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  • Walking Tour of Historic Gretna

Walking Tour of Historic Gretna

Begin your walking tour at the Heritage House Welcome Center, the gateway to Gretna's historic district. Here you can learn all about the fascinating history of the city!

Visit City Hall, a 1907 baroque style structure, and view a photo exhibit of Old Gretna and famous Gretna residents. The 2nd floor has been restored to its original splendor.

Pause for a few moments at the Jefferson Memorial Arch. The marker was originally designed as a monument to fallen heroes of WWI and later dedicated to all Jefferson Parish veterans. It contains the names of Confederate, Spanish American War, WWI, and WWII soldiers. Between 10th and 11th streets you will find another marker listing the names of Gretna veterans who died while serving their country in World War II.

Continue on to 5th Street and visit the German-American Cultural Center. This regional museum traces the history of the German immigration into southeast Louisiana in the early 1700's and covers their contributions to the community.

Close by is St. Joseph Catholic Church and Gardens, established in 1857, it is built in the Spanish Baroque style with an imposing bell tower and beautiful, tranquil garden. Interestingly, the Stations of the Cross are fitted into arches over the French doors.

Next visit the Gretna Historical Society Museum with its unique history and displays, like the David Crocket Fire House, the oldest continuous active volunteer fire company in the United States which features an 1876 horse drawn steam pumper. See the blacksmithing demonstrations at the Gretna Green Blacksmith Shop as well as the furnished period Kitty Strele Creole Cottage c.1845. Reception center is in the William D. White House c. 1840.

Walk over the levee and see the newly constructed riverfront amphitheater designed for concerts with seating for 650 and excess crowds 2 to 3 times larger. Witness nature's grandeur, the magnificent Mississippi River, New Orleans skyline, Mississippi River Bridge, and passing ocean-going ships as a back drop to the musical stage.

Jefferson Parish Events

Jefferson Parish, Louisiana is a hot spot for events and festivals!

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Things to Do Outdoors in Jefferson Parish

From adventurous swamp & bayou excursions, to disc golf, kayaking, boating, and fishing, to a relaxing day at the beach, the diverse landscape offers a variety of outdoor fun!

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3‑Day Jefferson Experience
Begin your tour in the west bank community of Westwego; originally a springboard for pioneers headed… Learn More
Itineraries
Everyone loves to go on vacation, but the planning can be tough. No worries! Visit Jefferson… Learn More
Day Trip to Jean Lafitte
Jean Lafitte, Louisiana is a small town in the heart of the Barataria Basin, one of… Learn More
Meetings & Groups
Jefferson is conveniently located next door to New Orleans. We are a great destination to host… Learn More

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North Central South

Map View

North Central South

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…

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Metairie, LA

Metairie, Jefferson Parish’s largest community, is located on the south shore of Lake Pontchartrain between New Orleans and Kenner.

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Harahan & River Ridge

Harahan was named in honor of James Theodore Harahan, president of the Illinois Central Railroad from Harahan Elementary 1906-1911.

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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.

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Westwego

Once a passageway for pioneers headed to the Western frontier, Westwego borders some of Louisiana's most picturesque bayous and swamps.

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Marrero, LA

Marrero, on the West Bank of the Mississippi River, is home to the Barataria Preserve of Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve.

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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.

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Gretna

As one of Louisiana's largest national historic register districts, Gretna is steeped in history and intrigue.

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Town of Jean Lafitte

Jean Lafitte, founded by the infamous pirate, Jean Lafitte, is a coastal community rich in history and tradition.

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Grand Isle

Welcome to Louisiana's only inhabited barrier island! At the southern end of Highway 1, the seven magical miles of Grand Isle hold all the wonders that Louisiana nature can offer.

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