Mardi Gras Museums Offer a Colorful Taste of Carnival
Museums dedicated to the history and ritual of Carnival are open for visits year-round. Here are some suggested stops.
So you've planned a visit to Louisiana but it doesn't coincide with the dates of Mardi Gras? You might miss the state's signature celebration, but you can still get a taste of the color and pageantry that accompany this spectacular annual extravaganza.
Where to Find a Mardi Gras Museum in Louisiana
Mardi Gras Museums: New Orleans
In New Orleans — home of the largest Mardi Gras celebrations in North America — don't miss Mardi Gras World. This huge warehouse near the Port of New Orleans along the Mississippi River welcomes visitors for tours of the giant floats, figurines, costumes and Carnival decor used in the parades and balls of the city's most famous Mardi Gras krewes. Take your time — the scenes are breathtaking.
While you're in New Orleans, stop by Arnaud's restaurant in the French Quarter, where you can not only enjoy a fine meal in an elegant atmosphere, but also take a free stroll through the Germaine Cazenave Wells Mardi Gras Museum on the second floor. The display showcases beautiful gowns and memorabilia worn by "royalty" in past Carnival events, as well as dozens of vintage photographs.
Not only do you get to admire the array of wacky, wild and majestic costumes — part of the owner’s private collection — at the Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes & Culture, you get to try them on yourself. Play dress-up, snap plenty of pictures and then enjoy the daily show, including an interactive NOLA-style indoor parade, at this French Quarter Mardi Gras Museum.
A mainstay in Tremé, the Backstreet Cultural Museum offers a unique look into the rich heritage and traditions of the Mardi Gras Indians. Explore the city’s largest collection of elaborate and intricately decorated Mardi Gras Indian suits, adorned with thousands of feathers, sequins, beads, shells and more.
Part of the Louisiana State Museums, one of the Presbytère’s permanent exhibits tells the story of the annual celebrations and rituals of Carnival and Mardi Gras. Step into the landmark on Jackson Square and you’ll discover colorful floats to climb, ornate costumes, displays of historical parade throws and a collection of Mardi Gras records, albums and sheet music.
Other Mardi Gras Museums in Louisiana
In north Louisiana, you'll want to plan a stop at the Krewe of Gemini Mardi Gras Den in Bossier City. The venue offers an up-close view of more than three decades of Mardi Gras history in Northwest Louisiana. You're sure to be amazed by the glamour of the intricate costumes on display.
On the second floor of the Slidell Museum, you’ll find the Slidell Mardi Gras Museum, which features a number of Carnival memorabilia from a local collector. Peruse the costumes, photographs and artifacts to take a peek into the past.
And in Lake Charles, the new location for the Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu is in progress, with plans to open in late 2025. Once complete, it will be a can’t-miss destination for all things Mardi Gras in Southwest Louisiana.
Learn more about Mardi Gras traditions.
