Visit The National WWII Museum New Orleans

The National WWII Museum New Orleans

Address | 945 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130

Being frequent visitors to New Orleans, on our most recent visit we wanted to visit the The National WWII Museum for the first time. The National WWII Museum in New Orleans has received significant recognition over the years. This is an immersive journey through one of the most pivotal periods in modern history. As you step inside, the weight of the stories, sacrifices, and resilience of a generation surround you. From its vast collection of artifacts to the deeply personal accounts of those who lived through the war, the museum offers an experience that is both educational and profoundly moving.

The museum guides at the National WWII Museum are incredibly friendly and approachable, enhancing our visit with their warmth and expertise. They greeted us with genuine enthusiasm and were more than happy to share insights about the exhibits. When we asked for recommendations, they offered thoughtful suggestions on must-see areas, like the “Road to Tokyo” exhibit and the 4D Beyond All Boundaries film. Their passion for the museum’s mission and their willingness to answer questions made the experience even more engaging and memorable.

Tips for Visiting the WWII Museum

To make the most of your visit, consider these tips:

1. Plan Your Time:
   The museum is expansive, and it’s easy to spend an entire day exploring. If you’re short on time, prioritize key areas like the main exhibits, the “Beyond All Boundaries” film, and the Freedom Pavilion.

2. Buy Tickets in Advance:
   The museum is a popular attraction, and lines can get long. Purchasing tickets online ensures you can jump right into the experience upon arrival.

3. Wear Comfortable Shoes:
   With multiple levels and sprawling exhibits, you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Comfortable footwear is essential to enjoy the experience without fatigue.

4. Take Breaks:
   The museum can be emotionally heavy. Don’t hesitate to take breaks in the courtyard or café to process what you’ve seen and recharge before diving back in.

5. Utilize the Audio Guide:
   The museum offers audio guides that provide additional context and commentary on the exhibits. It’s a great way to deepen your understanding and appreciate the nuances of the displays.

Highlights of the Museum

1. The Exhibits:
The museum’s exhibits are meticulously curated to bring history to life. Walking through the Road to Tokyo and Road to Berlin, you’re transported to the battlefields of the Pacific and Europe, with vivid displays that include tanks, planes, and the gear soldiers carried. Personal letters and photographs add a human touch, reminding visitors that behind the machinery of war were millions of individual stories.

A standout exhibit is the section dedicated to the internment of Japanese Americans. It sheds light on a darker chapter of American history, detailing how over 120,000 Japanese Americans, many of them U.S. citizens, were forcibly relocated and imprisoned during the war. Through photographs, artifacts, and first-hand accounts, this exhibit challenges visitors to reflect on race and civil liberties in the US.

2. Beyond All Boundaries Film:
Narrated by Tom Hanks, this 4D cinematic experience is a must-see. "Beyond All Boundaries" immerses you in the sights and sounds of WWII, using state-of-the-art technology to transport you to the frontlines. The film’s intense realism is designed to help audiences grasp the global scale of the war and the sacrifices made by those who served. Be prepared for an emotional journey as it combines archival footage, dramatic reenactments, and powerful storytelling.

3. US Freedom Pavilion:
This pavilion showcases the iconic aircraft of WWII, including a B-17 Flying Fortress suspended from the ceiling. The interactive exhibits here allow visitors to explore the machinery that played a critical role in the war effort, from planes to submarines.