Romantic Weekend Getaways from New Orleans
What I love about being based in The Crescent City is that just a few hours’ drive, Chris and I have found such amazing places to re-connect. Here are my favorites that I hope you’ll enjoy on your own 48 hour getaway from New Orleans, Louisiana.
Houmas House and Gardens
This place is easily one of my favorite historic weekend getaways from New Orleans. The grand antebellum (pre-Civil-War) mansion and great gardens here are one-of-a-kind.
Our room in Houmas House for two nights had Southern antiques which made me feel transported back in time. In addition, the views of the landscaped grounds were lovely. All around the property, you can see courtyards and shaded verandas perfect for romance.
For lunch, head to The Carriage House Restaurant on the estate. Try the amazing crawfish étouffée over creamy grits.
Local tip: Visit on a weekday morning to enjoy the gardens all to yourselves. They truly are a hidden gem!
Youngsville and Louisiana Cajun Mansion Bed & Breakfast - 2 hours 20 minutes
For me, Youngsville with its approximately 17,000 residents is just the right size for an exciting romantic weekend getaway from New Orleans.
And if you want to experience some of the best Southern hospitality, check into Louisiana Cajun Mansion Bed & Breakfast. Our room for two nights was spacious and with thoughtful details.
You'll find Youngsville surrounded by sugarcane fields and bayou landscapes. And in case you get bored, you'll be just 25 minutes from Lafayette attractions.
You can visit Acadian Village and the Lafayette Science Museum. I have to warn you that parking can be challenging on weekends.
What I Loved best:
Breakfast was a standout. In the morning you get a gourmet Cajun breakfast for a true taste of southern Louisiana.
I had boudin-stuffed French toast topped with Steen’s syrup. They also served strong chicory coffee. I loved that the breakfast was served on the patio in such a romantic setting.
Hammond and Historic Michabelle Inn - 1 hour from New Orleans
Hammond is a slightly larger town than Youngsville (with about 23,000 residents) but it's much closed to New Orleans if you want to do less driving.
One of my favorite places to stay on our weekend getaway from New Orleans was Michabelle Inn. This historic inn has seen generations!
We loved the French Creole architecture and the garden courtyard. Our room for two days had a whirlpool tub and French-inspired décor.
What I Loved best:
Dinner was a delight at Cate Street Seafood Station just 5 minute walk from the inn.
Local tip: Book a room with a private balcony for the best views.
A downside? You have to book early, especially around the holidays because the inn is small with only a few rooms.
Hotel Galvez and Spa
If you want a weekend on the ocean, head to Galveston on the Gulf. Grand Galvez is one of my favorite romantic destinations that completely won me over.
Don't miss the spa’s relaxation lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the sea. It felt like time stopped while I soaked it all in.
There is plenty to see and do nearby, including Moody Gardens, exploring the historic Strand District, enjoying the Galveston Island State Park, and taking a stroll along the Seawall. You'll find one of the best Texas beaches here too.
- Location: Map & Directions
What I Loved best:
A sunset dinner at Galvez Bar & Grill was a highlight.
Baton Rouge and The Stockade Bed and Breakfast
Now, first things first, Chris and I both absolutely love Baton Rouge, and have been many times. With a population of approximately 225,000 people, you get so many diverse experiences here, and many romantic restaurants to choose from.
For a romantic stay, we chose The Stockade Bed and Breakfast for two days. I loved that our room had natural light and a comfortable bath. The private patio was ideal for morning coffee.
Since there is so much to take in, we actually decided to join a guided tour of Baton Rouge with a local guide on our first visit which was a great idea.
There are heaps of unique things to do here! You can enjoy exploring the LSU Lakes, touring the Old Governor’s Mansion. When you get hungry, there are heaps of choices, including indulging in shrimp and grits. We also loved that this historic hideaway is decorated with unique art and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
What I loved best:
For me, The Stockade Bed and Breakfast is one of the best romantic weekend getaways from New Orleans. My personal highlight was the delicious Southern breakfast in the morning!
If you are interested in a beach weekend getaway from New Orleans, you can reach Pensacola Beach in around three hours. Read my article on my favorite beaches on the Florida Gulf Coast for more.
Dansereau House
Ready for a romantic Louisiana bayou country getaway? Sitting right in the heart of Thibodaux, this French Second Empire mansion feels like a timeless treasure. For me, it’s one of the most romantic boutique weekend getaways we found on our road trip from New Orleans.
In addition, I think its location makes it a perfect base for exploring Cajun culture, the bayous, and historic houses nearby.
Our relaxing 2-day stay in one of the mansion’s suites was refined, with antique furnishings, tall windows, and plenty of that romantic old-world character!
What I Loved best:
Morning coffee with warm beignets on the veranda was my favorite highlight.
Greenwood
Located in St. Francisville one hour and 45 minutes from New Orleans, this is one of the South’s most photographed estates and one of my favorite weekend getaways in Louisiana. Why? Sure, its Greek Revival architecture is stunning, but to me it also felt magical and mysterious especially around the double row of live oaks. The grounds are peaceful and offered us a glimpse into history and natural beauty of this area.
My room for two days at The Greenwood Plantation Bed & Breakfast was elegant, with antique-style furnishings and views of the moss-draped oaks.
The lows: Like many plantations, Greenwood is tied to a painful history. I could feel the weight of what that beauty was built upon.
I think that Greenwood Plantation is one of the best weekend getaways from New Orleand. Why? For me, it was actually the tour of the plantation itself because it’s both haunting and beautiful, and the guides bring incredible depth to the experience. In addition, I had a simple picnic lunch under the oak trees after, soaking in the stillness on my weekend trip.
Loyd Hall
I love how Loyd Hall has preserved its plantation-era charm by centering the guest experience around its historic manor, quiet rural setting, and timeless Southern hospitality rather than leaning into modern commercialism.
Located near Cheneyville, between Alexandria and Lafayette, Loyd Hall Plantation dates back to the 1820s and showcases classic Greek Revival architecture framed by ancient oaks and wide verandas.
Accommodations include guest rooms in the main house as well as private cottages and cabins scattered across the grounds. My stay for two days was warm and restful, with antique furnishings, tall windows, and serene views of the surrounding countryside. Each morning began with a hearty Southern breakfast, setting the tone for a day of relaxation.
- Tip: Book the honeymoon suite for a special touch
