Seeking something new and fun for your family that entertains everyone and captures the vibrant spirit of New Orleans? I found it while enjoying my birthday/family “staycation” in the French Quarter recently. After following their social media for years, I finally booked a visit to JAMNOLA (Joy, Art & Music – New Orleans)! I had been anticipating this for so long, and it did not disappoint. From start to finish, this impressive art installation is the perfect blend of entertainment, vibrant displays, music, education, creativity, and pure fun.
The excitement begins outside when your kids see JAMNOLA’s iconic street mural, created by local surrealist artist Hozè Da’Ra. Through the entrance is a bright room with the neatest wallpaper you’ll ever see. (If you’re into cool wallpaper, you’ll love this place!) Our visit started with a brief introductory tour, led by none other than sound engineer Rocky Tornabene, a third-generation New Orleans native, Navy veteran, and resin artist. My kids thought Rocky was the coolest. He asked them questions about what they saw and really listened when they answered or pointed things out with excitement. Rocky didn’t just introduce us to JAMNOLA, he invited us into it. His energy and stories made everyone feel like they were part of something truly special… which we were.
After a short but colorful walk through some interesting... well, I don’t want to give too much away… you’re free to explore two floors of vibrant, interactive exhibits at your own pace. They even offer Chromadepth Glasses for $3 each that turn everything into a 3D dreamscape. Every room is more unique and joyful than the last, packed with sensory experiences, immersive art, and hands-on fun and photo ops, all created by local artists. My kids were all-in from the start. They especially loved the areas where they could choose the music and dance around in colorful lighting and sounds that created different emotions. And of course, they loved posing for fun photos. One thing about JAMNOLA: you’re going to smile. It’s impossible not to feel happy here.
Let me explain - this isn’t your typical French Quarter or touristy “art” experience. JAMNOLA isn’t just a bunch of spray-painted fleur-de-lis or oyster shells dipped in glitter (though we do love a decorative oyster shell!). It’s legitimate, thoughtful, high-quality work by real New Orleans creatives. You can feel the love, thoughtfulness, and community that came together to make this place happen. JAMNOLA is a platform for local working artists, and I believe our city will truly benefit from it, especially when it comes to inspiring kids in art and music education or just making new family memories.
When you walk into the main two story gallery, you’re immediately entranced by the glowing, magical Tree of Life, an architectural art installation by William Nemitoff, a Master of Architecture graduate from Tulane. The sculpture connects to a canopy above and grounds the entire space with its whimsical branches. It was the first thing my toddler gravitated to, she loved it.
Another standout piece was The Canopy, created by Shel Roumillat, a costume design and installation artist with a PhD in history from Tulane. According to her JAMNOLA bio, her work is dedicated to inspiring joy by immersively transforming bodies and spaces, and she absolutely succeeded. My 9-year-old was completely obsessed. He asked a hundred questions: “How was it made? Is it plastic or fabric? How is it hanging from the ceiling? Why does it look stretched but also relaxed?” And yes, he asked me at least 100 times if he could touch it! It was amazing to see an art installation spark that much curiosity in a child.
My 7-year-old’s favorite room was the Big Easy Speakeasy, created by Pam Collins, a Delgado graduate and commercial artist with a colorful, whimsical style. My son could’ve stayed there all day, vibing under the blacklights, reading the walls, and listening to the music.
The staff made the visit even more memorable. They were warm, welcoming, and so knowledgeable. They happily snapped family pictures and shared insights into the cultural significance of different exhibits. One staff member even took the time to teach my kids about the Mardi Gras Indians, a meaningful moment we’ll all remember.
Behind the scenes, JAMNOLA is just as impressive. Storyteller Management is led by Kaila Robertson, a New Orleans native and graduate of NOCCA’s Creative Writing program. It’s clear JAMNOLA doesn’t just showcase New Orleans talent, it supports and celebrates it.
Also to my surprise, we were the only locals in a group of about 10 people that Rocky greeted. While JAMNOLA may often be seen as a tourist attraction, I left thinking, well, isn’t everything in New Orleans a tourist attraction? JAMNOLA deserves to become a local family favorite. It would be an incredible field trip destination for art or music classes, or just a refreshing spot to take the kids for creative inspiration. Whether you’ve lived here your whole life or are visiting for the first time, there’s something new and meaningful to discover at JAMNOLA with your kids.
Birthday Bonus!
I celebrated my birthday there with a super cute and festive Birthday Swag Bag, a $28 add-on that made the experience feel extra special. It included a gold and crystal tiara, an impressive glitter sash, and a button with (fake) starter bills for that traditional NOLA birthday flair. Trust me, I would’ve paid more just for the tiara! It’s totally worth it for birthday fun, and of course my 3-year-old has now claimed it to display in her room..
What Makes JAMNOLA a Must for Families:
- 🎨 Interactive & Immersive: Every room has a theme or tells a story through oversized installations, vibrant visuals, and music your kids can choose.
- 🎷 Educational: Kids interested in NOLA history, art, or music will be completely engaged.
- ❄️ Air-Conditioned: Perfect for hot summer days.
- 🚘 Easy to Access: Their new location on Frenchmen Street is easy to drive to and park, or it’s just a 10-minute walk from the French Quarter.
- 📅 Timed Entry = No Crowds: Plus, there’s an “anytime entry” option for added flexibility.
- 🎉 Perfect for Celebrations: The birthday swag bag is high-quality and makes anyone feel special on their day!
- 📍 Great Location: Right on Frenchmen Street—one of my favorite neighborhoods. Grab a bite or stroll around afterward and make a day of it.
Final Thoughts:
Whether you're a lifelong local or visiting New Orleans for the first time, JAMNOLA is an experience your family won't forget. It's interactive, inclusive, imaginative, and incredibly fun for all ages.
From music to murals, lights to laughter, JAMNOLA is where New Orleans culture comes alive in the most joyful way. Another Macaroni Kid New Orleans approved family-fun destination!
Planning Your Visit:
🎫 Grab your JAMNOLA tickets here!
Disclosure: We were given complimentary tickets in exchange for sharing our experience. All opinions are genuinely my own, and this is one I would have shared with y’all anyway. My family loved it and we all highly recommend it!
