New Orleans African American Museum

What to know

The New Orleans African American Museum (NOAAM) is situated at 1417 Governor Nicholls Street within the Tremé neighborhood. This area is recognized as the oldest-surviving Black community in the United States, providing a profound geographic context for the museum's mission to preserve history and elevate the contributions of the African Diaspora. The institution focuses on educating the public by interpreting the experiences of people of African descent in Louisiana. Its scope spans the harrowing era of American slavery, the transition of emancipation, the complexities of Reconstruction, and the evolution of contemporary times, highlighting the roles of both enslaved people and free people of color. Visitors can engage with a striking visual narrative through twenty-six 8-by-8 murals. These artworks utilize dramatic color to illustrate the history of African Americans in New Orleans, often depicting shocking scenes to convey the raw reality of the past. Currently, the museum is operating out of its administrative building, known as 'The Blue House.' This temporary arrangement allows the museum to continue its educational outreach while its historic grounds undergo a process of restoration.

Visitor tips

• Plan your visit between Thursday and Sunday, as the museum is closed Monday through Wednesday.
• Budget $20 for adult admission, or $10 if you are a student local resident.
• Arrive between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. to ensure you have enough time to view the mural collection.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the surrounding Tremé neighborhood after your visit.

Nearby context

The museum is a cornerstone of the Tremé neighborhood, the oldest-surviving Black community in the United States. This neighborhood is central to the cultural identity of New Orleans, making the museum an ideal anchor for exploring the city's African American heritage.