More Adventures in Louisiana

A River and Its People

The Cane River region is home to a unique culture: the Creoles. Generations of the same families of owners and workers, enslaved and tenant, lived on these lands for over 200 years. The park tells their stories and preserves the cultural landscape of Oakland and Magnolia Plantations, two of the most intact Creole cotton plantations in the United States.

Oakland Plantation

A largely rural landscape is known for its historic plantations, distinctive Creole architecture, and multi-cultural legacy. Cane River lay at the intersection of French and Spanish realms in the New World. The park consists of Oakland Plantation and portions of the Magnolia Plantation.

Magnolia Plantation and Blacksmith Building

Two additional "chasing stamps" destinations were not expected to be in the location of the French Quarter, New Orleans.

Jean Lafitte National Historic Preserve

Established to preserve significant examples of the rich natural and cultural resources of Louisiana's Mississippi Delta region, this park consists of six physically separate sites that illustrate Acadian culture, natural history, and pivotal events that took place in this diverse region.

Experience Jazz Music Where it all Began

Only in New Orleans could there be a National Park for jazz! We visited the visitors' center and attended a musical workshop, featuring a New Orleans import from Virginia. He explained that jazz music was different from the blues, rock n roll, etc. because of the left hand base clef rhythms. Love of the jazz style music brought him to New Orleans.

Lunch at Bubba Gump's
Also, in the French Quarter we ate lunch at Bubba Gump's Shrimp Company. They serve fried shrimp, steamed shrimp, broiled shrimp, shrimp scampi, …..