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National Historical Park and Preserve

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

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.

Photo: NPS Photo

About

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.

Activities

Arts and CultureCraft DemonstrationsCultural DemonstrationsLive MusicFishingFreshwater FishingGuided ToursSelf-Guided Tours - WalkingHands-OnCitizen ScienceArts and CraftsHunting and GatheringHunting
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

Directions

Jean Lafitte's headquarters and the park's French Quarter Visitor Center are located at 419 Decatur Street in New Orleans. There are five other park sites scattered throughout south Louisiana. For information on all of the park sites and visitor centers, see the Directions Details link.

Get directions →

Weather

All of the temperatures listed are in degrees Fahrenheit. Note that relative humidity, especially in summer months, can reach 90%, so temperatures can feel 10-20 degrees hotter than the actual temperature. Spring (March, April, May): average high 77 and low 61. Summer (June, July, August): average high 89 and low 75. Fall (September, October, November): average high 78 and low 64. Winter (December, January, February): average high 64 and low 48.

News

Jan 20, 2026

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve Temporarily Closes Visitor Center and Trails for Improvements

Beginning February 2, 2026, parts of the Barataria Preserve, including the visitor center and most trails, will be temporarily closed for construction projects.

Dec 31, 2025

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve announces the 2026 Battle of New Orleans Commemoration at Chalmette Battlefield

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve announces parkwide programs for the 211th commemoration of the Battle of New Orleans.

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve announces Wreaths Across America 2025 at Chalmette National Cemetery
Dec 4, 2025

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve announces Wreaths Across America 2025 at Chalmette National Cemetery

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve is pleased to announce the return of Wreaths Across America to the park.