Jefferson Parish

A trip through Jefferson Parish is a study in fascinating contrasts and scenes quickly switch from profuse natural beauty to abundant cultural resources. Historic districts, outdoor activities and shopping are great for the entire family to enjoy. Jefferson Parish hums with commerce and reflects the cuisine, music and history of neighboring New Orleans. However a traveler can quickly leave suburban communities behind by heading south. The wilds of the Barataria Preserve, Bayou Segnette State Park and the Jean Lafitte National Park offer canoeing, hiking and swamp tours and Grand Isle—which juts into the Gulf—affords the world's best fishing. In Kenner, visitors can explore Rivertown, a cluster of charming historic buildings, museums and family attractions, or head to Lake Pontchartrain to try their luck aboard a floating casino. Annual Mardi Gras celebrations in the Jefferson communities promise all the grandeur of huge parades, beads galore and festive, elaborate balls.