In the years after the original War of Independence ended in the 1780s, the young United States was still defining its borders, its alliances, and its sense of security, which made the British decision to launch a second major conflict all the more jarring. By the time the War of 1812 reached its final act, British forces were striking along multiple fronts, and the last of those pushes brought them to the river plain at Chalmette. This is where Jackson's mixed American force held the line in January 1815, and the battlefield today still feels open enough that you can picture the fog, the rampart, and the long rows of redcoats advancing across the field. The tall white monument rises from the center of the site, with simple ground markings around it that help you read where each side stood two centuries ago. The national cemetery sits just down the road, quiet and reflective, and together the two sites make the story feel immediate rather than distant. It's a quick run from New Orleans if you're a history buff and absolutely worth the trip, a place where the scale and stakes of that final battle come into focus the moment you step out of the car. [Review 317 of 2026 - 95 in Louisiana - 25505 overall] read more

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Day 2 objective was to teach my youngest about War of 1812 and President Andrew Jackson. When you arrive, drive to the visitor center to see the video which does a good job of explaining the arrival of the English via Mississippi and Swamp defense. The restrooms are located behind the visitor center (very clean). You can take the tour at 2:45 pm or see the video and drive in a circle to read the historical markers that tell you what happened. The rangers were nice and welcoming. Finally, you can walk to the levies and see the establishef mansion. You can also visit the military cemetery. NOTE: The park ranger explained that area was devastated and destroyed by Katrina. The visit is free and worth your time. read more

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This hidden gem just outside New Orleans is where Andrew Jackson, a ragtag group of militiamen, pirates (yes, actual pirates), free men of color, and even some frontiersmen in raccoon hats defended the honor of the U.S. against the mighty British Empire in the Battle of New Orleans (1815). Spoiler alert: We won. And it's the reason you're not eating crumpets and calling your mom "mum." Why it's worth it: * You're literally walking on the same ground where history was made. The cannons? Still there. The field? Wide open for your "epic battle reenactment" TikToks. * Free admission. Yep. You can learn more in one hour here than you did all semester in 8th grade U.S. History, and it won't cost you a dime. * The visitor center has an immersive video that's actually GOOD. Plus exhibits with uniforms, muskets, and all the juicy behind-the-scenes stuff (like Lafitte the pirate's surprise guest appearance). * The vibe? Peaceful, eerie, patriotic, and kinda humbling. You can feel the weight of the past--but it somehow energizes you. Photo ops: The giant white obelisk monument. Mossy oaks draped like they're straight out of a ghost story. Sunsets over the battlefield? Absolute chef's kiss. Pro tips: * Wear comfy shoes and bring water--it's hot and there's a lot to explore. * Bonus points if you hum "The Battle of New Orleans" by Johnny Horton while walking the grounds. * Great for kids, history nerds, or that one friend who "doesn't get why the past matters." They will. Trust me. So whether you're a proud patriot, a casual wanderer, or just here for the cannon selfies, Chalmette Battlefield is a must-do. read more

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The big gate to park was closed even though the hours said it should have been open but we were able to find a spot to park and walk in. The walk isn't too far to go. It is small so it doesn't take long to get through. There were a few signs to read that explained the history which was nice. If you enjoy history this is something to see, if that isn't your thing you could probably skip it. Either way, it is small so it won't take much time to get thru. read more

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I'm going to say MEH in every way. Because 1-i don't like history and 2-I thought I was going to end up with my eyes swollen shut because the oak trees hate me. My husband was all into their anniversary celebration of 208 years but I wanted to get back to the river. Definitely not my scene as I was bored stiff until the cannons shot off and I swore like a sailor because I got so scared. I'd do the cruise without stops next time. Or just stay on lol read more

Chalmette Battlefield - And the flag was still there - Parks Near Me - Chalmette, Louisiana

I have been out here a few times. Lots of history about the battle of New Orleans. I was very fortunate to been out on a day when the tour guide was giving the tour about the park. Nice place to come out and have a picnic yet. very close to the Mississippi. read more

This is one of those places few visit and many more should. It was on these grounds our nation finally won our rebellion from the ruling British with a decisive battle and kept momentum for the American Manifest Destiny. The rag tag American forces made up of many economic classes, many races and many ethic groups speaking many languages led and held together by Andrew Jackson were on one side. The well trained combat hardened and experienced British army veterans of the Napoleonic Wars were on the other. Battles are fought by people and people make errors. This one was no exception. British errors cost them the battle. It was a very lopsided victory for this melding of cultures and people that perhaps should remind ourselves in this day what we as a mix of people can do together when we prepare for the future with a singular goal. The site is right on the banks of the Mighty Mississippi and surrounded by some of the same industry that was there at the time of the battle. Most of the combat engineering has given way to time and nature. There are markers pointing out significant events throughout the site. The US National Park Service takes care of this site and the new ranger gave an excellent presentation. In the main building are a few short movies and exhibits that will help educate all ages. Re-enactments are frequently done around the anniversary. I appreciate the Park Service flying the Union Jack at the site as it pays respect to the carnage. I urge all to visit this site. Think deeply about what took place. Think about ALL of those involved. Remember those that spilt blood and died doing their duty for the Crown. Remember those that spilled blood and died for friends, family and the American Dream. Think about how this battle helped change the world. This big empty quiet meadow is actually quite important to each of us reading this review. read more

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Great accessibility to main attractions. Pavement to historic house, tower, and visitor center. Bartlefueld less so, but thats to be expected. The bathroom is clean with AC, 3 stalls, a touchless water bottle refill center, and a baby changing station. Fairly accessible for wheel chairs, but be ready to make a bit of a treck along the paved road read more

So I've come here twice although never taken a formal tour I have wandered the grounds and it's interesting and free to do so. The last time I visited was during Covid and although their website said that the gates and bathrooms were open they were not. There is very limited parking for a few cars and then you can wander in and wander the grounds. It's a nice place to go for a hike or a run or bike ride around the paths. They allow dogs although they have to be on a leash and are not allowed in thru the cemetery enters or the grounds near it. It's easy enough to self guide yourself around and read the signage. They have a visitors center as well but during Covid that was closed as well. The adjacent cemetery area is also worth visiting. It's not a highlight destination but it's free to wander and think it's worth a whirl if your local or visiting and have extra time. read more

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New Orleans has its strengths, but the riverside aesthetic is not one of them. Most of the Mississippi is filled with industrial buildings that I'm sure are economically productive but aesthetically unappealing. This historic park a ways away from the city center has a bit of a river view and a nice breeze, as well as some interesting bits of military history. Who knows; if our ancestors hadn't beaten back the British here we have ended up measuring everything in decigrams and spelling "colour" with a u. Horrifying thought. The field itself is large and covered with mounds, some of which purportedly have fire ants. Assuming you drive or walk on the road, there are some signs with fairly detailed history. The visitor center has a room's worth of exhibits, and quality, outdoor amenities. The place is not large and is bordered by various shipping activities that make noise, but when it's calm, it's pleasant. read more

Chalmette Battlefield - Parks Near Me - Chalmette, Louisiana

really cool historical site. this site has heavy significance to the country's history. only one detail and this is for the powers that be...if the signs for the battlefield said "site of the battle of new orleans" instead of chalmette battlefield! i know what and where chalmette is cause im from the area! no one else does!!!! they see chalmette battlefield, then say oh whatelse is there to do? site of the battle of new orleans holds way more weight. read more

This was such an inspirational place to visit. It's free and you can do a driving tour of the grounds, along with checking out the visitors' center and walking the grounds. And if you have any questions, they are very helpful. read more

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If you are a history nut, you will enjoy this well preserved site. Chalmette Battlefield is part of the Jean Lafitte Natural Historical Park and Preserve. This is the site of the January 8, 1815, Battle of New Orleans. The last fight of the War of 1812. It was here that General Andrew Jackson's little army won against a stronger British force. Admission is free, and the visitor center has a great exhibit providing history about the site and importance of the war in creating the America we know today. I loved the lighted map and video that outlined the movements of the war. If you only have time for one thing in the visitor center, watch that video with the lighted display. When you pass through the gates to the Battlefield the first thing you will see is the Chalmette Monument, the battlefield's 100-foot-high obelisk. It is only open on Friday and Saturday (9:00 -3:30 pm). You can climb the stairs to the top viewing platform. You can take a self guided walking or driving tour (with convenient pull offs) of the grounds. There are signs with historic information that will guide you along your way. At the back of the site is the Malus-Beauregard House, an antebellum plantation. And you can walk on the other side of the levy to see the boat dock and Mississippi river. To access the park you can take the paddle wheeler Creole Queen from New Orleans' French Quarter to the battlefield. We had our car so we just drove and parked. Next to the battlefield is the Chalmette National Cemetery which was established in May 1864. Here lay Union soldiers who died in Louisiana during the Civil War, veterans of the Spanish-American War, World Wars I and II, and the Vietnam War. Four Americans who fought in the War of 1812 are buried here, though only one of them took part in the Battle of New Orleans. read more

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Historical site of last battle of WAR OF 1812. BRITISH were sent packing with their tails between their legs January 8 1815. We climbed the tower commemerating the famous occasion. Had a look at a few films and looked at displays in the visitor centre.. Recommended for history buffs and anyone really read more

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What history. This is the site of the first major win of the Revolutionary War. Though it came too late to be effective, it is one of the best preserved sites from the war. A few years ago, they celebrated the 200th anniversary of the battle. They pulled out all the stops. Lectures at the nearby community college, reenactments, guided tours, all sorts of things to see. The whole neighborhood was participating. I went to a couple of the lectures, and they were very informative. I enjoyed myself thoroughly. The Sternwheeler that leaves from the foot of Canal Street in New Orleans comes here as its stop. I have also been on this expedition, and seeing the battlefield from the boat was beautiful. For those visiting from out of town, this Is the best way to get to the battlefield as you will get to get off the boat and walk around and see this sites for a short amount of time. This is a national park, and funded as such. If you have your passport to the national parks handy, you can get it stamped here. Or you can buy your passport here. There are not as many hoops to jump through to get this passport. You will see the battlefield, a house resembling the plantation house that was on the property during the period, canon abutments, the graveyard nearby, watch videos about it, and see diagrams of how the battle occurred. This will stand out in my mind as one of my favorite places to visit while in New Orleans. There are plenty of nearby restaurants nearby to eat at before or after your visit, as well as other places to visit that are fun. read more

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Not a bad little national park site commemorating a quirky battle. Small visitor center. Cool memorial you can climb to the top of. Grounds are well kept. Informative signage located throughout facility. Not a destination, but worth checking out if in area. read more

This was my second stop on my weeklong training trip down here in NOLA. If you're a history buff or just like to feel the old battlegrounds beneath your feet, go there. It's about 20 minutes from the French Quarter and is a pristine battlefield from the war of 1812, where Old Hickory, President Andrew Jackson ripped apart the treacherous British Red Coats. There's an old plantation house on the park, right in front of the mighty Mississippi River. It's not much in the inside, and is in desperate need of repairs, but it's a gorgeous and reminiscent of a French chateau. You can drive around the interpretive park, as well as walk it if you like. I walked a portion of it from the visitor center , up to the old plantation house and to the river. It's definitely in the hearts of New Orleanians because it was saved from the British. You can feel the tragic history there with the heavy loss of British lives. Definitely do your part and learn our history by visiting and it's free, so why not take it in! read more

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There's a few places to stop here: when you drive in go straight and check out the old weapons by the parking lot. Then walk around the tower reading the signs and then go up the tower. A quick stop in the shop will show you lots of videos and facts. Then drive around the look to the grades which are quite extensive and from many wars, not just the revolution. Great way to spend an hour and an interesting place many people have not heard of read more

This was an amazing and peaceful park commemorating the Battle of New Orleans. Kid-friendly, this battle is marked by a series of plaques, a restored Greek-revival home, and an obelisk (which, we learned, closes on the onset of summer) which you can climb. We had fun driving around the "self-guided tour" stops, and the weather was great, but there aren't many resources here comparable to other battlesites I've toured. The real crown jewel here is the Chalmette Cemetery, which features a call-in guided tour, and which houses (buried) veterans from every United States major conflict. It was chilling and amazing, and moving to see the 15,000 tombs of unknown soldiers. Absolutely worth the trip to the outskirts of NOLA. read more

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Now that the government shutdown is over, I can review this "National Park". If they aren't working, I'm certainly not working to support their shit. I say "National Park" but it's really just under the National Park Services umbrella. We are not talking Mt Rushmore, The Grand Canyon or the Smokies here. For being such an important part in American History, the spot that honors this event is rather unassuming. You get there and think, is this it??? Park the car and it will get better. There is a 1 mile driving tour around the battlefield but that just doesn't do it justice. Walk around the place. Start off by going into the tower. The tower is just a monument built well after the Battle of New Orleans to commemerate the event. The tower is spooky, narrow, windy, and has very bad lighting. Once you get to the top you get to see a view of where the British attacked from. Then you have to go back down. If you are old, fat, out of shape, scared of the dark, bugs, or tight places do not attempt this. It feels medieval. I was alone and really thought once I got to the top some guy was going to chop my head off with some wicked sword. Anywho, if the tower is not for you start near the visitor center and follow the markers to The Malus-Beauregard House. The markers have a little history on each one and tell you where the Americans and British were for the battle, the history of the land pre battle and what became of the land after. The Beauregard House was built on this plantation post The War of 1812 and you are allowed to go into the 1st floor. It's just an empty plantation with small rooms. Not very impressive. While you are there you can walk up the levee to see a bunch of brush blocking what could be a decent view of the Mississippi River. Not a huge deal as there are several places in the city to catch great views. After all of that you can either get in your car and drive around the mile paved track and stop at the markers or walk it. I prefer to walk it so that I can frolic in the big field when it's dry. (I don't really do this but big fields and the word frolic go hand and hand). A must stop is on the East side of the park about half way through the driving tour. It's National Cemetary that is semi-attached to the park itself. Here you will find the graves of fallen soldiers from every war between Civil War through the Vietnam War. This gives you an eerie feeling and a sense of pride at the same time. Other than that this place has really just become a fitness center for the folks in Da Parish. The gates close at 4pm but car will be parked out front every evening for people who choose to come walk, jog, and bike every evening. read more

Chalmette Battlefield is another of the 6 parks within the Jean Lafitte National Park. I remember going to it often as a child with the cub scouts (right-I wasn't a member, but I have lots of brothers, OK?) I remember my Mom explaining to me that all the crosses represented soldiers who died in battle. I was maybe 6; it was really overwhelming but those crosses made me realize the cost of war. Or maybe I was just a really overwrought child. read more

The history here is amazing. You get to see the American troops side, and the British side, actual cannons, and you are able to walk through the area where the war was fought. There is a tower that was erected to honor the military and the fallen, and you can climb to the top and witness and impressive view of the entire area. They have a visitors center as well, where you have the ability to check out historic battle wear, read up on The Battle for Lousiana, and learn interesting facts about the area. It's about a 20 minute drive from the French Quarter, but definitely worth it if you want to go off the beaten path and learn more about this amazing state. read more

It was truly memorable and educational. Very sad that our schools don't teach about such important historic battles any more. New Orleans was key to economic trade and the survival of the newly formed United States of America. It is a must see when visiting. read more

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We stopped in Sunday at 9:30 am. Visitor center was closed. There is plenty of parking and picnics benches are located right behind visitor center. It was a very nice walkable, and drivable. Or you can run it. We saw the cemetery and paid our respects. As we were leaving we saw some runners past by us. If you walk up the steps by the large house, there is a nice scenic view of the water and ships. You can walk your pet through most of the area except by cemetery. This a nice place to visit and if you are the area stop by. read more

Chalmette Battlefield - Chalmette battlefield sign - Parks Near Me - Chalmette, Louisiana

October 2015 I am NOT a American War Buff nor am I interested in war history but I came to this State park via a paddleboat. I enjoyed walking around, there was a plantation/colonial house there but no items inside. There were a few picnic benches, some cannons, open field, and a monument. You can climb to the top of the monument. read more

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Look, this place is gorgeous, but don't go into the gift shop or museum if you have to deal with the employees. Apparently, teachers are more important and "abused" (I QUOTE) than the military, who just happened to save New Orleans on the very land they're working on. They have a discount for teachers but not military. I would have been fine if she said "no sorry." But I asked why and she had to tell me to my face teachers are abused. Oh boo boo. I don't remember teachers fighting to keep us free. They educate and looks like they've left out the part of HISTORY that the military are the reason for the Chalmette Battlefield. The American cherry pie in the face was when two grown adults including "teachers are abused" woman excused their technical incompetence with "it's a new system" (a computer cash register...) and made me wait around for them to correct themselves so I could walk away with my purchase. Don't give me excuses. Give me results. -2 stars for the utter sick encounter with nutso humans. And yes I was down Bourbon Street. Those people were normal in comparison. Don't spew nonsense on one of my favorite battlefields. Andrew Jackson would have not tolerated her in one breath of her talking. And don't think I didn't hear that she thought some of the stuff in Brian Kilmeade's Andrew Jackson book was incorrect. Read his works cited. It's all there. Re-educate yourself. Overall, great for a morning run around the battlefield. The quietest place in New Orleans I visited. I will visit again only if I know it remains quiet. Silent as the 20 Americans who died there for New Orleans freedom. read more

This location is also listed as 1 Battlefield Rd. The visitor center here presents detailed information about the significance of this site. There is also a monument that looks like a small version of the Washington Monument. The battlefield has cannons on display and a loop for walking or driving around the perimeter. There is also a plantation house on the grounds. read more

I love visiting historic areas and this didn't disappoint. I came on a day where they had reenactments going on. Cannons were being shot off, a camp was made with old campfire cooking. The park rangers are very friendly and knowledgeable. I was a little disappointed the old home was not open to the public. I think they were trying to fix it up. Will have to visit again since It was a short drive from slidell. read more

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Well, I came here on Dec 24th and they were closed. But I saw few people parked their car outside and walked in, (You can't drive it, but you can walk around the poll) turns out the locals uses the place on exercise, so I decided to take a stroll as well. There were no tour guide of course, but there are plenty info sign so you know what is going on. If you are inerested in history, come here and take a stroll. I really enjoyed it. read more

Chalmette Battlefield - Parks Near Me - Chalmette, Louisiana

The Chalmette Battlefield is a great historical spot that is filled with information about the Battle of New Orleans. It is a good spot for tourists and locals. Many locals go to the battlefield for a walk, run, bike ride or to bring their dogs for a walk when the weather is nice. read more

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The National park Service maintains this site. There is a visitors building with films on the battle and information about the surrounding events. There is also a gift shop with many books and t-shirts. Restrooms are in a separate building. There is the battlefield with earthen rampart with driving loop around the battlefield. There is a monument built in the early 1900 that you can climb 121 steps and get a 360 degree view. The plantation house that is there was built after the battle. Chalmette National Cemetery is next to the battlefield, but it is mostly Union troops from the War of Northern Aggression and the World Wars. You can stop and walk over from the battlefield loop, or exit the battlefield and go to the right, to the next road and enter the National Cemetery. Definitely good to learn about our history. Very friendly and informative staff. read more

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Very well maintained national park. The new visitors center is wonderful! I often bring out of town guests here and it is always an enjoyable time. While there don't forget to look at the National Cemetery next door! It is an amazing thing to see. read more

The cemetery is absolutely chilling with 15,000 people buried, many of which are unknown soldiers from various wars. Only a handful are buried here from the War of 1812's Battle of New Orleans. There is an empty plantation home (first floor access only), as well as the monument to commemorate the battle and Andrew Jackson's victory. It was also nice to see the cannons lined up to illustrate just how the battle was fought. Obviously there's not much infrastructure (i.e. cannons, walls, etc) since this was in 1812 and fought literally on a field. Truly a must see and definitely worth the trip from New Orleans. Highly recommend. read more

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Great park to drive through while in your car. If you go in December/January, the weather is so good and windy that you could take a book and stay in your car for a wonderful afternoon. Great green lawns and quite some birds too. Dont miss walking up the track behind the visitor center that takes you to Mississippi river basin where you could catch glimpse of docked ships. read more

Chalmette Battlefield - Great Egret - Parks Near Me - Chalmette, Louisiana

We took a boat tour and this was one of the stops. Great historic stop. read more

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It's pretty cool to have a 200-year battlefield just a few miles form your house. It is primarily a large field (that doubles as a cemetery), but the visitor center is informative and the rangers lead several talks throughout the day. Not a bad place to spend an hour or so when you need a break from partying on Bourbon Street. read more

"In 1814, we took a little trip, along with Colonel Jackson down the Mighty Mississip." The lyrics to this famous Johnny Horton tune describe arguably the most important battle ever fought on American soil, a battle that is unfortunately forgotten by most people today: The Battle of New Orleans. Fought here at Chalmette on a swampy piece of land alongside the Mississippi River (after the War of 1812 was technically over), the battle made the United States into what it is today. Successfully driving the British out for good, opening up the entire Mississippi River for trade, confirming our status as a nation, and paving the way for our "Manifest Destiny" are several of the most significant outcomes of the Battle of New Orleans. Yet, few tourists actually know about or visit the site, which is located just outside of New Orleans in nearby Chalemette. This area was hit extremely hard by Hurrican Katrina and if you drive from the city, you will still see some of the devastation while going through the Lower 9th Ward. The battlefield itself was significantly damaged - its visitor's center was destroyed and most of the land was underwater. Plan to spend about 1-2 hours at Chalmette Battlefield and although the tour route can be driven rather quickly, take the time to walk around and explore. When I visited, there was a temporary trailer serving as a visitor's center and the ranger told me a new one was being built in the near future. The ranger was extremely informative and gave a descriptive overview of the battle. Take the time to explore Jackson's line, the Beauregard House, and the levee along the river. The topography of the land is still the same and if you are familiar with the battle, it is easy to see why the British had so much trouble here. Drive the tour loop and view Jackson's line from the British persective. Be sure to climb the tower as well for an aerial view of the battlefield. *** Overall, Chalmette Battlefield is a worthwhile destination while in New Orleans. It's a bit off the beaten path, but it is very easy to get there from the French Quarter. Go early in the day and have brunch afterwards. read more

I never went to the Chalmette Battlefield as a kid. It was never a field trip destination or anything like that. The first time I went, I think I was in college and I just went because a friend of mine wanted to check it out. I went again recently and man oh man. First of all, it was blazing hot. I know that it isn't SUPER smart to go to a vast field in the middle of the day in the middle of summer, but I never claimed to be the brightest bulb on the tree. The entire tour is pretty much self guided, at least on the weekdays. You can drive around and see the battlefield, a few cannons and a large plantation house. There is also a walking path that tells you different things about the battlefield. They also hold war reenactments every now and then and I actually wouldn't mind checking that part out. And that's about it. I mean it's a battlefield. Men died here; pretty heavy stuff, but when you get right down to it, it's a quick visit. I wouldn't call it a "must see", if you are visiting the New Orleans area, but if you are in Chalmette, go for it. The gates are locked at 3:30. read more

This is definitely a better tour with a car than doing it via Riverboat but the boat is a nice cruise. This is the site of the historic victory over the British at the Battle of New Orleans which is celebrated in Jackson Square with the statue of Gen. Jackson. That notorious pirate Jean Lafitte and his band helped out but the real star of the battle was the artillery that decimated the British troops. Mostly this is just a big field with some signs along with a few historical sites and the graveyard. My dad is a big history buff and he brought me out here often when I was a kid. I haven't had a chance to check out the new visitor's center. read more

It's a little out of the way from NOLA. We went there on the Creole Queen riverboat tour. Got a nice talk about the battle from a park ranger and went into the little visitor center. Found out about the War of 1812 and how Andrew Jackson got to be a national hero and ended up President. Nice open space, although we were warned that the grass could be muddy due to recent rains. Only negative is that I got eaten alive by mosquitos while listening to the ranger talk. Wear bug spray if you visit. read more