If NOMA is the crown jewel, this is the crown. It’s the premier collection of Southern art in the United States. The artists’ works are impressive, and the graphics are informative and even clever. We particularly like the permanent exhibit of self-taught and outsider art, including some from the local area. Though the building itself is quite dazzling, anchored around a sky-high atrium, one can’t help wondering if that soaring space could be put to better use if it were hung with even more fine Southern art (we do appreciate the Poydras St. sculptures that the Ogden installed in 2013). If you’re able, come on a Thursday for music in the atrium during Ogden After Hours. It might be old Delta blues, the New Orleans Philharmonic, 1930s country, or straight-up jazz, but on the list of special New Orleans treats, these evenings are near the top. We’re also keen on the well-curated gift shop, which has consistently covetable souvenirs with a local spin.