Best Romantic Weekend Getaways from New Orleans
What I love about weekend getaways from The Crescent City is that just a few hours’ drive, I can explore small towns, relax on sandy beaches, and venture into scenic state parks. Here are some of the most unique places from our ten day road trip, that I hope you’ll enjoy on your own 48 hour getaway from New Orleans, Louisiana.
Houmas House and Gardens - 1 hour from New Orleans
This place is easily one of my favorite historic weekend getaways from New Orleans. First thing you'll notice the grand antebellum (pre-Civil-War) mansion and great gardens.
Our room in Houmas House for two nights had Southern antiques, luxurious linens, and views of the landscaped grounds. The inn also features intimate 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!
Louisiana Cajun Mansion Bed & Breakfast - 2 hours 20 minutes
This cozy bed & breakfast is one of the most authentic romantic weekend getaways in Louisiana. From the moment we stepped inside, I was enveloped by Southern hospitality on our road trip.
My room at Louisiana Cajun Mansion Bed & Breakfast for two nights was spacious, with refined furnishings, plush linens, and thoughtful details. We woke up both mornings with a gourmet Cajun breakfast, a true taste of southern Louisiana.
You'll find Youngsville surrounded by sugarcane fields and bayou landscapes.
- Check prices at 4-star Louisiana Cajun Mansion Bed & Breakfast
What I Loved best:
Breakfast was a standout. I had boudin-stuffed French toast topped with Steen’s syrup, alongside strong chicory coffee. Served on the patio as the sun broke through the morning mist, it was a soulful way to start the day.
Historic Michabelle Inn - 1 hour from New Orleans
Love the idea of a historic getaway but want something small and intimate? Much smaller than Houmas House, but also very historic, Michabelle Inn is a standout! For me, there’s something magical about staying in a home that has seen generations. This historic inn, tucked into Hammond, is one of my favorite weekend getaways from New Orleans for this reason.
We loved the blend of French Creole architecture and romantic seclusion, especially under the lights in the garden courtyard. My room for two days had a whirlpool tub and French-inspired décor, adding to the romantic atmosphere.
Just nearby, you will find Southeastern Louisiana University.
I enjoyed being close enough to Lafayette. 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:
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.
The Stockade Bed and Breakfast, Baton Rouge
Chris and I both absolutely love Baton Rouge, and have been many times. This is easily one of my favorite intimate getaways in Louisiana because it's soulful, and immersed in history. In addition, I think that March is the most perfect month for a getaway in Louisiana since I moved to the South. You'll find mild weather, and blooming azaleas which make everything extra romantic. I instantly thought our journey was worth it!
My room at The Stockade Bed and Breakfast for two days was spacious, filled with natural light, plush bedding, complimentary WiFi, and a private bath. Our room also had a private patio for morning coffee.
Since there is so much to take in, we 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 stately Old Governor’s Mansion, and indulging in shrimp and grits. We loved that this historic hideaway is decorated with unique art and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- Check prices and availability at The Stockade Bed and Breakfast
What I loved best:
My personal highlight was the delicious Southern breakfast in the morning!
Dansereau House - 1 hour 10 minutes from New Orleans
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 Plantation - 1 hour 45 minutes
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.
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.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, we've found that buying the America the Beautiful Pass is cost effective.
