OUR STORY
"Comprehensive & Immersive Experience!"
This was such a comprehensive and immersive experience. Living in New Orleans, it’s amazing to see how the sex trade has influenced so much of how the city grew up. You can see the imprint of Storyville and other red light districts in the city’s layout, as well as the advent of jazz music and even cases heard before the Supreme Court.
In particular, it was awesome to get to read an interactive version of the Blue Book and see all the physical artifacts from the city’s bordellos - not to mention the living history pieces with video and the optical illusion in the parlor. Just really impressive from start to finish.
If you visit, plan for about an hour to give yourself time to see everything without rushing.
-Jacob Edenfield
At the New Orleans Storyville Museum, we are committed to offering a comprehensive exploration of the unique history of New Orleans leading up to the creation of the notorious Red-Light District. Our mission is to educate, inform and entertain visitors by offering a vivid glimpse into the fascinating world of New Orleans, from its founding in 1718, through the early 1900s, when the Storyville District flourished as a center of music, entertainment, and vice.
Through engaging, immersive, and interactive exhibits, alongside captivating artifacts and multimedia experiences, we take you on a journey through New Orleans’ storied past as America’s original Sin City. Our aim is to shed light on the social, cultural, and economic impacts of the Storyville District on New Orleans and beyond. From the early days of jazz to the struggles of the individuals who lived and worked in the District, we delve into the complex narratives that shaped this extraordinary era.
Our team of passionate historians, curators, researchers and set designers has painstakingly collected and curated a diverse range of artifacts, photographs, and documents that bring the story of the District to life.
From rare original copies of the District’s directory of pleasure known as the “Blue Book”, personal letters, photographs, and other fascinating relicts from a bygone era, each item in our collection offers a glimpse into the vibrant and often controversial world that once thrived within these streets.
Whether you are a history enthusiast, a music lover, or simply curious about this intriguing part of New Orleans' past, the Storyville Museum welcomes you to explore, learn, and discover the captivating tales that have left an indelible mark on the fabric of our city. Join us on this journey through time, as we celebrate the spirit of Storyville and honor its enduring legacy.