Ogden Museum of Southern Art - white concrete building near green trees during daytime
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Ogden Museum of Southern Art

4.7
·1k reviews·New Orleans, United States

Discover the vibrant art and culture of the American South at the Ogden Museum, featuring diverse exhibitions and stunning architecture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Free Local Days

Save money and experience art

CrowdMedium
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Ogden Museum of Southern Art - white concrete building near green trees during daytime

Ogden Museum of Southern Art

Best Time

Free Local Days

Save money and experience art

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the vibrant art and culture of the American South at the Ogden Museum, featuring diverse exhibitions and stunning architecture.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"A gem with well-curated exhibits, stunning architecture, and friendly staff, making it a must-visit in New Orleans."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Plan for Free Days

Check for free local days to save on admission and enjoy the museum.

⬆️ Start on the 5th Floor

Staff recommend starting upstairs and working down for a cohesive experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Keith Duncan's HBCU Portraits

Keith Duncan's HBCU Portraits

Joyful and beautiful portraits celebrating HBCU culture and students. A vibrant tribute to music and memory.

Reddit
Raven Halfmoon: Flags of Our Mothers

Raven Halfmoon: Flags of Our Mothers

A powerful exhibition by Caddo Nation ceramicist honoring Indigenous women and their resilience.

TikTok
Bé সহায়তাize and the Frey Children

Bé সহায়তাize and the Frey Children

Permanent Collection

Features a recently restored enslaved boy, offering new insights into historical narratives.

Instagram
Hoa Tay (Flower Hands)

Hoa Tay (Flower Hands)

A thought-provoking exhibit celebrating Vietnamese-American culture and heritage.

InstagramReddit
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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to the Ogden Museum

The Ogden Museum of Southern Art is a must-visit for art lovers in New Orleans. Consider visiting during their free local days for a budget-friendly experience. Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours exploring the diverse exhibits across its multiple floors. Reddit

Getting There & Around

Located in the Warehouse Arts District, the Ogden Museum is easily accessible. Many visitors find it a pleasant 20-minute walk from areas like the Hilton Riverside. Paid parking is available nearby, making it convenient for those driving. Reddit

Best Times

When
Free Local Days
Why
Save money and experience art
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Quieter, more contemplative visit
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Good for families and groups
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Now on view at Ogden Museum of Southern Art is “Raven Halfmoon: Flags of Our Mothers.” This major traveling exhibition by Caddo Nation ceramicist @ravenhalfmoon pays tribute to the matriarchs in her life and honors the strength and resilience of Indigenous women - celebrating the stories, traditions and cultural legacies they’ve preserved. Come experience these powerful monuments now through Mar...
ogdenmuseum
153 likes • 2.5K views

🎯 Plan for Free Days

Check for free local days to save on admission and enjoy the museum. Reddit

⬆️ Start on the 5th Floor

Staff recommend starting upstairs and working down for a cohesive experience. Reddit

Ogden Museum Southern Art ~ “its mission to broaden the knowledge, understanding, interpretation and appreciation of the visual arts and culture of the American South” Worth a visit! #louisiana #visitneworleans #neworleanslife #artmuseum #ogdenmuseum #louisianatravel #nolalife #southernliving #louisianaculture #neworleans
jamespuente
22 likes • 1.6K views
The Ogden Museum of Southern Art in New Orleans held its Free Family Day yesterday in celebration of its exhibit, Hoa Tay (Flower Hands), and in honor of Vietnamese-American culture. Great food. Fun arts and crafts for youth. Amazing art. @ogdenmuseum #neworleans #museums #art #culture #diversity #beauty
lottiejoiner
2 likes • 42 views

🛍️ Explore the Gift Shop

Wonderful selection of books, art, crafts, and clothing inspired by Southern art. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of walking across multiple floors. Reddit

On Public View Now! At The Ogden Museum of Southern Art. New Orleans, Louisiana "Bélizaire and the Frey Children." This painting includes the figure of an enslaved boy that was intentionally painted out and only recently uncovered and restored to the composition. Through the recent research and contributions of Jeremy K. Simien and Katy Morlas Shannon, the children in the painting were identif...
jeremy.k.simien
1.6K likes • 20K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Plan for Free Days

Check for free local days to save on admission and enjoy the museum. Reddit

⬆️ Start on the 5th Floor

Staff recommend starting upstairs and working down for a cohesive experience. Reddit

🛍️ Explore the Gift Shop

Wonderful selection of books, art, crafts, and clothing inspired by Southern art. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a lot of walking across multiple floors. Reddit

📸 Rooftop Views

Don't miss the beautiful rooftop area for great city views. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Ogden Museum of Southern Art as a gem, highlighting its well-curated exhibitions across multiple floors and its stunning architecture. Many appreciate the reasonable admission prices and the friendly, helpful staff. The gift shop is also a frequent point of positive mention. Reddit

"This is one of the best I have been around the world. Small modest building with really well curated exhibitions over three floors. The gift shop is wonderful! 😍"

Thian Jong

"Such a gem! We loved the exhibits: Keith Duncan's HBCU portraits were joyful and beautiful, Benny Andrews was a revelation, Hoa Tay (Flower Hands) was thought provoking and the images of New Orleans from the permanent collection gave us new insight into the creative history of a great American city. The Ogden is everything a local museum should be:a space for new voices, old voices with new perspectives and a beautiful space that fosters our imagination and dispels labels and eschews stereotypes. This was an afternoon well spent."

Janet Williams

"While visiting New Orleans, my daughter and I stopped by the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, and it was an absolute highlight of our trip. Staying at the Hilton Riverside, we found it an easy, flat, 20-minute walk to the museum.

The admission price was very reasonable at $15 for adults and just $7 for kids/teens up to 17. The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful, suggesting we start on the 5th floor and work our way down. This was great advice—giving us a wonderful perspective and made the experience feel cohesive and well-paced.

The exhibits were thoughtfully curated, showcasing a fantastic mix of Southern art, culture, and history and diverse exhibit showcasing everything from traditional paintings to modern art installations.

The architecture of the museum is stunning—bright, airy, and thoughtfully designed. The open layout, with views across all levels, added to the experience, making it both visually striking and easy to navigate.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for something memorable to do in New Orleans, this museum is a must-visit. Highly recommend!"

Shaune Hayes

What People Like

Well-curated exhibitions
Stunning architecture
Friendly staff

What People Dislike

Paid parking can add up

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Ogden Museum is located in New Orleans' Warehouse Arts District. It's an easy 20-minute walk from many central locations, including hotels near the Hilton Riverside. Paid parking is available nearby. Reddit

Yes, there is paid parking available in lots near the museum, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

Yes, it's a pleasant walk, typically around 20-30 minutes depending on your starting point in the French Quarter. Reddit

Walking is highly recommended if you're staying nearby. Otherwise, ride-sharing services or taxis are convenient options. Reddit

While specific routes vary, the Warehouse Arts District is generally served by New Orleans' public transportation network. Check local transit schedules for the most convenient options. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission is typically around $15 for adults and $7 for children/teens. Look out for discounted categories like students or SNAP/EBT cardholders. Reddit

Yes, the museum often hosts free local days, which are a great opportunity to visit without an admission fee. Reddit

It's recommended to purchase tickets at the museum, especially if you qualify for discounts. Online options may be available. Reddit

The museum is generally open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., but it's always best to check their official website for the most current hours. Instagram

Yes, the Ogden Museum offers various membership levels, which can provide benefits like free admission and discounts. Reddit

🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience

Highlights include Keith Duncan's HBCU portraits, Raven Halfmoon's 'Flags of Our Mothers,' and exhibits like 'Hoa Tay (Flower Hands)' and 'Bé সহায়তাize and the Frey Children.' The permanent collection also offers great insights. TikTokInstagramReddit+1

Most visitors find 2-3 hours to be sufficient to explore the exhibits thoroughly. You can easily spend longer if you're deeply engaged. Reddit

Yes, the museum often hosts Free Family Days with arts and crafts, making it a fun and educational experience for children. Instagram

Yes, the museum features a beautiful rooftop area offering great views of the New Orleans skyline. Reddit

The museum boasts stunning, modern architecture with a bright, airy, and open layout that enhances the visitor experience. Reddit

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

The gift shop offers a wonderful selection of books, artworks, crafts, and clothing, often inspired by Southern art and culture. Reddit

The museum itself does not typically have a full-service restaurant, but there are many dining options in the surrounding Warehouse Arts District. Reddit

Absolutely! The store is known for its curated selection of unique items that make for great souvenirs. Reddit

Yes, the shop often features works by local and Southern artists, reflecting the museum's focus. Reddit

Typically, museum gift shops are accessible to the public, but it's always a good idea to confirm their access policy. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but flash photography is usually prohibited. Some special exhibitions may have restrictions. Reddit

Yes, the museum's architecture, the rooftop views, and the diverse artwork provide many excellent photo opportunities. Reddit

The rooftop, the open atrium spaces, and specific visually striking artworks are popular for photography. Reddit

Drone photography is almost certainly not permitted within the museum or on its grounds due to safety and privacy regulations. Reddit

Tripods are often restricted to avoid obstructing other visitors. It's best to check the museum's specific photography policy. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Ogden Museum is a fantastic option for families visiting New Orleans. They frequently host Free Family Days, which include fun arts and crafts activities for children, making it an engaging and educational outing. Instagram The museum's open layout and the recommendation to start on the top floor and work down can help keep younger visitors engaged and make the experience feel well-paced. Reddit

Admission prices are reasonable, with discounted rates for children and teens. Reddit The diverse exhibits, from vibrant portraits to thought-provoking installations, can spark curiosity and conversation among family members of all ages. Don't forget to explore the gift shop for unique souvenirs that kids might enjoy! Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Ogden Museum of Southern Art is an excellent choice. Keep an eye out for their free local days, which significantly reduce the cost of admission. Reddit Even during regular operating hours, the admission price is considered very reasonable, especially given the quality and depth of the exhibits. Reddit

Consider purchasing tickets at the museum, as they may offer discounts for students or those with SNAP/EBT cards. Reddit The museum's location in the Warehouse Arts District also makes it accessible via walking from many popular tourist areas, saving on transportation costs. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

Art enthusiasts will find the Ogden Museum of Southern Art to be a true gem. Its mission to showcase the visual arts and culture of the American South is executed with exceptional depth and breadth. Instagram The museum boasts one of the most comprehensive collections of Southern art, featuring a diverse range of styles and periods. Instagram

With thoughtfully curated exhibitions that highlight both established and emerging artists, the Ogden offers a continuous stream of engaging content. Reddit From historical narratives to contemporary explorations, the museum provides a rich and nuanced understanding of Southern artistic expression. The stunning architecture and the opportunity to explore the rooftop further enhance the immersive art experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of the American South

The Ogden Museum of Southern Art is dedicated to showcasing the visual arts and culture of the American South. Its mission is to broaden the knowledge, understanding, interpretation, and appreciation of this rich artistic heritage. Instagram The museum holds one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of Southern art in the United States, spanning a wide range of styles, periods, and mediums. Instagram

Visitors can expect to see everything from traditional paintings and sculptures to contemporary installations and photography. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated, often highlighting diverse voices and perspectives within Southern art. This focus allows for a deep dive into the region's history, social issues, and cultural identity, as reflected through the eyes of its artists. Reddit

Whether you're interested in folk art, modern masters, or emerging talents, the Ogden Museum offers a compelling journey through the artistic landscape of the South. It's a place where stories unfold, traditions are honored, and new dialogues are sparked through visual expression. Reddit

Architectural Marvel and Visitor Experience

The architecture of the Ogden Museum itself is a significant draw, described as stunning, bright, airy, and thoughtfully designed. Reddit Its open layout and views across all levels create a visually striking and easy-to-navigate space, enhancing the overall visitor experience. Reddit

Many visitors appreciate the museum's self-paced and quiet atmosphere, making it a relaxing escape. Reddit The staff are consistently praised for being incredibly friendly and helpful, often offering great advice on how to best experience the museum, such as starting on the top floor and working down. Reddit This thoughtful approach ensures that visitors can fully immerse themselves in the art and the museum's unique environment. Reddit

Beyond the galleries, the museum offers a beautiful rooftop area that provides great views of the city, adding another dimension to the visit. Reddit This combination of impressive architecture, a welcoming atmosphere, and helpful staff makes the Ogden Museum a truly memorable destination. Reddit

Exploring Exhibitions and Collections

The Ogden Museum consistently features a dynamic array of exhibitions, ranging from major traveling shows to deeply personal collections. Recent highlights include Raven Halfmoon's 'Flags of Our Mothers,' a powerful tribute to Indigenous women, and Keith Duncan's vibrant 'Battle of the Bands' exhibition celebrating culture and memory. TikTokInstagram The museum also delves into historical narratives with pieces like 'Bé সহায়তাize and the Frey Children,' which reveals layers of history through restoration. Instagram

Beyond temporary exhibits, the museum's permanent collection is a treasure trove, offering new insights into the creative history of New Orleans and the broader South. Reddit Exhibitions like 'Hoa Tay (Flower Hands)' celebrate cultural diversity, showcasing thought-provoking works that engage with heritage and identity. InstagramReddit The thoughtful curation ensures a diverse and engaging experience for every visitor, reflecting the multifaceted nature of Southern art. Reddit

These exhibitions are not just displays of art; they are invitations to explore complex themes, celebrate resilience, and gain a deeper understanding of the American South. Reddit The museum acts as a space for new voices, old stories with new perspectives, and a platform that challenges stereotypes. Reddit

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