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The Presbytere isn't just another museum — it's the place where New Orleans' wildest celebrations and its most heartbreaking moment live under one roof. Upstairs, you're surrounded by glittering Mardi Gras costumes and parade floats that'll make you want to dance. Downstairs, you'll stand face-to-face with the raw, unfiltered story of Hurricane Katrina. It's emotional, it's beautiful, and it's absolutely worth your time.
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Quick Facts Box
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Price Range | $7-$11 for adults; discounts for seniors, students, military; children 6 & under free |
| Best For | History buffs, Mardi Gras fanatics, culture seekers, rainy-day activities |
| Neighborhood | French Quarter (Jackson Square) |
| Walkability Score | 10/10 — steps from St. Louis Cathedral, Café Du Monde, and the riverfront |
| Address | 751 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70116 |
| Hours | Tuesday–Sunday, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (closed Mondays) |
| Time Needed | About 1 to 1.5 hours |
The Full Write-Up
There's something about Jackson Square that stops you in your tracks. The cathedral towers overhead, artists line the fence with their paintings, and street musicians fill the air with brass-band energy. And right there, flanking the cathedral on one side, sits The Presbytere — a stately Spanish colonial building that's been watching over this square for over two hundred years.
The Presbytere (sometimes spelled Presbytère) was originally designed in 1791 to serve as the rectory for St. Louis Cathedral. French-born architect Gilberto Guillemard drew up the plans to match the Cabildo on the opposite side of the church. But here's the twist: it never actually served as a rectory. Instead, it was used for commercial purposes, then became a courthouse, and finally, in 1911, it joined the Louisiana State Museum. Today, it's one of the finest examples of Spanish colonial public architecture left in the United States, and it was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1970.
So what's inside? Two permanent exhibits that couldn't be more different — yet together, they tell the complete story of New Orleans.
Upstairs: Mardi Gras — It's Carnival Time in Louisiana
Walk up to the second floor, and you're immediately hit with color, feathers, sequins, and pure joy. This exhibit is a celebration of everything Mardi Gras — from its colonial origins to the modern-day super krewes. You'll see elaborate costumes that look like they belong on a runway (because they basically do), parade floats you can actually climb onto, and enough throws, beads, and memorabilia to make you feel like you're right in the middle of Carnival season.
One of the coolest parts? You get a peek into the secretive world of the krewes — the social clubs that organize the parades and balls. There's history here, tradition, and a whole lot of personality. If you've ever wondered why Mardi Gras means so much to this city, this exhibit answers that question in the most vibrant way possible.
Downstairs: Living with Hurricanes — Katrina and Beyond
Then you head downstairs. And the tone shifts completely.
This exhibit is powerful. It documents Hurricane Katrina — the storm, the levee failures, the flooding, the rescue missions, and the long, ongoing recovery. You'll see personal testimonies, photographs, and objects marked by floodwaters. There's a garage door that was used to mark who was found alive or dead. It's raw. It's emotional. And it's incredibly well done.
Visitors often say they need a moment after walking through this exhibit. And that's okay. It's supposed to make you feel something. But here's the thing: it also leaves you with a sense of hope. The resilience of this city shines through every display. New Orleans has been through hell and back, and this exhibit honors that journey with honesty and care.
Why It Works
What makes The Presbytere special is the contrast. You go from the ultimate celebration to the ultimate heartbreak, and somehow, it all makes sense. As one reviewer put it, the two exhibits "put bookends on the New Orleans experience: celebration and heartbreak". Another said it's "a moving and ultimately uplifting tribute to the history and spirit of the city".
It's also incredibly affordable. Tickets run around $7 to $11 for adults, with discounts for seniors, students, and military. Kids six and under get in free. You can even grab a combined ticket with the Cabildo next door if you want to make a full morning of it.
Tips for Your Visit
Parking: This is the French Quarter. Parking is tricky. Your best bet is to use a nearby lot or garage (there's one on Decatur Street) and walk. Or better yet, take a ride-share or streetcar and skip the parking headache altogether.
Best time to go: Weekday mornings tend to be quieter. The museum opens at 9 AM, and that's a sweet spot before the midday crowds roll in.
How much time to plan: Give yourself about an hour to an hour and a half. You could rush through in 30 minutes, but you'd miss the depth of both exhibits.
Bring tissues: Not kidding. The Katrina exhibit hits hard.
Check for special exhibits: The Presbytere regularly rotates in temporary exhibitions. Recently, they've featured "Origins of New Orleans Black Carnival Society" and "Pioneers of Women's Carnival", so there's always something new to discover. My
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My Take
Honestly? I've been to a lot of museums, and this one sticks with you. It's not the biggest museum you'll ever visit, but it might be one of the most memorable. The way it captures the duality of New Orleans — the joy and the pain, the party and the perseverance — is something special.
If you're visiting NOLA for the first time, put The Presbytere on your list. If you've been before and skipped it, go back. It's right in the heart of Jackson Square, it's inexpensive, and it offers a perspective on this city that you won't get anywhere else.
Make a Day of It in Jackson Square
The Presbytere sits right on Jackson Square, which means you're surrounded by some of the best things to do in the French Quarter.
St. Louis Cathedral — Right next door. Step inside and admire the stunning painted ceiling and peaceful atmosphere.
Café Du Monde — Just a short walk away on Decatur Street. Grab some beignets and café au lait after your museum visit. Trust me, you've earned it.
The Cabildo — The matching building on the other side of the cathedral. It's also part of the Louisiana State Museum and worth a visit if you want more history.
French Market — A few blocks away. Perfect for shopping, people-watching, and soaking up more of that French Quarter energy.
Royal Street — Wander up Royal for antique shops, art galleries, and some of the most beautiful architecture in the city.
Summary / Takeaway
The Presbytere is more than a museum — it's a mirror reflecting the soul of New Orleans. One floor celebrates the city's legendary capacity for joy; the other honors its resilience in the face of tragedy. For around ten bucks and an hour of your time, you get an experience that's educational, emotional, and deeply human. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned NOLA traveler, this Jackson Square landmark deserves a spot on your itinerary. Don't just walk past it — go inside. You won't regret it.
Need a hotel? Check out some New Orleans hotel suggestions! Looking for things to do? Check out some activities in New Orleans and the surrounding areas!
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