Into the Wetlands

In Jean Lafitte, a new educational center connects visitors to ecosystems shaping coastal Louisiana

by

Outdoor Adventures

At the heart of the Barataria Basin, the historic fishing village of Jean Lafitte has depended upon and existed within the distinct wetland ecosystems of Louisiana’s coast for more than two hundred years. In March, a collective partnership between town leadership, Jefferson Parish, and state officials culminated in the grand opening of the Louisiana Educational Wetlands Center—a new educational experience that emphasizes the significance this environment plays in not only the surrounding village, but also in Louisiana as a whole. 

[Make a day trip out of it—here's our travel guide to the town of Jean Lafitte!] 

The 3,500-square-foot facility was funded in part by the state, the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority (CPRA), and FEMA, featuring immersive audio-visual exhibits that explore the intricacies of wetland habitats, how the ecosystem has impacted human culture in the area, and contemporary efforts to protect and restore it. 

At the March 20 ribbon cutting, Jefferson Parish Councilman Tim Kerner, Jr. explained the vision behind the center’s design. “You walk through it, and you learn about these wetlands,” he said. “You learn about what’s at stake, and if you don’t do nothing, what happens. It engages people; it makes people care.” 

The Center’s location positions it as a gateway to the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve. Visitors can literally step out of the Center and onto the Preserve’s iconic, mile-long boardwalk—a loop that carries them directly into the cypress swamps and marshland they just learned about. 

“Wetlands are everything to Coastal Louisiana,” said Jean Lafitte Mayor Yvette Crain in an interview. “They protect us from storms, support our seafood industry, and are a big part of our culture and identity. For generations, people in Jean Lafitte have lived and worked off these waters. This Wetlands Center helps tell that story and reminds people just how important it is to protect these places for the future generations.” 

The Center is open Tuesday–Sunday, from 10 am–4 pm. Admission is free. 

louisianawetlandscenter.com.