Old Ursuline Convent Museum - white and red concrete building
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Old Ursuline Convent Museum

4.6
·440 reviews·New Orleans, United States

New Orleans' oldest building, this convent-turned-museum offers French colonial charm, rich history, and intriguing local legends.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more intimate tours

CrowdLow
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Old Ursuline Convent Museum - white and red concrete building

Old Ursuline Convent Museum

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more intimate tours

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

New Orleans' oldest building, this convent-turned-museum offers French colonial charm, rich history, and intriguing local legends.

4.6
(440 reviews)

"It is a very historic building with an amazing church as well. I would recommend coming here."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Inexpensive Tickets & Great Info

Tickets are affordable, and staff are incredibly helpful and knowledgeable. Ask questions!

👻 Embrace the Spooky Tales

Don't miss the fascinating vampire and 'Casket Girls' legends – a unique NOLA experience!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Oldest Building in the Mississippi Valley

The Oldest Building in the Mississippi Valley

French Quarter

Step back in time in the city's oldest structure, a testament to French colonial architecture and enduring history.

Haunted History & Vampire Lore

Haunted History & Vampire Lore

Throughout the museum

Explore chilling tales of 'Casket Girls' and vampire legends that add a mysterious allure to this historic site.

Sacred Spaces & Beautiful Grounds

Sacred Spaces & Beautiful Grounds

Chapel and gardens

Discover a peaceful atmosphere within the stunning chapel and serene grounds, perfect for reflection.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for a Deeper Dive

Visit during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds. Consider an early morning or late afternoon tour for a more intimate experience. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Uncover Local Legends

This historic site is rumored to be haunted, with tales of 'Casket Girls' and vampires. Embrace the spooky folklore for a unique perspective on New Orleans history.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more intimate tours
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light, fewer tour groups
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

⚜️🧛Vampires on lock with your local resident up the bayou Cajun lady at #NewOrleans #cajun #louisiana #frenchquarter #vampire ⚜️🧛
@bridget.malbrough
266.2K likes • 3.4M views

🎯 Inexpensive Tickets & Great Info

Tickets are affordable, and staff are incredibly helpful and knowledgeable. Ask questions!

👻 Embrace the Spooky Tales

Don't miss the fascinating vampire and 'Casket Girls' legends – a unique NOLA experience!

Nola Chills: VAMPIRE HUNT at the Ursuline Convent Under a BLOOD MOON #neworleans #hauntedhistory #hauntedtiktok #paranormaltok #paranormalinvestigator #vampire Tonight, under the eerie glow of a full moon, Nola Chills is on the hunt for vampires at one of New Orleans’ most infamous haunted locations—the Ursuline Convent. This historic site is tied to one of the city’s most chilling legends: the my...
@nolachills
43.1K likes • 1.1M views
📍 Old Ursuline Convent Museum New Orleans, Louisiana I know that it's Mardi Gras in New Orleans, but I love folklore and I figured now was a perfect time to share the Casket Girls Story or the beginning of the Nola Vampires. 🦇 If you are in New Orleans for the festivities, I hope you have a wonderful time. •This was one of the Free tours that I took while in New Orleans for Three Kings Day in J...
tani.lamb
63 likes • 19.4K views

🏛️ Immerse in History

The tour offers deep insights into New Orleans' past and its people. Highly recommended!

📸 Capture the Architecture

The French colonial architecture is stunning. Bring your camera for beautiful shots.

reddit.com

Staying in the French Quarter of New Orleans for 1 week

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Inexpensive Tickets & Great Info

Tickets are affordable, and staff are incredibly helpful and knowledgeable. Ask questions!

👻 Embrace the Spooky Tales

Don't miss the fascinating vampire and 'Casket Girls' legends – a unique NOLA experience!

🏛️ Immerse in History

The tour offers deep insights into New Orleans' past and its people. Highly recommended!

📸 Capture the Architecture

The French colonial architecture is stunning. Bring your camera for beautiful shots.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(440 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Old Ursuline Convent Museum for its historical significance, beautiful architecture, and the engaging, informative tours. The staff are frequently highlighted for their helpfulness and warmth, contributing to a peaceful and enriching experience. While some may find the ghost stories a bit spooky, most appreciate the unique blend of history and local legend.

"Really beautiful inside and out. The lady selling the (inexpensive) tickets was so helpful and knowledgeable, plus she was just the nicest person! Many historical items inside and a peaceful atmosphere."

Edward

"You feel the history here. It’s a beautiful spot for a more formal, sacred-feeling ceremony. Definitely one for couples who love New Orleans and want something timeless and grand."

Ryan Swanson

"Went here twice and enjoyed both tours. It is a very historic building with an amazing church as well. I would recommend coming here."

Frederick Bradbury V

What People Like

Rich historical insights
Beautiful architecture
Knowledgeable guides

What People Dislike

Limited photo opportunities (sometimes)

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Old Ursuline Convent Museum is located in the heart of the French Quarter, making it easily accessible by foot if you're staying nearby. Many visitors also arrive via streetcar or taxi. Parking in the French Quarter can be challenging and expensive, so public transport or ride-sharing is often recommended. Reddit

Absolutely! It's centrally located and a pleasant walk from many other historic sites like St. Louis Cathedral and the Voodoo Museum. Reddit

If you're coming from other parts of New Orleans, the streetcar is a scenic and affordable option. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission is generally inexpensive, making it a budget-friendly option for exploring New Orleans history. Check their official website for the most current pricing. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is a good idea, especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends, to ensure entry and potentially secure a preferred tour time. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the museum's official website before your visit. They are typically open during daytime hours on weekdays and weekends. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are highly recommended! The knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights into the history of the building and New Orleans itself. Reddit

Yes, the historic church is a significant part of the visit and is often included in tours. It's a beautiful and sacred space. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find historical artifacts, exhibits detailing the convent's past, and a beautifully preserved chapel. The architecture itself is a major draw. Reddit

Yes, the Old Ursuline Convent Museum is known for its ghost stories, including tales of 'Casket Girls' and vampires. It's a popular spot for paranormal enthusiasts. TikTokInstagram

The 'Casket Girls' legend refers to young women brought from France to marry settlers, who supposedly arrived with small trunks resembling caskets, adding a layer of mystery to the convent's history. Instagram

Many couples find the historic and sacred atmosphere of the Old Ursuline Convent Museum perfect for timeless and grand ceremonies. Reddit

You'll learn about the convent's role in early New Orleans, the history of the Catholic Church in the region, and broader insights into the city's development and its people. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary, especially within the chapel. It's best to check with the museum staff upon arrival or look for signage regarding photo restrictions. Instagram

The exterior architecture, the serene grounds, and the interior of the chapel (if permitted) offer beautiful photographic opportunities. The French colonial style is very picturesque. Instagram

While not explicitly staged, the atmospheric interiors and the historical context lend themselves to capturing the eerie ambiance associated with the vampire and 'Casket Girls' legends. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Old Ursuline Convent Museum offers a unique educational experience for families. While the historical exhibits might appeal more to older children and teens, the building's age and the intriguing vampire and 'Casket Girls' legends can capture the imagination of younger visitors. The peaceful grounds also provide a nice space for a brief respite. Consider focusing on the visual aspects of the architecture and the storytelling elements of the legends to keep children engaged. TikTokInstagram

Look for tours that emphasize the historical narratives in an engaging way. The inexpensive ticket price makes it an accessible option for families exploring the French Quarter. It's a good opportunity to introduce children to the rich history of New Orleans in a less overwhelming setting than some of the city's more boisterous attractions.

💑 Couples Seeking Romance and History

For couples who appreciate history and a touch of timeless romance, the Old Ursuline Convent Museum is an ideal destination. The beautiful French colonial architecture, serene chapel, and peaceful grounds create an intimate and elegant atmosphere. It's described as a beautiful spot for a more formal, sacred-feeling ceremony, making it a unique choice for those looking for a memorable experience. Reddit

Beyond potential ceremonies, simply exploring the convent together offers a chance to connect with the past and each other. The insightful tours provide shared learning experiences, and the quiet ambiance allows for meaningful conversations about the history and the city's enduring charm. It's a perfect addition to a romantic getaway in New Orleans.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into New Orleans' Oldest Structure

The Old Ursuline Convent Museum stands as a remarkable testament to New Orleans' colonial past, holding the distinction of being the oldest building in the Mississippi Valley. Constructed in 1752, its French colonial architecture offers a tangible connection to the city's early days. Visitors can explore its well-preserved interiors, which house a collection of historical artifacts and exhibits that narrate the convent's long and varied history. The peaceful atmosphere within its walls provides a stark contrast to the bustling French Quarter outside, offering a moment of quiet reflection on centuries of history. Reddit

Beyond its architectural significance, the convent played a crucial role in the development of New Orleans, serving as a center for education and religious life. The guided tours are particularly insightful, delving into the convent's history, its connection to the Catholic Church in the region, and its impact on the city's social fabric. Many visitors report that these tours significantly deepen their understanding and appreciation of New Orleans' heritage, making the experience far more than just a visit to an old building. Reddit

Unraveling the Mysteries: Ghosts and Legends

The Old Ursuline Convent Museum is not just a historical landmark; it's also a hub for intriguing local folklore, most notably its association with vampire legends and the eerie tale of the 'Casket Girls'. These stories add a layer of mystique to the already historic site, drawing in visitors fascinated by the paranormal and the supernatural. TikTok and Instagram content often highlights these spooky narratives, making them a popular talking point for visitors. TikTokInstagram+1

The 'Casket Girls' legend, in particular, speaks of young women brought from France to marry the early settlers, who arrived with small, casket-like trunks. This tale, combined with the convent's age and historical context, has fueled speculation and ghost stories over the years. While the museum focuses on historical accuracy, the pervasive local lore ensures that a visit can feel like stepping into a ghost story, especially for those who enjoy a bit of the macabre with their history. Instagram

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