
Backstreet Cultural Museum
A vibrant cultural hub in New Orleans' Treme, showcasing Mardi Gras Indians, jazz funerals, and Black heritage.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more staff interaction

Backstreet Cultural Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more staff interaction

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant cultural hub in New Orleans' Treme, showcasing Mardi Gras Indians, jazz funerals, and Black heritage.
"This is not a place to miss; it's a must-see for the real culture of New Orleans!"

Engage with Staff
Ask questions! Staff are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about sharing their culture.
Allow Ample Time
Don't rush. You'll want time to absorb the details and stories.

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 388 reviews
Type
Museum
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mardi Gras Indian Regalia
Main Exhibition Hall
Spectacular, handcrafted suits worn by Mardi Gras Indians, showcasing incredible artistry and cultural significance.

Jazz Funeral Traditions
Exhibition Area
Artifacts and displays detailing the unique and moving traditions of New Orleans jazz funerals and second lines.

Community Voices
Throughout the museum
Personal stories and insights from cultural practitioners, offering a genuine connection to New Orleans' heritage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Immerse Yourself in Treme Culture
Connect with the Community
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Engage with Staff
Ask questions! Staff are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about sharing their culture.
Allow Ample Time
Don't rush. You'll want time to absorb the details and stories.
Visit the Treme
The museum is a gateway to understanding the historic Treme neighborhood's significance.
Essence Fest Discount
Look for $10 off during Essence Weekend!
Tips
from all over the internet
Engage with Staff
Ask questions! Staff are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about sharing their culture.
Allow Ample Time
Don't rush. You'll want time to absorb the details and stories.
Visit the Treme
The museum is a gateway to understanding the historic Treme neighborhood's significance.
Essence Fest Discount
Look for $10 off during Essence Weekend!
Beyond Bourbon Street
For authentic culture, this is a must-see over typical tourist spots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Backstreet Cultural Museum as a highlight of their New Orleans trip, offering an authentic and deeply moving experience of the city's Black cultural traditions. The staff's passion and knowledge, combined with the stunning artistry of the Mardi Gras Indian suits and the insightful exhibits on jazz funerals, leave a lasting impression. While some may find the museum small, its impact is immense, providing a genuine connection to the heart of New Orleans culture.
"This was the highlight of my New Orleans visit!!! I loved learning about the Culture of the Black Indians of New Orleans. Learning about the process of creating the regalia and how much detail goes into it first hand from those of the culture like Brother Horace & OohLaLa was amazing. Staff highly knowledgeable and the collection is beautiful. Highly Recommended for anybody that wants to know about the real culture of New Orleans."
Wayne B
"A wonderful museum, among the most colorful you’ll find. Our tour guide did a fine job, not only talking about the history and lore, but about his own experiences as a longtime participant."
Stephen Leach
"What an experience. I was so lucky to have arrived at the museum only to have Big Chief Shaka Zulu conduct our tour. Truly blessed. Fascinating history and the masks & suits are incredible to see up close. Unforgettable"
Brad Schultz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in the historic Treme neighborhood. Many visitors opt for rideshares (Uber/Lyft) for convenience. Public transportation is also an option, but check routes and schedules in advance.
The Treme is a historic and culturally rich neighborhood. It's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, especially after dark, and stick to well-trafficked areas. Visiting during the day is generally recommended.
After your museum visit, consider a guided walking tour of the Treme to learn more about its history and significance. Many tours highlight the cultural landmarks and stories.
It's a walkable distance, roughly 20-30 minutes, but it's recommended to take a rideshare or taxi, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area or prefer to conserve energy for exploring the museum.
Parking in the Treme can be limited and challenging. Rideshares or public transport are generally more convenient than driving and searching for parking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While specific hours can vary, the museum is generally open during daytime hours. It's always best to check their official website or call ahead to confirm current operating times before your visit.
Admission fees are typically very reasonable, reflecting the museum's community-focused mission. During Essence Festival, a $10 discount is often offered.
Advance booking is usually not required for general admission. However, for special events or group tours, it's advisable to inquire about reservations.
Yes, discounts are sometimes offered, notably a $10 off promotion during Essence Weekend. It's worth checking their social media or website for any current offers.
It's recommended to carry some cash, as smaller, local museums may prefer or only accept cash payments. Confirm payment methods when you call to verify hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum features incredible exhibits on Mardi Gras Indians, jazz funerals, second lines, brass bands, and other vital Black cultural traditions of New Orleans.
While not a high-tech interactive museum, the experience is deeply engaging through the visual splendor of the regalia and the personal stories shared by staff.
Most visitors find that 1-2 hours is sufficient to explore the exhibits and engage with the staff. However, if you're deeply interested in the culture, you could easily spend longer.
Yes, the vibrant displays and rich history can be fascinating for children, especially older ones who can appreciate the cultural significance.
Photography policies can vary. It's best to ask permission from staff before taking pictures, especially of specific artifacts or individuals.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Treme neighborhood has several local eateries offering authentic Creole and soul food. You can find casual spots for a delicious and local dining experience.
Expect classic New Orleans dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, red beans and rice, and po'boys. Many places offer a true taste of local culinary heritage.
It's a good idea to plan your meal around your museum visit. You might want to grab a bite before to fuel your exploration or afterward to savor the local flavors.
While the Treme is known more for its authentic, down-to-earth eateries, you can find a range of dining experiences. For upscale dining, you might explore areas closer to the French Quarter.
Typically, food and drinks are not allowed inside museums to protect the exhibits. It's best to consume them before entering or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The Mardi Gras Indian suits are incredibly photogenic, with their vibrant colors and intricate beadwork. The overall atmosphere of the museum also offers unique visual storytelling opportunities.
It's crucial to ask for permission before taking photos. While many visitors capture the stunning regalia, respecting the cultural significance and any specific rules is paramount.
A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial, as museum lighting can sometimes be dim. A versatile lens that can capture both wide shots and details would be ideal.
Generally, personal social media sharing is welcomed, but always be mindful of the cultural context. Avoid intrusive photography and ensure you have permission if photographing individuals.
The elaborate Mardi Gras Indian suits are the undisputed stars. Also, look for displays related to jazz funerals and the unique artifacts that tell the story of New Orleans' Black culture.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit