Discover The Presbytère in New Orleans: A Story of Culture, Celebration, and Resilience

Introduction

In the heart of the French Quarter stands one of New Orleans’ most remarkable historic treasures—The Presbytère. With its striking architecture, deep cultural exhibits, and prime location beside the iconic St. Louis Cathedral, The Presbytère is more than just a museum. It’s a gateway into the soul of New Orleans.

Originally built in 1791 to house clergy, this grand building has since evolved into a museum celebrating two of Louisiana’s defining themes: the vibrancy of Mardi Gras and the resilience of its people in the face of hurricanes. Inside, visitors encounter dazzling Mardi Gras costumes, masks, and floats alongside poignant exhibits about Hurricane Katrina and the city’s recovery.

A trip to New Orleans isn’t complete without exploring The Presbytère. It offers an immersive experience where joy, creativity, and endurance are all on display. Whether you’re drawn to the music, traditions, or stories of survival, The Presbytère captures the essence of this unforgettable city.

What is The Presbytère in New Orleans famous for?

The Presbytère is famous for its two permanent exhibits:

Mardi Gras: It’s Carnival Time in Louisiana! – A colorful showcase of costumes, floats, and the history of Carnival.

Living with Hurricanes: Katrina and Beyond – A powerful exploration of Hurricane Katrina’s impact and the resilience of New Orleans’ communities.

Why should you visit The Presbytère?

You should visit The Presbytère if you want to:

Experience the energy and artistry of Mardi Gras year-round.

Understand how Hurricane Katrina shaped the city and its recovery.

Explore one of New Orleans’ most iconic historic buildings.

It’s the perfect blend of fun and reflection, making it one of the city’s most meaningful stops.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit The Presbytère?

Hours: Open Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (closed Mondays and state holidays).

Best time to visit: Morning or early afternoon for fewer crowds, especially outside peak tourist seasons.

How much does it cost to visit The Presbytère?

General admission: Around $7 per adult.

Seniors, students, and military: Discounted rates available.

Children under 6: Free.

Admission is budget-friendly, making it a great stop for families, solo travelers, and groups.

What can you see or do at The Presbytère?

At The Presbytère, you can:

Marvel at lavish Mardi Gras costumes and masks.

Learn about the origins and traditions of Carnival krewes.

See multimedia displays and survivor stories from Hurricane Katrina.

Explore the architecture of a National Historic Landmark.

Take in the vibrant atmosphere of Jackson Square right outside the doors.

What is the history behind The Presbytère?

The Presbytère was designed in 1791 by French colonial architect Gilberto Guillemard, who also designed St. Louis Cathedral. Originally intended to house clergy, it was later used for commercial purposes and eventually became part of the Louisiana State Museum system.

Today, The Presbytère tells the story of New Orleans’ celebrations and struggles, capturing both the joy of Mardi Gras and the resilience of those who endured Hurricane Katrina. Its transformation from a religious residence to a museum mirrors the city’s own dynamic evolution.

Where is The Presbytère located and how do you get there?

The Presbytère is located at:
751 Chartres Street, Jackson Square, New Orleans, LA 70116

By foot: It’s centrally located in the French Quarter, easily accessible from nearby attractions.

By streetcar: Take the St. Charles or Canal Streetcar lines and walk a short distance.

By car: Paid parking lots and garages are available around the French Quarter.

Insider Tips for Visiting The Presbytère

🎭 Combine with St. Louis Cathedral next door for a deeper look at French Quarter history.

📸 Bring a camera—the Mardi Gras exhibits are colorful and photogenic.

🕰️ Allow 1–2 hours to explore fully, especially if you want to absorb both exhibits.

Nearby Attractions in New Orleans

St. Louis Cathedral – The oldest continuously active Roman Catholic cathedral in the U.S.

Cabildo Museum – Another Louisiana State Museum next door, focused on Louisiana history.

Jackson Square – A lively gathering place for artists, musicians, and performers.

French Market – A historic open-air market perfect for shopping and food.

Café du Monde – Just steps away, famous for beignets and café au lait.

Experience The Presbytère with Questo

The Presbytère isn’t just a museum—it’s a storybook of New Orleans itself. From the glitter of Mardi Gras to the strength of recovery after Katrina, it captures what makes this city so unique.

With Questo, you can turn your visit into an interactive quest, exploring hidden corners of the French Quarter and unlocking stories that bring the past to life.

👉 Download the Questo app today and make your trip to The Presbytère an unforgettable adventure!