Located just a short drive from New Orleans, St. Bernard Parish is a destination rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Often overlooked by travelers heading to the Big Easy, St. Bernard offers a quieter, more authentic Louisiana experience. St. Barnard Parish is a must-visit for those looking to explore Louisiana’s lesser-known treasures, from historic sites and vibrant festivals to stunning outdoor adventures in the bayous and marshes. Here are the top things to do when visiting St. Bernard Parish.
Explore the Chalmette Battlefield
Step back in time and learn about one of the most significant events in U.S. history at the Chalmette Battlefield, the site of the Battle of New Orleans during the War of 1812. This national park is where General Andrew Jackson led American troops to victory over the British on January 8, 1815. Today, visitors can tour the battlefield, see historic cannons, and visit the Malus-Beauregard House, a restored plantation that offers a glimpse into life in the early 1800s.
The site also includes the Chalmette National Cemetery, where soldiers from several wars are buried. The battlefield offers ranger-led tours and historical reenactments, making it a fascinating and education experience for history lovers.
Visit the Islenos Museum Complex
St. Bernard Parish is home to a unique cultural heritage, including the Islenos, descendants of Canary Islanders who settled in the region in the late 18th century. The Islenos Museum Complex is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the history and traditions of the Islenos community.
At the museum, visitors can explore historic homes, exhibits on Islenos culture, and artifacts that showcase the community’s contributions to the region. The museum complex also hosts the Islenos Fiesta, an annual celebration featuring traditional music, dance, food, and crafts. Visiting the Islenos Museum Complex is a great way to learn about the rich, multicultural heritage of St. Bernard Parish.
Enjoy Fishing and Boating in Delacroix
For outdoor enthusiasts, Delacroix offers some of the best fishing and boating opportunities in Louisiana. Located in the southern part of St. Bernard Parish, Delacroix is the gateway to Louisiana’s vast coastal wetlands and bayous. It’s a popular spot for anglers seeking redfish, speckled trout, and flounder, and many local guides offer fishing charters to help you navigate the area’s best fishing spots.
In addition to fishing, Delacroix is an ideal location for kayaking, birdwatching, and simply enjoying the peaceful beauty of Louisiana’s wetlands. For an unforgettable experience, book a trip with Whiskey Bayou Charters to explore the marshes and bayous with an experienced local guide.
Tour the Historic Los Islenos Cemetery
Just a short drive from the Islenos Museum Complex, the Los Islenos Cemetery offers a glimpse into the history of the Canary Islands settlers who made St. Bernard their home. This historic cemetery is the final resting place of many Islenos and their descendants, and it provides visitors with an opportunity to reflect on the legacy of this unique community.
The cemetery’s historic tombs and headstones tell the story of generations of settlers who helped shape the culture of St. Bernard Parish. While it may be a quieter stop of your itinerary, the cemetery offers an important link to the past and is worth visiting for those interested in local history.
Attend the Louisiana Crawfish Festival
If you’re visiting the spring, don’t miss the Louisiana Crawfish Festival in St. Bernard Parish. This annual event celebrates one of Louisiana’s most beloved culinary traditions – crawfish! Held at the Frederick J. Sigur Civic Center, the festival offers plenty of crawfish dishes to sample, from boiled crawfish étouffée, along with live music, carnival rides, and a lively atmosphere.
The Louisiana Crawfish Festival is a family-friendly event that attracts visitors from all over the region. It’s a great way to experience local culture, indulge in delicious food, and enjoy the festive spirit of St. Bernard Parish.
Hike and Birdwatch at Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge
While technically located within the boundaries of New Orleans, the Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge is easily accessible from St. Bernard Parish and offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore Louisiana’s natural beauty. As the largest urban wildlife refuge in the United States, Bayou Sauvage covers over 23,000 acres of wetlands, marshes, and bayous.
Visitors can hike along the refuge’s scenic trails, enjoy birdwatching, and spot local wildlife like alligators, turtles, and herons. For those interested in eco-tourism, Bayou Sauvage is a perfect destination to experience the unique ecosystems of southern Louisiana while supporting conservation efforts.
Relax at Torres Park
For a relaxing day out, head to Torres Park in Chalmette, a beautiful green space perfect for families, picnics, and outdoor activities. The park features walking trails, playgrounds, a skate park, and plenty of open areas for recreational sports.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax or a place for children to run and play, Torres Park is a lovely retreat in the heart of St. Bernard Parish. It’s an ideal spot for a casual afternoon and offers a chance to unwind in nature.
Explore the Bayou Road Wetlands
The Bayou Road Wetlands is an excellent destination for those looking to explore St. Bernard Parish's wild and natural side. The wetlands provide excellent birdwatching, kayaking, and photography opportunities, allowing visitors to see the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in Louisiana’s marshy landscape.
Several local tour companies offer guided kayak trips, where you can paddle through the tranquil waters while spotting wildlife and learning about the area’s ecology. The wetlands offer an authentic outdoor adventure for those seeking to connect with nature.
Plan Your Trip to St. Bernard Parish
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor adventure, or simply enjoying a peaceful escape from the city, St. Bernard Parish has something to offer everyone. From historic sites like the Chalmette Battlefield to the natural beauty of Delacroix and Bayou Sauvage, this hidden gem of Louisiana invites visitors to experience the best of what the state has to offer.
