Lafitte Blacksmith Shop

Overview

Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar is one of the oldest surviving structures in New Orleans, a French colonial cottage built between 1722 and 1772. Operating as a bar since the 1940s, it is lit almost entirely by candlelight.

Highlights

• Candlelit Interior: No electric lighting — the bar glows with candles and fireplace light.
• Historic Architecture: Briquette-entre-poteaux (brick-between-posts) construction.
• Purple Drank: The signature frozen drink is a local favorite.

History

Legend attributes the building to the privateer Jean Lafitte, who allegedly used it as a base for his smuggling operation. The building's actual history as a smithy is debated by historians.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Go at night when the candlelight atmosphere is at its best.
• Tip 2: The piano bar in the back room has live music most evenings.
• Duration: 45 minutes–1 hour.