The National WWII Museum in New Orleans is a must-visit destination for history buffs and curious travelers alike. Designated by Congress as the official WWII museum of the United States, it offers an immersive and educational experience that transports visitors back in time. From the moment you step through the doors, you’ll be captivated by the museum’s vast collection of historical artifacts, multimedia exhibits, and guided tours that provide an unparalleled understanding of the war’s impact. Whether you’re interested in the strategic battles or the industrial might that powered the Allied war effort, this museum has something to pique your curiosity. So, what are you waiting for?
Key Points
- The National WWII Museum in New Orleans offers timed entry tickets ranging from $25.00 to $35.00 per time slot, with advance reservations recommended.
- The museum features diverse exhibition areas, multimedia experiences, and guided tours that explore the timeline of major battles and operations during WWII.
- Visitors can explore the Louisiana Memorial Pavilion’s focus on the D-Day Invasion and Home Front, as well as the ‘Road to Tokyo’ and ‘Road to Berlin’ displays.
- The U.S. Freedom Pavilion houses a collection of restored WWII airplanes, tanks, and trucks, while the upcoming Liberation Pavilion will explore the war’s closing months.
- The museum’s multimedia offerings, such as the ‘4D’ film ‘Beyond All Boundaries’ and a virtual reality experience simulating the D-Day paratrooper experience, enhance visitors’ understanding of the WWII era.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Location and Description
The National WWII Museum is located in the heart of downtown New Orleans, boasting 5 soaring pavilions that house an extensive collection of historical exhibits, on-site restoration work, a period dinner theater, and several restaurants.
Designated by Congress as the official WWII museum of the United States, the museum offers visitors a comprehensive look into the war through its diverse range of exhibits and multimedia experiences.
From the Louisiana Memorial Pavilion’s focus on the D-Day Invasion and Home Front, to the upcoming Liberation Pavilion exploring the war’s closing months, the museum provides an immersive and educational journey through one of the most pivotal periods in history.
Exhibition Areas
Visitors can explore the museum’s diverse exhibition areas, which include:
-
The Louisiana Memorial Pavilion’s exhibits on the D-Day Invasion and Home Front
-
The ‘Road to Tokyo’ and ‘Road to Berlin’ displays in the Campaigns of Courage pavilion
-
The U.S. Freedom Pavilion’s collection of restored WWII airplanes, tanks, and trucks
The upcoming Liberation Pavilion, set to open in 2022, will further expand the museum’s offerings by exploring the closing months of the war and immediate postwar years.
The museum’s exhibits are complemented by a range of multimedia experiences, such as the immersive ‘Beyond All Boundaries’ 4D film in the Solomon Victory Theatre.
Multimedia Experiences
Complementing the museum’s diverse exhibit areas are a range of immersive multimedia experiences that transport visitors through WWII history.
The centerpiece is the Solomon Victory Theatre, which hosts the ‘4D’ film ‘Beyond All Boundaries’ narrated by Tom Hanks. This 40-minute film uses cutting-edge technology to bring the war to life, with special effects like rumbling seats and wind to simulate the action on screen.
Other multimedia offerings include a virtual reality experience that allows guests to step into the boots of a D-Day paratrooper.
These dynamic presentations add an engaging, personal element to the museum’s educational mission, enhancing visitors’ understanding and appreciation of the WWII era.
Tour Options
Along With the museum’s expansive exhibit areas, visitors can partake in guided tours that delve deeper into specific aspects of the WWII experience. Two popular tour options include the 2-hour guided tours of the ‘Campaigns of Courage‘ exhibits, which provide a rundown of the war’s key military campaigns, as well as the ‘Arsenal of Democracy‘ guided tour, which highlights the museum’s extensive collection of restored WWII vehicles and equipment.
The ‘Campaigns of Courage’ tour explores the timeline of major battles and operations on both the European and Pacific fronts.
The ‘Arsenal of Democracy’ tour showcases restored tanks, trucks, and aircraft, providing a glimpse into the industrial might that powered the Allied war effort.
Knowledgeable guides lead these immersive tours, sharing firsthand accounts and historical insights to bring the museum’s exhibits to life.
The tours are offered at scheduled times throughout the day, allowing visitors to tailor their museum experience.
Advance reservations are recommended, especially during peak visitation periods, to secure desired tour timeslots.
Timed Entry Tickets
Timed entry tickets are available to manage the museum’s visitor flow and ensure an optimal experience for all guests. These tickets allow visitors to select a specific entry timeslot, enabling them to plan their museum visit more efficiently. Advance reservations are highly recommended, particularly during peak visitation periods, to secure desired entry times and avoid potential delays or overcrowding.
Time Slot | Availability | Cost |
---|---|---|
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM | Moderate | $30.00 |
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM | Limited | $35.00 |
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM | High | $25.00 |
Timed entry tickets can be purchased online or at the museum’s box office, ensuring a seamless and organized visitor experience at the National WWII Museum.
Wheelchair Accessibility
The National WWII Museum is designed to be wheelchair-accessible, with ramps, elevators, and designated wheelchair-friendly areas throughout the exhibits and facilities.
Visitors using wheelchairs can easily navigate the museum’s five soaring pavilions, which house a wealth of historical exhibits, multimedia experiences, and dining options.
The museum’s commitment to accessibility is evident in its:
- Wide, level walkways between displays
- Adjustable exhibit heights and interactive stations
- Accessible restrooms and drinking fountains
- Availability of wheelchairs for loan
- Dedicated parking spaces in the on-site garage
This attention to the needs of all visitors ensures that the National WWII Museum can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of mobility challenges.
Parking Garage
Visitors to the National WWII Museum can conveniently park in the on-site garage located at 1024 Magazine Street. The garage offers ample space for museum guests, making it easy to access the exhibits and attractions.
Parking rates are reasonable, and the garage is open during the museum’s operating hours. This allows visitors to park their vehicles securely while they explore the museum’s expansive collection of WWII artifacts and immersive displays.
The garage’s close proximity to the museum entrance also ensures a seamless transition from parking to exploring the museum’s rich historical offerings.
With this convenient parking option, guests can make the most of their visit to the National WWII Museum in New Orleans.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
Dining Options
Visitors to the National WWII Museum can enjoy a variety of dining options on-site, including the American Sector Restaurant & Bar, which serves up classic American fare in a period-inspired setting.
The restaurant features:
- A menu of burgers, salads, sandwiches, and entrees, all with a nod to 1940s cuisine
- A full bar with a selection of craft cocktails, beers, and wines
- Views of the museum’s immersive exhibits and artifacts through large picture windows
- A 1940s-themed ambiance with vintage decor and memorabilia
- Convenient access for museum visitors, located right inside the main entrance
Whether grabbing a quick bite or lingering over a leisurely meal, the dining options at the National WWII Museum provide a memorable experience for all.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- Historical Tour and Musical Show in New Orleans Music Venue
- Handicap New Orleans Airport or Hotel Transfer
- Mystique of the Lower French Quarter
- New Orleans Sunset City and Swamp Tour
- Eternal Echoes: A Cemetery Tour of New Orleans
- New Orleans High Crimes & Apparitions: Immersive True Crime Tour
- Crescent City Chronicles: A Family Discovery Tour
- The Faubourg Tremé Guided Tour in French
- Oak Alley Private Tours
- Haunted French Quarter Audio Tour
- Majestic Oak Alley Plantation Tour
- Hidden Gardens: An Urban Plantation Walking Tour
- The Ice Cream Tour: New Orleans
- New Orleans Select Pass: Bus Tour, Historic Cruise, Walking Tour
- New Orleans: Voodoo, Ghost, Murder, True Crime, & Vampire Tour
Recap
The National WWII Museum in New Orleans offers an immersive and educational experience.
With its five pavilions, multimedia exhibits, and restored artifacts, visitors can explore the history of the war and the industrial might that powered the Allied effort.
Timed entry tickets ensure an organized visit, while guided tours provide in-depth insights.
The museum’s accessibility and dining options make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in WWII history.