
Gretna Ferry Landing
Gretna's levee offers breathtaking New Orleans skyline views and a scenic riverfront trail, perfect for walks and cycling.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Live music & city lights

Gretna Ferry Landing
Best Time
Live music & city lights
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Gretna's levee offers breathtaking New Orleans skyline views and a scenic riverfront trail, perfect for walks and cycling.
"Awesome view of the city and bridges at night!"

Check Ferry Status
Gretna Ferry is closed; use Algiers Ferry for river crossings.
Evening Views
The New Orleans skyline is spectacular at night from the levee.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

New Orleans Skyline View
Gretna Levee
Breathtaking panoramic views of the New Orleans cityscape, especially stunning at night.

Mississippi River Walk/Bike Trail
Gretna Levee
A paved trail stretching past Federal City, perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.

Live Music Evenings
Gretna Levee
Experience local musicians performing live, particularly vibrant during November evenings.
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Planning Your Visit
Ferry Status & Alternatives
Evening Ambiance & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
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What’s the best way to experience the Mississippi River while visiting New Orleans?
Check Ferry Status
Gretna Ferry is closed; use Algiers Ferry for river crossings.
Evening Views
The New Orleans skyline is spectacular at night from the levee.
staying in Gretna over Mardi Gras. is this a bad idea?
Greater New Orleans Bridge
Bike & Stroll
Enjoy the paved trail along the Mississippi River for a relaxing walk or ride.
Local Eats Nearby
Conveniently located near Gretna's downtown restaurants.
Cruise during Mardi Gras
Tips
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Check Ferry Status
Gretna Ferry is closed; use Algiers Ferry for river crossings.
Evening Views
The New Orleans skyline is spectacular at night from the levee.
Bike & Stroll
Enjoy the paved trail along the Mississippi River for a relaxing walk or ride.
Local Eats Nearby
Conveniently located near Gretna's downtown restaurants.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Gretna levee for its stunning New Orleans skyline views, especially at night, and its pleasant walking/biking trail. While the ferry service is defunct, the levee offers a great recreational space and access to nearby dining.
"The damn ferry doesn't run anymore but the levee is awesome with a nice view of the city ...and benches are available to chill on to write another novel...well protected by Gretna's finest..."
Stacy Hicks
"Nice place to listen to live music in the evenings during November. Very convenient as it is close to many restaurants in downtown Gretna. Beautiful view of New Orleans and the bridges at night."
Hayes Weggeman
"Found the ferry service to be totally lacking (operations have been shuttered for some time), Algeirs ferry is operational. Walking/bike trail is paved past Federal City ~5 miles. 6 or 7 visits and found the trail free of migrating chinchillas each time."
Dave Cochran
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
While the Gretna Ferry is no longer operational, you can access the levee area by car. Parking is available nearby. For river crossings, the Algiers Ferry is the active option.
Information on specific bus routes to the immediate landing area can be limited. It's best to check local transit schedules for Jefferson Parish. The Algiers Ferry is accessible via public transport in New Orleans.
Yes, you can drive to the vicinity of the Gretna Ferry Landing. Parking is generally available, though it can be busier during events.
Driving and parking near the levee is the most straightforward method. The levee itself is easily accessible on foot once you're in the area.
Directly from New Orleans, you'd typically use the Algiers Ferry and then potentially a short drive or taxi to reach the Gretna side for views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to the Gretna levee and the walking/bike trail is free and open to the public.
The Gretna Ferry Landing itself, as a public access point to the levee, does not have strict operating hours. However, it's best to visit during daylight or early evening hours for safety and enjoyment.
There is no entrance fee for walking or biking on the levee trail. It's a public amenity.
Generally, the levee is open for recreation. However, always be mindful of any posted signs regarding park rules or temporary closures.
While not explicitly stated, public parks and trails often have leash laws. It's advisable to keep pets leashed and clean up after them.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy stunning views of the New Orleans skyline, walk or bike the paved levee trail, and sometimes catch live music in the evenings. It's a great spot to relax.
The most popular views are of the New Orleans skyline, including the city's bridges and architecture, especially beautiful at sunset and night.
Yes, the levee trail is paved and extends for several miles, making it ideal for cycling.
Yes, benches are available along the levee, providing comfortable spots to enjoy the river and city views.
Reviews suggest it's well-protected by local law enforcement, and it's a popular spot for evening activities like live music.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there aren't restaurants directly at the landing, it's conveniently located near many dining options in downtown Gretna.
Downtown Gretna offers an eclectic mix of restaurants, likely featuring local Creole and Cajun cuisine, as well as other options.
Yes, you can bring your own food and have a picnic on the levee, enjoying the views.
Food vendors may be present during special events or live music performances, but it's not a consistent feature.
Research local Gretna restaurants for specific recommendations, as options can vary. Many are within walking distance of the levee.
📸 📸 Photography
The New Orleans skyline, especially at sunset and night, is the prime subject. The Mississippi River and bridges also make for great shots.
Golden hour (just before sunset) and blue hour (just after sunset) offer stunning light for capturing the city skyline. Nighttime provides a vibrant, illuminated view.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the expansive skyline. A tripod can be beneficial for low-light photography at night.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. Be mindful of any private property or specific event restrictions.
Drone usage is subject to FAA regulations and local ordinances. It's crucial to check current rules before flying a drone in this area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't dedicated playgrounds, the sheer expanse of the levee provides ample room for running and playing. Parents should ensure children are supervised, especially near the river's edge. The proximity to downtown Gretna also means easy access to family-friendly dining options after a day of exploring the levee.
🚶♀️ Walkers & Cyclists
It's a popular route for locals and visitors alike, creating a pleasant, active atmosphere. The trail is generally free of major obstacles, making it accessible for various fitness levels. Remember to bring water and wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan on covering a significant distance.
📸 Photographers
Beyond the skyline, the river itself and the vastness of the Mississippi provide opportunities for capturing serene water reflections and expansive landscapes. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for sweeping cityscapes and a tripod for low-light conditions. The levee offers unobstructed views, allowing for creative compositions without many foreground distractions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Gretna Levee Experience
At dusk and into the night, the levee truly comes alive with a different kind of charm. The illuminated skyline of New Orleans provides a breathtaking backdrop, making it a favorite spot for photographers and those seeking a romantic evening. During certain times of the year, particularly in November, the area hosts live music events, adding a vibrant atmosphere to the already picturesque setting. This blend of natural beauty and community events makes the Gretna levee a unique destination.
For those looking to extend their visit, the levee is conveniently located near the heart of downtown Gretna, which boasts a variety of restaurants and local eateries. This proximity allows visitors to easily combine a scenic outing with a culinary exploration. While the ferry is gone, the levee itself offers a compelling reason to visit, providing a tranquil escape with a spectacular urban panorama.
Navigating River Crossings
For those who were specifically interested in the Gretna ferry experience, it's worth understanding that its closure has shifted the focus of the landing to its levee and recreational aspects. However, the spirit of river access and views remains. The Algiers Ferry, while a different point of departure and arrival, still offers a similar experience of traversing the mighty Mississippi. It's advisable to check the schedules and operational status of the Algiers Ferry before planning your trip.






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