Begin your tour in the west bank community of Westwego; originally a springboard for pioneers headed to the western frontier.
Continue east on the West Bank Expressway or follow the levee to the City of Gretna, one of Louisiana's largest national historic districts. Visit the German-American Cultural Museum that traces the history of the German immigration into southeast Louisiana in the early 1700s. Next, see the David Crocket Fire Company; the oldest continuously active volunteer fire company in the United States with an original 1876 Steam Pumper. Sit in on a blacksmith demonstration at the Gretna Green Blacksmith Shop. Each February, on Valentine's Day, you can join in the annual Wedding Vow Renewal Ceremony; or visit in the fall and experience the Gretna Heritage Festival.
Walk to the top of the levee and see the riverfront amphitheater; designed for concerts with seating for 650. See magnificent views of the Mississippi River, New Orleans skyline and Mississippi River Bridge.
Enjoy the spirit of bayou country with a fascinating boat trip into the Louisiana swamps. Native guides will reveal the mysteries of the wetlands as you observe alligators, egrets, raccoons, nutria and more local wildlife in their natural habitat. You will also learn about the efforts made to preserve and restore Louisiana's vanishing wetlands. This is truly an outdoor adventure that you will always remember.
Thrill-seekers may enjoy an airboat ride through the swamps. At the Jean Lafitte National Park and Preserve, park rangers will give you a guided tour and tell you about the wildlife. For a more in-depth look, stroll the boardwalk through the swamp. The park is a perfect location to enjoy a picnic or a box lunch. Be sure to visit the Louisiana State Fisheries Museum, once the one-room schoolhouse of the bayou. A "must stop" is the Jean Lafitte Tourist Welcome Center to see the fantastic Legends of Jean Lafitte animated marionette exhibit. This unique exhibit tells the story of Louisiana's gentleman pirate, Jean Lafitte, and the events leading up to the Battle of New Orleans in twelve working dioramas.
Stop at Bayou Barn in Crown Pointe, LA; a rustic setting where you can enjoy Cajun music, dancing, food and fun. The facility is available for group parties, Cajun Fais do-do's and day-long activities by reservation.
Complete the evening with a shopping excursion at one of our four major shopping malls and dine in one of Jefferson Parish’s award-winning restaurants!
End your day at The American Sector Restaurant; a casual dining restaurant with original cuisine based on vintage American comfort foods created by award-winning Chef John Besh. It is not necessary to pay to enter the museum to dine at the restaurant. The restaurant is open 7 days a week.
Kenner
Kenner is home to the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, the City is first to welcome our guests from around the world! Established in 1855, Kenner is a blend of history…
Metairie, LA
Metairie, Jefferson Parish’s largest community, is located on the south shore of Lake Pontchartrain between New Orleans and Kenner.
Harahan & River Ridge
Harahan was named in honor of James Theodore Harahan, president of the Illinois Central Railroad from Harahan Elementary 1906-1911.
Avondale
Avondale is located on the West Bank of the Mississippi and is bordered by Waggaman to the west and Bridge City to the east.
Westwego
Once a passageway for pioneers headed to the Western frontier, Westwego borders some of Louisiana's most picturesque bayous and swamps.
Marrero, LA
Marrero, on the West Bank of the Mississippi River, is home to the Barataria Preserve of Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve.
Harvey
Harvey is located on the West Bank of the Mississippi River and on the Harvey Canal which is a vital shipping route to the Gulf of Mexico.
Gretna
As one of Louisiana's largest national historic register districts, Gretna is steeped in history and intrigue.
