Hansen's Sno-Bliz

Hansen's is the Uptown snowball shrine, family-run since 1939 on the original hand-built ice machine, with feather-light shaved ice and made-from-scratch syrups. A friend absolutely sends you here in summer. Caveat: it's cash-friendly, closed Mondays, and seasonal, so it's shut in the dead of winter.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

What flavor should I get?

The cream of nectar and the satsuma are local favorites, and adding condensed milk on top is the move. There are dozens of syrups, so ask what's fresh. You can't really go wrong.

How much does a snowball cost?

Snowballs are cheap, generally a few dollars for a small up to a bit more for large sizes with add-ins. It's one of the great affordable pleasures in the city. Bring cash to keep it simple.

What makes it different from other snowball stands?

The ice is shaved on the original 1930s machine the family built, giving it a uniquely fluffy, snow-like texture, and the syrups are made in-house from scratch. It's a completely different experience from crunchy gas-station shaved ice. That's why it won a James Beard America's Classics award.

Are they open year-round?

No, Hansen's is seasonal, typically running from around spring through fall and closed in the coldest months. They're also closed Mondays even in season. Check before you make a special trip in the off-season.

Is it good for kids?

It's perfect for kids and families; a snowball on a hot New Orleans afternoon is a rite of passage. Just be ready for sticky hands. There's limited seating, so many people eat outside.

How do I get there?

It's Uptown near the river, a bit off the main streetcar line. You can take the St. Charles streetcar and walk, or grab the Magazine bus, but a car or rideshare is the easy option. Street parking is usually findable.

Can I get ice cream instead?

They do offer a few extras, but the whole reason to come is the shaved-ice snowball. Get the snowball. That's the icon.

Is there a line?

On a hot day, yes, expect a line out the door, but it moves and it's worth it. Weekday afternoons tend to be calmer than weekends. The wait is part of the ritual.

Nearby in Ask New Orleans

• ShayaRestaurant0.05 km · 1 min walk
• Domilise's Po-BoysRestaurant0.39 km · 5 min walk
• Bouligny TavernBar0.6 km · 7 min walk
• Garden DistrictNeighborhood1.62 km · 20 min walk
• Commander's PalaceRestaurant1.64 km · 21 min walk