Learn about New Orleans' African American heritage at Backstreet Cultural Museum, where you can browse collections of photos, colorful suits, and more. The museum prides itself especially on the displays of Mardi Gras Indians, jazz funerals, and second lines parades. Time your visit according to special events and witness dynamic musical and dance performances. The museum's founder, Sylvester Francis, used a Super 8 mm camera to document Mardi Gras celebrations, and then started displaying the photos in 1988. For Backstreet Cultural Museum and beyond, use our New Orleans driving holiday planning app to get the most from your New Orleans vacation.
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Backstreet Cultural Museum reviews
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One of the most culturally significant museums in the country. If you haven't learned about the history of Black culture in New Orleans, you haven't learned about New Orleans. more »
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The costumes on display are over the top AMAZING! Dominique answered all my questions about the costumes and their history. The second half of the museum gave me more understand of the first line and.... more »
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The owner Sylvester took time out to share the history of his business and he shared a part of culture and history that most folks don't know about. This is a must see when you visit NOLA! The photography and the pieces in his museum are priceless as well as his stories.
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LOVED the outfits and the band history! Wish we had seen more wedding bands (not funeral marches). Enjoyed reading about the funeral marches though! Wonder how much some of those outfits weigh! A little pricey for the size.
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