Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve travel guide

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve travel guide

National Airports

There are no national airports within Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, as it is a national park and nature preserve that does not have an airport or airfield. However, the park is located in close proximity to several cities and airports in Louisiana, including New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Lafayette. The closest major airport is Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), which is located about 18 miles from the Barataria Preserve section of the park. Other nearby airports include Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR) and Lafayette Regional Airport (LFT). From any of these airports, visitors can rent a car or take public transportation to get to the park.

Trains in Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

There are no train stations located within Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, as the park is primarily a nature preserve with limited infrastructure. However, there are several train stations located in nearby cities in Louisiana, including New Orleans and Baton Rouge.

The closest Amtrak station to Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve is the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal, which is located about 17 miles from the Barataria Preserve section of the park. Amtrak operates several daily trains to and from New Orleans, including the City of New Orleans, which runs between Chicago and New Orleans, and the Crescent, which runs between New York City and New Orleans. From the New Orleans station, visitors can rent a car or take public transportation to get to the park.

Buses in Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

There are no bus stations or public transportation options within Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, as it is primarily a nature preserve with limited infrastructure. However, visitors can take buses to nearby cities in Louisiana, including New Orleans and Baton Rouge, and then rent a car or take a taxi or rideshare service to get to the park.

The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) operates buses throughout the city of New Orleans, and there are several bus lines that serve the area around Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve. The closest bus stop to the Barataria Preserve section of the park is the Jean Lafitte National Park stop, which is served by the RTA’s Route 77 bus. From there, visitors can walk or take a taxi or rideshare service to get to the park.

In Baton Rouge, the Capital Area Transit System (CATS) operates buses throughout the city, and visitors can take the 44 bus to the Baton Rouge Greyhound Bus Station, where they can connect to other buses or rent a car to get to Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve.

How to get to Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve is located in southeastern Louisiana, near the city of New Orleans. The park is divided into six different sites, each with its own address and directions. Here are some ways to get to each site:

Barataria Preserve: The Barataria Preserve is located in Marrero, Louisiana, about 30 minutes southwest of New Orleans. To get there, take US-90 West and exit at Barataria Boulevard. Follow the signs to the Barataria Preserve.

Chalmette Battlefield: The Chalmette Battlefield is located in Chalmette, Louisiana, about 20 minutes southeast of New Orleans. To get there, take I-10 East and exit at the Chalmette/LA-39 exit. Follow the signs to the Chalmette Battlefield.

French Quarter Visitor Center: The French Quarter Visitor Center is located in New Orleans, Louisiana, in the heart of the French Quarter. To get there, take I-10 East to the Orleans Avenue exit. Turn right onto Basin Street and follow the signs to the French Quarter Visitor Center.

Acadian Cultural Center: The Acadian Cultural Center is located in Lafayette, Louisiana, about 2 hours west of New Orleans. To get there, take I-10 West to the University Avenue exit in Lafayette. Turn left onto Cajundome Boulevard and follow the signs to the Acadian Cultural Center.

Prairie Acadian Cultural Center: The Prairie Acadian Cultural Center is located in Eunice, Louisiana, about 2.5 hours west of New Orleans. To get there, take I-10 West to the Eunice exit. Follow the signs to the Prairie Acadian Cultural Center.

Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center: The Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center is located in Thibodaux, Louisiana, about 1.5 hours southwest of New Orleans. To get there, take US-90 West to the Thibodaux exit. Follow the signs to the Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center.

What is the best time to travel to Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

The best time to visit Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve is during the fall (September-November) and spring (March-May) seasons when the weather is pleasant, and the humidity is low. During these seasons, the temperatures are mild, and there is less rainfall, which makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife viewing.

The winter season (December-February) is also a good time to visit the park, especially for birdwatching, as many migratory bird species visit the area during this time. However, be prepared for cooler temperatures and occasional rain showers.

Summer (June-August) can be hot and humid in the park, with temperatures often reaching into the 90s (Fahrenheit) and high humidity levels. This can make outdoor activities uncomfortable and potentially dangerous for those not acclimated to such conditions. However, if you choose to visit during the summer, be sure to wear appropriate clothing, use sunscreen, and stay hydrated.

How to get around Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

The best way to get around Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve depends on which site you are visiting. Here are some ways to get around each site:

Barataria Preserve: The Barataria Preserve has several trails for hiking and biking, and there are boardwalks that provide access to wetlands and swamps. Visitors can also take a guided boat tour to explore the park’s waterways.

Chalmette Battlefield: Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the Chalmette Battlefield on foot or by car. The park has a 4.2-mile paved road that provides access to the park’s main features, including the battlefield, visitor center, and exhibits.

French Quarter Visitor Center: The French Quarter Visitor Center is located in the heart of New Orleans and is easily accessible on foot, by bike, or by public transportation. The park offers a variety of guided tours of the French Quarter, including walking tours and horse-drawn carriage tours.

Acadian Cultural Center: The Acadian Cultural Center has a small parking lot, and visitors can explore the site on foot. The center also offers guided tours and exhibits that showcase the area’s Acadian and Cajun culture.

Prairie Acadian Cultural Center: The Prairie Acadian Cultural Center has a small parking lot, and visitors can explore the site on foot. The center offers exhibits, demonstrations, and programs that highlight the area’s Cajun and Creole culture.

Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center: The Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center has a small parking lot, and visitors can explore the site on foot. The center offers exhibits, programs, and demonstrations that focus on the region’s wetlands and Cajun culture.

For all the sites, visitors should wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Additionally, visitors should be aware that some areas of the park may be closed or have limited access due to weather or other factors.

Accommodations in Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve does not have any accommodations within the park boundaries. However, there are several options for lodging in the surrounding areas.

New Orleans: New Orleans is the largest city near the park and offers a wide range of accommodations, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. Visitors can choose to stay in the French Quarter, the Garden District, or other neighborhoods throughout the city.

Marrero: Marrero is a small town located about 10 miles southwest of the Barataria Preserve. It has a few chain hotels and motels that offer affordable accommodations.

Harvey: Harvey is a suburb of New Orleans located about 15 miles northeast of the Barataria Preserve. It has a variety of chain hotels and motels, as well as some budget-friendly options.

Westwego: Westwego is a small town located about 8 miles northeast of the Barataria Preserve. It has a few chain hotels and motels that offer budget-friendly accommodations.

Lafitte: Lafitte is a small town located on the edge of the Barataria Preserve. It has a few bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals that offer a more secluded and rustic experience.

Visitors should check with individual accommodations for availability and pricing. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.