Hermann-Grima House, New Orleans

Built in 1831 for Samuel Herman, a German-Jewish immigrant who married into a wealthy French-Creole family, this huge Georgian-style house is one of the best examples of upper-class Creole living you'll ever see. Featuring a courtyard, the only stable in the French Quarter, and a fully-functional outdoor 1830s kitchen, it is toured with a docent.

Remarkably enough, the Hermann-Grima House survived not only being subdivided into apartments or torn down but has also endured all the hurricanes throughout the years, not to mention the Civil War. Most of the furniture and original pieces are still inside. Moreover, a unique feature is the historically accurate special exhibitions, including presentations for the holidays, summer dresses, and something a little bit spooky in October. They also have a wonderful calendar of rotating shows in the gallery space at the historic Gallier House.

New Orleans' history and architecture are unique, especially considering its geography and climate, so even if you have seen every house museum in a southern city like Charleston or Savannah, you will learn new things on the one-hour tour here! Besides saving your receipt, you can also visit the nearby Gallier House at a discounted rate.

Tip:
The best time to visit is from October to May when cooking demonstrations take place in the kitchen using the tools used during the 19th century.