If you’ve ever watched a movie set in the city of New Orleans and marveled at the beautiful shot of the city across the water that view is from Gretna, Louisiana.
The next time you visit New Orleans, head across the river to Gretna not only for that beautiful view but for everything else historic Gretna has to offer. These are only a few of the fantastic things I saw during my very short visit as a guest of the Jefferson Convention & Visitors Bureau.
1.) Shotgun Houses
For a northerner like me, stepping into the historic districts of Gretna definitely feels like entering another time and place. The City is serious about both maintaining its historic buildings and ensuring that newer structures fit into their surroundings. One of the most common types of home is the Shotgun House, a narrow rectangular home, usually no more than about 12 feet wide, with all the rooms arranged in a row one after each other and doors on the front and back of the house.
2.) Vintage Businesses
While I think it’s cool to see businesses look like their straight out of a 1950s movie, it’s even more so when they are fully functioning current businesses. Neeb’s Hardware, established in 1917, is one of the oldest continuously operating business in the city of Gretna. While it has been updated with some modern conveniences, it still remains close to what it was in the early days.
3.) Gretna City Hall
History isn’t just in the homes and businesses of the area, but in the public buildings as well. One of the most remarkable is Gretna City Hall. The Renaissance and Baroque style building dates back to 1907. Much of the building, including the courtroom on the upper level, has been going through recent updates to restore it to its former glory.
4.) David Crockett Fire Co.
The David Crockett Fire Co., established in 1841, is the oldest continuously active volunteer fire department in the nation. The company’s 1859 firehouse now houses the Louisiana Fire Museum, displaying artifacts from around the state and an 1876 steam fire pumper that was pulled by men.
5.) Kittie Strehle House and Gretna Green Blacksmith Shop
The Kittie Strehle House is a creole cottage built in the mid 1800s by Claudius Strehle and his wife Catherina. The Gretna Historical Society has renovated it and furnished it to reflect the historical style of the 19th century. Behind the house is the Gretna Green Blacksmith Shop which commemorates all the blacksmith shops that were active in the area in the 1800s.
6.) German-American Cultural Center and Museum
I may be a little biased about how much I like this stop since my ancestors are German, but it is key to Gretna’s history as the area was settled by German immigrants in the mid-1880s. It features exhibits interpreting their contribution to Luisiana history and offers many educational activities and special events. Don’t miss the murals on the outside of the building!
7.) St. Joseph Church
St. Joseph Church, on the National Register of Historic Places, was built in 1927 in a Spanish Baroque style. It is actually the third church on this site as the parish originally dates back to 1857. It’s a beautiful building inside and out.
Are you ready to visit Gretna now? I’m ready to go back!
Marisela Zuniga says
wow, it all looks amazing! It’s interesting to see how much things have changed, I like the firehouse
Marisela Zuniga says
This looks like a great place to visit, thanks for sharing
John Smith says
What great old architecture they have there!
Donna says
I’ve always wanted to go to Louisiana! Gretna looks like a lovely place to visit. The church’s architecture is so beautiful!
Jennifer says
I have never heard of this town in Louisiana. I am going to have to check this out for sure! Thanks for sharing about all the fun things to do here.
Celine R says
I was born and raised in Louisiana and it warms my heart to see and hear from people who visit and appreciate the beauty in my state:D Hope you make it back!
Nikki Wayne says
Gretna Louisiana looks like a very amazing place. I like to have a vacation there.
Toni says
Thanks for the great list. I would love to go check out the “vintage” businesses. I love businesses that have been around for years. They sort of take you back in time.
Karlaroundtheworld | Karla says
Wow, both the places and the shots themselves are fabulous and magnificent! I can attest to the fact that Gretna certainly holds a lot of rich historical places, I’ve bee there but unfortunately it was just a quick stay.
Rosey says
It really does look like a place I’d love to go visit. I do have plans to go to Lousiana eventually, I’d love to see Gretna.
Jocelyn @ Hip Mama’s Place says
These are all great things to see in Gretna, Louisiana. I will have to stop in to travel there sometime. Looks very inviting for sure with so much to see.