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POINT OF INTEREST

JAMNOLA

New Orleans, LA

Touting itself as a "cultural funhouse," JAMNOLA is an immersive gallery that focuses on the city's rich heritage through interaction and play. The "JAM" in JAMNOLA stands for joy, art, and music, a theme guiding the space’s 17 vibrant installations, created through collaborations with around 30 talented artists.

The basics

JAMNOLA visitors are invited to follow a circuit through colorful exhibits that cover everything from Mardi Gras to New Orleans food. Efforts are made to keep the flow of visitors smooth, so it’s best to pre-book your timed entry ticket online. If you’re in a group of more than 10 people, you’ll need to email the gallery ahead of your visit to make arrangements. Note that if you’re planning to visit both JAMNOLA and the Backstreet Cultural Museum, you can buy a discounted combo ticket.

Things to know before you go

  • JAMNOLA is a must for arts fans, families, and anyone looking for a great place to take selfies.
  • Make sure your phone or camera is fully charged—you’ll want to take loads of pictures.
  • The space is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and selfie sticks are welcome (and available for purchase).
  • There’s an on-site shop selling whimsical JAMNOLA souvenirs.

How to get there

JAMNOLA is in the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood of New Orleans, east of the French Quarter. It’s about a 20-minute walk from the French Quarter along North Peters Street, which runs along the banks of the Mississippi. Another option is taking bus #8 Arabi to the corner of St. Claude Avenue and St. Ferdinand Street, which is less than a 10-minute walk from JAMNOLA.

When to get there

JAMNOLA is a year-round attraction, but expect serious crowds (and check timings) if you visit the week before Mardi Gras. It’s typically open Thursday–Monday from morning until evening, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays. It's open on some, but not all, public holidays. The best way to go is to book your timed entry ticket on the website before you head over (10 people are allowed in every 10 minutes).

The Backstreet Cultural Museum

It's worth getting JAMNOLA and Backstreet Cultural Museum combo tickets, and while the attractions are a few miles apart, both can be visited on the same day. The Backstreet Cultural Museum focuses on the city's African American community and processional traditions—including Mardi Gras parades and jazz funerals—and has a great collection of costumes and ephemera. The museum often hosts special events, too; check the website for dates and details.

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