Historic New Orleans Collection (HNOC)
The basics
The HNOC maintains free exhibitions for visitors at its Royal Street and Charles Street locations, as well as a museum cafe at the Royal Street location. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the Williams Residence, an Italianate brick townhouse where the founders of the HNOC lived from 1946 to 1963. Some private tours of the French Quarter—especially those with a focus on literary history—include a stop at the HNOC collections.
Things to know before you go
- The HNOC is a must-visit for history buffs and those looking for an introduction to New Orleans culture.
- Download the HNOC’s French Quarter Tours app for more information on the HNOC collection.
- Admission to the collection is free, but tours cost extra.
How to get there
The Historic New Orleans Collection is located in the heart of the French Quarter on Royal and Charles Streets. The closest parking lots are located on on the 500 blocks of Charles Street or Conti Street.
Trip ideas
When to get there
Each campus of the HNOC maintains its own hours, and most are closed on Mondays and major holidays.
The Williams Family
The HNOC was founded by Lewis Kemper Williams and his wife Leila. The lumber tycoon was also a keen collector and philanthropist, and their collection of Louisiana artifacts served as the founding collection of the HNOC.
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