The National WWII Museum has welcomed approximately two million visitors since its grand opening on D-Day, June 6, 2000. It has been named the official WWII Museum of the United States by the U.S. Congress, making it a must-see for history buffs and all patriots. The American Spirit, the bravery, the cooperation, and the sacrifice of the young men and women who won the war and altered the course of history are brought to life via powerful photos and astonishing objects. Visitors follow America’s role in the war and on the Home Front from the 1930s approach to war, to the Normandy Invasion, and the conflicts of the Pacific Islands.

The Union Pacific Train Station, an immersive exhibit that lets visitors experience the sights, sounds, and feelings of combat, is housed in the Louisiana Memorial Pavilion. The Louisiana Memorial Pavilion museum and exhibitions recount the tales of the hundreds of amphibious landings and the thousands of men and women who made the Allied triumph in World War II possible, from the beaches of Normandy to the dunes of Iwo Jima. A replica of the LCVP (Landing Craft Vehicle Personnel) or Higgins boat that transported hundreds of Allied soldiers to the beaches of Normandy during the D-Day assault on June 6, 1944, as well as a soaring Douglas C-47 aircraft, can be found in the pavilion atrium of the museum.

The Success The Stage Door Canteen, a remarkable entertainment space that features the music of the war years as performed by The Victory Belles, and The American Sector Restaurant + Bar are all located in the Solomon Theater Pavilion. The Solomon Victory Theater is home to the exclusive cinematic experience from producer Tom Hanks, Beyond All Boundaries.

The National WWII Museum’s special VIP tour, Behind the Lines, includes access to the Museum vault, a ride in a Sherman tank, and other behind-the-scenes experiences not available anywhere else. With our new, upgraded tour, which includes three hours with a curator and two hours in the vault—more time than prior tours—guests will be exposed to hours of exclusive behind-the-scenes access like never before. Alongside historians, participants examine antiquities and rarely seen gems up close and personal and participate in a special curator’s luncheon in one of our private dining rooms. Tour participants have the option to explore every area of the Museum’s public space at their own pace thanks to the inclusion of a second-day ticket.

Amazing experiences like this one are just a portion of what a school trip to New Orleans can provide. For itineraries of our other enjoyable and interesting locations, go here.