Gallier House - A small white house with a red door
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Gallier House

4.8
·264 reviews·New Orleans, United States

Step into 19th-century New Orleans at Gallier House, showcasing innovative architecture and affluent family life.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more intimate tour

CrowdLow
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Gallier House - A small white house with a red door

Gallier House

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more intimate tour

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into 19th-century New Orleans at Gallier House, showcasing innovative architecture and affluent family life.

4.8
(264 reviews)

"A highlight of my trip! Detailed and fascinating tour with a knowledgeable guide."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Guided Tours

Highly recommended for deep historical insights and engaging Q&A.

👻 Seasonal Mourning Tour

Experience a unique Halloween tradition with a special exhibit.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Architectural Innovations

Architectural Innovations

Throughout the house

Discover Gallier's cutting-edge designs, including ingenious ventilation systems for climate control.

Creole Mourning Exhibit

Creole Mourning Exhibit

Interior rooms

Experience a chilling glimpse into past mourning customs, with the house draped in black during Halloween season.

Instagram
Interview with the Vampire Filming Location

Interview with the Vampire Filming Location

Exterior and interior

For fans of the iconic story, explore the house that served as a backdrop for the TV series.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Visit in Advance

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for guided tours. This ensures you get a spot and can fully immerse yourself in the history without worrying about availability. Some visitors found smaller tour groups to be more engaging. Reddit

Embrace the History & Architecture

Gallier House offers a unique glimpse into 19th-century New Orleans life, showcasing innovative architectural designs and the daily routines of an affluent family. It's a must-see for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Crowd
Low
When
October (for Mourning Tour)
Why
Unique seasonal experience
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunday 12:30 PM tour
Why
Smaller group size reported
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Gallier House in New Orleans was a beautiful site! The attendant happily told me everything #IWTV I wanted to know while also explaining the rich history lf the home and why Anne Rice was so inspired by it.
@noemi5000
8.2K likes • 26.4K views

🎯 Book Guided Tours

Highly recommended for deep historical insights and engaging Q&A. TikTokReddit

👻 Seasonal Mourning Tour

Experience a unique Halloween tradition with a special exhibit. Instagram

#riki.ville 1712 GALLIER ST In New Orleans #localfoodspot #hiddenspots #goodfoo #vibes #jamaicanvibes #tacosandbeer #ostyer #neworleans #nola #riki.ville
@lj_so_all_day
5.3K likes • 36.6K views
Step into a hauntingly different history of New Orleans. The Creole Death & Mourning Tour at @hgrimagallier1831 offers an astonishing glimpse into past mourning customs. Discover Gallier House draped in veils of black, hushed clocks and shrouded mirrors. Hurry though, it's only around for a few weeks during the Halloween season. A chilling voyage awaits you! Be sure not to miss out on the after-da...
visitneworleans
1.7K likes • 28.1K views

🎬 For Film Buffs

Visit if you're a fan of 'Interview with the Vampire' or 'American Horror Story'. Instagram

❄️ Beat the Heat

Enjoy the excellent air conditioning on a hot New Orleans day. Reddit

A step back in time. I visited the Gallier House on Royal Street and reunited some antique objects that I purchased from a Gallier family member’s estate (a mirror, a communion pendant, a window screen, and a painted fan). It provided a glimpse of what life was like in the French Quarter 150 years ago. For Anne Rice fans, it is interesting to note that she is quoted saying: “I've toured the Gallie...
centurygirlvintage
1.6K likes • 19.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Guided Tours

Highly recommended for deep historical insights and engaging Q&A. TikTokReddit

👻 Seasonal Mourning Tour

Experience a unique Halloween tradition with a special exhibit. Instagram

🎬 For Film Buffs

Visit if you're a fan of 'Interview with the Vampire' or 'American Horror Story'. Instagram

❄️ Beat the Heat

Enjoy the excellent air conditioning on a hot New Orleans day. Reddit

🛍️ Don't Miss the Gift Shop

Find unique souvenirs and books about the house. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(264 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Gallier House for its informative guided tours, knowledgeable guides, and fascinating insights into 19th-century New Orleans life and architecture. Many highlight the house's innovative design and its role as a filming location for popular shows. The comfortable air conditioning is also a frequently mentioned perk. TikTokInstagramReddit

"Gallier House is a great stop for a hot New Orleans afternoon—just be sure to make a reservation in advance. The guided tour was very informative, offering a fascinating look into the history of the Gallier family and the impressive architectural contributions of Mr. Gallier himself. It’s a wonderful way to step back in time and gain a deeper appreciation for 19th-century New Orleans life and design. Highly recommended for history and architecture buffs alike!"

Laura G

"This tour was a highlight of my trip! I came because I was interested in shooting locations from AMC’s Interview with the Vampire and in local history and architecture. The tour was detailed and fascinating, and my tour guide was clearly extremely knowledgeable—I felt open to ask many questions and got great answers in return!

Gallier being an architect and designing his house to be on the cutting edge for the time and testing out his own inventions to manage the climate (such as various ventilation systems) made for a unique historical and architectural experience. The set up of the tour and the way you’re brought through how the family lived day to day also made for a cool experience—I felt like I could really visualize what their lives were like in a way that you just can’t at a traditional museum.

Fantastic tour and great value! Highly recommend."

Hailey H

"Absolutely take the tour! 12:30 on a Sunday it was just 4 of us. We were all able to ask a lot of questions and our guide was so knowledgeable with an answer for everything. Really incredible to see the history and thoughtful care in restoration."

Cassie Malmquist

What People Like

Informative guided tours
Knowledgeable guides
Architectural innovations

What People Dislike

Limited parking nearby

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Gallier House is located at 1132 Royal Street in the French Quarter. It's easily accessible by foot if you're staying in the area, or you can use ride-sharing services. Parking in the French Quarter can be challenging, so consider public transport or walking. TikTok

Yes, Gallier House is centrally located in the French Quarter, making it easy to combine with visits to other historic sites, shops, and restaurants. It's a great addition to a French Quarter walking tour. Instagram

Walking is ideal if you're in the French Quarter. Otherwise, ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft are convenient. Public buses also serve the area, and streetcars can get you close if you don't mind a short walk. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

It is highly recommended to make a reservation in advance, especially for guided tours, to ensure your entry and preferred time slot. Reddit

Gallier House typically operates during standard museum hours, but it's always best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information on operating days and times. Instagram

Admission fees are generally modest and offer great value for the historical and architectural insights provided. Check their website for current pricing. Reddit

Yes, Gallier House hosts special events like the 'Creole Death & Mourning Tour' during the Halloween season, offering a unique perspective on historical customs. Instagram

While self-guided exploration might be possible, the guided tours are highly praised for their informative content and are generally the recommended way to experience the house. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The guided tours are very informative, with knowledgeable guides who share fascinating details about the Gallier family, the house's architecture, and its historical context. You'll feel like you're stepping back in time. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! Gallier House is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts, offering deep dives into 19th-century New Orleans life, architecture, and even cultural practices like mourning customs. Reddit

Photography policies can vary, but generally, visitors are allowed to take photos for personal use. It's always a good idea to confirm with your guide or staff on site. Instagram

Its uniqueness lies in its focus on the architectural innovations of James Gallier Jr., including advanced climate control systems for its time, and its detailed portrayal of daily family life. Reddit

Information on accessibility can be found on the official website. Historic homes can sometimes present challenges, so it's best to inquire directly about specific needs. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The ornate interiors, the detailed architectural features, and the period furnishings offer numerous picturesque opportunities. The exterior also provides a charming New Orleans backdrop. Instagram

Tripod usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check with the house management beforehand, as they may have restrictions to protect the historic interiors. Instagram

Fans of 'Interview with the Vampire' might find certain rooms or architectural elements particularly recognizable from the TV show's filming. Instagram

Natural light filters through the windows, creating a soft ambiance. Some interior spaces may have artificial lighting, so be prepared for varying light conditions. Instagram

Morning light can be lovely for capturing the house's facade and interiors. However, the house is also a great escape from the midday heat, offering a cool environment for photography. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Gallier House offers a fascinating step back in time that can engage older children and teens interested in history or spooky stories. The guided tours are informative and can be tailored to keep younger minds interested with engaging anecdotes. TikTok

Consider visiting during the Halloween season for the 'Creole Death & Mourning Tour,' which might add an extra layer of excitement. The house's air conditioning is also a welcome respite from the New Orleans heat, making it a comfortable outing for the whole family. Reddit

🎬 Film & TV Enthusiasts

If you're a fan of 'Interview with the Vampire' or 'American Horror Story: Coven,' a visit to Gallier House is a must. You can explore the very rooms and corridors that served as iconic filming locations, bringing your favorite shows to life. Instagram

Imagine walking the same paths as your favorite characters and experiencing the atmosphere that captivated filmmakers. It's a unique opportunity to connect with the visual history of these popular productions. TikTok

🏛️ History & Architecture Buffs

Gallier House is a dream destination for anyone passionate about 19th-century architecture and New Orleans history. You'll be captivated by James Gallier Jr.'s innovative designs, particularly the advanced climate control systems. Reddit

The meticulously restored interiors and furnishings provide an unparalleled glimpse into the daily lives of an affluent Creole family. The knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with detailed historical context, making it an incredibly rewarding visit. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural Genius of James Gallier Jr.

James Gallier Jr., a prominent architect in New Orleans, designed and built the Gallier House in 1857. He was known for incorporating modern innovations into his designs, aiming to improve comfort and functionality. The house itself served as a showcase for his architectural prowess and his forward-thinking ideas about urban living. Reddit

Visitors often marvel at the house's advanced climate control systems, which were cutting-edge for the mid-19th century. These included ingenious ventilation systems designed to combat the oppressive New Orleans heat and humidity. The house also features a unique dumbwaiter system, demonstrating Gallier's commitment to efficiency and convenience in domestic life. Reddit

Exploring Gallier House offers a tangible connection to the architectural evolution of New Orleans and the ingenuity of its builders. It’s a testament to how design can enhance daily living, even over a century ago. The attention to detail in both aesthetics and practicality makes it a fascinating study for anyone interested in historical architecture. TikTok

A Glimpse into 19th-Century New Orleans Life

The Gallier House is meticulously furnished to reflect the lifestyle of an affluent family in the 1860s. Stepping inside, you're transported to a different era, with period furniture, decorative arts, and personal belongings that paint a vivid picture of domestic life. The guided tours excel at bringing these details to life, explaining the social customs and daily routines of the time. Instagram

Beyond the opulent furnishings, the house also touches upon the complex social fabric of the time, including discussions on slavery and its impact on the built environment. Virtual tours have explored 'The Shifting Landscapes: Slavery and the Built Environment,' highlighting the often-overlooked narratives within historic spaces. Instagram

This immersive experience allows visitors to not only appreciate the grandeur of the past but also to understand the nuances of life in 19th-century New Orleans, making it a rich educational and engaging visit. Reddit

Gallier House: A Star in Film and Television

The atmospheric charm and historical authenticity of Gallier House have made it a sought-after location for film and television productions. Fans of supernatural dramas will recognize it from its appearances in popular series. Instagram

Most notably, the house has been featured in AMC's 'Interview with the Vampire' series, adding a layer of intrigue for fans of gothic literature and vampire lore. It has also served as a backdrop for 'American Horror Story: Coven,' further cementing its status as a visually compelling historical site. Instagram

For those interested in the intersection of history and popular culture, visiting Gallier House offers a unique opportunity to connect with the settings of beloved stories and appreciate the enduring appeal of its architecture. TikTok

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