also known as Fort des Natchitoches, is a significant historical site in Louisiana. It was a French fort built in the 18th century during the period of French Louisiana. The fort played a crucial role in the expansion of French influence in the region and served as a strategic point for trade and defense.

The Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site is a cultural landmark nestled in a park in Saint-Martinville, Louisiana. It is located in the heart of the Cajun region of Acadiana, along the scenic Bayou Teche. This site offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region and enjoy the natural beauty of the park.

The Audubon Insectarium is a unique museum located in New Orleans, Louisiana, United States. It is dedicated to the study and display of insects, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in entomology and the natural world.

Melrose Plantation, also known as Yucca Plantation, is a National Historic Landmark situated in the unincorporated community of Melrose in Natchitoches Parish, in north central Louisiana. This plantation is one of the largest in the United States that was built by and for free blacks. It offers a unique glimpse into the history of free people of color in the United States, making it a significant site for those interested in history and culture.

The Newcomb Art Museum of Tulane University is situated in the Woldenberg Art Center, within the campus of Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana. This museum is a significant cultural institution in the region, offering visitors a chance to explore a diverse range of art exhibits.

The Ursulines, officially known as the Society of Saint Ursula, is a religious order that was founded by Angela Merici in 1535 in Brescia. The order is dedicated to the education and upbringing of girls. This commitment to female education is considered the beginning of modern girls' education. The Ursulines live under the patronage of Saint Ursula and continue to have a significant presence worldwide, with over 10,000 sisters belonging to the order.

The Plaquemine Lock State Historic Site in Plaquemine, Louisiana, is a commemoration of an early example of hydraulic engineering design. It also highlights the historic significance of Bayou Plaquemine, a crucial navigable waterway that was once a distributary of the Mississippi River. This site provides a unique insight into the history of hydraulic engineering and the importance of waterways in the development of the region.

The Hilltop Arboretum, a 14-acre property, is situated at 11855 Highland Road, Baton Rouge, Louisiana. It is owned and maintained by the Louisiana State University. This location is easily accessible and offers a serene environment for visitors to explore and enjoy.

Intriguing museum that promotes the cultural history of African American in its rich context. Check the opening times in advance.

The Historic New Orleans Collection (THNOC) is a multifaceted institution that serves as a museum, research center, and publisher. Its primary focus is on the study and preservation of the history and culture of New Orleans and the Gulf South region of the United States. This makes it a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about this unique part of the country.

The Historic New Orleans Collection (THNOC) is a multifaceted institution that serves as a museum, research center, and publisher. Its primary focus is on the study and preservation of the history and culture of New Orleans and the Gulf South region of the United States. This makes it a valuable resource for anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the region's rich history and diverse culture.

The Port Hudson State Historic Site is situated on the Mississippi River, north of Baton Rouge in East Feliciana Parish, Louisiana. It is conveniently located just outside the limits of Port Hudson and near the town of Jackson. This strategic location offers visitors a chance to explore a significant part of American history while enjoying the natural beauty of the Mississippi River.

The Hermann–Grima House, located in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana, is a historic house museum that offers a glimpse into the past. This Federal-style mansion, complete with a courtyard garden, was built in 1831. It provides a unique opportunity to explore the architectural style and living conditions of the 19th century.

Rosedown Plantation State Historic Site is a significant historical landmark located in St. Francisville, Louisiana. Constructed in 1835 by Daniel and Martha Turnbull, this 8,000 square foot former plantation is one of the most well-documented and preserved plantation complexes in the Southern United States. The site offers a unique glimpse into the past, providing visitors with an understanding of the region's history and the lifestyle of the plantation owners during that era.

The Louisiana State Museum, established in 1906, is a comprehensive system of National Historic Landmarks and modern structures spread across Louisiana. It houses thousands of artifacts and works of art that reflect the state's rich history and cultural diversity. The museum's collection is a testament to Louisiana's legacy of historic events and cultural diversity, offering visitors a unique insight into the state's past.

The Louisiana Governor's Mansion, located in Baton Rouge, serves as the official residence of the governor of Louisiana and their family. This historic building offers a glimpse into the life of the state's highest-ranking official and is an important part of Louisiana's political history.

The Biedenharn Museum and Gardens is a unique destination located in Monroe, Louisiana. Nestled beside the Ouachita River, the museum offers a serene and picturesque setting for visitors. The address is 2006 Riverside Drive, making it easily accessible for tourists.

The Capitol Park Museum is a branch of the Louisiana State Museum and is situated at 660 4th Street in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This location is easily accessible and is a significant part of the state's cultural heritage.

The Camp Moore Confederate Cemetery and Museum is a preserved part of the original camp. Established in 1965, the museum showcases and interprets the local Confederate history, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the region's past. The site's historical significance was recognized in 1979 when it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Abita Mystery House is a unique roadside attraction located in Abita Springs, Louisiana. This self-guided folk art showcase offers a unique experience for visitors, with a wide range of folk art objects on display. The museum was created and is maintained by artist and inventor John Preble, who drew inspiration from the Tinkertown Museum in New Mexico.

The Alexandria Museum of Art, also known as AMoA, is located in the heart of downtown Alexandria. It was established in 1977 and is housed in the historic Rapides Bank and Trust Company Building, which dates back to 1898. This gives the museum a unique blend of history and culture, making it a fascinating place to visit.

The Louisiana History Museum is situated in the historic downtown area of Alexandria, Louisiana, USA, in close proximity to the Red River. This location not only offers a rich historical context but also provides a scenic backdrop for visitors. The museum's location in the heart of the city makes it easily accessible for tourists.

The Pitot House, located in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a recognized historic landmark. It holds a place on the National Register of Historic Places, marking it as a significant part of the country's cultural heritage. This 18th-century Creole colonial country home is currently owned by the Louisiana Landmark Society and serves as its headquarters.

The Alexandre Mouton House, also known as the Lafayette Museum, is a historic house situated at 1122 Lafayette Street in Lafayette, Louisiana. This location is steeped in history and offers a unique insight into the past. It was the residence of Alexandre Mouton, the 11th Governor and first Democratic Governor of Louisiana, and is associated with other historic families.

The Audubon State Historic Site is a state park located in West Feliciana Parish, Louisiana, nestled between the towns of St. Francisville and Jackson. This site is a significant location where the renowned ornithologist and artist, John James Audubon, spent his summer in 1821.

The Global Wildlife Center, located in Folsom, Louisiana, is a unique wildlife preserve where animals are free to roam. This setting provides a natural environment for the animals, enhancing their well-being and offering visitors an authentic wildlife experience.

Gallier House is a significant historical site located in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana. This 19th-century house museum is situated on Royal Street, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the architectural and cultural heritage of the city. The house has been meticulously restored, providing an authentic glimpse into the past.

Evergreen Plantation is situated on the west side of the Mississippi River in St. John the Baptist Parish, close to Wallace, Louisiana. It is conveniently located along Louisiana Highway 18, making it easily accessible for visitors. The plantation's rich history and beautiful surroundings make it a notable destination for those interested in American history, architecture, and nature.

Frogmore Plantation is a historic site located near Ferriday in Concordia Parish, Louisiana. This privately owned cotton plantation offers a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the history and culture of the region. Visitors can explore the plantation grounds, which include various structures and buildings that have been preserved over the years.

The Edward Douglass White House, also known as Edward Douglass White Louisiana State Commemorative Area, is a state historic site located near Thibodaux, Louisiana. This site is significant as it was the home of Edward Douglass White, Sr., the tenth governor of Louisiana, and his son, Edward Douglass White, a U.S. senator and a Chief Justice of the United States.

The San Francisco Plantation House, located in Reserve, St. John the Baptist Parish, Louisiana, is a historic plantation house built between 1853 and 1856. It stands out as one of the most architecturally distinctive plantation houses in the American South, offering a unique glimpse into the region's history.

Fairview-Riverside State Park is located just 2 miles east of Madisonville, Louisiana. The park spans 99 acres and is beautifully situated along the banks of the Tchefuncte River. This location offers a scenic and tranquil environment for visitors.

The Shreveport Waterworks Pumping Station, also known as the McNeil Street Pump Station, is a historic water pumping station located at 142 North Common Street in Shreveport, Louisiana. This site is not just a museum, but a piece of history that has been preserved for the public to explore and learn from. It offers a unique insight into the evolution of water pumping technology over the past century.

The Ogden Museum of Southern Art, established in 1999, is a unique institution dedicated to showcasing the work of artists from the southern United States. Located in New Orleans, Louisiana, the museum provides a platform for southern artists to display their work and for visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the region's rich artistic heritage.

The Barksdale Global Power Museum, previously known as the 8th Air Force Museum, is an aviation museum located on the Barksdale Air Force Base near Bossier City, Louisiana. Managed by the United States Air Force, the museum is a testament to the rich history and contributions of the Air Force in the field of aviation.

The Rebel State Historic Site, managed by the state of Louisiana, is situated near Marthaville in Natchitoches Parish. This location is significant as it commemorates the history and culture of northwestern Louisiana, making it an interesting destination for those interested in the region's past.

The Alexandria Zoological Park, located in Alexandria, Louisiana, United States, spans across 33 acres of land. This zoo first opened its doors to the public in 1926, making it a long-standing part of the local community. It offers visitors a chance to explore a wide variety of animal species in a spacious and well-maintained environment.

The Laurel Valley Sugar Plantation is a historic site located in Thibodaux, Louisiana. It holds a significant place in the history of the region and is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. The plantation offers a unique opportunity to explore the history of sugar production in the area, as well as the broader history of southern Louisiana.

The Louisiana Art and Science Museum is housed in the historic Baton Rouge station, located at 100 South River Road in downtown Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This unique location adds a touch of history to the museum, making it not only a place for art and science but also a piece of the city's past. The station was originally built for the Yazoo and Mississippi Valley Railroad and was a stop on the main line between Memphis, Tennessee, and New Orleans, Louisiana.

The Louisiana Art and Science Museum is housed in the historic Baton Rouge station, located at 100 South River Road in downtown Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This unique location adds a touch of history to the museum, making it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in both art, science, and history.

The Confederate Memorial Hall, sometimes referred to as the Confederate Embassy, was a multifaceted establishment located in Washington, D.C. Owned by the Confederate Memorial Association, it served as a museum, library, and social club. The brownstone building that housed it is situated at 1322 Vermont Avenue NW, just off Logan Circle.

The Herbert S. Ford Memorial Museum is a significant site of local history and culture, located in the former Claiborne Hotel at 519 South Main Street in Homer, Claiborne Parish, North Louisiana. The museum offers a unique insight into the region's past, making it a worthwhile stop for those interested in history and culture.

The Contemporary Arts Center of New Orleans, established in 1976, is situated in the historic downtown area of New Orleans. This location not only offers a rich cultural experience but also provides easy access due to its central location.

The Louisiana State Cotton Museum is situated in Lake Providence, Louisiana. This location is significant as it has been a central hub for cotton growing, making it an ideal place to learn about the history and traditions of cotton cultivation and harvest.

The Chennault Aviation and Military Museum, situated in Monroe, Louisiana, is a significant site that showcases the development of the local aviation industry. Visitors can gain insights into the history and evolution of aviation in the region, making it an interesting destination for those interested in military and aviation history.

The American Italian Cultural Center (AICC) is a nonprofit institution located in New Orleans, Louisiana. It was established in 1985 by Joseph Maselli. The center is dedicated to honoring and celebrating Italian American history and culture in Louisiana.

The Germantown Colony and Museum is a significant historical preservation project located in Webster Parish, Louisiana. It is situated approximately 7 miles north of Minden in the northwestern part of Louisiana. This museum offers a unique opportunity to delve into the history of the region and learn about the early settlers' way of life.

The Louisiana Museum of Natural History is situated on the campus of Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors, as it is within the university grounds and close to other local attractions. The museum is the state's official museum of natural history, making it a significant destination for those interested in the natural world.

This great museum features fun exhibitions which promote kids' education and learning, as well as a "grown-up wing".

Take a tour of the wonderful house where Degas lived during his time in Louisiana and maybe stay in for a while - it is a bed and breakfast now.

The DeQuincy Railroad Museum is housed in the historic Kansas City Southern Depot, located at 400 Lake Charles Avenue, in DeQuincy, Louisiana. This location is not only a museum but also a significant piece of history, as it was a key station in the Kansas City Southern Railroad line that was completed in 1897. The depot itself was built in 1923, featuring Mission Revival architecture, and is one of only three such urban railroad stations still existing in Louisiana.

The LSU Rural Life Museum is a significant historical site located in Baton Rouge, US. It is situated within the Burden Museum and Gardens, a 400-acre agricultural research experiment station. This location provides a unique setting for the museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the agricultural history of the region.

The Pentagon Barracks, also referred to as the Old United States Barracks, is a collection of buildings situated at the intersection of State Capitol Drive and River Road in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The complex is located within the grounds of the state capitol, making it a significant historical site.

The Vivian Railroad Station Museum is housed in the Kansas City Southern Depot, a historic building in Vivian, Louisiana. This building was recognized for its historical significance and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1995. This recognition underscores the importance of the building and the museum it houses, providing visitors with a glimpse into the past.

Oaklawn Manor is a historic plantation house situated on the Bayou Teche in St. Mary Parish, Louisiana, United States. It is conveniently located just outside the city of Franklin. This location offers visitors a glimpse into the past, with its rich history and beautiful surroundings.

The Magnolia Mound Plantation House, located near the Mississippi River in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is a French Creole house built in 1791. This historic structure is a testament to the architectural influences of early settlers from France and the West Indies. It is one of the earliest buildings in the present-day city of Baton Rouge and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on September 7, 1972.

The USS Kidd (DD-661) is a significant piece of American naval history. This Fletcher-class destroyer is the first ship of the US Navy to bear the name of Rear Admiral Isaac C. Kidd. Kidd was killed on the deck of the USS Arizona during the Pearl Harbor attack in 1941, making him the first American officer to die during World War II and the first American admiral to be killed in combat.

The Tangipahoa African American Heritage Museum & Veterans Archives is situated in the heart of Hammond, Louisiana, on Phoenix Square. This location is easily accessible and provides a central point for visitors to start their exploration of the rich African American heritage and military history showcased in the museum.