The Historic New Orleans Collection

Our TRIO Upward Bound students had the opportunity to visit the Historic New Orleans Collection Museum, and I cannot say enough wonderful things about this experience. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed by friendly and knowledgeable staff who helped make our visit both educational and engaging. The museum does an incredible job of preserving and sharing the rich history and culture of New Orleans. Our students learned so much about the city’s unique heritage, traditions, and historical significance. The exhibits were thoughtfully curated, interactive, and presented in a way that kept our students interested and asking questions throughout the visit. As an educator, I am always looking for experiences that bring learning to life, and this museum exceeded my expectations. It provided our students with a deeper understanding of history beyond what can be learned in a classroom. The experience sparked meaningful conversations and inspired many of our students to learn more about the people and events that shaped New Orleans. I am incredibly grateful to the Historic New Orleans Collection Museum for providing such a memorable and enriching experience. I highly recommend a visit to anyone traveling to New Orleans, especially educators and student groups looking for an engaging way to connect with history. We look forward to visiting again in the future!

Great experience! Wow. Last night Instagram showed me an “ad” for this museum and it was marked as “free”. Sure enough! We walked over there this morning, they open at 9:30 and were treated to this amazing collection of historical items, documents of historical significance, Jazz contributions, so many more. Very impressed with the on-site offers of listening to Tour Guides and even a docent answering questions. For a stranger to New Orleans, this museum did not skip out on the hospitality. I highly suggest you visit. And read all the little placards!

There is a lot packed into this museum! I love how some has stayed the same since my last visit but there are also new areas to see. This year is the American Revolution exhibit which you explore my scanning your tablets and going back in time. It was interactive and very thorough. This museum is free but offers so much that they should charge. Be sure to make a donation when you exit to keep this open!

From the moment you walk in, you can feel the rich history and culture that make New Orleans so special. The exhibits are beautifully curated, informative and engaging, offering a fascinating look into the city’s unique heritage, art, and traditions. The staff is welcoming, knowledgeable and clearly passionate about preserving the stories of New Orleans. Every display is thoughtfully presented, making it easy to spend hours exploring and learning something new around every corner. Whether you’re a history lover, an art enthusiast, or just visiting the city for the first time, this museum is a must-see experience. ✨ I left with a deeper appreciation for New Orleans and its incredible legacy. Highly recommend adding the New Orleans Collection Museum to your itinerary — it’s both educational and inspiring!

Wow! Today I explored more in this free museum. Love this little jewel on Royal st. Enjoyed the American Revolution interactive exhibit. Also, upstairs there's a 1926 organ that plays orchestral instruments beautifully. Third floor civil rights historical floor exhibits were very educational, explored yesterday. I'm coming back for 2nd floor collection of paintings inspired by the jazz scene!

This is a must visit in New Orleans. You should come, at least, once to learn all about the people, places, and traditions of New Orleans and the Gulf South. This is an amazing free museum with plenty of knowledge staff ready and willing to share their knowledge. I especially loved the exhibit on the Civil Rights Movement: “The Trail they Blazed.” Additionally, they gave a lovely little courtyard with a cafe and gift shop.

Amazing exhibits in a beautiful facility. A must-see for everyone visiting the French Quarter. The organ demonstration was wonderful, something we were lucky to be able to catch by visiting early. Lovely café and gift shop.

Historic New Orleans Collection (HNOC) is actually a museum and is free for all visitors. The cool part is that for tourists like us, it is a great place to learn about the history of New Orleans and French Quarter. For instance, we learnt about how New Orleans was selected as a settlement by Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne, Sieur de Bienville in 1718 because of how silt had been deposited along the Mississippi River, elevating the land next to the river. Inside, we learnt that the historic street cars in New Orleans were originally pulled by mules! 😱 Then because of the prevention to animal cruelty in 1880 (a long time ago!), the street cars became driven by electric. In 1929, the street car also had a story that is forever intertwined with another icon of New Orleans – the Po-boy sandwich. During the street car strike of 1929, the Martin brothers, together with local baker, John Gendusa, developed the po-boy as a free but generous sandwich to support the street car workers on strike. It was said that the original po-boy was served with roast beef, gravy and fried potato which continues to this day. The name “po-boy” came about because when one of the workers came in, the kitchen staff would shout “Here comes another poor boy!” and that’s how “po-boy” got its name... For the full review and details of our 5 months Round The World (RTW) travels, visit 2bearbear today!