Mardi Gras World

What to know

Mardi Gras World serves as a sprawling year-round attraction dedicated to the history and craftsmanship of New Orleans' proudest tradition. Since 1984, this site has provided the public with a rare glimpse into the intricate processes used to build the city's famous parade floats. Visitors can explore the facility to discover fascinating history and see the dedicated float makers at work. The experience centers on a 300,000-square-foot working warehouse where the actual construction of parade floats takes place. Guests can wander through this industrial space to see float-making in progress, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the scale of production required for the city's oldest tradition. The site also houses the River City Complex, a versatile venue used for corporate events, weddings, festivals, and private parties. Beyond the industrial scale, the attraction offers interactive and whimsical elements. Visitors can try on costumes and take photos with the famous King and Queen Kongs. For a taste of the season, guests can even sample traditional king cake, ensuring that the spirit of Carnival is felt regardless of the calendar date. Located at 1380 Port of New Orleans Place, the facility operates daily. It maintains a strict admission schedule to manage the flow of guests through the warehouse, ensuring everyone has a chance to appreciate the signature floats and the artistry of the craftsmen.

Visitor tips

• Plan your arrival carefully; first admission is at 9:30am and the last entry is at 4:30pm.
• Check for availability of the free shuttle from select downtown destinations and hotels by calling 504-361-7821.
• Avoid visiting on Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter, or Mardi Gras Day, as the attraction is closed on these holidays.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes to navigate the expansive 300,000-square-foot warehouse floor.

Nearby context

Situated at 1380 Port of New Orleans Place, Mardi Gras World is located within the industrial and maritime hub of the Port of New Orleans, offering a different atmosphere than the historic French Quarter.