New Orleans Museum of Art

"Zoom out. What’s this place all about?A must-see on most visitors’ New Orleans itineraries, and deservedly so. The building itself, set back in City Park, is imposing and grand with its alabaster walls and Greco-Roman columns. If the weather is good, then be sure to make time to stroll around the equally impressive Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden. What will we find in the permanent collection?This museum opened with just nine works of art in 1911; now, the permanent collection has some 40,000 pieces. Although most eras and media are represented, NOMA is known for its French and American art, African and Japanese works, and photography and glass. It remains one the South’s most impressive fine art collections. How about temporary exhibits?The museum has as broad a roster of temporary exhibits as befits a large city art museum. Many of them have local relevance, and tie in with cultural life in Louisiana; these are complemented by national and global traveling exhibits that might include fashion or digital media. What did you make of the crowd?NOMA’s location in the middle of City Park means there’s a fair amount of casual foot traffic, but the rotating exhibits draw art buffs as well. On the practical tip, how were the facilities?The exhibits are spread over a number of floors, but accessibility didn't seem to be a problem. Is the café worth a stop, or should we just plan on going elsewhere?Locally famous restaurateur Ralph Brennan oversees Café NOMA; it's a great pitstop, even if you're just touring City Park. Any advice for the time- or attention-challenged?The museum does run a ‘highlights’ tour (free with admission) with curators and educators who'll discuss their favorite pieces. The must-see rooms are generally held the American collections housed in the Rosemonde E. and Emile Kuntz rooms." - Paul Oswell