The National WWII Museum
The National WWII Museum tells the story of the American experience in the war that changed the world—why it was fought, how it was won, and what it means today—so that all generations can understand the price of freedom and be inspired by what they learn. Through exhibits, multimedia experiences, and thousands of personal accounts, the Museum takes visitors on an immersive tour of World War II in every theater of war.
Having enjoyed watching movies and documentaries about WWII, I thought a day at this museum would provide some extra insight but I must admit I was much more impressed by the scope of the coverage, material, buildings and exhibits than I expected. It was the most comprehensive single topic museum I have ever visited.
Movie – The Beyond All Boundaries is well worth the extra cost. It is shown daily in the Solomon Victory Theatre with hourly screenings starting at 10:00 am. Final showings are at 4:00 p.m. every day. The experience is preceded by a seven-minute preshow, also narrated by Tom Hanks. Advance tickets are highly recommended. Please arrive 10 to 15 minutes prior to your scheduled seating.
Note: Elements of Beyond All Boundaries may aggravate certain medical conditions. These elements include loud noises, flashing lights, fog effects, and sudden chair movements. Stationary seating is available.
Exhibits – The many exhibits cover the epic and global scale of the war that changed the world, in a voice that is intimate and personal. Exhibits not only highlight the role of world leaders, but also the everyday men and women who found the strength and courage to accomplish the extraordinary.
The National WWII Museum is the top-rated tourist destination in New Orleans and #2 in the U.S., and an unforgettable way to experience World War II—from industrial efforts on the home front to the combat experience of the American service member abroad. Offering a compelling blend of sweeping narrative and poignant personal detail, the museum features immersive exhibits, multimedia experiences, and an expansive collection of artifacts and first-person oral histories to take visitors inside the story of the war: why it was fought, how it was won, and what it means today. Beyond the galleries, the Museum offers unique access to experiential history, including an opportunity to tour and ride on an authentically restored PT-boat, tours behind the scenes to handle artifacts alongside Museum curators, and an impressive collection of restored and working macro-artifacts to discover.
The experience also contains images of a very graphic nature, including archival footage from the battlefields of World War II that may be too intense for younger viewers. Parental guidance is suggested.
Events & Programs – In addition to world-class exhibits and renowned collections, the museum offers a diverse range of events and programming throughout the year—both here at the Museum and around the globe.
Now some of you may think that because it is based on American perspectives, don’t be fooled. This museum has a lot to offer no matter where you are from.
Location: 945 Magazine St, New Orleans
