The Historic New Orleans Collection is a free museum and research center at 520 Royal Street in the French Quarter, devoted to the history and culture of New Orleans and the Gulf South. Its galleries range from French Quarter history and historic maps to exhibits on the Civil Rights Movement, Vietnamese culture, jazz and Louisiana wildlife. Interactive displays help connect the city’s past to its present, and the collection’s historic buildings add another layer to a visit. Leave time to explore several floors, and consider making a donation to support the museum.
A museum, research center and publisher
The Historic New Orleans Collection began in 1966 with a focus on preserving and studying the history and culture of New Orleans and the Gulf South. Today, it brings together public exhibitions, research resources and publishing. Its Royal Street campus occupies historic buildings in the French Quarter, giving the galleries a setting tied to the city they interpret.
The collection includes books, documents, manuscripts, photographs, prints, drawings, paintings and other artifacts. Its subject matter spans more than three centuries, from the region’s early history to cultural life in the modern city. The exhibition program changes, so the displays you find can vary between visits.
Maps and stories of the French Quarter
The French Quarter galleries explain how the area developed and tell stories connected to its buildings, architecture and cultural traditions. Historic maps are a useful way to follow changes in the neighborhood; an interactive display layers earlier maps over a contemporary view, helping you place the past in the streets around you.
Other exhibitions take up subjects including the Civil Rights Movement, Vietnamese culture, jazz and Louisiana wildlife. The material ranges from historical documents and artifacts to art. Together, the galleries give you several ways to approach the region’s history, whether you are interested in a particular community, a period or the city’s physical development.
Interactive exhibits and a historic setting
Some displays invite you to take part rather than simply read. The American Revolution exhibition, for example, uses an interactive format that lets you explore its story. A historic organ has also been noted for performances that evoke orchestral instruments, so an early visit can give you a chance to catch a demonstration.
The institution’s historic buildings are part of the experience, and the wider collection includes restored properties as well as exhibition spaces. The research center holds resources for people studying the region, while the public galleries offer a more accessible introduction to its history. Free lockers are available for visitors who would rather explore without carrying their belongings.
Planning a visit
The museum is at 520 Royal Street in the French Quarter. Admission to the galleries is free, and donations are encouraged. If you want to contribute, bring cash, since an online donation option may not be available.
The number of exhibitions and the interactive displays can easily fill more than a quick walk-through. Choose the subjects that interest you, then leave room for the map display and any demonstrations taking place during your visit. The museum is wheelchair accessible, with an accessible entrance, elevator, seating and restroom.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is admission to the Historic New Orleans Collection free?
Yes. Admission to the museum galleries is free, and donations are encouraged.
How long do you need at the museum?
Allow about 1 to 2 hours to explore the galleries and interactive displays.
What can you see at the Historic New Orleans Collection?
Exhibits cover subjects including French Quarter history, the Civil Rights Movement, Vietnamese culture, jazz and Louisiana wildlife. Displays include historic maps, documents, art and interactive exhibits.
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The museum has an accessible entrance, elevator, seating and restroom.
