Day Trips from New Orleans, Louisiana

Location:

Lake Charles, LA

Highlights:

If you're heading out from New Orleans and craving a weekend packed with food, music, and nature, Lake Charles hits all the right notes. It’s the kind of easy getaway where every hour feels like a new adventure.

We Recommend This For:

Food lovers, culture seekers, music fans, road trippers, and anyone looking to explore southwest Louisiana’s rich flavor and scenery.

What we Love:

The vibrant downtown arts scene, the iconic Creole Nature Trail, and the chance to sample authentic boudin sausage right on the Boudin Trail.

• Explore downtown’s Central School Arts & Humanities Center, where local artists and musicians showcase their work in a charming 1912 building.
• Stroll or drive along the Lake Charles Boudin Trail, with stops to taste traditional Louisiana sausage from legendary local spots.
• Wander the Creole Nature Trail—this 180-mile scenic byway hugs 26 miles of Gulf beaches and is filled with chances to spot gators, birds, and wild coastal beauty.
• Unwind at the lakefront parks, sip on craft cocktails, or catch live Zydeco and jazz in the city’s many music venues.

Distance from New Orleans:

Around 3 hours and 15 minutes by car (215 miles west on I-10).

How to Get to Lake Charles:

Take I-10 W out of New Orleans and stay on it all the way—Lake Charles is just past Lafayette, with plenty of places to stop for snacks or photo ops along the way.

Location:

Gulfport, MS

Highlights:

Coming from New Orleans and looking for breezy coastal vibes and family-friendly fun? Gulfport is just the ticket—easy to reach, packed with things to do, and full of that laid-back Mississippi charm.

We Recommend This For:

Families, outdoor adventurers, beachgoers, nature watchers, and seafood lovers.

What we Love:

Water fun for all ages, hands-on museums, coastal nature conservation, and fresh Gulf seafood served with a smile.

• Play at Gulf Islands Waterpark or rent kayaks, jet skis, or hop aboard a fishing charter for fun on the water.
• Discover family favorites like The Lynn Meadows Discovery Center and the Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum for interactive exhibits and kid-friendly experiences.
• Bike around town with rentals from Magnolia City Rides, or explore local shops and eateries for a relaxed day on land.
• Watch for Least Tern nesting areas along Highway 90—this protected bird habitat is part of a designated Globally Important Bird Area (IBA).
• Feast on Gulf seafood staples like Po Boys, shrimp plates, and fresh fish at locally loved spots around town.

Distance from New Orleans:

About 1 hour and 15 minutes by car—roughly 80 miles via I-10 East.

How to Get to Gulfport:

Take I-10 E out of New Orleans and continue for about 70 miles. Exit toward downtown Gulfport or follow signs to the beach and waterfront attractions.

Location:

Abita Springs, LA

Highlights:

If you're in New Orleans and craving a quick escape that’s both fun and family-friendly, Abita Springs is a gem just across the lake. Think craft beer, tree-lined trails, and small-town charm all rolled into one.

We Recommend This For:

Families, cyclists, beer enthusiasts, and weekend road trippers looking for a relaxed yet engaging day out.

What we Love:

The peaceful Tammany Trace Bike Trail, creative kids' playground, and local eats and brews at the cozy Abita Brew Pub.

• Bike, walk, or jog along the Tammany Trace—a 31-mile rail-trail that cuts through lush St. Tammany Parish scenery and brings you right into town.
• Eat at the Abita Brew Pub, where you can pair award-winning Abita Beer with crawfish cakes, burgers, and fresh salads.
• Play at the sustainable playground built from recycled materials—located conveniently next to the Trace trailhead, it’s designed to challenge kids physically and mentally.
• Stroll the main street filled with local shops and friendly locals who make Abita Springs feel like home.

Distance from New Orleans:

About 1 hour and 15 minutes by car, including the scenic Lake Pontchartrain Causeway route.

How to Get to Abita Springs:

Take the Causeway north to Mandeville, then follow signs to Abita Springs via LA-59 N. It’s a smooth, easy drive with plenty of roadside charm.

Location:

Shell Beach, LA

Highlights:

If you’re in New Orleans and just want a peaceful day by the water, Shell Beach is a quick escape with real Gulf Coast beauty. It’s low-key, super scenic, and perfect for fishing, birding, or just floating in the sun.

We Recommend This For:

Bird watchers, anglers, boaters, and anyone craving a quiet, natural beach day close to the city.

What we Love:

The calm, protected waters of Lake Borgne, fantastic redfish fishing, and the sense of true solitude just an hour from downtown.

• Relax on the quiet shores of Lake Borgne, an inland lagoon formed by the Gulf—ideal for a peaceful beach experience away from crowds.
• Birdwatch throughout the year, with great chances to see both native and migratory species.
• Swim in the warmer months or rent a boat to explore the water year-round.
• Fish for redfish and other local catches—charters are available through several nearby outfitters for guided adventures.

Distance from New Orleans:

Around 1 hour by car, depending on traffic and exact starting point.

How to Get to Shell Beach:

Head southeast on LA-46 (St. Bernard Highway) through Chalmette and continue to Yscloskey Highway—Shell Beach is at the road’s end near Lake Borgne.

Location:

Avery Island, LA

Highlights:

If you’re heading out from New Orleans and want a mix of flavor, history, and nature, Avery Island is a must. It’s where Louisiana spice meets lush botanical beauty—all in one unforgettable stop.

We Recommend This For:

Foodies, nature lovers, bird watchers, history buffs, and road trippers looking for a unique southern Louisiana experience.

What we Love:

Touring the historic Tabasco factory, exploring the exotic Jungle Gardens, and spotting birds in a tranquil sanctuary—plus, all the hot sauce you can handle.

• Tour the Tabasco Factory and Museum, where the iconic sauce has been made since 1868—learn the story and see how it’s crafted from seed to bottle.
• Taste authentic Cajun and southern dishes at the onsite Tabasco restaurant—yes, they serve it spicy.
• Explore the 170-acre Jungle Gardens, filled with native and exotic plants, moss-draped oaks, and tranquil pathways.
• Watch for birds at the sanctuary inside Jungle Gardens—daily tours are available by reservation and showcase both native and migrating species.
• Learn about the island’s fascinating geology, formed by ancient salt domes beneath the surface.

Distance from New Orleans:

Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes by car—about 130 miles west via I-10 and LA-329.

How to Get to Avery Island:

Take I-10 W toward Lafayette, then LA-14 to New Iberia. From there, follow signs to Avery Island via LA-329. A small entry fee covers access to the island and gardens.

Romantic Day Trips from New Orleans:

Location:

Baton Rouge, LA

Highlights:

Need a quick getaway from New Orleans that blends history, architecture, and culture? Baton Rouge delivers big with riverside views, towering landmarks, and museums for all ages.

We Recommend This For:

History lovers, architecture buffs, museum hoppers, families, and anyone curious about Louisiana’s capital city charm.

What we Love:

Touring both the old and new capitol buildings, strolling the Mississippi riverfront, and diving into science, art, and history in just one visit.

• Visit the Gothic-style Old State Capitol, a national landmark perched above the Mississippi River and filled with fascinating exhibits.
• Take in the view from the 34th floor of the modern State Capitol—the tallest in the U.S. and steeped in Louisiana political history.
• Explore the Louisiana Art and Science Museum, home to interactive exhibits, an impressive planetarium, and traveling collections.
• Step back in time at the Audubon State Historic Site, a 100-acre property featuring Oakley House, where artist John James Audubon once lived and worked.

Distance from New Orleans:

Around 1 hour and 20 minutes by car—roughly 80 miles via I-10 West.

How to Get to Baton Rouge:

Take I-10 W directly from New Orleans and follow signs into downtown Baton Rouge. Parking is available near most major attractions.

Location:

Bayou St. John, New Orleans, LA

Highlights:

If you're staying in New Orleans and want to experience a quieter, more charming slice of the city—Bayou St. John is a dream. It’s where locals go to stroll, sip coffee, paddleboard, and just breathe.

We Recommend This For:

Walkers, paddlers, architecture lovers, café hoppers, and anyone looking to unwind in one of NOLA’s most picturesque neighborhoods.

What we Love:

Tree-lined Esplanade Avenue, peaceful waterside activities, the Edgar Degas House, and a stylish blend of local eats and shops.

• Wander down Esplanade Avenue past Creole townhouses and the historic Edgar Degas House, where the famous artist lived and painted.
• Browse locally owned boutiques and sip something refreshing at the neighborhood’s beloved cafés and juice bars.
• Paddle or kayak along Bayou St. John itself—gear rentals are available nearby and it’s one of the calmest spots to get on the water.
• Relax with yoga on the bayou, or stretch out on the grassy banks for a sunny picnic among locals and live oaks.

Distance from French Quarter:

Just 10 minutes by car or 15 minutes by bike via Lafitte Greenway.

How to Get to Bayou St. John:

Start on Esplanade Avenue and head north, or follow the Lafitte Greenway by bike or on foot. Parking is available along side streets near the bayou.

Location:

Bush, LA

Highlights:

If you're coming from New Orleans and want a peaceful day in the country with a few furry friends, Bush is a sweet, easy escape. Think trail rides, baby goats, and wide-open skies—perfect for a family outing or a quiet reset.

We Recommend This For:

Families with kids, animal lovers, horseback riding fans, and anyone craving a rural Louisiana experience just outside the city.

What we Love:

The hands-on petting zoo, scenic trail rides for all ages, and a friendly bed and breakfast that welcomes day guests.

• Visit Splendor Farms, a family-run property offering a full petting zoo, horseback riding stables, and even a dachshund kennel that’s too cute to miss.
• Ride on a guided trail through the farm’s beautiful woodlands—available to both overnight and day guests with advance reservation.
• Stay at their charming bed and breakfast, or just come for a half-day farm visit with the kids.
• Unwind in a quiet town with easy access to nature, tucked away northeast of Covington in scenic St. Tammany Parish.

Distance from New Orleans:

Just under 1.5 hours by car, depending on traffic—roughly 60 miles via the Causeway and LA-21 North.

How to Get to Bush:

Take the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway to Covington, then follow LA-21 N to LA-40 E toward Bush. Follow signs for Splendor Farms on Highway 40.

Family Day Trips from New Orleans:

Location:

De Soto National Forest, MS

Highlights:

If you're craving fresh air and wide open wilderness, De Soto National Forest is an easy escape from New Orleans. Just a short drive gets you to streams, pinewoods, scenic trails, and some of the best backcountry in Mississippi.

We Recommend This For:

Hikers, paddlers, horseback riders, nature lovers, campers, and families looking for an affordable outdoor adventure.

What we Love:

The peaceful Black Creek Scenic River, wide-ranging wildlife, and tons of space to hike, fish, paddle, or just breathe deep in nature.

• Hike or bike through a network of scenic forest trails, with routes for every skill level—some trails are also open to ATVs and horseback riders.
• Paddle Black Creek, Mississippi’s only National Scenic River, offering serene water views and quiet wildlife encounters with wood ducks and otters.
• Camp at the Big Biloxi Recreation Area, where you’ll find picnic spots, bathhouses, and riverside campsites perfect for families or weekend getaways.
• Fish & Hunt within season—just check local regulations for permits and protected areas.
• Explore rare ecosystems like cypress swamps, buttercup flats, and hardwood bottoms—ideal for birdwatchers and photographers.

Distance from New Orleans:

Around 1 hour and 45 minutes by car—roughly 90 miles northeast via I-10 E and US-49 N.

How to Get to De Soto National Forest:

Take I-10 E toward Gulfport, then head north on US-49 toward Wiggins. Look for signs to forest entrances and recreation areas. For Big Biloxi and trail access, go to 654 West Frontage Rd, Wiggins, MS 39577.

Location:

Folsom, LA

Highlights:

If you're coming from New Orleans and looking for something totally unique and fun for all ages, Global Wildlife Center is a wild day out you won’t forget. You’ll be face to face with giraffes, zebras, and more—without ever leaving Louisiana.

We Recommend This For:

Families, animal lovers, photographers, school groups, and anyone looking for an unforgettable safari-style adventure.

What we Love:

The close encounters with exotic animals, friendly and educational guides, and the chance to feed wildlife in a natural setting.

• Tour the 900-acre preserve on a 75-minute Safari Tour aboard an open-air train—see giraffes, camels, zebras, bison, kangaroos, and more roaming free.
• Upgrade to a Private Tour in a Pinzgauer all-terrain vehicle for a more intimate, customizable experience with up to 8 guests.
• Feed the animals with a bucket or cup of feed available for purchase—perfect for up-close photo ops and gentle interactions.
• Explore the beautiful countryside setting, complete with a lake and twelve serene ponds where wildlife naturally gathers.

Distance from New Orleans:

About 1 hour and 15 minutes by car—roughly 60 miles north via the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway and LA-25 N.

How to Get to Global Wildlife Center:

Take the Causeway north to Covington, then follow LA-25 N to LA-40 W toward Folsom. The center is located at 26389 Hwy 40, Folsom, LA 70437. Call 985-796-3585 for tour reservations.