Mobile Carnival Museum: A Glimpse into Mardi Gras History
Experience the history and pageantry of Mardi Gras at the Mobile Carnival Museum, celebrating over 300 years of Mobile's Carnival tradition.
The Mobile Carnival Museum chronicles over 300 years of Carnival and Mardi Gras history in Mobile, Alabama, the birthplace of Mardi Gras in the United States. Housed in the historic Bernstein-Bush mansion, the museum showcases elaborate costumes, crowns, scepters, and the evolution of this festive tradition.
A brief summary to Mobile Carnival Museum
- 355 Government St, Mobile, Central Business District, Alabama, 36602, US
- +1251-432-3324
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the Carnival season (January/February) for special exhibits and events.
- Check the museum's schedule for guided tour times to gain deeper insights into Mobile's Mardi Gras history.
- Take your time to read the stories behind the costumes and floats to add depth to the visual displays.
Getting There
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Walking
From Bienville Square, head east on Dauphin Street, turn left onto N Royal Street, and continue until you reach Government Street. Turn right onto Government Street, and the Mobile Carnival Museum will be on your left at 355 Government Street. The walk is approximately 0.5 miles.
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Public Transport
From the Mobile Convention Center, board the Route 8 bus heading toward the Mobile Public Library. After approximately 5 stops, get off at the stop on Government St near the intersection with Royal St. Walk west on Government St for about 0.2 miles. The Mobile Carnival Museum will be on your right at 355 Government St. A single ride fare on the Wave Transit System is $1.25.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Mobile. Request a ride to 355 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36602. The ride from most downtown locations will be short and cost approximately $8-$12, depending on demand and distance.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to 355 Government Street, Mobile, AL 36602. The Mobile Carnival Museum offers complimentary parking in its on-site lot, accessible from Government Street and the rear lot off Franklin Street. Additional metered street parking is available within a two-block radius for $1.00 per hour. Parking at nearby lots can range from $2.00 to $3.00 per hour.
Discover more about Mobile Carnival Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Chighizola House
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The Admiral
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Mobile Hidden Figures Historical Marker
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Downtown Mobile
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Saenger Theatre Mobile
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Dauphin St
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Heavenly Metal
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British Park
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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VEETS
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Garage
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The Haberdasher
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