The best museums in New Orleans in September 2025

These are the top 50 best museums in New Orleans, United States, ranked by their rating and popularity in 2025. Click a museum for more information about the museum, including visitor information, exhibitions and reviews.

For a complete overview of museums in New Orleans, their exhibitions and discount cards & passes, see our overview page with all museums in New Orleans.

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Looking for the best museums in New Orleans? These are the best ones:

  1. St. Louis Cathedral1

    St. Louis Cathedral

     New Orleans, LA
  2. National WWII Museum2

    National WWII Museum

     New Orleans, LA
    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).
  3. 3

    New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  4. New Orleans Museum of Art4

    New Orleans Museum of Art

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  5. Audubon Zoo5

    Audubon Zoo

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  6. Louis Armstrong Park6

    Louis Armstrong Park

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  7. Mardi Gras World7

    Mardi Gras World

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  8. St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 Official Tour8

    St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 Official Tour

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  9. New Orleans Botanical Garden9

    New Orleans Botanical Garden

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  10. The Cabildo10

    The Cabildo

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  11. Destrehan Plantation11

    Destrehan Plantation

     Destrehan,
    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.
  12. The Presbytère12

    The Presbytère

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  13. Audubon Aquarium of the Americas13

    Audubon Aquarium of the Americas

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  14. Southern Food and Beverage Museum14

    Southern Food and Beverage Museum

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  15. Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve15

    Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  16. 1850 House16

    1850 House

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  17. Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium17

    Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  18. 18

    JAMNOLA

     New Orleans, LA
  19. Confederate Memorial Hall Museum19

    Confederate Memorial Hall Museum

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  20. New Orleans Pharmacy Museum20

    New Orleans Pharmacy Museum

     New Orleans, LA
    Take a tour of this peculiar museum dedicated to pharmaceutical history, featuring numerous historical artifacts.
  21. The New Orleans Jazz Museum - New Orleans Mint21

    The New Orleans Jazz Museum - New Orleans Mint

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  22. Longue Vue House and Gardens22

    Longue Vue House and Gardens

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  23. Backstreet Cultural Museum23

    Backstreet Cultural Museum

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  24. 24

    New Orleans Fire Department Museum

     New Orleans, LA
  25. Hermann-Grima House25

    Hermann-Grima House

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  26. Jackson Barracks Military Museum26

    Jackson Barracks Military Museum

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  27. 27

    Museum of Death

     New Orleans, LA
  28. Old New Orleans Rum Distillery28

    Old New Orleans Rum Distillery

     New Orleans, LA
    Take a tour of the distillery and discover the production process of top-notch and world famous rum.
  29. Historic BK House & Gardens29

    Historic BK House & Gardens

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  30. New Canal Lighthouse30

    New Canal Lighthouse

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  31. Audubon Insectarium31

    Audubon Insectarium

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  32. Newcomb Art Museum32

    Newcomb Art Museum

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  33. Old Ursuline Convent Museum33

    Old Ursuline Convent Museum

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  34. 34

    Mckenna Museum of African American Art

     New Orleans, LA
    Intriguing museum that promotes the cultural history of African American in its rich context. Check the opening times in advance.
  35. The Historic New Orleans Collection - Williams Research Center35

    The Historic New Orleans Collection - Williams Research Center

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  36. The Historic New Orleans Collection36

    The Historic New Orleans Collection

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  37. Hermann-Grima + Gallier Historic Houses37

    Hermann-Grima + Gallier Historic Houses

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  38. Louisiana State Museum38

    Louisiana State Museum

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  39. Pitot House39

    Pitot House

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  40. Gallier House40

    Gallier House

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  41. Ogden Museum of Southern Art41

    Ogden Museum of Southern Art

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  42. 42

    Vue Orleans Observatory Deck

     New Orleans, LA
  43. Confederate Memorial Hall43

    Confederate Memorial Hall

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  44. Contemporary Arts Center New Orleans44

    Contemporary Arts Center New Orleans

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  45. American Italian Cultural Center45

    American Italian Cultural Center

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  46. House of Dance & Feathers46

    House of Dance & Feathers

     New Orleans, LA
  47. Louisiana Children's Museum47

    Louisiana Children's Museum

     New Orleans, LA
    This great museum features fun exhibitions which promote kids' education and learning, as well as a "grown-up wing".
  48. Degas House48

    Degas House

     New Orleans, LA
    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.
  49. House of Broel49

    House of Broel

     New Orleans, LA
    The House of Broel is owned by Bonnie Broel, who specializes in bridal and evening wear. This retail outlet offers a unique shopping experience for those interested in high-quality fashion.
  50. New Orleans African American Museum50

    New Orleans African American Museum

     New Orleans, LA
    The New Orleans African American Museum (NOAAM) is situated in the historic Tremé neighborhood, which holds the distinction of being the oldest surviving black community in the United States. This location adds a layer of historical significance to the museum, making it a notable destination for those interested in African American history and culture.

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