Sazerac House

The Basics

There are several ways to experience all that Sazerac House has to offer. Learn the basics of cocktail traditions in the Big Easy on a self-guided tour with complimentary samples, or get a more in-depth insight into the history of the Sazerac with exclusive tastings and special events.

You can also tour the whiskey distillery or take part in rum and food pairings. Each experience is available for a fixed price and only those aged over 21 are allowed to take part. Book in advance to save disappointment on the day.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Alcohol tastings are only available for those aged 21 and above; take your official ID as proof of age.

• Self-guided Sazerac House tours last roughly 1.5 hours and are available throughout the day.

• Staff are on-hand throughout Sazerac House to explain key exhibits.

• There’s an on-site gift shop, bar, and distillery at Sazerac House.

• Sazerac House is spread across three floors, all of which are accessible for wheelchair users and strollers.

How to Get There

Sazerac House is located on the corner of Magazine and Canal streets in New Orleans’ Central Business District. Just a couple of blocks down from the famed Bourbon Street, Sazerac House is easily accessible on foot from most central points in the city. You can also catch a streetcar and depart at the Canal at Magazine stop, right outside Sazerac House.

When to Get There

Sazerac House is open Tuesday to Sunday, typically from 11am to 6pm. The museum is always closed on Mondays. Visit midweek for a more laidback experience and time your visit to coincide with the departure of complimentary tours which are offered throughout the day. The last tour usually departs at 4:20pm.

What is a Sazerac?

The official cocktail of New Orleans, the Sazerac was invented at the Sazerac Coffeehouse and originally involved cognac mixed with Peychaud’s bitters and served in an absinthe-swirled glass. Nowadays, the Sazerac uses rye whiskey in place of cognac and sometimes Herbsaint in place of absinthe. Alongside Hurricane cocktails, a perfectly chilled Sazerac is a staple of New Orleans’ drinking culture.

Ways to explore

There are many ways to experience all that Sazerac House has to offer, and visitors range from history buffs to those just looking for a cold drink. Take in the basics of cocktail traditions in the Big Easy on a self-guided tour with complimentary samples, or learn more with guided tours, exclusive tastings, and special events.

Book in advance to avoid disappointment and choose between options like touring the whiskey distillery or enjoying rum and food pairings. Located on the edge of the French Quarter, Sazerac House is often a part of local walking tours, too.

Accessibility

This landmark is spread over three floors, all of which are accessible to wheelchairs.

Age limits

Alcohol tastings are only available for those aged 21 and up; be sure to bring identification.

What to pack

Valid identification, tote bag for souvenirs

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, layers for air-conditioned spaces

Not allowed

No outside food and beverages, smoking, vaping

Amenities

On-site gift shop, bar, and distillery

Address

Sazerac House is located on the corner of Magazine and Canal streets in New Orleans’ Central Business District. Just a couple blocks down from the famed Bourbon Street, Sazerac House is easily accessible on foot from most points in the city.

Driving

The best ways to reach Sazerac House are via public transportation or on foot, but it is possible to drive and park nearby as well. Parking options include limited street parking, valet parking for a fee at nearby hotels including the Sheraton Hotel and the St. Christopher Hotel, or paid lots such as Premium Parking Lot P346 at 317 Magazine Street.

Public transportation

Sazerac House is easy to reach via public transportation. Catch a streetcar to the Magazine stop, right outside Sazerac House. The bus also offers a nearby stop at Magazine and Decatur.

Best times to visit

This New Orleans landmark is open from 11am to 6pm, with the last tour usually departing around 4:20pm. Complimentary tours are available throughout the day. Visits earlier in the day may provide a more peaceful experience.

Best days to visit

Sazerac House is open Tuesday through Sunday and is closed on Mondays. Visit midweek for a more laidback experience.

Best months to visit

The best months to visit New Orleans are during the shoulder seasons of March through May and October through November, when temperatures are pleasant. Visitors looking for a festive atmosphere may want to time their visit along with Mardi Gras, typically in February.

Special events

Events celebrating local cocktail culture are often planned at Sazerac House. Check the online calendar for up-to-date details on events like tastings, concerts, and pairing events. The venue may also host events for local festivals such as Mardi Gras or Tales of the Cocktail.