The Historic New Orleans Collection

In the heart of the legendary French Quarter, which graces New Orleans, lies The Historic New Orleans Collection (THNOC). It is more than just a museum; it is one of the most significant research centers in the USA, dedicated to preserving the unique culture, traditions, and history of the Gulf Coast.

The museum campus consists of an ensemble of ten historic buildings, the oldest of which date back to the late 18th century. Notable among them is the Merieult House—a magnificent example of Spanish colonial architecture. Walking through its halls, visitors can trace the region's entire evolution: from marshy outposts to a brilliant cultural hub.

One of the site's main features is its accessibility—admission to the main exhibitions is free (though advanced ticket booking is often required). It houses colossal archives: over 30,000 books and half a million photographs, drawings, and paintings that reveal the authentic face of Louisiana to its guests.

For information regarding special exhibitions or to schedule a visit to the archives, you can use the following contact details:

The first thing to do when visiting the museum is to take a stroll through its permanent galleries. You will see how the city's appearance has changed over three centuries, transforming from a colonial settlement into one of America’s most vibrant gems. Interactive displays help provide a deeper understanding of the social and architectural history of the French Quarter.

Be sure to peek into the complex’s interior courtyards. These cozy spaces, hidden behind building facades, allow you to escape the city's hustle and bustle and enjoy the quiet amidst ancient walls. There is also a small, cozy cafe where you can enjoy a cup of coffee while soaking in the atmosphere of historic New Orleans.

For those who want to learn more, the museum offers daily programs and guided tours. Mini-lectures and themed tours share vivid stories about the people who built this city. If you have a research interest, visit the Williams Research Center to access rare documents and ancient maps of the region.

The Historic Collection is located at 520 Royal Street, in the heart of the lively French Quarter. Thanks to its central location, the museum is within walking distance of most popular hotels and iconic sites in the area. Strolling through the historic streets is the best way to soak in the city's spirit before your visit.

If you are coming from further away, it is most convenient to use a taxi or ride-sharing services. Keep in mind that parking in the French Quarter can be limited, so New Orleans' public transport or the classic streetcar are excellent alternatives. The nearest streetcar stops are just a few blocks from the entrance.

For those using GPS, the museum's exact coordinates are: 29.9568565, -90.0656754. Remember that Royal Street is one of the city's most picturesque pedestrian zones, often featuring street performances, making your walk to the museum a little adventure in itself.

The history of this unique institution began in 1966. The collection was founded by General L. Kemper Williams and his wife Leila Hardy Moore Williams. As passionate collectors and connoisseurs of Louisiana culture, they decided to turn their private collection into a public asset, establishing a foundation to preserve the region's heritage.

The core of the museum complex is the Merieult House, built during the Spanish colonial period in the late 18th century. Remarkably, this building is one of the few that survived the Great Fire of 1794. Today, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and serves as the main entrance to the museum campus.

In 1996, the institution expanded significantly with the opening of the Williams Research Center. It is housed in a restored former police station and courthouse, built in the elegant Beaux-Arts style on Chartres Street. This expansion made hundreds of thousands of documents and rare photographs accessible to both scholars and the public.

Today, The Historic New Orleans Collection is not merely a repository for antiquities but a living research center. It houses more than 500,000 images and two miles of archival documents, making it one of the most significant historical resources for the American South and the Gulf Coast.

A brief tour of the main exhibitions and a chance to enjoy the architecture of the courtyards usually takes about 2–3 hours. This is enough time to get acquainted with the key stages of the region's history and see the campus’s most beautiful halls.

However, if you are a true history buff or plan to visit the Williams Research Center to study archives and rare photographs, you should budget 4–5 hours or even an entire day. The museum's collections are so extensive that a detailed study of documents and manuscripts can be quite absorbing.

When planning your visit to the museum, please note the operating schedule. The museum welcomes guests from Tuesday to Sunday, with Monday being a day off.

Current operating hours for The Historic New Orleans Collection:

• Tuesday — Saturday: 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM
• Sunday: 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM
• Monday: Closed

The French Quarter, where the museum is located, is literally overflowing with interesting sites. A stroll through the neighborhood will allow you to see architectural masterpieces and feel the unique rhythm of the city, where history meets modern art and music.