Inside History: Guided Tour at New Orleans Pharmacy Museum
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Low fitness needed; mostly standing and walking at a moderate pace.
Overview
Step inside the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum for a one-hour guided tour that uncovers early medicine’s strange remedies and rich local history. Experience exhibits ranging from leeches to opium, all set in the city’s oldest apothecary building.
Guided Tour of the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum
All Ages! • 60 Minutes
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About This Adventure
Step back in time at the Pharmacy Museum, where a guided tour reveals the intriguing history of early medicine, featuring leeches and opium as remedies. Explore the museum's first floor and courtyard, and gain access to captivating second-floor exhibits. Don't miss this unique glimpse into the past—reserve your spot today!
Reservations MUST be made in advance. Space is limited.
Duration
60 Minutes
About
In the building that was home to the country's first licensed pharmacist and his apothecary, the Pharmacy Museum's guided tour brings you back to a time when leeches, opium, and lead were the cures for what ailed you. Enjoy a fully guided tour of the museum's first floor and courtyard as well as access to the second floor of exhibits following your tour.
Please arrive at the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum (514 Chartres Street) by 9:50 a.m. in order to be checked in for your tour. Tours begin promptly at 10 a.m. at which time the front doors are locked. Unfortunately, guests who arrive late will not be able to enter the Pharmacy Museum once the tour has commenced.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early
Tours start promptly at 10 a.m.—arrive by 9:50 a.m. to check in and secure your spot.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Though mostly indoors, you’ll spend an hour walking around multiple floors and the courtyard.
No Late Entry
Once the tour begins, doors close and latecomers cannot be admitted for safety and flow.
Booking Required
Reserve your spot in advance—space is limited and popular, especially during weekends.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Occasional urban hummingbirds frequent the courtyard
- City pigeons rest on surrounding eaves and rooftops
History
The building served as the first licensed pharmacist’s home and apothecary in the United States, dating back to the early 19th century.
Conservation
The museum upholds preservation of its historic structure and educates visitors on the evolution of safe medical practices.
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Adventure Hotspots in New Orleans
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Supportive shoes help during the hour-long walking tour, especially on hard floors and in the courtyard.
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated, particularly if you’re combining this with outdoor exploration.
Light Jacket
A jacket is handy during cooler months for courtyard stops.
fall specific
Notebook or Phone
For jotting down intriguing historical facts or photographing exhibits where allowed.