The Mississippi River crosses Plaquemines Parish along its final 70 miles before reaching the Gulf of Mexico. Travelers will find a range of attractions: its waterways and marshlands, fishing, and historic forts. Orange groves and oyster boats are also part of the parish’s character. These subjects can be explored individually or offer different ways to plan your trip.
Marshlands, Wildlife, and Excursions
The Delta National Wildlife Refuge provides lush marsh habitats for a diverse array of wildlife. The refuge is accessible only by boat. On ecotours in Plaquemines Parish, visitors may spot American alligators, peregrine falcons, and sandpipers; individual sightings are not guaranteed.
Guided wetland excursions may take place by kayak, airboat, canoe, or motorboat. The mode of transport is a specific point of difference when comparing tour options. Louisiana Marh Tours also offers private tours through marshland, swamps, and wetlands. Confirm operating details before your trip.
The landscape can also be seen from land: Highway 23 runs between old Virginia oaks and protective levees. Alongside wetland tours, the road and its distinctive landscape features offer another way to experience the parish.
Fishing in Different Waters
Visitors to Plaquemines Parish can book fishing charters for redfish or trout. Offshore fishing includes species such as tuna, wahoo, marlin, and swordfish. Freshwater fishing, meanwhile, includes largemouth bass, sunfish, and catfish. These differences offer several specific options: fishing charters for redfish or trout, offshore fishing for the species listed, or freshwater fishing.
Forts with Different Histories
Fort De La Boulaye was a French colonial fortification built in 1700; it is one of three U.S. National Historic Landmarks in Plaquemines Parish. Fort Jackson was built in 1822 on the recommendation of General Andrew Jackson and served as a major defensive position for New Orleans during the American Civil War.
Fort St. Philip is also associated with the Civil War: in April 1862, it was the site of a 12-day siege. Its access restrictions are important for trip planning: the fort is privately owned and accessible only by boat or helicopter. The historical timeline thus ranges from a French fortification built in 1700, through the construction of Fort Jackson, to the events of 1862.
Festivals and Local Cuisine
The first Plaquemines Parish Orange Festival was established in 1946 to promote the parish’s citrus growing and marketing. The Plaquemines Parish Seafood Festival is an annual event featuring local seafood, live music, fair rides, and family activities. The Croatian Festival is also held annually in the spring. If you would like to plan your trip around an event, check the dates in advance.
Restaurants in Plaquemines Parish serve fish, shrimp, crab, and oysters freshly caught in local bays and marshlands. Together, these offer several distinct themes for a trip: fishing opportunities, wetlands and wildlife viewing, fort history, and festivals and seafood.
Explore more destinations: Belle Chasse, Empire, De Soto, Franklin, St Charles, Ascension Parish, Concordia Parish, Red River Parish.
For the main travel overview: Louisiana.
