New Orleans: The National WWII Museum Ticket

The New Orleans: The National WWII Museum Ticket offers an engaging and comprehensive look into the history of World War II through a variety of exhibits and experiences. Priced at $38 per person, this one-day visit provides access to five large pavilions located in downtown New Orleans, making it an ideal choice for history enthusiasts and those interested in America’s wartime story. The museum is highly rated, with a 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 634 reviews, reflecting its popularity and quality. The experience includes a wide array of displays such as restored aircraft, tanks, personal accounts, and multimedia presentations. For an extra fee, visitors can upgrade to enjoy a 4-D film “Beyond All Boundaries” or book guided tours like Campaigns of Courage and Arsenal of Democracy. This tour suits those looking for a detailed, educational experience with well-organized exhibits and professional guides, though it’s best suited for visitors willing to spend several hours exploring thoroughly.

Key Points

• Price of $38 covers full-day access to the museum’s exhibits and optional upgrades
• Located in downtown New Orleans, housed across five large pavilions
• Includes the D-Day Normandy exhibit, WWII airplanes, and Home Front stories
• Optional upgrades feature a 4-D film and guided tours like Campaigns of Courage and Arsenal of Democracy
• Highly rated with a 4.8 out of 5 based on 634 reviews
• Best for visitors prepared to spend several hours exploring in detail

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The Museum’s Location and Layout

The National WWII Museum resides in a key location in downtown New Orleans and is easily accessible. The museum complex comprises five buildings that contain the exhibits, restorations, and theaters. The main entrance is on the North side of Andrew Higgins Blvd, where visitors show their barcoded tickets for entry. The museum’s design facilitates a logical flow through its major sections, including the Louisiana Memorial Pavilion, U.S. Freedom Pavilion, and the Liberation Pavilion, opening in 2022. The layout allows visitors to move smoothly from the Normandy invasion to the Pacific campaigns, with ample space to explore each exhibit comfortably.

The Exhibits and Their Highlights

The Louisiana Memorial Pavilion features the D-Day Normandy invasion, including detailed displays about landing crafts designed and built in New Orleans, and stories from the Home Front, capturing civilian and military life in wartime America. The Campaigns of Courage area traces the Road to Tokyo and the Road to Berlin, with recreated battle settings and villages that vividly depict the fights against the Axis powers. A two-hour guided tour of these exhibits is available and led by expert docents, enriching the visit with context and storytelling.

Restored Aircraft and War Vehicles

The U.S. Freedom Pavilion showcases actual WWII airplanes, including the B-17E Flying Fortress, which are restored to their wartime appearance. Visitors also see wartime tanks and trucks, offering a tactile sense of the scale and technology used during WWII. The aircraft display is a favorite feature, providing a tangible connection to the war. The pavilion’s open space allows for better appreciation of these historic vehicles, making it an excellent stop for aviation and military hardware enthusiasts.

The 4-D Film Experience

The Solomon Victory Theatre hosts the “Beyond All Boundaries” film, narrated by Tom Hanks, which delivers a multi-sensory experience that combines visuals, sound, and special effects. This 4-D movie enhances the historical storytelling and leaves a powerful impression. The film is an optional upgrade, but reviews consistently praise it as “amazing” and “very emotional”. Visitors who opt for this experience often find it well worth the additional cost and time, adding a deeply personal dimension to the visit.

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Guided Tours and Their Content

For visitors seeking a deeper understanding, the Campaigns of Courage and Arsenal of Democracy guided tours are available as upgrades. The Campaigns of Courage tour focuses on the Pacific and European theaters, providing detailed narration about the Road to Tokyo and Road to Berlin campaigns. Guided by expert docents, these tours are particularly valued for their storytelling and insight, giving an engaging narrative to the exhibits. Tours are approximately two hours long, and booking in advance ensures a spot at your preferred time.

Practical Information on Tickets and Access

The museum offers both timed and non-timed tickets, with options to include the 4-D movie or guided tours. It’s recommended to purchase tickets online in advance to guarantee your preferred time slots and avoid long lines. The museum is wheelchair accessible, with limited wheelchairs available on a first-come, first-served basis. The on-site restaurants are open from 11:00 AM, providing options for lunch, and gift shops offer memorabilia and souvenirs. Visitors are advised to plan for several hours—a full day is ideal to see everything without feeling rushed.

Accessibility and Visitor Tips

The museum’s facilities are designed to accommodate visitors with mobility needs, although seniors or those requiring assistance might find it helpful to bring personal mobility aids or request a wheelchair. The museum is easy to navigate with helpful staff and clear signage. To make the most of the experience, it’s recommended to reserve tickets early and allow plenty of time, especially if you wish to see the entire complex and watch the 4-D film. The self-guided experience is very comprehensive, but guided options can enrich the visit with detailed stories and background.

Visitor Experience and Recommendations

Based on extensive reviews, the museum is highly praised for its well-organized layout, quality exhibits, and knowledgeable staff. Many visitors note that several hours are needed to truly appreciate everything, with some suggesting an entire day or more. The airplane collection and personal stories are particularly impactful. The 4-D film is a standout feature, often described as “moving” and “emotional”. Visitors consistently recommend buying tickets online in advance and planning sufficient time to avoid feeling rushed, especially during busy periods.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

The National WWII Museum in New Orleans offers a deeply educational, visually impressive, and emotionally impactful experience. Its extensive exhibits, restored aircraft, and multimedia presentations provide a rundown of the American involvement in WWII. The $38 ticket price offers excellent value for access to such a detailed resource, especially when adding optional features like guided tours and the 4-D film.

While it requires a significant time investment, the museum’s quality and depth reward visitors willing to dedicate several hours. It’s particularly suited for history buffs, families, and anyone interested in understanding the sacrifices and stories of WWII. The only limitation is that full immersion might take more than a few hours, so planning a full day is recommended for a complete experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the museum suitable for children?
Yes, children over 5 can enter, and the exhibits are engaging for all ages. Some parts, like the aircraft and multimedia displays, are especially captivating for younger visitors.

Can I buy tickets on the day of my visit?
It’s best to purchase tickets online in advance to secure your desired time slot and avoid lines. Same-day tickets are available but may be limited.

Are guided tours included in the ticket price?
Guided tours like Campaigns of Courage and Arsenal of Democracy are optional upgrades and require additional booking. The standard ticket allows full access to exhibits and the film.

How long should I plan to spend at the museum?
Most visitors spend at least 3-4 hours, with some staying all day to see everything thoroughly. The 4-D film and guided tours add to the total time.

Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the museum is wheelchair accessible, although limited wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s advisable to request assistance if needed.

The National WWII Museum in New Orleans provides a profound and detailed journey through a pivotal chapter of history, making it a meaningful addition to any trip to the city.

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