Gretna, LA

Gretna, LA

Historic riverfront charm meets authentic West Bank flavor

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Things to know

Discover Gretna.

Gretna Historic District

Gretna Historic District

Culture

Stroll through the beautifully preserved downtown centered around Huey P. Long Avenue. The 1907 Gretna City Hall and the old courthouse anchor this district, which hosts the weekly Gretna Farmers Market and seasonal festivals.

Canal Street Ferry

Canal Street Ferry

Nature

Hop on the iconic pedestrian ferry for a scenic, short ride across the Mississippi to the French Quarter. It's the most charming and affordable way to commute, offering unbeatable views of the New Orleans skyline.

West Bank Po-Boys & Gumbo

West Bank Po-Boys & Gumbo

Food

Gretna is a destination for no-frills, authentic Creole and Vietnamese-Cajun cuisine. Local institutions like Boudreaux's and local Vietnamese spots serve up legendary po-boys, gumbo, and boiled seafood.

Gretna Heritage Festival

Gretna Heritage Festival

Culture

Experience one of the region's biggest annual events, drawing top-name music acts to multiple stages. This massive fall festival fills the historic district with music, food, and arts for an entire weekend.

Jean Lafitte National Park

Jean Lafitte National Park

Nature

Just a short drive south, this vast preserve offers a true taste of Louisiana's wetlands. Walk the boardwalks at the Barataria Preserve to spot alligators, herons, and ancient cypress trees draped in moss.

Gretna Art Walk

Gretna Art Walk

Shopping

Discover local artists and makers during the monthly Art Walk in the historic district. Galleries and shops open their doors, creating a vibrant evening of art, live music, and community gathering.

things to do

Things to Do in Gretna

Gretna offers a blend of low-key local life and direct access to big-city excitement. Its charm lies in historic walks, ferry rides, and authentic dining, all with a small-town feel.

Tour the David Crockett Firehouse

History

Visit one of the oldest volunteer fire companies in Louisiana. This small museum on 4th Street houses historic firefighting equipment and offers a glimpse into the city's early community spirit.

Eat a Legendary Po-Boy

Food

Join the line at a local favorite like Boudreaux's or Guy's Po-Boys for a fully dressed shrimp, roast beef, or debris po-boy. It's a rite of passage for any Gretna visitor or resident.

Walk or Bike the Levee Path

Outdoors

The Mississippi River levee provides a paved, scenic path perfect for walking, running, or cycling. You'll get uninterrupted views of river traffic and the New Orleans skyline across the water.

Spend a Day at Gretna Park

Family

This large community park features playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. It's a popular spot for local soccer and baseball games, family gatherings, and casual outdoor relaxation.

Catch a Show at the Westwego Performing Arts Theatre

Culture

Just next door in Westwego, this beautiful theater hosts a variety of performances, from community theater and concerts to dance recitals, serving as a cultural hub for the West Bank.

Browse the Gretna Farmers Market

Shopping

Held weekly in the historic district, this market features fresh local produce, Gulf seafood, homemade baked goods, and artisan crafts. It's the heart of the community every Saturday morning.

neighborhoods

Neighborhoods to Explore

Gretna's neighborhoods range from the bustling, walkable historic core to quiet, residential areas with classic Louisiana architecture. Each offers a distinct slice of West Bank life.

Downtown Gretna

Historic Core

The civic and cultural heart of the city. Centered around Huey P. Long Avenue, this area features government buildings, historic homes, local shops, and restaurants, all within easy walking distance.

McDonoghville

Suburban

One of Gretna's oldest residential areas, featuring a mix of historic cottages and newer homes. It's a quiet, family-oriented neighborhood with a strong sense of community, located just north of the downtown district.

Bellevue

Residential

A well-established neighborhood known for its mid-century homes and tree-lined streets. It offers a peaceful, suburban feel with quick access to Veterans Memorial Boulevard and its shopping centers.

Areas near the Ferry Landing

Waterfront

The neighborhoods surrounding the ferry terminal blend residential streets with incredible river views. Living here means easy pedestrian access to the ferry and a front-row seat to the constant movement on the Mississippi.

Old Gretna

Established

Encompassing many of the city's original plots, this area features charming shotgun doubles, Creole cottages, and bungalows. It's a quintessential New Orleans metro neighborhood with deep roots and local character.

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