A historic landmark that tells many New Orleans stories

Noteworthy for: The tiny speed boat outside the entrance to the Presbytere was used by New Orleans residents to rescue 600 people from the Katrina floodwaters.

The exhibits inside the Presbytere - which stands on the right flank of St. Louis Cathedral and was formerly a courthouse - are superb and well worth six bucks. On the first floor is Living with Hurricanes: Katrina and Beyond, which examines the causes and aftermath of Katrina through objects, multimedia, and personal stories - a moving testament to the courage and Cajun camaraderie of Louisianians who fought to save each other even as federal and state forces dithered.

On the top floor is the Mardi Gras exhibit, showing how the tradition has changed over the centuries since 1699. Rare artifacts, extraordinarily intricate costumes, plus documents and research trace the development of bead throws, balls, and parades. Strangely interesting also is the look at the practicalities of how the city ensures such an enormous event happens smoothly.