Vacation Rentals in Gretna
Vacation rentals in Gretna
Take a trip to Gretna, the second-largest city in Louisiana, and spend a vacation exploring the wonders that it offers. Gretna is located west of the Mississippi River and near uptown New Orleans. Whether you're looking for outdoor or indoor activities, the city has many natural and artificial features that attract dozens of visitors. You can book a perfect rental property before visiting the city. Luckily, most vacation rentals in Gretna are near various attractions. You can find a rental in New Orleans and Storyville, among other parts of the city.
A vacation rental for everyoneVacation rentals in Gretna have something for everyone. Whether you're visiting the city alone, with family or friends, you'll always find a rental that matches your needs. The good thing is, you can find a rental with more space to accommodate family or friends. Most rental properties in Gretna ensure you feel right at home, thanks to their full kitchens, spacious living rooms, and separate dining areas. And you don't have to worry about kids and pets. The city has child-friendly and pet-friendly rentals to ensure everyone enjoys the comfort. In addition, you can enjoy staying in a rental with a pool, balcony, Jacuzzi, terrace, TV, and internet.
Vacations in Gretna
The area and getting around
Gretna is the home to many historical buildings that honor the city's original settlers. If your vacation rental is in New Orleans, you can take a free pedestrian ferry ride to Gretna's historic downtown. Much of the historic architecture here takes the shape of Creole cottages and shotgun homes in New Orleans. If you're looking for nature adventures, you can take to the Mississippi River that's just near your rental property in New Orleans. In addition, Gretna has many parks for nature adventure and amusement parks where kids enjoy various recreations.
Creole cuisine and unique local activitiesExplore the city of Gretna and its neighbor, New Orleans, to sample food in various restaurants. Most restaurants here offer Louisiana Creole cuisine, a style of cooking that blends French, West African, Amerindian, and Spanish influences. Try dishes such as Oysters Bienville, Bisque, Chicken Creole, Rice, and gravy, Smothered Pork Chops, red beans, and desserts. Also, you can go shopping at waterfront shops, nearby stores, and markets. Visit the city's historic train depot on Saturdays, where a farmers' market convenes. You can also join the locals in various festivals such as Gretna Art Walk and Gretna Heritage Festival.
Travelers and activities
You can explore the culture and history of this city to understand it deeper. Head to various museums, art galleries and learn more about the festivals in Gretna. For example, you can start with the German-American Cultural Center located in Willkommen. The museum has a variety of exhibits and offers lectures and educational activities. You'll learn about the contributions of Germans in shaping what the city is today. Also, you can visit the National WWII Museum in New Orleans to learn how Americans fought for their freedom. Gretna's festivals offer visitors a chance to enjoy stage performances, food, music, art, and crafts to support local businesses.
Gretna for nature and adventure enthusiastsWhile the city dots with numerous artificial structures with a historical touch, you can also interact with nature, thanks to its parks, gardens, and the huge Mississippi River. You can tour along the river while soaking up the aquatic life and plantations near the river banks. For a family-friendly outdoor activity, you can visit City Park that's over 1300 acres. Enjoy adventuring in the park, where you'll find centuries-old trees, quaint bridges, bike paths, and manicured lawns. You can also explore the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, where your little ones can enjoy various recreations.
Gretna's first settlers were the German immigrants in 1836 and gave the town its first name, "Mechanikham." The town became a city in 1913 and has a large historic district that dots with 19th-century homes.
Top 5 travel tips for Gretna
Visit St. Joseph Church located at 610 Lafayette and explore the beautiful architecture inside and out. The church was built in a Spanish Baroque Style in 1927. You can learn about the ministers who have worked tirelessly to maintain the church in its original state. Also, you can visit the church's garden that offers visitors and locals a chance to relax and meditate in a serene environment. Ensure you carry a camera to take photos of the stunning architecture and selfies while in the garden.
2. Mel Ott ParkTake your family or friends to Mel Ott Park, located at 2201 Belle Chasse Hwy, for outdoor recreations. The good thing about this park is that you don't need to pay for any admission park. On weekends, you can visit the park with your lover to relax on the green lawn while watching people move around. Also, you can take a refreshing walk or bike around the park while enjoying the scenic views of old buildings. Visit the park when Gretna Parks and Recreation Department holds athletic programs for more fun.
3. Gretna Historical Museum (GHS)You can learn about the history of this region by visiting GHS located at 209 Lafayette. Lloyd E. Gomez, a descendant of Gretna pioneers, founded this museum in 1969. At the museum, you'll find a blacksmith shop, three 19th century Creole cottages, and the Louisiana Fire Museum. Explore the unique architectures and purchase gift items at the blacksmith shop.
4. Audubon ZooYou can visit Audubon Zoo with family or friends to explore nature and wildlife in their natural habitats for more adventure. The zoo is home to local native and exotic animals. Take to the swamps and spot alligators and other aquatic animals. Also, the zoo has beautiful picnic areas, a lagoon, and playgrounds.
5. St. Louis CathedralSt. Louis is the oldest Cathedral in North America, located at Jackson Square in New Orleans. The Cathedral dates back to 1718, and its pristine look attracts visitors throughout the year. You can explore its famous cemetery where the Voodoo priestess Marie Laveau was laid to rest. If you're visiting as a group, you can arrange with the Cathedral in advance. Explore its unique architecture and learn the history of its establishment and growth.