For history lovers, getting the opportunity to visit a historic fort can be a dream come true. Luckily, Louisiana has several forts peppered around the state that are perfect for an afternoon adventure, and Fort Jackson should be at the top of the list.

Located way down at the tip of the boot, this beautiful historical attraction has played many roles in its lifetime, making it one of the most unique forts in Louisiana. Let’s check it out.

Down in Plaquemines Parish at the base of the Mighty Mississippi lies one of the most important forts built to protect New Orleans.
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Protecting New Orleans has always been challenging, considering how many bodies of water surround the Crescent City.
Fort Jackson was built between 1822 and 1832.
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It’s named after Andrew Jackson, who recommended that the fort be built in the first place. It replaced an older fort a little further up the river, Fort Bourbon, which was built from wood and other materials in 1792. Not surprisingly, this fort could not withstand the conditions and was destroyed by a hurricane.
Between Fort Jackson and the Fort St. Philip across the river, any ships that wanted entry to the Mississippi River had to pass through these forts first.
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Control over the Mississippi River was paramount, and these forts secured it. In theory, at least!

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Unlike many of the forts in Louisiana, Fort Jackson was the site of a major battle during the American Civil War.
Ira Lozovsky/Google
During the Battle of Forts Jackson and St. Philip from April 16-18, 1862 Union forces pounded both forts with heavy cannon fire for days before Confederate soldiers surrendered on April 28, and Union forces went on to capture New Orleans.
Since then, the fort has been used for several different purposes.
Alexandre Pellerin/Google
It’s been used as a prison, a training facility, and was even refortified for the Spanish American War. During the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, it was used as a treatment facility for oily birds and other wildlife.
Fort Jackson was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1960 and is open to the public to visit.
Reva Mitchell/Google
Due to the years of hurricanes, the fort has seen better days, so there may be some sections that are blocked off for safety, but it’s still worth a road trip from any corner of the state.
You can find Fort Jackson at 38039 LA-23, Buras, LA 70041.
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Pack up the car and set off on an adventure you won't soon forget!

Have you ever visited Fort Jackson? Let us know in the comments below!

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Fort Jackson, Buras-Triumph, LA 70041, USA