Visit Jefferson Parish’s Violet Peters showcases the parish’s diverse attractions, from Grand Isle beaches and fishing to disc golf, festivals and youth sports.
Jefferson Parish Offers Diverse Experiences
Jefferson Parish gives visitors access to a wide range of Louisiana experiences, from the metropolitan New Orleans area to swamps, nature trails and the Gulf Coast.
Violet Peters of Visit Jefferson Parish recently joined Mornings with Brian Haldane to discuss the parish’s growing tourism industry. She highlighted Grand Isle, which offers seven miles of beach, fishing and outdoor recreation.
Peters also discussed the return of the Big Easy Open disc golf tournament, which will move to Park D in Jefferson Parish. The event adds another attraction to the parish’s expanding outdoor sports lineup.
Tourism Complements New Orleans
Peters said Jefferson Parish and New Orleans work together to create a stronger regional tourism experience. Visitors staying in New Orleans can easily explore Jefferson Parish through swamp tours, state parks, historic areas and outdoor activities.
She encouraged travelers to experience both destinations rather than choosing one over the other.
The parish also attracts visitors through local traditions such as its popular snowball stands. Peters noted that snowballs remain an important part of local culture and a favorite way for residents and visitors to beat the summer heat.
Sports Drive Economic Growth
Youth sports remain a major tourism market for Jefferson Parish. The new Westwego Sports Complex adds eight fields for baseball, soccer and other events, giving the parish more capacity to host tournaments and visiting families.
Peters said larger sporting events bring visitors who fill hotels, eat at local restaurants and support businesses throughout the community.
The parish also welcomes military reunion groups, who benefit from Jefferson Parish’s proximity to attractions such as The National WWII Museum in New Orleans.
Meanwhile, Gretna will offer “Gretna Festing” throughout October, featuring free concerts with acts including Third Eye Blind, The Spinners with Irma Thomas, Shane Smith & the Saints and Gretchen Wilson.