Wetland species in Marrero, Louisiana

The Barataria Preserve Visitor Center, located at 6588 Barataria Boulevard in Marrero, Louisiana, is a travel agency that offers a unique experience in Louisiana's wild wetlands. The preserve's 26,000 acres feature bayous, swamps, marshes, and forests, providing a home to a diverse range of wildlife including alligators, birds, and various plant species. The visitor center showcases exhibits on the importance of the area and its relationship with the land and its people, as well as offering educational programs and field trips for visitors, including a Junior Ranger program for kids. The park store sells a variety of items including books, music, insect repellent, and field guides. The institution is currently undergoing repairs and replacements for trails damaged by Hurricane Ida in 2021, with a focus on incorporating sustainable design for long-term resiliency. Admission to the preserve is free, and visitors can explore the area through self-guided tours, cell phone tours, and guided walks. For updates on trail status and events, visitors can check the preserve's website and social media pages.

Located in Marrero, Louisiana, the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve is a treasure trove of cultural and natural wonders. Step back in time to Jean Lafitte's era, where silver and gold filled pirate chests, and explore the rich cultural mix of New Orleans. Learn about Cajun traditions from those who live them, watch alligators basking in the bayous, and walk in the footsteps of the soldiers who fought in the historic Battle of New Orleans in 1815. Just 17 miles from New Orleans, visitors can immerse themselves in Louisiana's wild wetlands, with swamps, marshes, bayous, alligators, and a variety of bird species to discover. The park offers exhibits, programs, and boat tours to showcase the unique blend of cultures that have shaped the region over three centuries.