Home » Special Features » The World’s Best » Best Museums New Orleans
These can’t-miss museums offer an array of attractions designed to mesmerize art addicts and curious gallery-goers alike. Distinguished by their modern art masterpieces, architectural triumphs, oddball collections, or undeniable cool factor, these are the best-in-class museums in the world’s hottest cities.
Best Museums in....
Best Cool Art Museums
New Orleans
Contemporary Arts Center 900 Camp St., Warehouse Arts District, 504-528-3805 cacno.org
The Draw: The evening events at the CAC make this museum special. The artistic celebrations, often more about partying than art, draw local artists who love to dress up and act out. The Scene: This huge former drugstore-chain warehouse is a mix of galleries, theater spaces, and even a cyber-cafe. The rotating exhibits include sculpture, paintings, videos, and installations. Get acquainted with what’s happening now on the local and national art scene. Thu–Sun 11am–4pm. $- Hot Tip: Check the calendar on the center’s website for galas, happenings, and concerts by the National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Masters.
New Orleans Museum of Art 1 Collins Diboll Cir., Mid-City, 504-488-2631 noma.org
The Draw: The city’s largest art museum, with a permanent collection that includes
local, national, and international works, anchors the sprawling City Park. The Scene: Isaac Delgado founded the New Orleans Museum of Art as a “temple of art for rich and poor alike.” Today, the museum is known for its glass works, European paintings, Louisiana art and antiques, and impressive photography collection. It also regularly hosts major traveling exhibitions. Wed noon–8pm, Thu–Sun 10am–5pm. $- Hot Tip: Find the Besthoff Sculpture Garden, with its collection of more than fifty-five pieces, just behind the New Orleans Museum of Art.
Ogden Museum of Southern Art 925 Camp St., Warehouse Arts District, 504-539-9600 ogdenmuseum.org
The Draw: The paintings, sculptures, and photographs displayed in this quirky building capture the artistic soul of the American South. The Scene: A well-designed building, it has galleries that flow from courtyard balconies to soaring atriums. The permanent collection, which spans from the 18th century to today, represents the art of 15 Southern states and the District of Columbia. The top floor houses “outsider” art, which was created by artists who felt compelled to create even though they lacked formal training. Wed 10am–5pm, Thu 10am–5pm and 6–8pm, Fri–Sun 10am–5pm. $ Hot Tip: Every Thursday, the museum sponsors a popular early evening concert series (6–8pm) featuring local rock, blues, and R&B groups.
