Connecting these water-divided communities are some of America's most impressive and historically significant bridges. Everyday the Big Easy welcomes guests who arrive via these engineering marvels, each with its own story to tell. Whether you're driving across the state or approaching from neighboring regions, understanding these bridges helps you appreciate both the journey and the destination.

New Orleans' relationship with American independence is complex. When the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776, the city was under Spanish rule. It wasn't until 1803 – a full 27 years after the Declaration of Independence – that New Orleans became American through the Louisiana Purchase. This unique history created New Orleans' distinctive approach to celebrating American independence.

What better way to celebrate the founding of the United States than with a spectacular fireworks show along the mighty Mississippi River? This Independence Day, New Orleans offers one of the most patriotic and picturesque celebrations in the country with the return of Go 4th on the River – a free fireworks extravaganza that transforms the New Orleans Riverfront into a dazzling display of red, white, and blue.

At Jean Lafitte House, our intimate courtyard plunge pool offers guests an exclusive escape from the bustling French Quarter streets – a tranquil oasis where you can cool off, unwind, and recharge before your next adventure. When the New Orleans heat reaches its peak, there's nothing quite like having your own private sanctuary to retreat to.

Each year, over 400,000 visitors experience this cultural phenomenon where music, food, art, and heritage combine to create an atmosphere unlike any other festival in America. The 2025 edition promises to continue this tradition with an exceptional lineup spanning eight remarkable days.

Discover exceptional value at one of New Orleans' most distinctive boutique hotels. Our special offers are designed to enhance your experience while providing outstanding savings for travelers visiting The Big Easy. Book directly on our website or with our Guest Services Team for the best rates available.

The French Quarter Festival is returning to the heart of New Orleans from April 10-13, 2025, bringing with it the unmistakable sounds, flavors, and energy that make this free musical celebration one of the city's most anticipated events. We're excited to share the insider's guide to making the most of this extraordinary weekend.

This distinctive moniker has become an integral part of New Orleans' identity, appearing on everything from local business names to tourism materials. The nickname beautifully captures both the physical shape of the city and its ever-changing, dynamic nature. Like many aspects of New Orleans' rich history, the "Crescent City" nickname has several fascinating origin stories, each highlighting a different aspect of this unique metropolis:

The French Market, just a short stroll from Jean Lafitte House, stands as America's oldest continuously operating public market, dating back to 1791. Originally a Native American trading post along the Mississippi River, the market evolved into the commercial and cultural hub we know today.

At Jean Lafitte House, we're not just offering you a place to stay – we're inviting you to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of New Orleans. One of the most exuberant expressions of our city's spirit is the second line parade, a tradition you might just catch sight of right from our doorstep on Esplanade Street.

Exciting news for visitors and residents alike: New Orleans has been ranked the most walkable city in America and the 4th most walkable city in the world! Here at Jean Lafitte House, we're thrilled but not surprised. Our prime location in the heart of the French Quarter puts you at the center of this pedestrian paradise.

From our charming rooms at Jean Lafitte House, you're just a short stroll away from one of the most significant geographical features in North America – the Mississippi River. This powerful waterway has shaped the destiny of New Orleans for centuries, earning it the nickname "The Crescent City" due to the distinctive curve the river takes as it flows past our vibrant metropolis.

Welcome to Jean Lafitte House, where history and modern day luxuries intertwine to offer you an unparalleled New Orleans experience. Our property isn't just a place to stay; it's a journey back in time, recognized by the City of New Orleans for its historical significance. Jean Lafitte House proudly stands as a designated historic property in the heart of the French Quarter.

When you stay at Jean Lafitte House, you're not just immersing yourself in history – you're positioning yourself at the doorstep of one of New Orleans' most vibrant and culturally rich areas: Frenchman Street. Just a short 5-minute stroll from our historic accommodations, Frenchman Street offers an authentic slice of New Orleans life that no visitor should miss.

Nestled in the heart of New Orleans' Central Business District, just a short stroll from our beloved Jean Lafitte House, lies the picturesque Lafayette Square. This verdant oasis, steeped in history and brimming with local culture, offers our guests a perfect escape from the bustling streets of the French Quarter.

At Jean Lafitte House, we invite you to immerse yourself in the lore of this infamous privateer, whose daring exploits and complex legacy continue to captivate the imagination of visitors to the Crescent City.

Welcome to "From the Desk of Jean Lafitte," the official blog of Jean Lafitte House, where history and hospitality intertwine like the winding streets of the French Quarter. Just as seafarers of old would cast messages into the vast ocean, hoping to reach distant shores, we send out these tales of our historic boutique hotel, inviting you to embark on a journey through time…