Learn About WWII History At This Museum in New Orleans

The National WWII Museum in New Orleans offers an exceptional opportunity to dive into the history of World War II. Through immersive exhibits, artifacts, and personal accounts, it provides a multifaceted exploration of this pivotal global conflict.

TL;DR

• Engaging displays showcase the European and Pacific campaigns through realistic dioramas and exhibits.
• Personal narratives, memorabilia, and artifacts from veterans and civilians add a human dimension to the historical accounts.
• Educational programs, events, and interactive activities enrich the learning experience for visitors of all ages.

The European Theater

The museum’s European Theater exhibits offer an insightful look at the major battles and campaigns that shaped the course of the war. Visitors can explore the D-Day landings, the Battle of the Bulge, and other pivotal moments through artifacts, equipment, and personal accounts from soldiers and civilians.

The Pacific Theater

The Pacific Theater exhibits provide an in-depth coverage of key battles such as Pearl Harbor, Midway, and Iwo Jima. Visitors can see displays of aircraft, vehicles, and weapons used in the Pacific, as well as exhibits highlighting the experiences of American and Japanese soldiers and civilians.

The Home Front

The museum also features detailed exhibits on life in the United States during WWII. Visitors can learn about wartime production, rationing, and propaganda, as well as personal stories and artifacts from the home front experience.

Notable Artifacts and Collections

The National WWII Museum boasts an extensive collection of rare and unique items from the war. One of the most significant artifacts is a Higgins boat used in the D-Day landings, which provides a direct link to New Orleans’ role in the war effort. The museum also features personal items and memorabilia from WWII veterans and civilians, bringing a human touch to the history of the war.

Educational Programs and Events

In addition to its exhibits, the museum offers a range of educational programs and events for students and adults. Workshops, lectures, and special events featuring WWII experts and veterans provide opportunities for visitors to engage with the history of the war on a deeper level. The museum also offers interactive programs and activities, such as the “Dog Tag Experience,” which allows visitors to follow the story of a specific soldier throughout the war.

Visitor Information

The National WWII Museum is located at 945 Magazine Street in New Orleans’ Arts & Warehouse District, about a mile from the French Quarter. The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except for Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas, and Mardi Gras Day.

Admission prices as of 2023 are $32.50 for adults, $27.50 for seniors (65+), $20 for college students (with ID), military & spouse (with ID), and K-12 children. WWII veterans and their companions receive free admission.

Guided tours and audio guides are available for an additional fee, and the museum provides comprehensive accessibility support services for visitors with disabilities.

The museum’s campus is expansive, covering five buildings and six acres. Visitors should plan to spend at least three to four hours exploring the exhibits, with the option to purchase a second-day pass for $12 to fully immerse themselves in the history of WWII.