Best Places to Visit in Louisiana

Searching for the best places to visit in Louisiana? Well, you are in the right place! I’ve experienced lively streets filled with jazz, relaxing beaches, and historic neighborhoods that feel like stepping back in time. From family-friendly attractions to romantic getaways and cultural adventures, I think that the Pelican State has something for every kind of traveler. Here are the places I recommend, and I hope you’ll enjoy them too.

Best Places to Visit in Louisiana - Central / Capital Corridor

I head here when I'm in the mood for riverfront culture, and everyday local life along the Mississippi River.

1. Baton Rouge

I thought that this was one of the best places to visit in Louisiana when I moved to the South.

We kicked off our weekend getaway in Baton Rouge, near the Mississippi River in southern Louisiana, and right away the vibe felt vibrant and exciting.

First thing we did was head downtown close to the State Capitol, which is one of the best places to get a feel for the city and honestly an underrated gem.

The Louisiana State Capitol was our first stop and the views from the top were amazing, a spectacular experience that felt like magic and totally worth it.

After that we walked along the riverfront nearby, which felt like a cool and relaxing way to slow down and see a more peaceful side of Baton Rouge.

Lunch came next and we found one of the best local spots near Spanish Town, and the food alone made this city a dream for food lovers.

Later in the afternoon we explored LSU’s campus, located just south of downtown, and it was one of my favorite parts of the trip.

The oak trees, lakes, and architecture felt unique and interesting, making it an awesome place to wander and take photos you can see in my photos.

As the sun started setting we headed to Tiger Stadium area, and even without a game the energy felt joyful and electric.

Dinner that night was near Perkins Road, which is a brilliant idea if you want vibrant nightlife mixed with affordable but exceptional food. We spent two days at romantic 4-star WATERMARK Baton Rouge Hotel.

The next morning we visited the Old State Capitol downtown, and it felt like stepping into a hidden historical gem that’s truly underrated.

What I loved best:

A quiet walk along the Mississippi River levee at sunset revealed a softer, more contemplative side of Baton Rouge’s charm, my personal highlight.

Best Places to Visit in Louisiana - Southwest & Acadiana

These areas capture the soul of Louisiana’s Cajun country—where food, music, and nature take center stage.

2. Lafayette

Chris and I both absolutely love Lafayette, and have been many times. After landing at Lafayette Regional Airport, we spent three days based at Holiday Inn & Suites Lafayette North (around $107/night) exploring the culture and cuisine.

What I love about visiting Lafayette is that it’s compact, easy to get around, and packed with culture, music, and incredible food. It’s the kind of place where you can experience a lot in a short amount of time, but you’ll still want to pace yourself and come hungry. I recommend wearing comfortable shoes and starting your day early so you can fit everything in without rushing.

Getting to Lafayette is pretty straightforward. If you’re flying in, Lafayette Regional Airport is small and easy to navigate, and downtown is only about a 10–15 minute drive away. If you’re coming from elsewhere in Louisiana, driving is usually the easiest option since most of the highlights are spread out. Having a car makes exploring much more convenient, especially if you want to venture beyond downtown.

If you make the trip to Lafayette, I highly recommend diving into the local food and music scene. This is the heart of Cajun and Creole culture, and you’ll find some of the best food in the state here. Stop by a local restaurant for boudin, gumbo, or crawfish (when in season), and don’t miss the chance to hear live music—many venues feature Cajun or zydeco bands, especially in the evenings.

Downtown Lafayette is a great place to start your visit. You can walk around, check out local shops, grab coffee, and explore Parc Sans Souci, which often hosts festivals and live performances. Vermilionville is another must-see spot; it’s a living history museum that gives you a deeper understanding of Acadiana’s roots through restored homes, costumed interpreters, and hands-on demonstrations.

One thing to keep in mind is that Lafayette has a lot of hidden gems, and without a plan it’s easy to miss them. On our first visit, we opted for a guided tour to really understand the culture and history, and it made a huge difference.

I thought that Cajun Food Tours was especially worth it for getting to know local cuisine in the most efficient way because the stops include locally-owned authentic Cajun eateries.

What I loved best:

Eating my way through local legends like Olde Tyme Grocery (for po’boys) and Johnson’s Boucanière (for smoked meats and boudin) was my personal highlight.

3. Lake Charles

Located along the calm waterways of southwest Louisiana, for me, this is one of the most unexpectedly romantic getaway spots in the region.

Just a couple of hours west of Baton Rouge, along I-10 and close to the Texas border, Lake Charles was easy to reach but felt like a world apart. I stayed three days at L’Auberge Casino Resort and dove into its mix of food, culture, and outdoor beauty.

We started by the water, where the lake stretched out quietly beside us, and the warm Gulf breeze made everything feel slower and softer.

Walking along the boardwalk, hand in hand, we watched the sunlight shimmer across the water while boats drifted by, giving the afternoon an easy, coastal rhythm.

Downtown Lake Charles had a laid-back charm, with local shops, murals, and cafés that felt welcoming and unpretentious, the kind of place where you’re happy to wander without a plan.

We stopped for Cajun food at a local spot, and sharing a bowl of gumbo was pure comfort—deeply spiced, rich, and full of the kind of flavor that feels like home. I loved ducking into small boutiques and markets, finding handmade goods and local treats that made perfect reminders of the day.

A highlight was visiting a nearby casino resort, where we dressed up just a little, sipped cocktails, and enjoyed the lively energy without rushing anything.

We also learned about the area’s mix of Creole culture, music, and coastal history, which gave Lake Charles a depth and personality that surprised me in the best way.

What I loved best:

For me, Lake Charles is one of the best spots in Louisiana. It's romantic, peaceful, and a favorite escape I can’t wait to return to!

Dinner at Steamboat Bill’s on the Lake was my personal highlight. I couldn’t resist the giant seafood platters piled high with fried catfish, crawfish tails, hushpuppies, and spicy boiled shrimp.

4. Lake Martin

What I love most about staying here is how the lodges and cabins sit just beyond the wetlands, giving me a sense of being tucked into nature while still offering comfort. In the evenings, you get gentle views of the treeline reflected in the water, and at sunset the entire lake glows in warm shades of amber.

I explored this lovely spot at the very start of the fall foliage season. The swamps were tranquil, the wildlife abundant, and the summer boat traffic had melted away. I flew into Montgomery Regional Airport, drove just under an hour southeast to read Lake Martin.

I loved how wild, otherworldly, and awe-inspiring it felt, an ancient flooded forest where gnarled bald cypress rose from glassy waters, tangled roots formed ghostly silhouettes, and great blue herons glided silently over the mirrored reflections.

What I loved best:

The mix of mystical calm and raw southern wilderness made sunrise on the water feel almost enchanted, a true personal highlight.

Best Places to Visit in Southeast Louisiana

This is the state’s most iconic and dynamic region, where history, music, food, and water shape daily life.

5. Houma

This bayou town completely captivated me with its vibrant culture, soulful rhythm, and deep sense of history! I discovered that this corner of Louisiana was bursting with charm, a place where moss-draped oaks, winding waterways, and friendly locals created an atmosphere unlike anywhere else.

The landscape was enchanting, with tranquil bayous reflecting the golden light, lively Cajun music spilling from porches and cafés, and colorful murals and historic buildings lining the streets. The pace was slow and deeply comforting — I felt an immediate sense of ease, as if time stretched a little softer here.

My trip was just a 1 hour drive drive south from New Orleans, and I savored every moment of my weekend exploring Houma and its surroundings while based at 3-star Courtyard by Marriott Houma for two days. I joined swamp tours where herons soared overhead and alligators slid silently beneath the water’s surface.

My favorite highlight was the region’s culinary treasures...spicy crawfish boils, gumbo simmered to perfection, and the freshest seafood pulled straight from the Gulf.

6. Slidell

Ready for a quiet escape with a hint of adventure? Check out this lakeside city, a real standout in southeastern Louisiana!

Flying into Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, we spent six sun-drenched days based at 3-star Comfort Inn & Suites.

First thing we did was head downtown because I wanted that authentic local experience, and it felt vibrant but still calm, which was kind of magic and super underrated compared to the city nearby.

I loved walking around Olde Towne Slidell, checking out little shops, murals, and cafés, and it felt like one of those cool places you see in my photos later and think wow that was special.

After that we went to Heritage Park since it’s right near the historic area, and it ended up being one of my favorite stops because it mixes nature, history, and that small-town charm all in one experience.

Next we drove a short distance to Camp Salmen Nature Park which is right outside Slidell, and this was an absolute best nature break with boardwalks, swamps, and birds everywhere.

Walking those trails felt like a dream, it was peaceful, exciting, and honestly a brilliant idea if you want something affordable but still amazing.

Later on we did a Honey Island Swamp tour nearby, which is one of the most unique and unusual experiences, seeing gators and learning stories made it feel like real Louisiana magic.

That night we grabbed dinner at a local seafood spot near Gause Boulevard, and the flavors were spectacular and joyful, definitely the best comfort food moment.

The next morning I woke up excited because Slidell is close to so many cool outdoor spots.

We finished with a slow walk near the lakefront, watching the water and feeling like we found an underrated gem that most people skip.

What I loved best:

September also brought the Antiques & Vintage Market at Olde Towne, my personal highlight.

7. Covington

This is one of my favorite towns on the Northshore because it blends small-town atmosphere with a sophisticated arts and dining scene.

I fell for the tree-lined streets and a peaceful, small-town pace that felt worlds away from the bustle of New Orleans (although just 20 minutes away by car!).

In addition, I admired its well-preserved 19th-century storefronts, wrought-iron balconies, and shady live oaks along the Bogue Falaya River.

I filled two days with strolls through the walkable Historic Downtown, relaxing picnics in Bogue Falaya Park, visits to contemporary galleries and antique shops.

My personal highlight was tasting jambalaya, and beignets at the Covington Farmers Market.

8. Abita Springs

I was completely charmed by this small but spirited Louisiana when we visited in early fall. We enjoyed warm, golden afternoons, cooler evenings scented with pine, and a festive rhythm of autumn events echoing across the Northshore!

Abita Springs has a quirky, creative vibe with a down-to-earth Southern twist. The scenery blends moss-draped oaks, historic cottages, and cheerful little shops, all set along quiet, tree-canopied streets with the nearby Tammany Trace trail threading through the landscape.

After just a 50-minute drive from New Orleans, I checked into the cozy and artful Abita Springs Hotel for two days, a boutique stay with just the right touch of whimsy. My days unfolded exploring the Abita Brewery, cycling the leafy stretches of the Tammany Trace, and browsing antiques at the Abita Springs Art & Farmers Market.

I also tapped into the town’s quirky side at the Abita Mystery House, a delightfully offbeat folk-art environment full of whirligigs, dioramas, and found-object oddities that capture the local creative spirit.

My personal highlight was an evening under string lights at Abita Springs Cafe, chatting with friendly residents and soaking in the easy pace of life.

9. New Orleans

Curving along the Mississippi River with its grand architecture and moss-draped oaks, this is one of the most unique and soulful cities I’ve ever explored and I think it’s one of the absolute best destinations in the South. Why? The city offers incredibly walkable neighborhoods, and world-class food. I think there’s nowhere else that blends history and creativity quite like this!

My four-day New Orleans visit began at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) this month and unfolded with a stay at Hotel Mazarin for two days, at Bourbon Orleans Hotel for another two days, garden walks through City Park, jazz history lessons at the New Orleans Jazz Museum, New Orleans Jazz National Historic Park, a steamboat ride on the Mississippi River, awe at St. Louis Cathedral’s dramatic spires, and the shimmering cascades of beignets at Café du Monde.

In addition, I was in awe of its French Quarter balconies, colorful Creole cottages, and live brass bands spilling music into the streets. The Historic New Orleans Collection quickly became one of my favorite places to explore while wandering through the French Quarter. Located near Royal Street, it felt like stepping into a treasure chest filled with stories, artifacts, and the living history of the city.

Dining at Vessel NOLA was one of the most unusual and memorable experiences I've had in New Orleans.

One evening, the Spotted Cat Music Club on Frenchmen Street was one of the most joyful discoveries of my trip to New Orleans. Just a short walk from the French Quarter, this intimate little spot is where live jazz truly comes alive night after night.

Kayak-iti-Yat gave me one of the coolest adventures I’ve had in New Orleans. Located near Bayou St. John, just a short ride from the French Quarter, it offered a chance to see the city from the water in a way that felt both peaceful and exciting.

When I found the 21st Amendment Bar at La Louisiane, I felt like I had stumbled into another era. Just a block from Bourbon Street, this little speakeasy-style bar immediately pulled me in with its moody lighting, portraits of old mobsters on the wall, and that hush of history you can almost feel in the air.

When I walked into Tremé Coffeehouse, I immediately felt the neighborhood’s rhythm wrap around me. Just near Armstrong Park, this spot isn’t just about caffeine, it’s about community...

What I loved best:

Dining at Commander’s Palace was one of the most spectacular experiences I’ve had in New Orleans. Located in the Garden District near Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, this iconic turquoise Victorian mansion is impossible to miss and even harder to forget.

Best Day Trips in North Louisiana

This area offers easygoing day trips filled with natural beauty, small-town charm, and deep regional history.

10. Monroe

This is one of my favorite places to visit in northern Louisiana because of small-city comfort and many unique things to do.

Located 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.

Just a short drive from Shreveport or Jackson, and sitting right off I-20, Monroe felt like a place where small-town ease meets just-enough city bustle. I spent three days at The 4-star Hotel Monroe, letting the slower rhythm sink in.

I loved the way the city’s blend of Southern, Creole, and Delta influences came alive in food and music, whether it was Cotton, a farm-to-table restaurant downtown or my stay at The Hotel Monroe.

First, we wandered around the leafy downtown, then walked along the riverfront, explored the Biedenharn Museum & Gardens (home to Coca-Cola history and blooming camellias), and admired local art at Masur Museum of Art.

What I loved best:

Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge gave me peaceful trails, cypress-lined waters, and birdwatching, my personal highlight.

Hi, I'm Ema. I'm the face behind VacationIdea.com. My husband, son are frequent travelers and spent 5 years on the road discovering some of the best places to visit in the USA. We base ourselves in a new place every 4 weeks weeks which has allowed us to experience each destination as a local. I love to chase unique things to do near me and revisit old favorites for a cool, fresh perspective. I'm also eager to learn from my fellow travelers to see what works for people and what doesn't. Whether you like great sunsets, hidden gems, places of mystery, famous attractions, or underrated experiences, here you'll find all of those recommendations from locals that won me over. Let's explore together! More about us.