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New Orleans, Orleans Parish / Museums

American Italian Cultural Center

Located in the Central Business District, this cultural hub preserves the legacy of Italian immigrants in Louisiana through a renovated museum, research library, and vibrant community programming.

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American Italian Cultural Center
www.americanitalianculturalcenter.com, og_image_www.americanitalianculturalcenter.com

What is the American Italian Cultural Center known for?

It is a leading institution dedicated to honoring and celebrating Italian American history and culture in Louisiana, specifically focusing on the journey of Italian immigrants and their impact on New Orleans.

How much does it cost to visit?

Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for seniors and students. Children under the age of 12 are free.

What are the hours?

Hours vary by source, but it is generally open Tuesday through Friday from 10 am to 4 pm and Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm; it is closed on Sundays.

What can I see at the museum?

The museum uses photographs, articles, family histories, and artifacts to tell the history of American Italians in the Southeast. Notable exhibits include a Sicilian cart, a St. Joseph's Altar, and an antique pasta cutting machine.

Where is it located?

The center is located at 537 S. Peters St. in New Orleans's Central Business District, adjacent to the Piazza d'Italia.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Founded in 1985 by Joseph Maselli, the American Italian Cultural Center serves as a leading institution dedicated to honoring the history and culture of Italian Americans in Louisiana. Situated at 537 S. Peters St. in the heart of the Central Business District, the center is strategically positioned adjacent to the renowned Piazza d'Italia. The facility houses the American Italian Museum and Research Library, featuring a newly renovated museum space. This museum interprets the inspiring journey of Italian immigrants, tracking their arrival and the lasting impact they made on the culture of the Crescent City. Visitors can explore the history of Italian Americans in the Southeast through a collection of family histories, articles, photographs, and artifacts. Among the most notable exhibits are a Sicilian cart, a St. Joseph's Altar, and an antique pasta cutting machine. Beyond its museum exhibits, the center functions as a repository of memorabilia that celebrates the contributions of the sons and daughters of Italy to the city's cultural life. To keep the heritage alive, the center offers active community programming. This includes Italian language courses, concerts, events, and organized trips to Italy. Recent offerings have expanded to include modern activities such as Ciao Yoga and cooking classes through the Italian American Digest Issue.

Visitor tips

  • Adult admission is $8, while seniors and students pay $5; children under 12 enter for free.
  • Plan your visit between Tuesday and Friday from 10 am to 4 pm to ensure the museum is open.
  • Check the center's event calendar for specialized activities like Ciao Yoga or Italian cooking classes.
  • Combine this visit with a walk through the adjacent Piazza d'Italia for a complete cultural experience.

Nearby context

The center is located in the Central Business District at 537 S. Peters St., placing it immediately adjacent to the Piazza d'Italia, creating a concentrated hub of Italian heritage in downtown New Orleans.

Sources

Evidence and links