The best museums in Louisiana in October 2023

These are the top 50 best museums in Louisiana, ranked by their rating and popularity in 2023. Click a museum for more information about the museum, including visitor information, exhibitions and reviews.

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

Looking for the best museums in Louisiana? These are the best ones:

  1. National WWII Museum1

    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).
  2. Mardi Gras World2

    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.
  3. New Orleans Botanical Garden3

    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.
  4. 4

    New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum

    New Orleans, LA
    New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum is a voodoo museum in New Orleans , United States, situated between Bourbon and Royal Streets in the centre of the French Quarter . Although only a small museum, consisting of two rooms, it is one of few museums in the world dedicated entirely to Vodou art . There
  5. New Orleans Museum of Art5

    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.
  6. The Cabildo6

    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.
  7. Destrehan Plantation7

    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.
  8. Audubon Zoo8

    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.
  9. Louis Armstrong Park9

    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.
  10. The New Orleans Jazz Museum - New Orleans Mint10

    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.
  11. The Presbytère11

    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.
  12. Audubon Aquarium of the Americas12

    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.
  13. Laura Plantation13

    Laura Plantation

    North Vacherie, LA
    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.
  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. Whitney Plantation15

    Whitney Plantation

    Wallace, LA
    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.
  16. Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve16

    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.
  17. 1850 House17

    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.
  18. Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium18

    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.
  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. Hermann-Grima House21

    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.
  22. Longue Vue House and Gardens22

    Longue Vue House and Gardens

    New Orleans, LA
  23. Old Louisiana State Capitol23

    Old Louisiana State Capitol

    Baton Rouge, LA
    The Old Louisiana State Capitol , also known as the State House , is a historic government building, and now a museum, at 100 North Boulevard in Baton Rouge , Louisiana , U.S.A. . It housed the Louisiana State Legislature from the mid-19th century until the current capitol tower building was constr
  24. Backstreet Cultural Museum24

    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.
  25. Nottoway Plantation House25

    Nottoway Plantation House

    White Castle, LA
    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.
  26. 26

    New Orleans Fire Department Museum

    New Orleans, LA
  27. Ogden Museum of Southern Art27

    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.
  28. Jackson Barracks Military Museum28

    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.
  29. 29

    Museum of Death

    New Orleans, LA
  30. Old New Orleans Rum Distillery30

    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.
  31. Old Ursuline Convent Museum31

    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.
  32. 32

    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.
  33. The Historic New Orleans Collection - Williams Research Center33

    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.
  34. Louisiana Governor's Mansion34

    Louisiana Governor's Mansion

    Baton Rouge, LA
    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.
  35. Capitol Park Museum35

    Capitol Park Museum

    Baton Rouge, LA
    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.
  36. Jack and Priscilla Andonie Museum36

    Jack and Priscilla Andonie Museum

    Baton Rouge, LA
  37. Alexandria Museum of Art37

    Alexandria Museum of Art

    Alexandria, LA
    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.
  38. Louisiana History Museum38

    Louisiana History Museum

    Alexandria, LA
    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.
  39. Alexandre Mouton House39

    Alexandre Mouton House

    Lafayette, LA
    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.
  40. Barksdale Global Power Museum40

    Barksdale Global Power Museum

    Bossier City, LA
    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.
  41. Laurel Valley Store and Museum41

    Laurel Valley Store and Museum

    Raceland, LA
    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.
  42. Louisiana Art and Science Museum - Baton Rouge Station42

    Louisiana Art and Science Museum - Baton Rouge Station

    Baton Rouge, LA
    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.
  43. House of Dance & Feathers43

    House of Dance & Feathers

    New Orleans, LA
  44. Louisiana Children's Museum44

    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".
  45. LSU Rural Life Museum45

    LSU Rural Life Museum

    Baton Rouge, LA
    The LSU Rural Life Museum is а museum of Louisiana history in Baton Rouge , US . It is located in the Burden Museum and Gardens, a 400-acre (1,600,000 m ) agricultural research experiment station, and is operated under the aegis of Louisiana State University . As a state with a diverse cultural ance
  46. Pentagon Barracks Museum46

    Pentagon Barracks Museum

    Baton Rouge, LA
    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.
  47. Magnolia Mound Plantation47

    Magnolia Mound Plantation

    Baton Rouge, LA
    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.
  48. USS KIDD Veterans Museum48

    USS KIDD Veterans Museum

    Baton Rouge, LA
  49. R.W. Norton Art Gallery49

    R.W. Norton Art Gallery

    Shreveport, LA
    The R.W. Norton Art Gallery houses an exceptional collection of art spanning more than four millennia. Since its opening in 1966, the museum has become particularly well-known around the country for its impressive collections of works by those titans of western art, Frederic Remington and Charles
  50. Baton Rouge Zoo50

    Baton Rouge Zoo

    Baker, LA
    The Baton Rouge Zoo, situated just 15 minutes north of downtown Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is a haven for animal lovers. The zoo houses over 800 animals from various parts of the globe, offering visitors a chance to experience the diversity of wildlife in one place. Whether you're interested in mammals, birds, or reptiles, the zoo has a wide range of species to explore.

All museums in Louisiana