Louis Armstrong House Museum | Queens

The Louis Armstrong House Museum is a tribute to the legendary jazz musician Louis Armstrong and is located in Corona, Queens, New York City. Armstrong lived in this house from 1943 until his death in 1971, and it has been preserved to give visitors a personal look at his life. The house, which has been designated a National Historic Landmark, offers a rare glimpse into the life of one of the most influential figures in the history of jazz and American music.

House and Preservation

Historic Significance: The house was Armstrong's residence for nearly three decades, and it is here that he spent the later years of his life, surrounded by his family and music. Armstrong, known for his vibrant performances and musical innovations, created an environment that reflected his warmth, charm, and larger-than-life personality.

The house was carefully preserved and remains largely unchanged from when Armstrong lived there. Visitors can see the original furniture, decor, and personal items that offer a window into Armstrong's daily life. The collection includes some of his personal possessions, his extensive record collection, and even his radio and TV appearances.

The furnishings reflect his love of the finer things in life, with tasteful, yet modest pieces of mid-century modern furniture and decorative elements that highlight Armstrong's success.

Louis Armstrong Center and Exhibits

Exhibition "Here to Stay": This exhibition is housed in the adjacent Louis Armstrong Center, which is a modern cultural center that complements the museum. It focuses on Armstrong’s lasting influence on music, culture, and civil rights. It includes more than 60,000 items from Armstrong's vast archive, including photographs, audio recordings, and manuscripts.

Visitors can learn about Armstrong's impact not only as a musician but also as a global ambassador of jazz who helped to elevate the genre to international prominence.

The Center also features a 75-seat performance space, where live jazz performances and educational events are held regularly.

Special Projects and Renovations

The museum is currently undergoing an expansion with the acquisition of an adjacent property, Selma’s House, which is undergoing renovations to enhance the museum’s educational and outreach programs. The renovation, costing around $3.5 million, includes ADA-compliant upgrades, ensuring that the museum can accommodate all visitors. The renovation is expected to be completed by summer 2026 and will further enhance the museum's ability to serve the community with expanded educational facilities and outreach programs.

Visiting the Museum

Hours of Operation:

The museum is open Thursday through Saturday, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Guided Tours of the house and exhibitions are available during these hours, with tours generally lasting around 45 minutes to an hour.

The museum recommends booking tickets in advance, as the number of visitors is limited for each tour.

Admission Fees:

Historic House Tour + Exhibition: $20 for adults, $14 for seniors, students, military personnel, and visitors with disabilities.

Exhibition Only: $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, students, military personnel, and visitors with disabilities.

Children under 5: Free

Legacy and Impact

Cultural Contributions: Louis Armstrong’s career spanned over five decades, and he is widely regarded as one of the most important and influential jazz musicians of the 20th century. Known for his virtuoso trumpet playing, distinctive voice, and groundbreaking work in improvisation, Armstrong’s career helped shape the direction of jazz and popular music.

The museum honors not only his musical legacy but also his contributions to civil rights and cultural diplomacy. Armstrong was a key figure in the civil rights movement, using his international fame to push for racial equality and justice, making him an important cultural ambassador.

Visitor Experience

Visitors to the Louis Armstrong House Museum get a unique opportunity to step into the personal life of a global icon. Beyond the historical artifacts, the experience is enriched by the chance to learn about Armstrong’s influence on American culture, civil rights, and his role as an ambassador of jazz. Whether you're a fan of jazz, history, or music in general, a visit to this museum offers a deeply personal connection to one of the world’s greatest musicians.