New Orleans, Louisiana: Mardi Gras World

Tour of a giant warehouse full of bizarre Mardi Gras props and floats; watch the artists at work. In May 2018 a bizarre barge collision collapsed part of its floor into the Mississippi River.

Our Mardi Gras World tour started with a 15 minute video and slice of King Cake. Then the tour guide took us through the shop and explained the process for making the props. We went through the warehouse and were able to take lots of pictures. You need at least an hour to take this tour.

Mardi Gras World has a free shuttle service that makes several stops in the French Quarter and downtown; call the phone number on their website to arrange for a pickup. Get there early, as they have costumes and several displays around the room where they show a short video prior to the tour. It's great for some fun photos!

After the tour is finished, you're allowed to walk around and take pictures or explore.

A fascinating look behind the scenes of the Mardi Gras. The tour is expensive, but well worth it, and the information is amazing. You see how the floats and decorations are made. As you walk through the massive warehouse, you'll be surprised by how many characters you recognize. There are also plenty of photo ops. At the beginning of the tour you get to dress up in costumes and take pictures.

I would definitely eat before you get there. The cafe has good food but is extremely expensive....11 dollars for a plain hamburger.

Giant warehouse full of Mardi Gras floats. The tour was a little out of my price range, but we went into the gift shop and took a few pictures on the way out. Kids would definitely enjoy this place.