Situated in the house in Corona, Queens where Louis Armstrong lived with his wife until his passing in 1971, the Louis Armstrong House Museum captures the life and times of one of jazz music’s giants. Still as impeccably decorated as it was when the Armstrongs lived there, the museum is now accompanied by the nearby Louis Armstrong Center.
Today a New York City and National Historic Landmark, the Louis Armstrong House Museum is an essential stop for visiting music lovers. On a guided historic house tour, visitors will see how the jazz legend really lived, from his mirror-walled bathroom to the humble den where his records and half-drunk spirits can still be viewed; they can also view artifacts ranging from photographs and records to musical instruments.
Additionally flanking the museum is the Louis Armstrong Center, located in an architecturally striking building just across the street. The center hosts the “Here to Stay“ exhibition, which showcases his five-decade-long career, and also hosts a small performance space where regular jazz recitals are held. Still a relatively lesser-known New York City site, the Louis Armstrong House Museum is both rewarding and easy to explore.
Advance tickets are required to visit the Louis Armstrong House Museum and Louis Armstrong Center; book them online to secure your spot.
All visits to the Louis Armstrong House Museum are done via guided tours, which depart hourly.
Seniors, students, children, and disabled visitors receive discounted admission.
While the Louis Armstrong Center is accessible to disabled visitors, much of the Louis Armstrong House Museum is not, owing to its historic architecture.
A gift shop is located on-site if you wish to pick up themed souvenirs.
There is no café or restaurant at the museum, and eating and drinking are prohibited inside.
The Louis Armstrong House Museum is located at 34-56 107th Street, Queens, New York. It’s advised to travel there via public transportation (or taxi and rideshare services), as street parking is very limited. To get there, take the 7 train to 103 St-Corona Plaza, which is just a short walk away.
The Louis Armstrong House Museum is open Thursday–Saturday, from late morning until late afternoon; you must book your tickets in advance. The museum is closed annually on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas week, and New Year’s week. It’s also worth looking at the museum and center’s calendar, as it hosts regular performances, listening parties, community events, and even trumpet lessons.
Louis Armstrong passed away in 1971 at his home and was buried at the nearby Flushing Cemetery. If you want to pay tribute to the jazz great, you can visit his burial site; the cemetery is located east of Corona in the Flushing neighborhood of Queens.
