Old Ursuline Convent Museum
New Orleans' oldest building, this convent-turned-museum offers French colonial charm, rich history, and intriguing local legends.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tours
Old Ursuline Convent Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
New Orleans' oldest building, this convent-turned-museum offers French colonial charm, rich history, and intriguing local legends.
"It is a very historic building with an amazing church as well. I would recommend coming here."
🎯 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!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
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
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
Chapel and gardens
Discover a peaceful atmosphere within the stunning chapel and serene grounds, perfect for reflection.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for a Deeper Dive
Uncover Local Legends
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
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
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
What People Dislike
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.
Absolutely! It's centrally located and a pleasant walk from many other historic sites like St. Louis Cathedral and the Voodoo Museum.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
Yes, guided tours are highly recommended! The knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights into the history of the building and New Orleans itself.
Yes, the historic church is a significant part of the visit and is often included in tours. It's a beautiful and sacred space.
🎫 🧭 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.
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.
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.
Many couples find the historic and sacred atmosphere of the Old Ursuline Convent Museum perfect for timeless and grand ceremonies.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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
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
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.
Unraveling the Mysteries: Ghosts and Legends
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.
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