Backstreet Cultural Museum

Went today with some family members that had came in from out of town to show them around the city and even as a New Orleans native I truly enjoyed this museum. It was a very nice experience, especially with the tour guides. They did an amazing job. I definitely recommend it, check this place out. I truly believe that this is the essence of New Orleans. The storytelling was amazing and I love that you can tell that the tour guides enjoy what they do.

One word...INSIGHTFUL! If you have ever wanted a deep dive into the culture of NOLA, look no further, the Backstreet Cultural Museum is THE place. I've been to New Orleans twice before and I must say, there has never been a tour that provided as much information and insight than this space. In fact, I visited the museum on a last minute decision. I had been in the Treme area doing a walking tour when the guide mentioned the museum. I had time after that tour to visit, so I walked over. Upon arriving, I was able to join a guided tour that was in session. Entry is $26. The museum is not a large or extravagant space but rather a treasure of memories woven together to showcase the beauty of African American culture in New Orleans. It consists of 2 rooms filled with historically relevant items including Mardi Gras Indian memorabilia. The guide walked us around the first room and highlighted some key areas in the Indian culture including the history, traditions, and terms. She also educated us on some key people and discussed the intricate beauty of some of the Indian memorabilia. I also had a chance to take a photo with a piece. Once we finished with the guide, we had a chance to walk around and view things on our own. I ventured off into the second room which was even better because it dived into the fashion and hip-hop of NOLA. I had a chance to listen to authentic NOLA bounce and learn about local professionals who have gone on to do amazing things for the culture. I went back into the first room and learned more about the Jazz and funeral culture as well as key people, including the founder, Sylvester Francis. Again, all very insightful. Upon leaving, I was advised that they have a weekly second-line parade that you can join or view. Unfortunately, I missed it but to anyone interested, check with the staff and they'll inform you of the schedule. Overall, it was a great experience. I felt like I gained a greater perspective of what NOLA culture is about. Staff were also very pleasant and willing to share all of their knowledge. I will add, its alot to read and take in, so give yourself time or return on another trip. Highly recommended and I'll definitely be returning!

If you want to know about the history of second line and Zulu in NO then this is one place that you need to go. You learn history, culture, craftsmanship, and more. Also black owned and very beautiful

What a treat! I visited Backstreet with a group, and at first glance I was underwhelmed. Then, our guide walked us through the fantastic collection and helped us to recognize the cultural gem we were experiencing. This is far from what we typically think of as a museum--the glass covered plundering of colonization. This is a small space where Black history is being preserved. Definitely check it out. The tour is a must.

This collection is a really unique combination of costumes, media, and photos. The displays cover Indians, Social clubs, jazz funerals, and many more. Combine this with Treme Petit Jazz Museum and L'il Dizzy's and you get an interesting local Treme walking tour.

Awkward to rate this, as I wanted to love it. First, you have to ring a random door in a residential neighborhood, and then you are able to enter. The price point is high. I went with my mother, she is a senior, and she paid for myself and a senior entry but I still thought this was a lot. There was a lot of content. If you want to see lot of Mardis Gras costumes, these are wonderful. There's no replacement to seeing these up close in person. Maybe it takes a lot to keep the place, but I thought it was a hefty entry fee. I think the second prize is the photos (which is what I came for), but they're just prints posted on the walls. These would be better viewed in an online portfolio, as they were just overwhelming posted so close together on the walls. And, the attendant shoed my 80+ year old mother off the bench in the back (after we had walked a considerable way to get here in the heat) because she was lingering a bit too long. No one else was waiting to sit on the bench. I just thought the entire experience was strange. I might recommend at half the price.

Wonderful treasure trove of local cultural history of African American community and Mardi Gras Indians. Powerful costumes for cultural heritage, family, music, dance, voodoo culture. Definitely worth a stop by!

This is a real jewel. The exhibit itself is amazing. But the staff are also at the heart of the experience.