Avondale Shipyard Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites in New Orleans
Date: 14/06/2025
Introduction
Positioned on the west bank of the Mississippi River near New Orleans, Avondale Shipyard is a landmark of American industrial and maritime history. Established in 1938, the site grew from a modest barge repair yard into one of the nation’s largest shipbuilding operations, especially pivotal during World War II and the Cold War. At its height, Avondale employed around 26,000 workers, profoundly shaping the region’s economy and community life. In recent years, the site has been transformed into the Avondale Global Gateway—a modern logistics and manufacturing hub—ushering in a new era of economic vitality for the Gulf South.
This detailed guide presents the history of Avondale Shipyard, from its founding through expansion and eventual closure, and highlights its ongoing redevelopment. It offers practical information for visitors, including current hours, ticketing, accessibility, and nearby attractions, as well as insights into special events and photographic opportunities for history and maritime enthusiasts.
For a more in-depth look at the shipyard’s evolution and redevelopment, see resources such as New Orleans Historical, Company Histories, GNO Inc., and JEDCO.
Historical Overview
Founding and Early Development (1938–1945)
Avondale Shipyard began in 1938 as Avondale Marine Ways, Inc., established by James Grinstead Viavant, Harry Koch, and Perry N. Ellis. Its initial mission was barge repair and construction to serve Mississippi river traffic (New Orleans Historical; Company Histories). By 1941, employment had grown to 200, a notable figure for the era and the region.
World War II brought major government contracts, first for tugboats and then for M3 coastal cargo ships. Avondale rapidly expanded its workforce and facilities, becoming a critical supplier of tankers, tugs, and supply vessels to the U.S. government (Company Histories).
Postwar Expansion and Diversification (1946–1960)
Post-war, Avondale diversified, building drilling barges, workboats, and pioneering its first submersible drilling barge in 1951—a response to Louisiana’s growing offshore oil industry (Company Histories). The company expanded with new sites and four major divisions: Main Yard, Service Foundry, Harvey “Quick Repair” Yard, and Avoncraft (New Orleans Historical). The company rebranded as Avondale Shipyards, Inc. in 1960.
Golden Age and National Prominence (1960s–1980s)
During these decades, Avondale became a major supplier to the U.S. Navy, constructing destroyer escorts, frigates, fleet oilers, landing craft, and commercial tankers (Company Histories). At its peak, it was Louisiana’s largest private employer with around 26,000 workers (GNO Inc.; Wikipedia). The shipyard’s strategic location and scale fueled both military and commercial production, and it became a source of regional pride and economic stability.
Modernization and Corporate Changes (1980s–2000s)
Facing global competition and industry changes, Avondale launched a major modernization drive in the 1990s, supported by significant federal investment (Company Histories). Ownership changed hands multiple times: from Litton Industries to Northrop Grumman in 2000, and later to Huntington Ingalls Industries in 2011 (Wikipedia; WorkBoat).
Decline and Closure (1990s–2014)
Shrinking military contracts and the end of government subsidies led to workforce reductions and, ultimately, closure. The final Navy ship, USS Somerset, departed in 2014 (GNO Inc.; Wikipedia; gCaptain).
Redevelopment: Avondale Global Gateway (2018–Present)
After its closure, the 254-acre site was acquired in 2018 by Avondale Marine LLC, a joint venture between T. Parker Host and Hilco Redevelopment Partners (WorkBoat; gCaptain). Extensive renovations, environmental remediation, and infrastructure upgrades have transformed the site into the Avondale Global Gateway, attracting new tenants and industry partners (New Orleans CityBusiness).
Notable features include a $2 million gate complex, active Union Pacific rail access, and more than 1.5 million square feet of warehouse and manufacturing space (New Orleans CityBusiness; Marine Log). The site is projected to generate thousands of jobs and billions in economic output.
Social and Cultural Significance
Avondale Shipyard shaped the social fabric of Jefferson Parish and New Orleans, providing stable, well-paying jobs and fostering a sense of community. Its closure was a significant loss, but ongoing redevelopment offers hope for renewed prosperity and continued relevance (GNO Inc.).
Visiting Avondale Shipyard / Avondale Global Gateway
Current Visiting Hours and Ticketing
As of June 2025, the Avondale site operates primarily as an active industrial and logistics facility. There are no regular public visiting hours or daily ticketed tours. Access is generally limited to special events, open houses, and educational tours coordinated with local agencies like JEDCO or directly through T. Parker Host (JEDCO).
For the most up-to-date information on upcoming public events or tours, contact JEDCO, T. Parker Host, or visit their websites.
Accessibility, Safety, and Visitor Guidelines
- Access: Entry is by private vehicle only; public transportation is limited. Secure access is managed through the main gate complex.
- Safety: Industrial safety protocols are strictly enforced. Visitors must comply with all site rules, including closed-toe shoes and guidance from staff.
- Accessibility: Some areas are accessible to individuals with disabilities, but arrangements should be made in advance for accommodations.
- Photography: Permission is required; photography is restricted in operational zones.
Special Events, Guided Tours, and Education
- Tours: Offered occasionally by appointment, typically in conjunction with local economic development or maritime heritage organizations.
- Events: Open houses or heritage celebrations may feature guided walks, presentations, and access to select shipyard areas.
- Educational Programs: Avondale participates in regional maritime festivals and offers educational outreach.
Visual and Interactive Media
- Virtual Tours: Explore the site remotely through virtual tours and high-quality images on JEDCO and related platforms.
- On-Site Interpretation: When available, guided tours feature interpretive panels and insights into shipbuilding history and the redevelopment process.
Nearby Attractions and Suggested Itinerary
- Jean Lafitte National Historical Park: Nature and heritage trails.
- Historic towns of Gretna and Westwego: Quaint local culture.
- New Orleans French Quarter: Just a short drive away, with world-famous music, food, and architecture.
- Mississippi Riverfront: Ideal for river cruises and industrial heritage tours (Adventure Life).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I visit Avondale Shipyard/Global Gateway anytime?
A: No. The site is not open to the general public except during special events or by appointment.
Q: Are there entrance fees?
A: There is no standard admission or ticketing; special event fees may apply.
Q: Is the site accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Accessibility varies. Contact event organizers or site administrators ahead of time.
Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Photography is restricted. Permission must be obtained for any photos.
Q: What local attractions can I combine with a visit to Avondale?
A: The French Quarter, Jean Lafitte Park, and riverfront tours are all nearby.
Key Milestones
- 1938: Avondale Marine Ways founded.
- 1941–1945: Expansion during WWII.
- 1951: First submersible drilling barge built.
- 1960: Renamed Avondale Shipyards, Inc.
- 1980s: Peak employment of 26,000.
- 1994–1995: Major modernization.
- 2000: Acquired by Northrop Grumman.
- 2011: Became part of Huntington Ingalls Industries.
- 2014: Shipyard closure.
- 2018: Site acquired for redevelopment.
- 2022–2025: Active transformation into a logistics hub.
Conclusion
Avondale Shipyard’s journey—from a modest river repair yard to a shipbuilding giant and now a state-of-the-art logistics gateway—mirrors the resilience and adaptability of New Orleans and the Gulf South. While public access is restricted, special events and guided tours offer unique glimpses into this iconic site. Visitors are encouraged to connect with local agencies for tour opportunities, enrich their understanding at nearby historical attractions, and stay updated through official channels.
For the latest news, events, and resources on Avondale Shipyard and other New Orleans historical sites, download the Audiala app and follow us on social media.
