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New Orleans, Orleans Parish / Museums

Historic New Orleans Collection

A premier free history museum and research center in the French Quarter, dedicated to preserving the rich culture and traditions of New Orleans and the Gulf South region.

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Historic New Orleans Collection
www.hnoc.org, website_hero_img_www.hnoc.org

What is the Historic New Orleans Collection?

The Historic New Orleans Collection (HNOC) is a free history museum, research center, and publisher dedicated to preserving and studying the history and culture of New Orleans and the Gulf South region of the United States.

How much does it cost to visit?

Admission to the museum is free, although tickets are required for entry.

What are the hours of operation?

The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Where is it located?

The museum is located in the French Quarter at 520 Royal Street, between Toulouse and St. Louis.

Is it good for kids?

Yes, the Historic New Orleans Collection is listed as family friendly.

What should I check before going?

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

What to know

The Historic New Orleans Collection (HNOC) is a distinguished museum, research center, and publisher situated in the heart of the French Quarter. Established in 1966 by General and Mrs. L. Kemper Williams, the institution was created to ensure their extensive collection of Louisiana materials remained intact and accessible for public exhibition and scholarly research. Located at 520 Royal Street, the museum occupies a prime position between Toulouse and St. Louis streets. The facility serves as a vital cultural resource, focusing specifically on the people, places, and traditions of New Orleans and the broader Gulf South region of the United States. Visitors can explore a series of historic buildings that house award-winning exhibitions and public programs. Beyond its gallery spaces, HNOC functions as an active intellectual hub. For more than thirty years, the organization has published books concerning the city and the Gulf South. It also produces multimedia content and maintains an online catalog for those searching through its vast holdings of historical resources. True to the vision of the Kemper and Leila Williams Foundation, admission to the museum is free, ensuring that the history of the region remains accessible to all. Guests are encouraged to visit the on-site shop, which shares the museum's operating hours and offers specialized publications and gifts.

Visitor tips

  • While admission is free, remember that tickets are required for entry.
  • Plan your visit for Tuesday through Saturday between 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., or Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • The museum is handicapped accessible, making it a convenient stop for those with mobility needs.
  • Visit the Shop at the Collection at 520 Royal Street to browse books published by the institution over the last thirty years.

Nearby context

The museum is located on Royal Street, one of the French Quarter's most famous thoroughfares known for its galleries and antiques, specifically positioned between Toulouse and St. Louis streets.

Sources

Evidence and links