Mobile Carnival Museum: A Celebration of Mardi Gras History
Experience the history and splendor of Mardi Gras at the Mobile Carnival Museum, the birthplace of America's oldest Carnival celebration.
The Mobile Carnival Museum chronicles over 300 years of Carnival and Mardi Gras history in Mobile, Alabama, the birthplace of this iconic American celebration. Housed in the historic Bernstein-Bush mansion, the museum features fourteen gallery rooms filled with dazzling costumes, intricate designs, and interactive exhibits.
A brief summary to Mobile Carnival Museum
- 355 Government St, Mobile, Central Business District, Alabama, 36602, US
- +1251-432-3324
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the museum's website for updated hours, as they vary throughout the year and the museum closes for renovations during certain months.
- Take advantage of the complimentary parking available on-site, as parking in downtown Mobile can be limited.
- Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and traditions of Mobile's Mardi Gras.
- Visit Toomey's Gift Shoppe inside the museum for unique Mardi Gras souvenirs and memorabilia.
- Allow at least one hour to fully explore the museum's exhibits and interactive displays.
Getting There
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Walking
From many downtown Mobile hotels and attractions, the Mobile Carnival Museum is easily accessible on foot. From Bienville Square, head east on Government Street for approximately three blocks. The museum will be on your left. Walking time is approximately 10-15 minutes. No costs are associated with this option.
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Public Transport
The Mobile Transit Authority (MTA) provides bus service throughout the city. Several bus routes have stops near the Mobile Carnival Museum. Check the MTA website or app for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. A single ride fare is $1.25.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Mobile. A short ride from downtown hotels or attractions to the Mobile Carnival Museum typically costs between $8 and $15, depending on distance and demand. Confirm the fare with the driver or app before starting your trip.
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Driving
If driving, the Mobile Carnival Museum is located at 355 Government Street. From I-10, take exit 26A for I-165 S toward Mobile/Bay Way/Downtown. Merge onto I-165 S. Take exit 1C for Water St. Continue onto Water St. Turn left onto Government St. The Museum will be on your left. The museum offers complimentary parking in its on-site lot. Additional street parking is available within a two-block radius, including the Mobile Civic Center lot. Nearby parking garages, such as City Square Parking and Joachim St Parking, charge hourly rates starting at $2.50-$3.00, or daily rates of $22-$25.
Discover more about Mobile Carnival Museum
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