National Historical Park and Preserve · LA

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

In Jean Lafitte's day, silver and gold filled a pirate's treasure chest, but today's treasures are people, places, and memories. Discover New Orleans’ rich cultural mix. Learn Cajun traditions from people who live them. Watch an alligator bask on a bayou’s bank. Walk in the footsteps of the men who fought at 1815’s Battle of New Orleans. Follow the link to discover the treasure of Jean Lafitte.

nps.gov ↗

Photos

Spanish moss hangs from live oak tree
Spanish moss and lush vegetation provide glimpses of Louisiana's wild wetlands at Jean Lafitte's Barataria Preserve.
An oak tree arches over a cannon-guarded rampart with historic house and American flag in background
Chalmette Battlefield's American rampart and cannons still guard the site of the Battle of New Orleans in 1815.
Setting sun lights up cemetery headstones
Established during the Civil War, Chalmette National Cemetery's 14,000+ headstones pay tribute to those buried there.
Visitor center exhibit titled "Crossroads of Cultures"
Hundreds of years of history and thousands of people from all over the world have created New Orleans' distinctive cultural mix.
Model of an early Acadian home sits in a glass case
Bringing skills and traditions from Nova Scotia, the Acadian exiles in Louisiana found a new home and a new name---Cajuns.
Exhibit case full of musical instruments
Acadian (Cajun) music began in cabins and dancehalls and has become famous worldwide.
guitar sits on a dimly lit porch styled stage
The Music Porch at the Prairie Acadian Cultural Center in Eunice, LA

Activities

  • Arts and Culture
  • Craft Demonstrations
  • Cultural Demonstrations
  • Live Music
  • Fishing
  • Freshwater Fishing
  • Guided Tours
  • Self-Guided Tours - Walking
  • Hands-On
  • Citizen Science
  • Arts and Crafts
  • Hunting and Gathering
  • Hunting
  • Living History
  • Historic Weapons Demonstration
  • First Person Interpretation
  • Junior Ranger Program
  • Wildlife Watching
  • Birdwatching
  • Park Film
  • Museum Exhibits
  • Shopping
  • Bookstore and Park Store
  • Gift Shop and Souvenirs