Best Places to Visit in Louisiana
For me, Louisiana isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s about the unique spirit of each destination, the traditions you experience, and the favorite memories you make along the way.
Whenever I think about Louisiana, I picture a state overflowing with culture, history, music, and food that makes every visit unforgettable. From the lively streets of New Orleans to the peaceful beauty of Lake Martin, each place I’ve explored here feels like its own unique world. I’ve discovered hidden gems, tasted flavors that instantly became my favorite, and met people whose hospitality made every stop joyful. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a longer road trip, Louisiana has the absolute best mix of adventure, relaxation, and charm waiting for you.
New Orleans: Rhythm, River, and Unexpected Stillness
When I think of Louisiana, New Orleans is always at the top of my list. This city, near the Mississippi River and just a short drive from the Gulf of Mexico, offers an atmosphere that feels like no other place in the country.
I found strolling through the French Quarter to be a dream experience. The colorful buildings, balconies draped in flowers, and street performers make every corner feel alive with culture and history.
One of my favorite stops was Café du Monde, where I sat with a hot coffee and powdered-sugar beignets while watching the joyful energy of locals and travelers blend together. It’s such a simple but unforgettable tradition.
I also loved exploring the Garden District, a neighborhood filled with oak-lined streets and historic mansions. To me, it felt like a hidden gem where time slows down, and I could just wander for hours soaking in the Southern charm.
At night, the music scene is the absolute best. From jazz clubs on Frenchmen Street to unexpected brass bands in the streets, I couldn’t help but dance and feel swept away by the magic of it all.
We even took a steamboat ride on the Mississippi, which gave us unique views of the city’s skyline. It was both relaxing and exciting, a reminder of the city’s deep connection to the river.
For me, New Orleans is not just a destination. It’s a spectacular blend of history, music, food, and spirit that makes every visit unforgettable and leaves me wanting to return again and again.
Check prices at Hotel Mazarin
River Rhythms in Baton Rouge
When I visited Baton Rouge, I quickly realized how much this city near the banks of the Mississippi River has to offer. It felt like the perfect balance of Louisiana culture, history, and modern energy.
One of my favorite spots was the Louisiana State Capitol, which is actually the tallest capitol building in the country. I loved walking up to the observation deck and seeing spectacular views of the river and city spread out below me.
I also enjoyed exploring the USS Kidd, a World War II destroyer that sits right on the riverfront. It felt like stepping back in time, and it gave me a cool chance to connect with history in such a hands-on way.
Of course, no trip here would be complete without tasting the local flavors. I found family-owned eateries serving gumbo, crawfish étouffée, and boudin, and every bite felt like a joyful reminder of Louisiana’s food culture.
Walking around downtown, I stumbled upon art galleries, live music, and a hidden mix of boutique shops that gave the area its own unique charm. It wasn’t overwhelming like bigger cities, but it had just enough to keep me excited.
We also made time for the LSU campus, which felt like a lively hub of the city. The oak trees, tiger stadium, and student energy made it one of the coolest college campuses I’ve ever seen.
For me, Baton Rouge is an underrated Louisiana gem, combining rich history with a fun, vibrant atmosphere that always leaves me smiling and ready to come back.
Check prices at WATERMARK Baton Rouge
Creole Heat and Cajun Harmony in Lafayette
When I spent time in Lafayette, near the heart of Cajun Country, I immediately felt the warmth of the culture and the rhythm of the city. It’s smaller than New Orleans or Baton Rouge, but it has its own spectacular personality that makes it shine.
One of my favorite experiences was wandering through Vermilionville, a living history museum that brings the region’s French, Spanish, and Native American influences to life. I loved strolling past historic homes and hearing live Cajun and Zydeco music fill the air.
I couldn’t resist diving into the local food scene, which I honestly think is the absolute best part of visiting Lafayette. From spicy crawfish boils to boudin links and gumbo, every meal felt like a joyful celebration of flavor and tradition.
We also visited the Atchafalaya Basin nearby, and I thought it was a hidden treasure. Gliding through the cypress swamps on a boat tour gave me a unique chance to see alligators, birds, and moss-draped trees—it felt like stepping into another world.
In the evenings, I discovered why Lafayette is called the Zydeco capital of the world. We found local dance halls where the music was so exciting and full of energy that I couldn’t help but join the crowd on the dance floor.
What struck me most was how family-friendly the city felt, with festivals, art walks, and outdoor markets that made every moment feel alive. For me, Lafayette is an underrated gem that captures the true spirit of Louisiana in the most joyful way possible.
Bayou Quiet in Monroe
When I visited Monroe, tucked away in northern Louisiana near the Ouachita River, I was surprised by how much character this city has. It may not be as famous as New Orleans or Lafayette, but it’s truly an underrated stop that feels authentic and welcoming.
One of my favorite discoveries was the Biedenharn Museum & Gardens. Walking through the historic home of the first Coca-Cola bottler while enjoying the vibrant gardens was such a cool and unusual experience—I loved the mix of history and beauty.
Another highlight for me was the Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge, just minutes from downtown. I thought it was a hidden gem for nature lovers, with peaceful trails, boardwalks over the water, and plenty of chances to spot birds and alligators in their natural habitat.
We also made time to explore the Northeast Louisiana Children’s Museum, which was perfect for a family outing. I found it joyful to see kids learning through play, and it gave the city a friendly, community-centered vibe.
Downtown Monroe surprised me with its growing arts and dining scene. I tried local spots serving classic Louisiana dishes, and I especially enjoyed how affordable and relaxed everything felt compared to bigger cities.
What stood out most was the way Monroe blended history, culture, and outdoor beauty without feeling crowded or touristy. For me, this city is a spectacular Louisiana gem that offers unique experiences, warm people, and a laid-back charm worth revisiting.
Swamp Beauty and Coastal Warmth in Lake Charles
When I arrived in Lake Charles, near the Texas border and right along the Calcasieu River, I instantly felt the mix of Cajun culture, Southern hospitality, and Gulf Coast charm. It’s a city that surprised me with how much there is to do and see.
One of my favorite stops was the Creole Nature Trail, often called Louisiana’s Outback. Driving along the scenic byway and spotting wildlife in the marshes was such a unique experience, and it gave me a chance to see the state’s natural beauty up close.
I also loved spending time at Prien Lake Park, where I could walk the trails, watch the boats, and enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere. It felt like a hidden retreat right in the middle of the city.
For food, Lake Charles didn’t disappoint. From seafood gumbo to fresh crawfish, every restaurant I tried served meals that were both affordable and packed with flavor. Sitting down to eat felt like joining in on a joyful tradition with the locals.
We also checked out the local casinos, which added an exciting twist to the trip. Between live music, entertainment, and a bit of gaming, it gave me a fun night out without needing to travel far.
What I enjoyed most was the way Lake Charles combined outdoor adventure, cultural flavor, and laid-back relaxation. For me, it’s an underrated Louisiana gem that’s perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer stay where you can soak in everything at your own pace.
Check prices at the casinos
Bayou Culture and Southern Soul in Houma
When I visited Houma, down in the bayou country of southern Louisiana near the Gulf of Mexico, I felt like I had stepped into a completely different side of the state. The city had such a unique mix of Cajun culture, swamp scenery, and warm hospitality that instantly drew me in.
One of my favorite experiences was taking a swamp tour through the nearby wetlands. Gliding past cypress trees draped in Spanish moss while spotting alligators and herons was an absolutely spectacular way to connect with Louisiana’s natural beauty.
I also enjoyed exploring the Bayou Terrebonne Waterlife Museum, where I learned about the fishing traditions and maritime history that shaped the community. It felt like a hidden gem where every exhibit told a story worth hearing.
Food in Houma was a joyful highlight. I sat down for bowls of gumbo, fried shrimp po’boys, and fresh crawfish that reminded me why Cajun cuisine is my favorite comfort food in the world. The flavors here felt authentic and cooked with heart.
Walking around downtown Houma, I found murals, local shops, and live music that added an exciting layer of culture to the small-town feel. It was a cool surprise to see how lively and creative the community was.
What I loved most was how Houma felt both peaceful and full of life. For me, it’s an underrated Louisiana gem—perfect for a family getaway or a quiet escape into the bayou, where every day feels connected to nature and tradition.
Slidell Serenity
When I made my way to Slidell, just northeast of New Orleans and close to the Mississippi border, I was struck by how this small city felt like both a peaceful retreat and a lively hub. Its location near Lake Pontchartrain gave it a cool coastal charm that I really enjoyed.
One of my favorite activities was taking a boat ride through Honey Island Swamp. Seeing alligators, turtles, and birds in their natural setting was such a unique experience, and the scenery felt absolutely spectacular with the mossy cypress trees reflecting on the water.
I also discovered the Slidell Historic Antique District, which turned out to be a hidden gem. Walking through shops filled with antiques, local art, and cozy cafés gave me the perfect chance to slow down and take in the city’s character.
We stopped at local seafood restaurants, and I have to say, the crawfish and oysters here were some of the best I’ve had in Louisiana. Dining in Slidell felt joyful and authentic, especially since so many of the spots are family-owned and welcoming.
Another highlight for me was Olde Towne Slidell, where live music, festivals, and outdoor markets made the evenings exciting and full of energy. It had that small-town feel but with plenty of things to do.
What stood out most was how affordable and relaxed everything felt compared to larger Louisiana cities. For me, Slidell is an underrated getaway near New Orleans, offering a mix of nature, culture, and Cajun flavor that makes every visit memorable.
Quiet Layers of Covington
When I visited Covington, tucked away on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain, I immediately felt the laid-back charm of this Louisiana town. Just a short drive from New Orleans, it struck me as a peaceful escape with a unique personality all its own.
One of my favorite spots was the Covington Trailhead, where I started a bike ride along the Tammany Trace. The scenic path through forests and wetlands felt like a hidden treasure, and it was such a joyful way to connect with nature.
I also loved exploring the historic downtown district. The streets were lined with art galleries, boutiques, and cozy cafés, giving me the absolute best mix of small-town character and creative energy.
Stopping by the Covington Farmers Market turned out to be an exciting highlight. I sampled fresh produce, homemade jams, and local crafts while listening to live music—it felt like the whole community came together in one vibrant spot.
Food here was another win for me. From farm-to-table restaurants to classic Cajun eateries, every meal felt authentic and flavorful. Sitting down with locals over gumbo or shrimp and grits reminded me why Louisiana cuisine is my favorite.
What I enjoyed most was the slower pace. Covington offered a spectacular balance of outdoor adventure, cultural discovery, and small-town warmth. For me, it’s an underrated Louisiana gem, perfect for a romantic weekend or a family getaway where every moment feels special.
Town of Abita Springs
When I arrived in Abita Springs, just north of Lake Pontchartrain, I felt like I had stumbled upon a small Louisiana town with a big personality. It’s only a short drive from New Orleans, but the atmosphere here felt worlds away—calm, quirky, and full of charm.
One of my favorite stops was the Abita Springs Trailhead Museum, right in the heart of town. I loved how it blended local history with fun exhibits, giving me a joyful sense of the community’s roots and traditions. It was also the perfect starting point for exploring the Tammany Trace trail.
I couldn’t resist checking out the famous Abita Brewery nearby, where sampling craft beers straight from the source felt like a cool and relaxing way to spend the afternoon. The tours gave me a deeper appreciation for how this little town made such a big mark on Louisiana’s brewing scene.
Walking through the town center, I found colorful houses, local shops, and a hidden gem in the form of quirky art installations that gave Abita Springs a creative and unique vibe. Everything felt laid-back and welcoming.
We also stopped at the Abita Springs Opry, where live music created an absolutely spectacular night filled with Cajun, country, and folk sounds. The energy was exciting and community-driven, reminding me why small towns often offer the best experiences.
For me, Abita Springs was an underrated Louisiana getaway that combined history, creativity, and Southern hospitality in the most joyful way. I left already planning my next visit.
Lake Martin
When I visited Lake Martin, just a short drive from Lafayette, I felt like I had discovered one of Louisiana’s most spectacular natural treasures. The still waters, towering cypress trees, and hanging Spanish moss gave it a dreamlike beauty I’ll never forget.
One of my favorite experiences was taking a boat tour at sunrise. Watching the mist rise from the water while herons, egrets, and even alligators stirred around me felt like stepping into a hidden world that was both peaceful and exciting at the same time.
I also loved wandering along the nature trails that wrap around parts of the lake. Every turn brought me closer to wildlife, and it gave me a joyful sense of connection to Louisiana’s unique wetlands.
For photographers and birdwatchers, Lake Martin is the absolute best place to spend the day. I couldn’t believe how close I was able to get to nesting birds—it was an unusual and unforgettable opportunity.
We packed a simple picnic and found a shady spot by the water’s edge. Sitting there, listening to the sounds of the swamp, felt like the coolest kind of getaway—affordable, relaxing, and filled with natural wonder.
What struck me most was how underrated this spot is compared to bigger Louisiana attractions. For me, Lake Martin is a true gem, offering unique wildlife, peaceful scenery, and a magic atmosphere that makes every visit feel special.
Conclusion
Looking back on my travels through Louisiana, I can honestly say this state is filled with underrated treasures and spectacular experiences that always leave me wanting more. Each city and town offers its own personality—sometimes exciting, sometimes peaceful, but always unforgettable. For me, Louisiana isn’t just a place to visit, it’s a place that captures the heart with its magic blend of culture, food, and nature. No matter where you go—from bustling streets to quiet bayous—you’ll find memories worth keeping and reasons to return again and again.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
