August in New Orleans is a time for locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant history, art, and culture during New Orleans Museum Month. Whether you’re an art aficionado, history buff, or just looking for an educational family outing, Museum Month is the perfect time to dive into the history and culture of New Orleans.
From August 1 to 31, 2024, your membership to any one of the participating Museum Month locations will allow you and one guest access to all participating museums. For example, if you’re a member of the National WWII Museum, your membership card will allow you access to the Contemporary Arts Center, Louisiana Children’s Museum, and many more during the month of August. This year, participating museums include:
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- The 1850 House: Situated in the picturesque Pontalba Buildings on Jackson Square, the 1850 House offers a fascinating glimpse into mid-19th century life in New Orleans. This meticulously restored townhouse showcases authentic period furnishings and decor, providing visitors with an immersive experience of the daily lives of prosperous Creole families during that era.
- Ashé Cultural Arts Center: A vibrant hub for African-American culture and the arts, the center is dedicated to promoting and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the African diaspora, offering a diverse array of programs, including art exhibitions, theater performances, music events, and community workshops.
- The Cabildo: This historic landmark and museum offers a deep dive into Louisiana’s vibrant history and houses an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of New Orleans and the Gulf Coast, from colonial times to the present.
- Contemporary Arts Center: For those interested in modern and contemporary art, the CAC in the Warehouse District showcases cutting-edge exhibitions and performances that reflect the dynamic culture of today’s New Orleans.
- Gallier House & Hermann-Grima House: Located in the heart of the French Quarter, the Hermann-Grima House is a beautifully preserved Federal-style mansion that offers a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century life in New Orleans. Guided tours provide insights into the daily lives of the wealthy Hermann and Grima families who lived there, as well as the enslaved people who worked in the household. The Gallier House, also located in the French Quarter, showcases several engineering innovations, such as indoor plumbing with hot and cold running water and a double skylight.
- Historic Beauregard Keyes House & Gardens: For a look at an 1826 Greek Revival mansion that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the city’s rich past, take a guided tour of the BK House. You’ll hear fascinating stories about the lives of its inhabitants and the history of New Orleans.
- The Historic New Orleans Collection: Situated in the French Quarter, THNOC offers an in-depth look at the history and culture of New Orleans and the Gulf South. Through exhibits, guided tours, and special programs, visitors can delve into the city’s rich past and vibrant present.
- Longue Vue House and Gardens: An elegant historic estate nestled in the heart of New Orleans, this Classical Revival mansion offers a stunning glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of its original owners, philanthropists Edith and Edgar Stern.
- Louisiana Children’s Museum: The LCM, located in New Orleans’ scenic City Park, is a premier destination for families and children. This state-of-the-art facility features interactive exhibits designed to inspire learning and creativity in kids of all ages.
- Louisiana State Museum: Offering a captivating journey through the state’s rich cultural and historical heritage, diverse exhibits span topics from the vibrant history of jazz to the profound impacts of Hurricane Katrina.
- Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience: This museum celebrates the unique history and contributions of Jewish communities in the American South. Through engaging exhibits and personal stories, the museum explores the cultural, social, and economic impact of Southern Jews from colonial times to the present.
- New Orleans African American Museum: Located in the historic Treme neighborhood, the NOAAM is a vital cultural institution dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich history and contributions of African Americans in New Orleans. Through engaging programming and exhibitions, the museum fosters a deeper understanding of the African American experience and its integral role in the city’s vibrant history.
- New Orleans Jazz Museum: This dynamic museum just steps from the Lanaux Mansion is a vibrant tribute to the birthplace of jazz and its enduring influence on music worldwide, showcasing a rich collection of artifacts, instruments, and multimedia exhibits that celebrate the history, culture, and artists of jazz.
- New Orleans Museum of Art: Located in the beautiful City Park, NOMA boasts an impressive collection of fine art spanning centuries and continents. From classical sculptures and paintings to contemporary works and African art, there’s something to inspire every art lover.
- New Orleans Pharmacy Museum: This fascinating museum offers a glimpse into the early days of medicine and pharmacy in New Orleans. Explore antique medical instruments, apothecary jars, and a recreated 19th-century pharmacy.
- Ogden Museum of Southern Art: Dedicated to the art and culture of the American South, the Ogden Museum features a diverse array of paintings, sculptures, and photographs that capture the spirit and history of the region. It’s a great place to explore the unique artistic heritage of the South.
- The Presbytere: Originally built as a residence for the cathedral’s clergy, this historic building serves as a museum within the Louisiana State Museum system. It offers captivating exhibits that explore Louisiana’s rich cultural history, including its vibrant Carnival traditions and the impacts of Hurricane Katrina.
- Sazerac House: A must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts, the Sazerac House is a captivating destination dedicated to the city’s iconic cocktail culture. This interactive museum explores the history of the Sazerac cocktail and the art of mixology through immersive exhibits, tastings, and engaging storytelling.
- Southern Food & Beverage Museum: This unique museum explores the history, ingredients, and iconic dishes that define the South’s diverse food landscape through engaging exhibits, interactive displays, and tasting events.
- StudioBE: This is a dynamic art space and gallery that showcases the vibrant works of local artist Brandan “BMike” Odums. Known for its stunning large-scale murals and thought-provoking installations, Studio BE serves as a cultural hub that promotes creativity, community engagement, and social commentary.
- TEP Center: This center is a platform for local artists and performers to showcase their talents while offering workshops, classes, and events that foster creativity and collaboration. With its commitment to enriching the cultural landscape of New Orleans, the TEP Center serves as an essential hub for artistic expression and community engagement.
- The National WWII Museum: Renowned as one of the top museums in the country, The National WWII Museum offers a comprehensive and immersive look into the history of World War II. With interactive exhibits, multimedia displays, and a vast collection of artifacts, it’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Before you head out, check the list of participating museums and their operating hours to plan your visits accordingly. If you’re not yet a member of any of this year’s participating museums, simply sign up for a membership at your first visit or become a member online before your visit.
You may also consider taking advantage of guided tours. Many museums offer tours that provide deeper insights into their exhibits and collections.
Above all, we encourage you to use Museum Month as an opportunity to explore different parts of the city, from the historic French Quarter to the vibrant Warehouse District and beyond.
And while you’re planning your trip to the Big Easy this August, we invite you to peruse our luxury suites here at the Lanaux Mansion. From Sophie’s Enchanted Cottage to Ruthie’s Balcony Escape, we have suites for two to twenty-three guests. We know you’ll find something that works perfectly for your New Orleans getaway.
For a limited time, we’re offering an additional 10% off already deeply discounted summer rates on all our luxury suites, so book your suite today using promo code “sizzle”.
As always, if you have any questions, we’re just a call or email away!
