Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

The Basics

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve and the Barataria Preserve are within easy reach of New Orleans and can be visited in a half day or less. Choose an airboat tour that fits your style, from a slow, sleepy crawl to watch wildlife to a thrilling high-speed ride through cypress swamps. Nature guides onboard point out alligators, turtles, snakes, and other swamp critters.

Explore the history and traditions of the Acadian or Cajun people through exhibits, dioramas, crafts, and live performances at the Acadian Cultural Center in Lafayette, the Prairie Acadian Cultural Center in Eunice, and the Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center in Thibodaux. History buffs should visit the site of the War of 1812’s Battle of New Orleans at the Chalmette Battlefield and Chalmette National Cemetery.

Things to Know Before You Go

• For your safety, never approach alligators or other wild animals.

• Louisiana is often hot and humid, so stay hydrated and wear sun protection.

• Ask about the preserve’s Junior Ranger program for kids.

• The visitor centers at all sites and the environmental education center trail at the Barataria Preserve are wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

The six sites that are part of the park and preserve are scattered throughout southern Louisiana. Detailed maps and directions can be found on the National Park Service website or from the visitor center located at 419 Decatur Street in New Orleans’ French Quarter. Most swamp tours include transportation from New Orleans.

When to Get There

The Barataria Preserve is open Wednesday-Sunday from morning until afternoon, and the French Quarter Visitor Center is also open Tuesday-Sunday from morning until afternoon. All sites except the Prairie Acadian Cultural Center in Eunice are closed on federal holidays and Mardi Gras.

Understanding Cajun Culture

Cajuns are descended from the Acadian people who emigrated from Northern France to Canada and later Louisiana, and Cajun culture is distinct from the more urban Creole heritage found in New Orleans. To experience Cajun country and culture, book a swamp and bayou tour. Visiting swamps and cultural centers such as those in the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve is a great way to explore the history and traditions of this ethnic group.

Ways to explore

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve is within easy reach of New Orleans and can be easily explored in half a day or less. Airboat tours vary in pace, from slow, scenic rides ideal for spotting wildlife to thrilling high-speed adventures through the cypress swamps. Onboard nature guides point out alligators, turtles, birds, and more. Some tours include round-trip transportation from the French Quarter for added convenience. Experiences are available as shared or private options, depending on your budget and preference for group size.

Accessibility

Many of the trails at the park are wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Binoculars, hat, refillable water bottle, sun protection

What to wear

Hiking shoes, casual layered clothing

Not allowed

Disturbing or trying to touch wildlife, picking plants

Amenities

Visitor center, souvenirs, restrooms, picnic tables

Address

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve consists of several sites around New Orleans and south Louisiana, but Barataria Preserve is the most popular for visitors. This reserve is easiest to reach by car or on a guided tour.

Driving

It’s about a 30-minute drive to Barataria Preserve from New Orleans. Follow the US-90 BUS W, take exit 4A, then follow Ames Blvd and LA-45 S/Barataria Blvd until you arrive.

Public transportation

There aren’t regular bus services that connect New Orleans to Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve. If you aren’t driving, opt for a guided tour.

Best times to visit

Mornings are a good time to come for wildlife spotting, or visit in the late afternoon, close to the “golden hour.”

Best days to visit

You can expect weekdays, such as Tuesdays through Thursdays, to be less busy than weekends.

Best months to visit

Coming in early spring (March to May) or fall (October to November) offers comfortable weather for exploring the park’s walking trails.

Special events

There are year-round events at the Barataria Preserve, such as Ranger Rendezvous talks, so it’s a good idea to check the schedule before visiting.