Fishman Haygood Helps Secure River District Site for The Louisiana Music & Heritage Experience

The Louisiana Music & Heritage Experience (LMHE) has reached a major milestone in its effort to establish a permanent home in downtown New Orleans, finalizing a lease for more than two acres in the River District near the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.

Fishman Haygood Partner Steven Serio led negotiations on behalf of LMHE for the museum’s new location, with assistance from Partners Scott Willis and Charles Landry.

On May 4, 2026, LMHE signed the lease with the Convention Center for a site at the corner of Convention Center Boulevard and Henderson Street. The lease represents a critical step forward for the highly anticipated project after years of work to secure a location capable of supporting the museum’s long-term vision.

The planned $172 million project includes a 120,000-square-foot museum that will trace the evolution and influence of Louisiana music – from jazz, blues, and gospel to zydeco, funk, swamp pop, and hip-hop — through interactive, technology-driven experiences. Plans also include performance and event spaces, educational facilities, a music club, restaurant, rooftop terrace, and research archives.

LMHE leaders hope to begin construction in 2027, with the museum projected to open in 2029.

The museum’s selection of a River District site follows years of planning, fundraising, and negotiations involving local and state stakeholders. The project has received widespread public attention as one of the city’s most anticipated cultural developments.

“This project represents an important investment in the cultural and economic future of New Orleans,” Steven said. “The Louisiana Music & Heritage Experience will honor the state’s extraordinary musical heritage while creating an interactive experience for residents and visitors alike. We’re proud to have helped LMHE reach this significant milestone.”

Learn more about the Louisiana Music & Heritage Experience project here.

Learn more about Fishman Haygood’s Real Estate Practice here.