The National WWII Museum
The National WWII Museum & New Orleans’ Military History
Many people are surprised to learn that New Orleans played a vital role in America’s World War II effort. The city’s shipyards, military installations, and manufacturing facilities helped supply Allied forces around the globe, while local inventor Andrew Higgins revolutionized amphibious warfare with the famous Higgins boats used during the D-Day invasion and countless other operations throughout the war.
That remarkable history is one of the reasons The National WWII Museum calls New Orleans home. Consistently ranked among the finest museums in the world, the museum tells the story of the American experience in World War II through immersive exhibits, priceless artifacts, personal stories, and unforgettable interactive experiences. Visitors can explore restored aircraft and military vehicles, experience the USS Tang Submarine Experience, watch the acclaimed Beyond All Boundaries cinematic presentation, and discover the powerful Liberation Pavilion, which examines the war’s lasting impact on the world.
Plan to spend at least a full day here—many visitors choose two. The museum’s seven-building campus is filled with galleries, restaurants, theaters, and special exhibits that bring history to life in a way few museums can.
New Orleans’ Military Legacy
Long before World War II, New Orleans played an important role in America’s military history. The city helped defend the young nation’s strategic gateway to the Mississippi River during the Battle of New Orleans in 1815, and Jackson Barracks—still an active Louisiana National Guard installation—remains one of the country’s oldest continuously operating military posts.
During World War II, the New Orleans region became a hub for shipbuilding, manufacturing and military training. Higgins Industries produced more than 20,000 landing craft that helped Allied forces launch amphibious assaults across Europe and the Pacific. Nearby facilities, including Camp Plauché, Camp Leroy Johnson and the Michoud Assembly Facility, supported the nation’s wartime production and training efforts.
Today, the National WWII Museum preserves those stories while honoring the courage and sacrifice of the men and women who served at home and abroad. Whether you’re a lifelong history enthusiast or simply curious about one of the defining events of the 20th century, it’s an experience that belongs on every New Orleans itinerary.