1850 House
Step into a mid-19th century New Orleans townhouse, showcasing authentic furnishings and daily life of an antebellum family.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
1850 House
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into a mid-19th century New Orleans townhouse, showcasing authentic furnishings and daily life of an antebellum family.
"A fascinating and peaceful detour offering a unique glimpse into life in mid-19th century New Orleans."
⏳ Allow ample time
Take your time to absorb the details; it rewards patience.
🎧 Check audio stations
Audio stations may not be working, impacting the experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Antebellum Furnishings
Throughout the house
Step back in time with authentic 1800s furniture and everyday objects, showcasing upper-middle-class life.
Glimpse into Daily Life
Exhibits
Discover the surprising stories of a New Orleans family in the antebellum South through engaging exhibits.
Architectural Details
Exterior and interior
Admire the amazing architecture of this historic townhouse, a testament to its era.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Pacing Your Visit
Timing is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow ample time
Take your time to absorb the details; it rewards patience.
🎧 Check audio stations
Audio stations may not be working, impacting the experience.
🚶♀️ Prioritize guided tours
Consider other historic homes with guides if you prefer that format.
🏠 Slave quarters access
Slave quarters offer limited peeks; full access is not available.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow ample time
Take your time to absorb the details; it rewards patience.
🎧 Check audio stations
Audio stations may not be working, impacting the experience.
🚶♀️ Prioritize guided tours
Consider other historic homes with guides if you prefer that format.
🏠 Slave quarters access
Slave quarters offer limited peeks; full access is not available.
🛍️ Nice gift shop
The gift shop is pleasant, but no purchase is needed to enter.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the 1850 House a peaceful and fascinating glimpse into mid-19th century New Orleans life, appreciating the authentic furnishings and historical context. However, some were disappointed by non-operational audio stations and limited access to slave quarters, suggesting it's best for those with extra time or a specific interest in domestic history.
"The 1850 House was a fascinating and peaceful detour from the bustle of Jackson Square. The self-guided tour offers a unique glimpse into life in mid-19th century New Orleans, with well-decorated rooms and informative signage throughout. I really enjoyed learning about the families and daily life of the era.
Unfortunately, none of the audio stations were working during our visit, which was a bit disappointing since they seemed like they would’ve added even more context. Still, it was a worthwhile stop and a great way to connect with the city’s history."
Laura G
"Beautifully furnished. Only worth going to if you have extra time. I recommend visiting the historic homes that give hourly tours with guides first. The slave quarter rooms are closed and just let you peek in. There were no speakers with audio playing when I visited"
Eloise J. Li
"Wow, it's a relatively unique and small history experience. However, it definitely rewards patience. You can view and listen to the different exhibits and they actually tell a surprising story about an upper middle class New Orleans family in the antebellum South. Just the staging for the house is wonderful and the story just adds additional joy to the history experience."
Dark Seraphim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The 1850 House is located in the heart of the French Quarter, making it easily accessible by foot if you're staying nearby. You can also reach it via streetcar or taxi. Parking in the French Quarter can be challenging and expensive, so public transport or ride-sharing is often recommended.
Yes, the 1850 House is a peaceful detour from the bustle of Jackson Square, offering a historical contrast to the lively atmosphere.
Walking is the most immersive way to explore the French Quarter. For longer distances, the historic streetcars are a charming and efficient option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the 1850 House is not expensive, making it an affordable option for experiencing history. Specific pricing details are best confirmed on their official website or at the entrance.
Advance booking is generally not required for the 1850 House, as it offers self-guided tours. However, it's always a good idea to check their official website for any updates or special event ticketing.
Opening hours can vary, so it's recommended to check the official 1850 House website or contact them directly for the most current information on operating times.
While the main areas are generally accessible, some older historic homes can have limitations. Visitors have noted steep stairs, so it's advisable to inquire about specific accessibility features if needed.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
A self-guided tour allows you to explore the townhouse at your own pace, viewing rooms furnished with 1800s items and reading informative signage about the families and daily life of the era.
The 1850 House primarily offers self-guided tours. For a more in-depth, docent-led experience, consider visiting other historic homes in the area that provide hourly guided tours.
The 1850 House provides a unique glimpse into the lives of an upper-middle-class New Orleans family during the antebellum period, showcasing their home and possessions from that era.
Photography policies can vary in historic houses. It's best to check for posted signs or ask staff upon arrival regarding restrictions on photography inside the 1850 House.
While some visitors find it beautifully furnished and maintained, others have noted it's not super well-maintained, with specific concerns about the steep exit stairs.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The 1850 House itself does not typically offer dining facilities. However, being located in the French Quarter, you'll find a vast array of restaurants, cafes, and bars just steps away.
Near the 1850 House, you can indulge in classic New Orleans cuisine, including Creole and Cajun dishes, beignets, po'boys, and fresh seafood.
📸 📸 Photography
The well-preserved interior with its 1800s furnishings offers charming photo opportunities. The exterior architecture also provides a picturesque backdrop.
Photography rules can differ in historic sites. It's advisable to look for signage or ask staff about permission for taking photos inside the 1850 House.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing along some interactive elements or discussing life in the 1800s beforehand to make the visit more engaging for younger ones. The gift shop might also have some interesting trinkets. For families seeking more interactive historical experiences, other attractions in the French Quarter might be more suitable.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with free activities like walking through the French Quarter or enjoying street performers. While the gift shop is nice, you can enjoy the house without making a purchase. This makes it a good value for a quick historical immersion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Antebellum Experience
However, it's important to note that the experience is focused on the wealthier inhabitants. While the house acknowledges the presence of servants and slaves, their quarters are not fully accessible, and the narrative primarily centers on the family's perspective. This distinction is crucial for understanding the complete historical context of the antebellum South.
Despite these limitations, the 1850 House is praised for its staging and the surprising stories it tells. It provides a valuable, albeit specific, insight into a particular segment of New Orleans society, making it a worthwhile stop for those interested in domestic history and the material culture of the 19th century.
Navigating the French Quarter
For longer distances or when your feet need a rest, the historic streetcars are a fantastic option. They offer a charming and efficient way to traverse the city, connecting you to various points of interest. If you're staying outside the immediate French Quarter, consider using ride-sharing services or taxis, as parking within the Quarter can be notoriously difficult and expensive.
When planning your visit to the 1850 House, remember that the French Quarter is a popular destination. While the house itself might not be overwhelmingly crowded, the surrounding streets can be bustling, especially during peak tourist seasons or festivals. Embracing the energy of the Quarter is part of the New Orleans experience.
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