New Orleans is full of amazing museums that attract thousands of visitors each year, like the National WWII Museum. But there are dozens of smaller, lesser known museums that are wonderful hidden gems just waiting to be explored. Next time you have an afternoon to spare, consider heading over to one of these hidden gems and play tourist in your own city!

1. Lower 9th Ward Living Museum
Management/Trip Advisor
Celebrating the vibrant history of one of New Orleans’ most unique neighborhoods, the Lower 9th Ward Living Museum is not to be missed. You’ll learn about the history of the 9th Ward, Hurricane Katrina’s impact, the rebuilding process, and more in this unique hidden gem. 1235 Deslonde St., New Orleans, LA 70117.
2. Longue Vue House and Gardens
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Built in 1942, the Longue Vue House and Gardens is a beautiful, world-class house museum complete with acres of perfectly manicured gardens and an interactive discovery garden for children. Whether you’re a fan of art, architecture, or just strolling through beautiful green space, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at this delightful hidden gem. 7 Bamboo Rd., New Orleans, LA 70124.
3. Pharmacy Museum
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Nestled in the heart of the French Quarter, the Pharmacy Museum is located at the site of the first licensed pharmacist in the country. Louis J. Duilho, Jr. received his license in 1816, making his pharmacy the first licensed apothecary shop in the country. As you wander through the museum, you’ll see everything from bloodletting exhibits to medicinal herbs. You’ll walk away with a greater appreciation for how far we’ve come in the medical field. 514 Chartres St., New Orleans, LA 70130.
4. Backstreet Cultural Museum
Anna A./Trip Advisor
Established in 1999, the Backstreet Cultural Museum houses the world’s most comprehensive collection of New Orleans’ African American traditions, covering everything from Mardi Gras Indians to jazz funerals. Tiny but mighty, this is one museum that should be on everyone’s bucket list. 1116 Henriette Delille St., New Orleans, LA 70116.
5. Museum of Death
Nichollette F./Trip Advisor
Warning, this museum is not for the squeamish. Featuring the world’s largest collection of serial killer artwork, antique funeral items including mortician instruments, and crime scene photographs, this is one museum that will leave you speechless. The self guided tour will take you anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on how long you can stomach it. 227 Dauphine St., New Orleans, LA 70112.
6. Haunted Museum
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If you’re a believer in the paranormal, then the Haunted Museum is a must-see. Housed in a 200 year old home that claims to be haunted, the Haunted Museum features a collection of paranormal items including haunted artifacts, a Voodoo hall, and much more. 828 N. Rampart St., New Orleans, LA 70116.

How many of these museums have you been to? Let us know in the comments below!

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