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Whether you're craving Creole flavor, jazz-filled streets, or peaceful plantation grounds, Louisiana has it all. While exploring Louisiana, I discovered day trips filled with soulful bayous, vibrant small towns, and moss-draped parks—each one offering a relaxed taste of Southern charm and timeless, scenic beauty. "These places to visit in Louisiana showcase the state's soulful blend of culture, history, and Southern charm."
Highlights:
- Strolling the vibrant French Quarter in New Orleans
- Exploring historic plantations and oak-lined roads in St. Francisville
- Sampling Cajun cuisine and dancing to zydeco in Lafayette
- Cruising through bayous and swamps near Breaux Bridge
- Wandering the riverfront, shops, and historic homes of Natchitoches
Unique Places to Visit in Louisiana:
1. New Orleans
I like:
"Explore vibrant neighborhoods and savor jazz on an exciting weekend trip."
© Courtesy of Natalia Bratslavsky - Fotolia.com
Location:
New Orleans, Louisiana
Highlights:
Located along the
Mississippi River near the
Gulf of Mexico,
New Orleans is a cultural melting pot with a legacy of vibrant music, historic architecture, and unforgettable celebrations.
We Recommend This For:
Nightlife seekers, cultural travelers, music lovers, history buffs, and festival-goers.
What we Love:
From its
French Quarter charm to the
energy of Bourbon Street, New Orleans delivers a one-of-a-kind experience with
live jazzCreole cuisine, and the electric spirit of
Mardi Gras.
- Nightlife: The “Big Easy” lives up to its name with round-the-clock entertainment, buzzing bars, and live music at every turn.
- Culture: A rich tapestry of African, French, Spanish, and Caribbean influences infuses every aspect of life in New Orleans—from its architecture to its food.
- Don't Miss: The famous Mardi Gras Festival in late winter features costumed parades and nonstop celebration throughout the city.
- Must-See: Iconic attractions include the French Quarter, Bourbon Street, the National WWII Museum, and Jackson Square.
2. Baton Rouge
I recommend:
"Visit historic sites and walk along the Mississippi River on an easy getaway."
© Courtesy of SeanPavonePhoto - Fotolia.com
Location:
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Highlights:
Baton Rouge is Louisiana’s
capital city and the
second-largest city in the state, offering a perfect mix of
family attractions,
historic landmarks, and
governmental heritage.
We Recommend This For:
Families, history lovers, museum enthusiasts, and those exploring Louisiana’s cultural and natural richness.
What we Love:
From touring the
current and historic capitol buildings to seeing a
retired Navy destroyer, Baton Rouge delivers education and entertainment in equal measure. Its
proximity to the Atchafalaya Basin also makes it a prime spot for nature excursions.
3. Lafayette
I love:
"Enjoy Cajun cuisine and dance to zydeco on an affordable cultural trip."
© Courtesy of Lafayette CVB
Location:
Lafayette, Louisiana
Highlights:
Lafayette sits along the
Vermilion River in
southwestern Louisiana. As the heart of
Acadiana, Lafayette is a vibrant city celebrated for its strong
Cajun and Creole cultural heritage.
We Recommend This For:
Culture lovers, history buffs, and travelers seeking immersive local traditions and festive energy.
What we Love:
Lafayette is a gateway to the soul of
Cajun country. From
reconstructed 19th-century villages to
modern cultural institutions and
live events, this destination captures the lively spirit of Louisiana like few others.
4. Monroe
I enjoy:
"Tour local museums and stroll scenic gardens during a quick, relaxing weekend."
© Courtesy of timonko - Fotolia.com
Location:
Monroe and West Monroe, Louisiana
Highlights:
The twin cities of
Monroe and West Monroe are located in
northeastern Louisiana and serve as important
educational, economic, and medical centers in the region. With rich aviation history, cultural attractions, and family-friendly sites, these cities offer something for everyone.
We Recommend This For:
Aviation enthusiasts, families, museum-goers, and travelers exploring northern Louisiana’s heritage and charm.
What we Love:
Monroe is the
birthplace of Delta Airlines, and visitors can dive into both military and aviation history at the impressive
Chennault Aviation and Military Museum. Families will find plenty to enjoy, from scenic gardens to wildlife adventures.
- Historic Appeal: Visit the Chennault Aviation and Military Museum to learn about General Claire Chennault and explore a wide range of aviation and military exhibits.
- Aviation Legacy: Discover Monroe’s legacy as the home of Delta Airlines, a landmark in commercial aviation history.
- Family Favorites: Enjoy the Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo or explore elegant Southern heritage at the Biedenharn Museum and Gardens.
- Local Flavor: Stroll through unique shops, dine at local restaurants, and relax in neighborhood taverns that capture the town’s warm spirit.
Romantic Places to Visit in Louisiana:
5. Lake Charles
I like:
"Try your luck at casinos and enjoy lakefront views on a fun trip."
© Courtesy of Jo¨rg Hackemann - Fotolia.com
Location:
Lake Charles, Louisiana
Highlights:
Lake Charles is located in
southwestern Louisiana and is well known for its
vibrant Cajun culture,
outdoor recreation, and
gaming industry. With casinos, nature trails, and water adventures, it’s a well-rounded destination for entertainment and exploration.
We Recommend This For:
Nature lovers, foodies, culture seekers, and anyone looking to combine
outdoor fun with nightlife and casino excitement.
What we Love:
From guided kayak trips along the
Prien Lake to watching alligators on the
Creole Nature Trail, Lake Charles offers a
dynamic blend of nature and culture. Its
undeveloped beaches and
rich Cajun cuisine add to its year-round appeal.
- Casino & Nightlife: Try your luck at four major casino properties and a local racetrack.
- Creole Nature Trail: This All-American Road spans 26 miles of untouched coastline with fishing, crabbing, and scenic wildlife viewing.
- Outdoor Adventure: Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing trips on the Calcasieu River and Prien Lake.
- Cultural Flavor: Explore Cajun music, food, and heritage through local festivals, eateries, and roadside stops along the trail.
6. Houma
I Recommend:
"Discover bayou beauty and savor seafood on an unusual Louisiana adventure."
© Courtesy of tahir - Fotolia.com
Location:
Houma, Louisiana
Highlights:
Houma is a captivating destination known for its blend of
rich Cajun culture and
outdoor adventure. Nestled amid Louisiana's
swamps and wetlands, it provides immersive opportunities for nature lovers and cultural explorers alike.
We Recommend This For:
Geocachers, anglers, foodies, and travelers seeking an
authentic Louisiana bayou experience.
What we Love:
Houma is one of only
50 places worldwide to offer
GeoTours, with more than
50 geocache locations scattered throughout its diverse landscape. Whether you're flying above the wetlands, gliding through bayou waters, or savoring local dishes, this town delivers
adventure and authenticity.
- GeoTours: Enjoy an international geocaching experience with over 50 locations to discover.
- Guided Tours: Learn about Cajun heritage and the natural environment through swamp, airboat, and plantation tours.
- Outdoor Recreation: Charter a fishing trip, cool off in a local swimming hole, or play a scenic round of golf.
- Cultural Celebrations: Experience Cajun food, live music, and festivals like Mardi Gras and other annual events.
7. Bossier City
I like:
"Catch live shows and explore riverfront attractions on a cheap weekend escape."
© Courtesy of Andrea Izzotti - Fotolia.com
Location:
Bossier City, Louisiana
Highlights:
Bossier City sits just across the river from
Shreveport and serves as a vibrant companion city offering
gaming, military history, and outdoor recreation.
We Recommend This For:
Casino enthusiasts, aviation history buffs, nature lovers, and families seeking
fun attractions close to Shreveport.
What we Love:
Whether you’re hoping to try your luck at the
Horseshoe Casino, explore
Air Force aviation history, or take a walk through the
Red River wetlands, Bossier City offers something for every traveler’s pace.
- Casino Attractions: Enjoy gaming, gourmet dining, and luxury amenities at Horseshoe Bossier City.
- Barksdale Global Power Museum: View vintage military aircraft and learn about Air Force history at this museum inside Barksdale AFB.
- Red River National Wildlife Refuge: A peaceful nature preserve offering hiking, birding, and wildlife viewing near the city, complete with an interpretive visitor center.
Family-friendly Places to Visit in Louisiana:
8. Alexandria
I enjoy:
"Visit art museums and admire historic architecture during an easy day trip."
© Courtesy of azure - Fotolia.com
Location:
Alexandria, Louisiana
Highlights:
Located on the
southern banks of the Red River in
central Louisiana,
Alexandria is a charming city offering
a mix of
historical insight, cultural heritage, and family-friendly fun.
We Recommend This For:
History enthusiasts, cultural travelers, and families with young children or animal lovers.
What We Love:
From its
Harlem Renaissance roots at the Arna Bontemps African American Museum
to the
naturalistic animal exhibits at the Alexandria Zoo, the city is rich in
learning and leisure. It's also a perfect midpoint stop for exploring central Louisiana.
- Arna Bontemps African American Museum: Visit the birthplace of this celebrated poet and author, and view original works, photos, and historical artifacts.
- Louisiana History Museum: A comprehensive look into local and state history with engaging exhibits in downtown Alexandria.
- Alexandria Zoological Park: Enjoy a day at the family-friendly zoo, featuring wildlife in free-roaming habitats and educational programs year-round.
9. Shreveport
I like:
"Walk along the Red River and enjoy downtown sights on a spring getaway."
© Courtesy of SeanPavonePhoto - Fotolia.com
Location:
Shreveport, Louisiana
Highlights:
Located near the
Red River in northwest Louisiana,
Shreveport is the state’s
third-largest city
and a vibrant destination for
art, entertainment, and shopping.
We Recommend This For:
Art and culture enthusiasts, live music fans, architecture lovers, and shoppers looking for great outlet deals.
What We Love:
The city’s blend of
historic charm and modern entertainment is unbeatable. From the
R.W. Norton Art Gallery
to lively concerts at the
Shreveport Municipal Auditorium,
there’s always something inspiring going on.
- R.W. Norton Art Gallery: A top-tier art museum with an impressive collection of American and European works amid tranquil gardens.
- Live Entertainment Venues: Enjoy shows, concerts, and sporting events at the Municipal Auditorium and Hirsch Coliseum.
- Holy Trinity Catholic Church: Explore this Romanesque Revival cathedral, a gem of historic Shreveport architecture.
- Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets: Find great deals and riverfront views at one of the region’s top shopping destinations.
10. Jackson Square
I like:
"See street performers and explore iconic landmarks on a lively family outing."
© SeanPavonePhoto/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Jackson Square, New Orleans, Louisiana
Highlights:
Located in the heart of the
French Quarter,
Jackson Square is a beloved
historic park
and a key landmark in
New Orleans. It is famous as the site where
Louisiana was made a U.S. territory in the
Louisiana Purchase.
We Recommend This For:
History lovers, art admirers, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone visiting the French Quarter for the first time.
What We Love:
Jackson Square beautifully blends
American history, local art, and European architecture. The statue of
Andrew Jackson,
hero of the
Battle of New Orleans,
anchors the square, surrounded by a vibrant
artist colony and historic buildings.
- Historic Significance: The square marks the official site of the Louisiana Purchase transfer to the U.S.
- Iconic Statue: A bronze statue of Andrew Jackson stands at the center.
- Architectural Landmarks: Includes the Saint Louis Cathedral,
the Presbytere and
Cabildo, plus the Pontalba Apartments—
the oldest apartment buildings in the U.S.
- Shopping & Dining: The ground floors of the Pontalba buildings house restaurants, shops, and art galleries.
- Artist Colony: The square is home to an open-air art market, with local artists displaying their work along the iron fence.
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
- What makes Louisiana a special place to visit?
- What is the landscape like in southern Louisiana?
- The southern half of the state along the Gulf of Mexico is a wild and unique land of lakes, swamps, bayou life, and alligators.
- What is the landscape like in northern Louisiana?
- The northern part of the state is comprised of prairies and farmland.
- What is the largest city in Louisiana known for?
- What makes New Orleans unique?
- New Orleans is also known for its colonial-era French Quarter, world-class jazz music, and uniquely regional Cajun and Creole food.
Best Time to Visit Louisiana
- February to April – Mild weather, blooming azaleas, and festive Mardi Gras celebrations.
- October to November – Comfortable temps, fewer crowds, and fall food and music festivals.
- May & September – Shoulder season with manageable heat and fewer tourists.
- June to August – Hot, humid, and rainy but packed with summer concerts and events.
- Late February – Ideal for Mardi Gras parades, live music, and vibrant street life.
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