Activity Overview
The Presbytère, located across St. Louis Cathedral, stands on the site of the old residence of the Capuchin monks. The Spanish colonial-style building has been part of the Louisiana State Museum since 1911 and has been named a National Historic Landmark since 1970. The Presbytère houses extraordinary exhibits of things that New Orleans is known for such as the Mardi Gras celebration and the Hurricane Katrina devastation.
Things to Do
- Get your tickets and visit any day from Tuesday-Sunday from 10AM - 4:30PM. The Mardi Gras: It’s Carnival Time in Louisiana exhibit is displayed in the ground floor of the museum. Relive the moments that happened during Hurricane Katrina, hear stories from first responders and survivors, see facts about the disaster, and witness the resilience of New Orleans' residents and how the community rebuilt the city.
- Find the Mardi Gras: It’s Carnival Time in Louisiana exhibit at the museum's second floor. Learn about the origin and the historical relevance of the Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday, the day before the official start of Lent on Ash Wednesday. See exhibits of colorful masks and costumes, artifacts, plus parade floats. This festivity is also celebrated through music so you will also see collections of Mardi Gras albums.
The Presbytère Insider Tips
- Get a 20% discount if you purchase tickets for two or more museums.
