In this day and age, it’s a rare treat to find a piece of history that is still operating. In the case of Hansen’s Sno Bliz in New Orleans, it’s a literal treat. Considered to be the oldest sno-ball stand in the United States, this gem has survived through WWII and Hurricane Katrina to offer authentic sno-cones you can’t find anywhere else.
A Brief History Lesson That Will Make You Appreciate Your Treat Even More
Using the first ever block-ice shaver, a machine Ernest Hanson had designed and built himself, Ernest Hanson and his wife, Mary, opened “Snow-Blitz” in 1939. The business started with a sidewalk stand outside of Mary’s mothers house on St. Ann Street before they opened a storefront in 1944. The name would later change to “Sno Bliz”, but the unique syrups Mary created remained the same. The machine that Ernest built, which the government granted a patent to in 1950, is still in use today at the original store location.
Sadly, in September 2005, Mary died at the age of 95 just a few weeks after evacuating for Hurricane Katrina. Ernest passed away 6 months later. As of 2006, the store is operated by their granddaughter, Ashley Hansen, who has worked in the shop since she was just 12 years old. Sticking to her grandmother’s original recipes (sometimes in the very literal sense of the word), Ashley continues to create homemade syrups every day.
Treats to Feed Your Hunger Pains as well as Your Soul
Hansen’s Snoballs in New Orleans has been serving special treats to multiple generations of families for over 80 years. While the treats can be customized to each person’s individual tastes: with over 37 flavors listed on the menu PLUS new and seasonal ones popping up for limited times, a visit to this New Orleans treasure is about so much more than just a sno cone. It’s a trip down memory lane for those who have been visiting since they were kids and are now sharing the experience with their great grandchildren, as well as for people who are visiting for the first time. There’s a magic that happens as you choose your customized flavors and toppings, watching in anticipation as the ice shavings layer into a special treat just for you. Cool yourself down, watch the ‘hangry’ fade away from everyone that surrounds you, and take in the history of one New Orleans most famed dessert shops.
Store Hours and Operations of Hansen’s Sno Blizz in New Orleans
Remaining at the same location since the day it opened,
4801 Tchoupitoulas St.
New Orleans, LA 70115
Hansen’s Snoballs in New Orleans remains a popular destination during their open season:
March to October, 1-7 pm (closed Mondays)
Directions from the French Quarter: Go down Decatur towards Canal. Turn left onto Canal. Drive one block and then turn right onto Tchoupitoulas. When Tchoupitoulas splits, continue on Religious Street. Turn left onto Felicity St. Turn right to continue up Tchoupitoulas for 2.5 miles. Click here to learn more about us and check out our amazing group vacation rentals! Also, be sure to explore our exquisite villa rentals today.
