Eco-Tourism

• The flight of the Purple Martins

Experience one of the most unique natural habitats in America when thousands of Purple Martins take cover underneath the longest bridge in the world. 

• Grand Isle, the Tarpon Rodeo capitol of the world

This Louisiana oasis becomes the center of the sport fishing world when the annual tarpon rodeo takes to the waters of the Gulf.

• Grand Isle, Sportsman Paradise

Some of America’s best fishing is just off the coast of Grand Isle.  The Island boasts of more than two dozen different fishing tournaments and rodeos featuring species of all kinds.

• Grand Isle, the only inhabited barrier island in Louisiana

For generations the island of Grand Isle has enjoyed the distinction of being Louisiana’s only inhabited barrier island.  Experience the culture and recreation of Grand Isle on the Gulf.

• Bird Migration and the annual birding celebrations in Lafitte & Grand Isle

Birders can see over 170 species from songbirds to shorebirds.  Experience bird watching tours, history, food and bird arts and crafts.

• Swamp tours

Enter a world of timeless beauty amongst moss-covered Cypress trees on one of the many popular swamp tours.

• Jean Lafitte National Park, Barataria Preserve

The Barataria Preserve is one of six sites comprising Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve. This site interprets the culture of people, past and present, who settled the delta and the unique ecosystem which sustained them.

• Bayou Segnette including the state park

A multitude of recreational opportunities awaits visitors of all ages--boating, fishing, canoeing, picnicking, playgrounds and, of course, swimming in the wave pool, as well as an ecosystem that offers you the chance to spot plants, trees and wildlife from nature trails, swamps and marshland.

• The Louisiana Iris

This exquisite local wildflower covers the swamps with a blanket of lavender.

• Fishing

The fishing is second to none.  Fishing rodeos are a great way to pass a good time.  Here is a sampling:  Grand Isle Speckled Trout Rodeo, Louisiana Sportsman’s Invitational, World Cat Fishing Rodeo, Creole Classic Fishing Rodeo, Swollfest Fishing Rodeo and, of course, the world’s largest International Tarpon Rodeo.

• Blessing of the Fleet

Grand Isle, Lafitte and Westwego each practice is ancient tradition as scrubbed and decorated seafaring vessels of all shapes and sizes are blessed with a prayer for safety and a good harvest from the deep.

• Nature Trails in Lafitte, Barataria and Bayou Segnette

Boardwalks over the swamp get you up close and personal with nature in all its glory.

History

• Historical hurricanes that links Grand Isle to Westwego

The Westwego Historical Museum tells the history of the hurricane that changed Westwego and Grand Isle forever.

• German settlers of Gretna

Settled by German immigrants in 1836, it beckons to all history buffs.  Named for Gretna Green, Scotland where the blacksmith would perform marriage ceremonies.

• The David Crockett Fire Company Fire Station

The Louisiana Fire Museum housed in the David Crockett Fire Company No. 1's 1859 firehouse, proudly displays its "pride and joy," an 1876 steam fire pumper that was pulled by men.

• Military veteran memorials:  World War I in Gretna, World War II and Korean War in Metairie

• Rivertown Museums

This quaint sixteen block historic district includes the Mardi Gras Museum and many others.

• Jean Lafitte, the pirate

In 1808 the brothers, Jean and Pierre Lafitte organized smugglers and privateers.  During the War of 1812, Jean Lafitte helped defend the city during the Battle of New Orleans.

• Native Americans

Before Europeans arrived, the Barataria region was home to Native Americans.  Their shell middens, burial and ceremonial mounds can still be found along the bayous. 

Food

• Taste of the Town Festival showcasing Jefferson’s diverse cuisine

Nearly forty restaurants converge in Jefferson Parish creating an experience for the senses.

• Seafood restaurants in Bucktown

Experience some of the best seafood in New Orleans in historic Bucktown along Lake Pontchartrain.

• Drago’s, the home of the original charbroiled oyster

The combination of garlic, butter, and herbs is so good you could almost call it a potion.  Experience how a whim became a phenomenon.

• Traditional crawfish boil celebration

An authentic tradition is held each time family and friends come together around the boiling pot.

• Farmer’s markets: Gretna & Westwego’s Farmers & Fisheries market.  Local farmers showcase their wares.  See why the Farmers & Fisheries market is unique.

• Fresh seafood market in Westwego

Caught and sold daily in this fantastic true seafood market.

Sports

• New Orleans Zephyrs

The AAA affiliate of the Florida Marlins brings baseball alive every summer at Zephyr Stadium.

• New Orleans Saints

Jefferson is home to the New Orleans Saints offices and training camp

• Tournament Players Club of Louisiana

This premier golf course is part of the Audubon Golf Trail and home of the Zurich Classic

• Disc golf course in Lafreniere

This 21 hole course featuring all grass tees is set in the 155-acre Lafreniere Park.

• Fishing

The fishing is second to none.  Fishing rodeos are a great way to pass a good time.  Here is a sampling:  Grand Isle Speckled Trout Rodeo, Louisiana Sportsman’s Invitational, World Cat Fishing Rodeo, Creole Classic Fishing Rodeo, Swollfest Fishing Rodeo and, of course, the world’s largest International Tarpon Rodeo.