Discover Edgar Degas' New Orleans legacy on a 2-hour guided walking tour led by his great-grandnieces. Visit family homes and learn the French Creole stories behind the artist’s ties to the city.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires moderate walking and standing
Wildlife
History
Esplanade Avenue was developed in the early 19th century as a grand boulevard connecting the French Quarter to City Park and reflects New Orleans' Creole heritage.
Conservation
The tour promotes respect for historic private homes and encourages low-impact visitation to preserve neighborhood character.
Degas House
Discover Edgar Degas' New Orleans legacy on a 2-hour guided walking tour led by his great-grandnieces. Visit family homes and learn the French Creole stories behind the artist’s ties to the city.
Degas House preserves the New Orleans residence and legacy of French Impressionist Edgar Degas. Located on oak-lined Esplanade Avenue, Degas House offers guided tours, paint-and-sip classes, and children’s art programs that connect art history to local Creole culture.
Guided tours include a two-hour journey led by Degas’s great-grandnieces, visits to the artist’s former homes, and a screening of an award-winning documentary that explores Degas’s New Orleans connections. Tours focus on historical context, family stories, and the architectural setting that shaped the artist’s local ties.
Studio Degas paint-and-sip sessions take place inside the historic house, allowing adult visitors to explore Impressionist techniques under the guidance of a professional artist. Classes emphasize hands-on painting in a setting that reflects 19th-century creative life, making art accessible to visitors of varied skill levels.
Petite Degas children’s classes introduce young artists to painting fundamentals while immersing them in the house’s historical atmosphere. These sessions include guided activities and a courtyard snack, combining education and cultural experience for families.
As a museum and cultural venue, Degas House offers fact-based interpretation and family-led perspectives. Programs are suited for art lovers, families, school groups, and visitors seeking an authentic connection to New Orleans art history. Visitors are encouraged to check scheduling and booking details in advance, as program availability can vary. Degas House sustains its public presence through guided tours, instructional classes, and curated screenings that highlight Edgar Degas’s New Orleans heritage.
Location
New Orleans, LA
Oak-lined Esplanade Avenue setting
Hosted By
Great-grandnieces
Family-led tours and insights
Tour Length
2 hours
Guided tour duration
Experiences
3 experiences
Tour, adult class, kids' class
Reserve a guided tour, Studio Degas session, or Petite Degas kids’ class to connect with Edgar Degas’ New Orleans story.
Wear comfortable walking shoes
The tour covers about 1.5 miles on paved streets with some standing during presentations.
Book in advance
Tours have limited spots and fill quickly, especially during festival seasons.
Bring water and sun protection
Though shaded, parts of Esplanade Avenue are exposed—stay hydrated and protect yourself from sun.
Arrive early for check-in
Plan to arrive 10 minutes before the tour start to allow time for check-in and orientation.
Comfortable walking shoes
Essential for navigating the paved avenue and historic neighborhoods comfortably.
Refillable water bottle
Stay hydrated during the walking tour, especially in warmer months.
summer
Lightweight sun hat
Protect your face from direct sun exposure along parts of the route.
summer
Camera or smartphone
Capture the historic architecture and memorable moments on the tour.