2 tourist attractions in louisiana

45 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Louisiana

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: December 9, 2021  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

Situated on the Gulf of Mexico, Louisiana is a southern state best known as a cultural melting pot of French, African, American, and Canadian peoples.

These cultures are most notably reflected in the Pelican State’s Creole and Cajun traditions.

One of its most famous cities is New Orleans which is an amalgamation of colonial-era French customs.

The Pelican State is not short on amazing sites, awesome culture, and epic fun.

If you’re looking for fun and unique things to do in Louisiana, you’ve landed in the right spot.

Louisiana attractions such as colorful Mardi Gras celebrations, historical landmarks, vibrant eateries, arts galore, and culture like no other, can be found at every turn.

Beautiful state parks, a picturesque shoreline, and museums by the mile are all fabulous options for tourism in Louisiana.

So strap in, enjoy the ride, and have a fabulous time during your stay in Louisiana.

Table of Contents

1. Royal Street

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Royal Street is a shopper’s paradise in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Enveloped in the eclecticism of the French Quarter and steeped in southern charm, Royal Street presents shopping galore amid culture aplenty.

Situated just a block from famed Bourbon Street, Royal Street is a haven for antique shopping, small family-owned businesses, and small art galleries.

With so many unique places to visit in Louisiana, Royal Street should top your list for shopping.

Stretching through a few blocks of the French Quarter and a bit of the Marigny and Bywater neighborhoods, Royal Street has retail and dining opportunities by the mile.

As you wander in and out of antique shops you’ll encounter some of the finest antiquities in Louisiana.

On Royal Street, you can meander boutique-style gift shops and when you’ve worked up an appetite, you’ll be surrounded by famed eateries serving up the best Creole in town.

One of the coolest places to see, Royal Street is a top Louisiana destination.

Address: Royal Street, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States

2. LSU Rural Life Museum

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The LSU Rural Life Museum is a truly unique museum situated on the campus of Louisiana State University.

Essentially, the museum documents, preserves, and shares the local history of culture, landscapes, and architecture unique to rural Louisiana and the Lower Mississippi Valley.

With a strong focus on LA’s working class throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, the museum shares an interesting local perspective.

One of a handful of free things to do for children, the museum is fun and interesting for the whole family.

The museum is home to culturally rich artifacts such as historic outbuildings, a working plantation section, a folk architecture exhibit, and even a display barn.

Situated on more than 400 acres of donated land, the museum is a peaceful and beautiful place to visit.

If you’re wondering what to do in Louisiana in the way of history-rich and educational sights, be sure to check out LSU Rural Life Museum.

Address: 4560 Essen Ln, Baton Rouge, LA 70808, United States

3. Houmas House Plantation and Gardens

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This Greek revival mansion, built in 1840, is a must see historical establishment in Louisiana.

The property is situated on more than 35 acres adjacent to the Mississippi River.

With the mansion at the center of the property, the house is also surrounded by a plantation, gardens, lodgings, and even elegant restaurants.

The Houmas House Plantation and Gardens welcome visitors for sightseeing tours, overnight stays, and wonderful dining experiences.

If planning a visit to Houmas House Plantation and Gardens, tours give visitors a glimpse into plantation life as well as a peek at historical artifacts and structures.

Notably, tour guides are dressed in period costumes that give guests an authentic feel for life on a 19th century Louisiana plantation.

If you choose an overnight stay, the Houmas House Plantation and Gardens has lovely, quaint cottages available for rental.

Moreover, several dining options are available in the array of available dining rooms for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Of all the best Louisiana attractions, a visit to Houmas House Plantation and Gardens is highly recommended.

Address: 40136 LA-942, Darrow, LA 70725, United States

4. Frenchmen Street

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If you’re looking for a place to immerse yourself in authentic New Orleans music any time of the day, then you’ll definitely want to visit Frenchmen Street .

Neon lights, jazz music aplenty, and curbside concerts at every turn, this is the place for you.

During a visit to Frenchmen Street, one of many cool things to do in Louisiana, you can expect to be surrounded by tinny sounds, bright lights, buzzing crowds, and beyond.

Frenchmen Street is essentially a cultural and artistic experience for all your senses.

Furthermore, the street is lined with an array of venues that feature live music all day long.

Jazz, blues, reggae, and rock are just a few of the music varieties you can enjoy while on Frenchmen Street.

Beyond the immersive music experience, Frenchmen Street has a slew of amazing restaurants including late-night eateries and bars by the dozen.

A wonderful nightlife for adults, Frenchmen Street is a must do.

Address: Frenchmen Street, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States

Visiting New Orleans soon? Why not check out some of the things to do in New Orleans ?

5. Preservation Hall

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Preservation Hall , located in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a modest, bare-bones music venue that’s been hosting jazz and other musical shows for decades.

With concrete walls, wooden floors, and no air-conditioning, Preservation Hall is truly no-frills.

Best of all, the venue provides an intimate setting to enjoy acoustic music to all ages nearly all year long.

This famed French Quarter music hall is one of many cool things to do in LA this weekend or any day of the week.

Operating as a family-owned business, the establishment has been hosting jazz greats since the 1950s.

Today, the tradition of nightly jazz concerts continues.

Before visiting Preservation Hall, check out the events calendar and be sure to purchase tickets in advance.

Following your experience at Preservation Hall, you’ll definitely want to hit the gift shop to pick up some truly amazing merchandise to commemorate your visit.

One of many famous places to visit in Louisiana, Preservation Hall should definitely top your itinerary.

Address: 726 St Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States

6. Whitney Plantation

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The Whitney Plantation is a historic Louisiana museum, situated in the town of Egard, that’s devoted to the preservation of artifacts pursuant to slavery.

The main plantation house as well as the surrounding outbuildings are seated adjacent to the Mississippi River.

Today, the museum welcomes visitors to learn about the local history of slavery as well as its ongoing legacies.

Particularly, the museum shares the narratives of the enslaved individuals who worked the sugar fields as well as the rice paddies and indigo fields on Whitney Plantation.

During your tour of Whitney Plantation, you’ll have the opportunity to tour historic structures such as slave quarters, the main house, roosting houses, and other significant buildings.

Each building has been restored to its original aesthetic and each is outfitted with historic furnishings, fixtures, and other interesting artifacts.

One of many historic places of interest in LA, the Whitney Plantation is a humbling place to visit.

Address: 5099 LA-18, Edgard, LA 70049, United States

7. Oak Alley Plantation

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Quite possibly one of the most lovely estates in one of the most beautiful states , Oak Alley Plantation is situated on the banks of the Mississippi River in Vacherie, Louisiana.

The plantation welcomes visitors to tour its many historical buildings and exhibits.

One of Oak Alley Plantation’s most beautiful things to see is the glorious landscaping.

With 28 oak trees, colorful gardens, and tons of open green space, the landscaping alone is quite the sightseeing experience.

In addition to the gorgeous landscaping, the property features an enlightening slavery exhibit that showcases the slaves kept on the plantation as well as their living conditions and their lives following emancipation.

Additionally, a tour of the “Big House” reveals the opulence in which wealthy slave owners lived.

Finally, other structures to be toured include The Sugarcane Theater and The Blacksmith’s Shop, both of which provide further insight into historic plantation life.

One of many historic points of interest to tour in Louisiana, Oak Alley Plantation is highly recommended.

Address: 3645 LA-18, Vacherie, LA 70090, United States

8. Audubon Zoo

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Audubon Zoo , located in New Orleans, Louisiana, tends to animals from all over the world.

The zoo thrives on providing enriching, hands-on, and educational experiences about wildlife to all visitors.

If you’re wondering what to see with your family when visiting Louisiana, the Audubon Zoo is a must.

With presentations of recreated natural habitats, daily animal presentations, and live feeds, a visit to the zoo is one of many fun activities to do during your stay in LA.

Some of the amazing wildlife you can hope to encounter while visiting the Audubon Zoo include whooping cranes, Amur leopards, orangutans, a tiger, and even the unusual white alligator.

Other animal exhibits showcase cougars, honey bees, many bird varieties, and beyond.

In addition to all the amazing zoo exhibits, other establishment amenities include concession stands, a gift shop, and so much more.

If you’re looking for stuff to do with children, the Audubon Zoo is a wonderful choice.

Address: 6500 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70118, United States

9. The National WWII Museum

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Formerly known as the National D-Day Museum, Louisiana’s National WWII Museum is a history-rich site that war buffs will surely enjoy visiting.

The museum maintains fascinating exhibits that expose personal narratives and artifacts germane to World War II.

Of note, the museum’s exhibits tend to be hands-on and are surely immersive.

With pronounced multi-media exhibits, a vast collection of war artifacts, and oral histories, visitors to the museum feel like they’ve walked in the shoes of real war heroes.

Some of the museum’s memorable exhibits cover the war on a global scale while others explore particular facets of World War II such as the Invasion of Normandy.

Other exhibits focus on the road to Berlin, the role of world leaders, war on the homefront, and other pertinent World War II topics.

The National WWII Museum is overflowing with so much history that it would be a shame to skip one of the top Louisiana attractions.

Address: 945 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States

10. Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden

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This contemporary sculpture garden is situated on more than 10 acres just outside New Orleans, Louisiana.

Harmoniously combining both nature and art, Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden is one of a few romantic things to do for a day date.

Comprising nearly 100 sculptures, the garden is one of the most famous places of its caliber in all of the US.

The sculptures themselves are certainly awe-inspiring, however, the setting is second to none.

While visiting the sculpture garden, visitors are treated to winding paths amid majestically landscaped acreage.

Two hundred-year-old oaks, mature pines, colorful flowers, and more all await you in the garden.

With magical sights at every turn, it’s no wonder the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden draws crowds from all over the country.

Notably, of tourist spots, the sculpture garden is one of the best places to visit in all of Louisiana.

Address: 1 Collins Diboll Cir, New Orleans, LA 70124, United States

Visting other parts of Louisiana? Why not check out some of the things to do in Baton Rouge ?

11. Capitol Park Museum

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The Capitol Park Museum , seated in the heart of Baton Rouge , Louisiana, is an iconic historical and art museum.

Providing visitors with a sweeping insight into the country’s most vibrant state, it’s no wonder the museum draws visitors from far and wide.

With so many things to see in one place, the Capitol Park Museum showcases exhibitions that document local culture and history.

Notably, the museum has exhibits on Louis Armstrong, Mardi Gras, the Mississippi River, life on the Gulf of Mexico, and so much more.

Other museum attributes allow visitors to explore demonstrations on life in the area for Native Americans, European colonists, slave life, and the Cajun lifestyle.

Moreover, the Capitol Park Museum permanently displays exhibits showcasing aviation, Louisiana hurricanes, and a Sports Hall of Fame among others.

If you’re on the lookout for top tourist attractions in LA, be sure to add Capitol Park Museum to your list.

Address: 660 N 4th St, Baton Rouge, LA 70802, United States

12. Ruins of Fort Macomb

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This 19th-century brick fort in New Orleans is one of many cool free things to do in Louisiana.

Situated adjacent to Chef Menteur Pass, the old fort is one of the US’s National Historic Sites.

Notably, the fort was constructed in 1822 and was erected to protect the area’s waterways from enemy attacks.

In recent years the fort has been rendered in disrepair thanks to the encroachment of nearby Lake Catherine.

However, the fort is still a unique site to visit.

Although the fort caught fire in 1867 and was decommissioned in 1871, visitors, especially history buffs, come from far and wide each year to visit its ruins.

In fact, the Ruins of Fort Macomb are somewhat famous in that they’ve been featured in HBO’s “True Detective” as well as “NCIS” and “Beyonce’s Lemonade.”

The ruins can be carefully explored and are a bit spooky, but a fun thing to see nonetheless.

Address: New Orleans, LA 70129, United States

13. Musical Legends Park

If you’re looking for unique things to do in LA, be sure to check out Musical Legends Park.

One of the best commemorations of jazz musicians, the park is home to lovely statues of such musicians as Fats Domino, Pete Fountain, Al Hirt, Louis Prima, and Irma Thomas among many others.

The park is a lovely place to visit with family; here you can take in historic tributes to musical greats.

In addition to admiring the amazing statues, the park in which they’re set is a cozy place to meander, picnic, and lounge.

In addition to the masterpieces of art and music, the park also hosts live music, a nod to the musicians honored at the park, every day.

Centrally located in the French Quarter, the Musical Legends Park is a lovely place to escape the hubbub of New Orleans.

If you’re wondering what to do during your stay in Louisiana, be sure to add this top attraction to your itinerary.

Address: 311 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States

14. Global Wildlife Center

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This free-roaming wildlife reserve in Folsom, Louisiana sits on nearly 1,000 acres and is home to more than 3,500 animals.

One of many popular places for families to visit in LA, the center brings visitors face to face with animals in their natural habitat.

Your experience at the center will be interactive, wholesome, and super fun.

One of the largest establishments of its kind, Global Wildlife Center houses exotic and endangered animals from all over the world.

When booking your tour of the Global Wildlife Center, you can choose from wagon tours during which you can feed and touch animals or private tours that bring you even closer to the animals.

The establishment also hosts safari parties which make for great birthday celebrations.

Finally, some of the incredible animals you’ll have the chance to interact with include giraffes, zebras, kangaroos, camels, bison, llamas, and so many others.

One of the most lovely places to check out in LA, be sure to visit the Global Wildlife Center.

Address: 26389 LA-40, Folsom, LA 70437, United States

15. Jungle Gardens

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Jungle Gardens is a 170-acre botanical garden and bird sanctuary situated on Avery Island in Louisiana.

Open daily, visitors are welcome to explore the property at their leisure or with a tour guide for a nominal fee.

Jungle Gardens is one of many beautiful points of interest that you should be sure to check out.

Of note, the property is home to semi-tropical gardens that are breathtaking to meander.

Vibrant flowers, verdant greenery, colorful bamboo, and many other botanical treasures stretch as far as the eye can perceive.

The gently rolling topography and abundant wildlife have drawn visitors from far and wide to Jungle Gardens.

Another big draw is the bird sanctuary.

In fact, bird tours can be scheduled by reservation; these tours are a wonderful experience for enthusiasts.

The sanctuary is home to white ibises, great blue herons, and a fantastic assortment of migratory birds.

If you’re a nature or wildlife lover, there’s no doubt that Jungle Gardens answers the pressing question of what to visit in Louisiana.

Address: Louisiana 329 &, Main Rd, Avery Island, LA 70513, United States

16. R.W. Norton Art Gallery

R.W. Norton Art Gallery

If you’re looking for fun sightseeing opportunities, be sure to check out R.W. Norton Art Gallery .

This museum, located in Shreveport , Louisiana, is set amid a lush and vibrant garden setting.

Of note, the museum houses a collection of quintessential American and European art.

Additionally, the gallery is home to a collection of rare books that any bibliophile will adore.

One of a handful of artsy points of interest in Louisiana, R.W. Norton Art Gallery is a must-see.

Furthermore, the museum is home to more than 400 paintings by over 100 artists, encompassing both renaissance and modernist works.

Additionally, besides paintings, the museum contains mediums such as sculptures, tapestries, decorative arts, and well beyond.

Some of the big names in art that the gallery showcases include Remington, Russell, and Audubon to name a few.

Finally, in addition to touring the gallery, visitors are also welcome to tour the botanical gardens which feature beautiful landscaping, wildlife aplenty, sculptures, and more.

Address: 4747 Creswell Ave, Shreveport, LA 71106, United States

17. Shreveport Aquarium

Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau / flickr

Situated adjacent to the Red River in Shreveport, Louisiana, this aquarium is a fun place to visit for visitors of all ages.

Notably, admission tickets are reasonably priced, so this is an affordable attraction to boot.

A visit to Shreveport Aquarium will bring you face to face with underwater creatures you’d never otherwise have the opportunity to see so closely.

Home to more than 300 species and roughly 1,000 animals, there is so much sea life to experience in one place.

The Shreveport Aquarium will bring you just inches away from sharks, turtles, seahorses, eels, and a wide assortment of other underwater beings.

The museum has awesome interactive exhibits as well.

Hands-on feeding experiences allow visitors to touch animals like rays, moon jellies, and others.

The aquarium is also home to an indoor gem, fossil, and gold mining experience.

With so much to do under one roof, it’s on wonderful visitors to Louisiana adore Shreveport Aquarium.

Address: 601 Clyde Fant Pkwy, Shreveport, LA 71101, United States

18. Millennium Park

Millennium Park

If you’re looking for free things to do with children, Millennium Park is your answer.

This beautiful lakeside park sits amid a lovely well-landscaped setting and has lots of fun for little ones.

Located in Lake Charles, Louisiana, the park is a wonderful place for children to stretch their legs, make new friends, enjoy outdoor recreation, and get some fresh air.

Millennium Park has lots of on-site activities for children, so pack a lunch and enjoy some sunshine.

Millennium Park has a fun fenced-in playground with colorful, pirate-themed equipment.

Swing sets, slides, climbing equipment, and more await your little one.

Furthermore, the park has a splash pad for children to cool off in on hot days.

The sprawling playground equipment is surrounded by open green space for further recreational activities.

If you’re wondering what to do with children this weekend or any time of the week, Millennium Park is a great spot to visit.

Address: 900 Lakeshore Dr, Lake Charles, LA 70601, United States

19. Creole Nature Trail

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The Creole Nature Trail in Lake Charles, Louisiana is a great way to get some exercise, explore new trails, and see new sights.

One of many top free things to do in the Pelican State, the Creole Nature Trail is situated along a 26-mile stretch of the Gulf of Mexico.

Diverse nature constructs as well as more than 400 species of wildlife can be seen along the trail.

Essentially, the trail consists of marshlands rife with wildlife, plantlife, sealife, and more.

Along the trail, visitors can hike, nature watch, fish, and crab.

In addition to fishing, bird hunting is also permitted during designated seasons.

Furthermore, the Creole Nature Trail is surrounded by lots of local eateries and accommodations.

However, visitors are also welcome to pack picnic lunches which are a lovely way to enjoy the trail.

One of many outdoor tourist attractions that visitors and locals alike adore, the Creole Nature Trail should definitely make your shortlist.

Address: 1205 N Lakeshore Dr, Lake Charles, LA 70601, United States

20. Vermilionville

Vermilionville

Vermillionville is a living museum and folklife park in the city of LaFayette, Louisiana.

Dedicated to the preservation and sharing of historic Native American, African American, Creole, and Acadian culture, Vermilionville brings the cultures of these peoples to life.

Specifically, the histories of these groups are retold through and including the 1800s.

Through interpretation, conservation, and interactive exhibits, visitors to Vermilionville enjoy a step back in time.

If you’re looking for unique places to see, Vermilionville is surely one of a kind.

Situated on 23 acres along the banks of the Bayou, Vermillionville is set in one of the most beautiful Louisiana settings imaginable.

Open six days a week, this fun destination has tons of thematic things to do each day.

From dining to shopping and shows to educational programming, Vermilionville is an all-encompassing experience that is one of the coolest things to see in the whole state.

Address: 300 Fisher Rd, Lafayette, LA 70508, United States

21. Steamboat Natchez

This old-fashioned steamboat sailing out of New Orleans, Louisiana, is a super fun way for couples to spend a romantic evening.

Named for the Natchez people, this steamboat has been in operation since 1975.

The undisputed fastest steamboat on the Mississippi River, this vessel offers scenic, dinner, and entertainment tours daily.

If you’re looking for fun Louisiana attractions, Steamboat Natchez is surely worth a go.

The Steamboat Natchez is a grand paddle wheeler that takes visitors on leisurely two-hour tours of the river.

Many of the tours provide live entertainment such as Jazz Music.

Other tours include a Brunch Tour or Dinner Tour.

No matter the time of day you board Steamboat Natchez, one thing’s for sure: you’re guaranteed a good time.

An authentic New Orleans experience in all ways, the brunch/dinner cruises serve authentic Creole food, cocktails, and an all-around good time.

Address: 400 Toulouse St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States

22. Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets

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One of Louisiana’s prime travel destinations for shopping, Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets is a great spot for some retail therapy.

This outdoor shopping center is located in Bossier City, Louisiana and is one of the largest shopping malls in the whole state.

Seated adjacent to the Red River, the center’s setting is as appealing as the shopping.

If you’re wondering what to do during your visit to the Pelican State, be sure to check out Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets.

Besides all of the amazing shopping, the Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets also have wonderful dining opportunities.

Restaurants for every palette and price point line the boardwalk as well as bars, coffee shops, and more.

Additionally, the boardwalk has tons of entertainment like nightclubs, a cinema, a nearby casino, and even children’s amusements.

Fun for the whole family and the perfect spot to visit today or this weekend, Louisiana Boardwalk Outlets is a top Louisiana spot.

Address: 540 Boardwalk Blvd, Bossier City, LA 71111, United States

23. Shreveport Water Works Museum

Shreveport Water Works Museum

One of many interesting places to see in the Pelican State, the Shreveport Water Works Museum is a historic water pumping station.

Celebrating more than 130 years of service, the Shreveport Water Works Museum was constructed in 1887 as one of the first of its kind in the South.

Although the plant itself has evolved over the last century, its heritage is encapsulated at the Shreveport Water Works Museum.

The Shreveport Water Works Museum is not only housed in a historic building but as its name suggests, it preserves and shares historical artifacts associated with the original pumping plant.

Visitors to the museum are welcome to tour the 100-year-old building as well as the exhibits it houses.

During your tour, you’ll see the antique steam system equipment as well as water purification systems of yesteryear and today.

Notably, the museum is one of a few awesome free things to do in the Pelican State.

Address: 142 N Common St, Shreveport, LA 71101, United States

24. Museum of Death

Museum of Death

The Museum of Death has three US locations, one of which resides in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Established in 1955 as a place intended “to make people happy to be alive,” the museum is a truly unique place to visit.

Significantly, the museum has evolved from a controversial art gallery to what it is today: the largest collection of death-related artwork and artifacts in the world.

Tours of the museum are self-guided and take about an hour to complete.

Some of the interesting artifacts you’ll encounter during your tour include artwork, antique funeral equipment, coroner instruments, taxidermy, crime scene photographs, and much more.

Additionally, the museum houses serial killer and murderer memorabilia such as artifacts related to the Manson Family.

Lastly, the Museum of Death has an awesome gift shop where you can pick up true crime merchandise.

One of Louisiana’s truly unique tourist attractions, the Museum of Death is definitely worth a visit.

Address: 227 Dauphine St, New Orleans, LA 70112, United States

25. Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo

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Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo is a tiny, boutique-style gift shop that sells oddities, rarities, and unique Louisiana souvenirs.

Specializing in talismans, voodoo dolls, and spell books, the shop is a cool place to browse and pick up interesting souvenirs.

Oils, jewelry, animal parts, books, and more can all be found donning the shelves of Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo.

Other merchandise includes apparel, magnets, shot glasses, and other gifts.

In addition to the cool selection of merchandise, Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo also specializes in psychic readings.

In fact, spiritual, psychic, and tarot card readings are all available on-site by appointment.

Gifted and reputable readers staff Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo and can provide you with a one-of-a-kind experience.

Finally, in addition to psychic services, Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo can help visitors to practice spiritual and ritual ceremonies.

One of the most unique places to see in New Orleans, you should definitely visit Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo.

Address: 739 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States

26. Carousel Bar

Carousel Bar

Residing in the famous Hotel Monteleone, the Carousel Bar is a famous New Orleans watering hole.

If you’re looking for fun tourist attractions in Louisiana, be sure to check out this one.

The centerpiece of the bar, as its name suggests, is a slow-moving antique carousel; you literally belly up to the somewhat haunting carousel to enjoy spirits and good company.

Serving up great cocktails, excellent food, and live music, the bar and lounge have been a top attraction for many moons.

One of the most recognizable figures at Carousel Bar is Marvin, the resident mixologist, historian, and beloved bartender.

He, like other bartenders at this establishment, treat visitors to superb services, fabulously crafted cocktails, and a splash of local lore and history.

Since its inception in the early 1940s, the carousel Bar has certainly evolved, but its antique charm and attention to detail are what make this place something special.

One of many cool Louisiana attractions, Carousel Bar is a must-see for adults.

Address: 214 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States

27. Old Absinthe House

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Jean Lafitte’s Old Absinthe House has been a New Orleans institution since 1807.

Situated right on Bourbon Street, it’s open seven days per week in its old white historic building.

One of the top places to see in Louisiana, Old Absinthe House spent its first 40 years as an establishment concerned with the bartering of food, tobacco, and liquor.

Since its inception, it’s evolved into one of Louisiana’s greatest saloons.

Once a corner grocery store, then a coffee house, Old Absinthe House is now a New Orleans tradition that shows no signs of stopping.

Today, the Old Absinthe House stands as a speakeasy-style saloon that welcomes visitors from far and wide.

Unique cocktails, bar bites, and a full lunch/dinner menu are all available to enjoy in the historic Bourbon Street setting.

Whether you’re looking for something to do tonight or this weekend, Old Absinthe House is a fun option.

Address: 240 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70112, United States

28. Avery Island

Avery Island is a famous salt dome best known for its contribution to the widely consumed Tobasco products.

Situated in Iberia Parish, Louisiana, Avery Island is one of many unique things to see in the Pelican State.

Seated about three miles offshore from the Mississippi River, the island has a small year-round population of mostly Tobasco workers.

Astoundingly, Avery island comprises over 2,000 acres sitting directly atop a salt rock.

Other unique facets of Avery Island include lush vegetation, unique geological formations, and Spanish moss.

Thought to be what remains of an ancient buried seabed, the island’s salt deposit is said to be as deep as 29,000 feet below the Earth’s surface.

Besides the island’s unique topography and ecology, it’s also home to a wildfowl refuge.

All of these interesting features can be toured by the public throughout the year.

One of the top things to do in Louisiana, a visit to Avery Island is a must.

Address: Louisiana, United States

29. Abita Mystery House

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This roadside attraction located in Abita Springs is one of many interesting places to visit in Louisiana.

This truly unique museum houses a collection of “found” art and artifacts, unique to Louisiana, that tourists come from far and wide to peruse.

With more than 1,000 works of folk art, Abita Mystery House is both intriguing and provocative.

A mixture of antiquities, rarities, oddities, and everything in between, Abita Mystery House is worth checking out.

Visitors to Abita Mystery House can explore the massive collection at their leisure.

Some of the house’s unique exhibits include a miniature Southern town operated by push-button, animated displays, old arcade machines, odd collections, and more.

The house itself is an odd aesthetic that further perpetuates the mysterious experience that visitors enjoy at Abita Mystery House.

If you’re looking for a quick and fun attraction along your route, this is the place for you.

Address: 22275 LA-36, Abita Springs, LA 70420, United States

30. Honey Island Swamp Tours

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Established in 1972, Honey Island Swamp Tours provides visitors with demonstrative boat tours of the Cypress Swamp.

Located in Slidell, Louisiana, Honey Island Swamp Tours is loved by locals and tourists alike.

If you’re interested in fun water activities for the whole family, Honey Island Swamp Tours is the answer.

So named for the honey bees that swarm near the island, these tours bring visitors face to face with swamp life and ecology.

During your tour, you can expect to see rich wildlife along beautiful stretches of the river and the island.

The state has a growing population of alligators, with more than one million already residing in Louisiana, some of which can be perceived during a Honey Island Swamp Tour.

Of note, tours are professionally narrated, provide ample opportunity for photography, and some of the company’s smaller boats allow for exploration in the deepest parts of the swamp.

Whether a nature-lover at heart or looking for something new and unique to experience, a Honey Island Swamp Tour is one of the coolest things to do in Louisiana.

Address: 41490 Crawford Landing Rd, Slidell, LA 70461, United States

31. Fontainebleau State Park

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Located in Saint Tammany Parish, Louisiana, Fontainebleau State Park provides an epic setting for tons of recreational activities.

One of many gorgeous places to visit in Louisiana, Fontainebleau State Park sits adjacent to Lake Pontchartrain and is nearly 3,000 acres in size.

Not only does the park provide an excellent setting for daily activities, but visitors also have the option of “glamping” at premium campsites or erecting tents of their own.

Either way, the diverse ecology and epic lake views are worth a stay at Fontainebleau State Park.

It’s worth mentioning that Lake Pontchartrain, at the park’s center, can be used for swimming, paddling, boating, and an assortment of other water activities.

Moreover, an old railroad track has been converted to a rail and trail system.

Best of all, interpretive signs along the trail point out tree, shrub, and plant names.

With so much to do in one beautiful setting, it’s no wonder locals and travelers alike swarm to Fontainebleau State Park all year long.

Address: 62883 LA-1089, Mandeville, LA 70448, United States

32. Grand Isle State Park

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Situated on a barrier island in Jefferson Parish, Grand Isle State Park is one of the most gorgeous places to visit in Louisiana.

Notably, the park is a wonderful place to spend a few hours or even a few days.

Overlooking the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Grand Isle State Park is a real hotspot during the summer months.

The park serves as a popular launching point for many fishing adventures so if you’re looking to get out on the water, Grand Isle State Park is your spot.

Swimming, sunbathing, and beach lounging are also favorite activities to enjoy at the park.

If you’re a nature enthusiast, you can revel in birdwatching, hiking, boating, crabbing, and a wide array of other outdoor recreational activities.

With the beautiful park and adjacent waterways as your setting, any activity turns into a scenic one at Grand Isle State Park.

Address: 108 Admiral Craik Dr, Grand Isle, LA 70358, United States

33. Atchafalaya Basin

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Noted as the largest swamp and wetlands area in all of the US, Atchafalaya Basin is located in south-central Louisiana.

Stretching for nearly 150 miles along the Gulf of Mexico, Atchafalaya Basin is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Louisiana.

While exploring the Atchafalaya Basin you’ll have the opportunity to encounter 65 species of reptiles and amphibians who call the basin home.

Other species of animals that make their home in the Atchafalaya Basin include black bears, foxes, and beavers among many others.

In addition to the land animals, many species of sea life and birds call the basin their home too.

Furthermore, the basin is rife with opportunities for fun outdoor activities.

To name a few, visitors can engage in things like boating, biking, birding, camping, swamp tours, hunting, fishing, and beyond.

If you’re interested in spending some peaceful outdoor time on the Bayou, be sure to check out Atchafalaya Basin.

Address: LA 70517, United States

34. Chicot State Park

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One of the best things to do in Louisiana is to pay a visit to Chicot State Park , especially if you love the outdoors.

Located just outside Ville Platte, Louisiana, Chicot State Park is a wildlife reserve that sprawls across more than 6,000 acres of protected land.

Surrounded by rolling hills, a man-made lake, and breathtaking forestry, Chicot State Park is a must-see if you’re traveling with nature-lovers.

Notably, visitors to the park can even plan to spend a few days on one of the many available campsites.

The cool, clear waters of the overstocked lake are a great place to enjoy fishing for trout, largemouth bass, and bluegill among other varieties.

Other possible activities at Chicot State Park include hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, boating, swimming, and beyond.

Additionally, the park is home to child-friendly features such as a splash pad and playground.

Whether visiting with children or adults, the fact remains that Chicot State Park is a wonderful place to check out.

Address: 3469 Chicot Park Rd, Ville Platte, LA 70586, United States

35. Jackson Square

Jackson Square is a historic park in New Orleans’s French Quarter.

Named a National Historic Landmark in 1960, Jackson Square is the site where the Louisiana Purchase was settled in 1803.

Historically, the park has been a gathering place for both amateur and renowned musicians and painters.

In the 1960s and 1970s, Jackson Square emerged as a center for business.

Today, however, this historic landmark is one of the best things to see in Louisiana.

Notably, the square is flanked on all sides by historic buildings the likes of which add to the charm of Jackson Square.

Near to the park are famous breweries, restaurants, and markets.

Furthermore, Jackson Square has been the setting for many famous movie and television scenes.

A place to gather, a place to rest, a place to appreciate, a place close to so much history and culture, Jackson Square is a great place to add to your itinerary.

Address: 701 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States

36. Cypress Island Preserve

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Cypress Island Preserve is a nearly 10,000-acre preserve in St. Martinville, Louisiana.

Surrounded by Lake Martin which is situated amid a cypress-tupelo preserve, the island is a place for nature observance and exploration.

The island represents a fish and game preserve that is open to the public all year long.

In fact, Cypress Island Preserve is the area’s largest tract of preserved hardwood forest.

If you’re looking for things to do in Louisiana that get you outdoors and enjoying nature, be sure to visit Cypress Island Preserve.

Cypress Island Preserve is characterized by spectacular views, wildlife aplenty, and even a rookery view.

Moreover, the preserve has a two-and-a-half-mile walking trail that’s suitable for all experience levels.

A boardwalk, a visitor center, and a picnic pavilion are all Cypress Island Preserve amenities that you can enjoy during your visit.

A gathering place with numerous opportunities to enjoy nature at its finest, Cypress Island Preserve is a must-see.

Address: 1264 Prairie Hwy, St Martinville, LA 70582, United States

37. Kisatchie National Forest

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The only natural forest in all of Louisiana, Kisatchie National Forest is part of the Cenozoic uplands and features large areas of pine forest.

Established in 1930, Kisatchie National Forest is a wonderful place to enjoy time with family, friends, and best of all, nature.

If you’re looking for things to do in Louisiana, Kisatchie National Forest is a great destination to add to your list.

Of note, Kisatchie National Forest is lauded as having some of the best hunting in the whole state.

Additionally, the Kisatchie National Forest is a great place to camp, be it a tent or RV camping, for a few days or even more.

A vast hiking trail awaits hikers and bikers, a centrally located lake provides a great place for swimming, fishing, and boating.

Other fine activities that you might partake in include horseback riding, traversing scenic byways, and more.

38. St. Louis Cathedral

The oldest cathedral in all of North America, St. Louis Cathedral was established as a Catholic parish in 1720.

Situated along the banks of the Mississippi River, it is recognized as one of Louisiana’s most significant landmarks.

The cathedral’s iconic triple steeples are a marvel that towers over New Orleans, creating one of the most astounding views you’ll encounter whilst visiting the Pelican State.

What’s more, the cathedral is an architectural wonder that visitors come from all over the world to appreciate.

Remarkably, the cathedral is open to the public for daily masses.

Additionally, self-guided tours are permitted and tour brochures are available for a $1 donation.

Occasionally, cathedral staff members are available for impromptu guided tours, but these are by sheer luck.

Finally, if you’d prefer a full-guided tour, these are available by reservation only.

One of the most beautiful attractions to tour, a visit to St. Louis Cathedral is surely worth a place on your itinerary.

Address: 615 Pere Antoine Alley, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States

39. Kentwood Historical and Cultural Arts Museum

Kentwood Historical and Cultural Arts Museum

This small town museum is a strange coupling of historical events and pop culture nostalgia.

Located in Kentwood, Louisiana, the establishment is a no-frills establishment that pays homage to all things Louisiana, whether they seem to fit together or not.

Situated in a small, dilapidated residential home, the museum is unassuming yet intriguing.

Although the small population of Kentwood comes in at roughly 2,200 people, there are even a few celebrities who are honored at the museum.

From World War II veterans to Britney Spears, the Kentwood Historical and Cultural Arts Museum has an odd collection of historical artifacts such as a model battleship with Britney cutouts in the next room.

A visit to the museum isn’t very long but entry is free of charge so why not take a quick gander at this fun little local museum.

A curious little Louisiana museum, Kentwood Historical and Cultural Arts Museum is worth a quick visit.

Address: 204 Avenue E, Kentwood, LA 70444, United States

40. French Quarter

Known as the heart of New Orleans, this Louisiana neighborhood is a must-see when visiting the Pelican State.

Famous for its lively nightlife, colorful buildings, historical establishments, and incredible music scene, there is literally something new to see and do at every turn.

A cultural mecca for Cajun, Creole, and Bayou culture, it’s no wonder the French Quarter is the Louisiana mecca it is.

If you’re looking for incredible cultural immersion as well as memories to last a lifetime, be sure to visit the French Quarter.

Jazz clubs, speakeasy-like bars, Cajun eateries, cast-iron balconies, quiet French markets, and so many other delightful establishments line the streets of the French Quarter.

Local artists, gourmet food, boutique shopping, supernatural readers, performers galore, and beyond can all be encountered as you stroll the streets.

With so much vivacity in one central location, it’s no wonder the French Quarter is dubbed the heart of New Orleans.

Address: New Orleans, LA, United States

41. New Orleans Pharmacy Museum

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An old apothecary dating back to 1823, the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum is now the home of a collection of antique pharmaceuticals.

Early medicines, wild superstitions, and outlandish cures have all made a home in this rather odd establishment.

Situated in New Orleans, Louisiana, the museum resides in a historic building in the well-known Vieux Carre Historic District.

Showcasing an extensive collection as well as providing educational programming, the museum is a fun place to tour.

The New Orleans Pharmacy Museum does a fine job of preserving and presenting the intriguing history of pharmaceuticals and healthcare in Louisiana.

Some of the exhibits showcase old methods of administering medicine, voodoo potions, surgical instruments, questionable practices, and a lot of other interesting tidbits.

Other exhibits show excavated medicine bottles, a spectacles collection, and even architectural specifications about the historical building itself.

Lastly, after your tour, be sure to visit the museum’s gift shop where you can purchase cool pharmacy souvenirs.

Address: 514 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States

42. Mardi Gras World

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This New Orleans tourist attraction brings visitors up close and personal with real Mardi Gras artifacts from the many years of use in the festival.

Mardi Gras World is a 300,000 square foot warehouse that stores Mardi Gras floats, balloons, and more.

The bright, colorful, and larger-than-life equipment used to make Mardi Gras so special, can be interactively enjoyed.

Located adjacent to the Mississippi River, the warehouse is just a tad off the beaten path however a free shuttle to and from is available from anywhere in the city.

Home to some of the oldest, largest, and most colorful floats in the world, the warehouse is a breathtaking place to tour.

Guided tours include an overview of the history of Mardi Gras in New Orleans and are followed by a showcasing of the float den as well as the artists’ workshop.

With hundreds of floats to enjoy from a direct vantage point, it’s no wonder Mardi Gras World is a Louisiana institution.

Address: 1380 Port of New Orleans Pl, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States

43. Backstreet Cultural Museum

Located in Louisiana’s Treme neighborhood, the Backstreet Cultural Museum is the only African American museum in the US.

Established in 1999, the museum showcases cultural exhibits germane to local African Americans.

It’s both a gathering place and a place to learn and appreciate Black culture and heritage.

Of note, the museum was founded by Sylvester Francis, a local legend who recognized the need for ethnic appreciation.

Significantly, the museum focuses on the many different sects of African American people living in New Orleans; some of these sects include Mandigo, Mardi Gras Indians, The Baby Dolls, Bone Gang, and others.

Within the museum, visitors are treated to artifacts such as costumes, memorabilia, photographs, films, and other items relative to African American history in New Orleans.

This colorful and unique collection is one of a kind.

If you’d enjoy learning more about this significant faction of locals, check out the Backstreet Cultural Museum.

Address: 1116 Henriette Delille St, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States

44. Faulkner House Books

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If you’re a bibliophile who enjoys the tactile experience of brick and mortar bookstores, this one is truly special.

The Faulkner House Books resides in the former home of famed American writer, William Faulkner.

A haven for rare editions, fine selections, and real tangible books, the Faulkner House Books is one of a dying breed of small bookshops.

What’s more, the building itself was built in 1837 and is now considered a historic building.

If you’ll be strolling the French Quarter (as you likely will be if you’re in New Orleans), a lovely place to take a short time out from the hubbub of the city is the Faulkner House Books.

One of Louisiana’s hidden gems, the bookstore is a historic landmark in its own right.

The store sells both new and used literature and is a great pit stop before heading out of town on your departing flight.

Address: 624 Pirates Alley, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States

45. Chauvin Sculpture Garden & Art

Jennifer Jameson / flickr

Chauvin Sculpture Garden & Art is a strange place indeed.

Located in Chauvin, Louisiana, the garden is home to the curious sculptures of one Kenny Hill.

Hill, a once devout zealot, erected his sculptures on a rented tract of land.

Established in the early 1990s, Chauvin Sculpture Garden & Art is a representation of Hill’s eclectic art sensibilities and his curious belief system.

One of Hill’s most confounding habits was inserting himself as the subject of his many sculptures.

Although for many years Hill resisted tourism and photography at the site, a religious crisis in the early 2000s caused him to abandon the garden and his art.

Since that time, the garden and the sculptures have been restored.

The town, probably much to Hill’s dismay, has opened the Chauvin Sculpture Garden & Art to the public.

A curious tidbit of Louisiana heritage, the garden is a unique place to visit.

Start Planning Your Trip To Louisiana

Louisiana is undoubtedly a good time.

Majestic sights, nature in all of its magnificence, loads of fun, rich history, and a vibrant culture are just a few of the many reasons you’re likely planning a trip to the Pelican State.

As evidenced herein, exciting Louisiana attractions are not hard to come by.

If nothing else, you can rest assured that if you add a few of these amazing attractions to your itinerary, you’ll certainly have the best time.

So pack your bags, round up your family and friends, and get ready to make memories to last a lifetime.

Happy travels.

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Discover the best that Southern USA has to offer! Hidden gems, vibrant cities and more!

23 Best Things To Do In Louisiana For Your Bucket List

September 19, 2023 //  by  Southern Trippers

Are you planning a trip to the Pelican State and looking for the best things to do in Louisiana? Look no further!

We’ve come up with the ultimate bucket list of things you can’t miss in this memorable state.

As a local Southern girl, I have spent nearly 3 decades traveling around Lousiana and checking out some of the very best.

These are the best activities in Louisiana I would suggest to a close friend, my mom, and now I will suggest them to you!

While the most popular place to visit is New Orleans , it’s a big state and there are lots of other fun places to visit in Louisiana.

Louisiana is a melting pot of European, African, and Native American cultures, creating the unique Creole and Cajun cultures. This blend has created distinct music, cuisine, and stories that have been passed down through generations.

The physical landscape of Louisiana is as varied as its cultures. Starting with the Louisiana beaches along the Gulf of Mexico, with the Mississippi River working its way down to the gulf, creates vast areas of swamp and marshland.

Southern Louisiana is known for its bayous (slow-moving or stagnant bodies of water).

Northern Louisiana has woodlands while Central Louisiana has prairies. Each area has a wide variety of wildlife, including alligators, herons, deer, and turtles.

From touring the famous Louisiana swamps to visiting the National WWII Museum , there is something for everyone in Louisiana. No matter where you go, you’ll be sure to enjoy some Southern charm (and food).

Let’s dive into what to do in Louisiana!

23 Best Things To Do In Louisiana: The Ultimate Bucket List

Explore the creole nature trail.

One of the best things to do in Louisiana is to explore its unique landscapes and natural wonders.

The “Louisiana Outback” includes undeveloped marshlands, gulf beaches, and wildlife refuges which are home to hundreds of different types of wild animals.

As one of America’s “Last Great Wildernesses,” visiting the Creole Nature Trail is one of the best things to do in Lake Charles, LA .

The Creole Nature Trail is a 180-mile natural corridor that was designated an All-American Road in 2002.

This scenic byway allows you to enjoy the scenic Louisiana landscapes from the car, visiting as much or as little of it as you’d like.

If you want to get out and stretch your legs, get out at the Sabine Natural Wildlife Refuge and wander down the Wetland Walkway. From this boardwalk, you might be able to spot alligators and white ibis or roseate spoonbill birds in their natural habitats.

Scenic hiking trails in Louisiana are some of the best ways to see the state.

You could also stretch your legs at any of the gulf beaches along the coast, including Rutherford Beach and Constance Beach. Hunt for shells or dip your toes into the warm gulf water.

Eat at Li’l Dizzy’s Cafe

Since New Orleans is known for its Creole cuisine, one of the best things to do in Louisiana is visit a New Orleans restaurant.

Creole cuisine is a unique blend of African, European, and Native American foods. Li’l Dizzy’s Cafe is famous for its classic Creole dishes including gumbo, fried chicken, and bread pudding.

Li’l Dizzy’s is located in the New Orleans neighborhood of Treme, one of the oldest African-American neighborhoods in New Orleans, known for its jazz clubs and soul food.

This cafe is black-owned and run by a family coming from a lineage of famous New Orleans restauranteurs.

Originally founded by the son of Eddie Baquet, Sr (of the Eddie’s 7th Ward restaurant), it is now run by grandson Wayne Baquet, Jr and his wife Arkesha.

In addition to their famous fried chicken, Li’l Dizzy’s serves up shrimp, sausage, and catfish po-boys and seafood platters.

Their food is sure to warm both your stomach and your soul! It is truly one of the best restaurants in New Orleans!

Tour the TABASCO Factory & Museum

Louisiana food is known to have a bit of a spicy kick, partially thanks to Tabasco hot sauce. One of the more unique places to visit in Louisiana is Avery Island, where Tabasco is made and bottled.

Located about a 45-minute drive away from Lafayette, Avery Island isn’t an island in the traditional sense, but rather a salt dome surrounded by bayous and marshlands.

It was here in 1868 that Edward McIlhenny first sold his concoction of capsicum frutescens peppers and vinegar. As a result, you can tour the Tabasco Factory and Museum !

Today, peppers are still picked by hand and mashed in oak barrels then aged and mixed with distilled vinegar.

Tour the factory and museum to learn more about how Tabasco sauce is made, and learn about the generations of McIlhenny family that took over the business.

After the tour, stop in the Tabasco Restaurant for a casual, authentic Cajun meal…flavored with Tabasco of course!

This is one of the best Louisiana activities for foodies!

Visit the Louisiana State Capitol Building

Baton Rouge is, of course, the state capital, and surprisingly one of the best things to do in Louisiana is visit the capitol building.

The Louisiana State Capitol Building is the largest state capitol building in all the states, towering above the surrounding area.

Completed in 1931, the Louisiana State Capitol Building is 34 stories, reaching a height of 450 feet.

It’s decorated with Art Deco details and topped with a lantern representing the “higher aspirations of Louisiana”. In 1982 it was listed as a National Historic Landmark.

The best thing about the capitol building though? It’s free to visit! There’s an observation deck on the 27th floor, from which you can see miles of Louisiana.

The gardens and grounds are also free to explore!

Hunt for Steel Magnolias Filming Locations

While it’s a different “LA,” Louisiana is a popular spot for filming movies.

From the 1951 classic A Streetcar Named Desire to X-Men’s Logan , Louisiana is no stranger to the silver screen. Visiting famous filming locations is one of the most fun things to do in Louisiana.

One of the most beloved Louisiana films is the 1989 hit Steel Magnolias , starring Sally Field, Julia Roberts, Shirley MacLaine, Olympia Dukakis, and Dolly Parton.

Centered around a group of women living and working in Natchitoches, LA, the film (based on the stage play of the same name by Robert Harling) was shot in the real city of Natchitoches.

Many iconic scenes were shot at the Cook-Taylor House , which is now a bed & breakfast. Because of the film’s popularity, the house is now known as “The Steel Magnolias House”.

Other locations include St. Augustine Catholic Church (Shelby’s wedding) and American Cemetery on Second Street (Shelby’s funeral).

One of the best things to do in Natchitoches, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported into the well-loved film.

Take a Ride on Steamboat Natchez

Feel like you’ve stepped back in time when you step aboard the Steamboat Natchez.

This authentic steamboat ride along the Mississippi River is one of the best things to do in Louisiana. Enjoy two hours of live jazz music and a meal as you cruise along the river.

Steamboats were an important part of the development of New Orleans, as they provided larger and faster transport for both people and products.

Operated by The New Orleans Steamboat Company, the current Natchez was built in the 1970s but was modeled after its 19th-century predecessors.

Cruise options above the Steamboat Natchez include just sightseeing, lunch, dinner, or Sunday brunch. Enjoy a cool drink as you take in the sights from the river and the sounds of another age.

Watching the sunset over the water on a cruise is one of the top things to do in Louisiana for couples looking for a romantic date night.

Book Here: New Orleans: Day Jazz Cruise on the Steamboat Natchez

Examine the Poverty Point World Heritage Site

To learn more about some of the first people to inhabit the land, one of the best things to do in Louisiana is to visit the Poverty Point World Heritage Site .

Although named for a nearby plantation, this archeological site dates back to the 18th century BC (aka over 3,000 years ago).

The prehistoric indigenous people who lived in the Lower Mississippi Valley left behind a 402-acre earthwork, including ridges and mounds.

These C-shaped earthen ridges are divided into rows and columns, and at one point were five feet high. Were they foundations for settlements? A religious site?

The on-site museum provides historical and physical information about the mounds with displays and a movie.

When you’re ready to explore, you can drive or walk roughly two miles around the mounds.

You can even climb to the top of the largest mound to further grasp the large scale of the place. (Note, some of the mound paths are steep and not wheelchair accessible.)

Visiting the Poverty Point World Heritage Site is one of the best things to do in Pioneer, LA, and is good for all ages!

View the R.W. Norton Art Gallery

For art lovers, one of the best things to do in Louisiana is to visit the R.W. Norton Art Gallery .

Located in Shreveport, this lovely museum features works of art by American and European artists, as well as a collection of rare books. It is truly one of the best things to do in Shrevepor t !

The R.W. Norton Art Gallery holds more than 400 paintings in addition to sculptures and tapestries, spanning from the Renaissance to the Impressionists to today.

Throughout the year they host seasonal special events such as “Yuletide: Christmas Favorites from the Norton”. The gallery doesn’t charge an admission fee to view the exhibits!

Nor do they charge to visit the beautiful botanical gardens.

Surrounding the museum are 40 acres of grounds and gardens, where paths weave through outdoor sculptures, a stream, and blooming flowers.

The azaleas are the star of the gardens, with over 100 native and hybrid types. Visiting the botanical gardens is one of the best things to do in Shreveport if you want peace and quiet.

Try Local Breweries in Hammond

Located an hour outside of New Orleans, the city of Hammond has a number of excellent local breweries.

Tourists and locals alike stop by for a pint, but also to see live music, grab food, or catch up on conversation.

Visiting breweries is one of the best things to do in Louisiana for adults if you want a low-key, local experience.

Gnarley Barley Brewery opened in 2014 and has since become a Hammond staple. With an open-air taproom, you’ll be able to see the inner workings of their brewing.

Gnarley Barley’s brews include their versions of pilsner and IPA, but they also have fun special releases like “Imperial Peanut Butter Korova.”

You’ll have trouble picking what to try at Low Road Brewing as they keep 15-20 of their craft brews on tap in addition to guest taps. With their knowledgeable and friendly staff, Low Road makes you feel right at home.

Play at Louisiana Children’s Discovery Center

Those much younger than 21 years old (or those just young at heart) looking for things to do in Hammond will enjoy a visit to the Louisiana Children’s Discovery Center .

With hands-on exhibits that encourage problem-solving and imagination, it’s one of the best things to do in Louisiana with kids.

The interactive exhibits at the Louisiana Children’s Discovery Center are like visiting a tiny town.

There is a “restaurant” where kids can pretend to cook and serve food, a “farm” where they can learn about cows and chickens, a “vet clinic” with stuffed animals, and even an ambulance display.

Other fun exhibits include a bubble station and a creation station filled with arts and crafts supplies.

One of the best things about the Louisiana Children’s Discovery Center is that you can leave and come back the same day but if you have more time it makes a great Louisiana weekend getaway.

Take a Haunted Cemetery and City Tour

Did you know that New Orleans is one of the most haunted cities in the United States?

It isn’t surprising, as it’s a city with roots in voodoo and slavery, and for all New Orleans’s celebration of life, the ghosts don’t seem to want to leave.

Going on a ghost tour should definitely be on your Louisiana bucket list.

New Orleans is full of ghost tours , and it’s a fun (and creepy) way to spend an evening. One of the best things to do in Louisiana is to learn about the lively (even in the afterlife) characters and grisly happenings of New Orleans.

Take part in a walking tour that explores the city cemeteries after dark or ride in a mule-drawn carriage through the city’s most haunted neighborhoods.

In addition to ghost, crime, and voodoo tours, there are vampire tours as well…if you’re feeling brave!

You can even stay in one of the haunted hotels in New Orleans .

Book Here: New Orleans: Cemetery Bus Tour At Dark with Exclusive Access

Walk the Louisiana State Arboretum

One of the best things to do in Louisiana is to take a stroll through its unique foliage.

Located in Ville Platte, within Chicot State Park, it’s one of the best things to do near Alexandria or Lafayette as it is about an hour’s drive from both.

The Louisiana State Arboretum provides easy walking trails and arbor education for all ages.

Stop in the Arboretum visitor center to learn about the many types of flora and fauna before you head out.

Once outside, choose your path through 6 miles of trails as you walk through greenery, over wetlands, and under sycamores. You might even glimpse some four-legged friends as well, such as deer and foxes.

Established in 1961, the Louisiana State Arboretum was the first of its kind in the South. As a state preservation area, please remember to be respectful of your surroundings.

Don’t forget to check out some of my other favorite state parks in Louisia na !

Shop at Kaffie-Frederick General Mercantile Store

For history buffs, one of the best things to do in Louisiana is to visit the state’s oldest general store.

The Kaffie-Frederick General Mercantile Store opened in Natchitoches in 1863 and has managed to survive the American Civil War, the Great Depression, WWI, and WWII!

The Kaffie brothers were Jewish-Prussian immigrants who began by selling goods door-to-door. Little did they know that their storefront on Front Street would still be there today.

Now run by the third generation of Fredericks, the store has managed to stay relatively the same, even if the merchandise hasn’t.

Kaffie-Frederick even uses the same hand-cranked cash register, now over a hundred years old. Inside the store, you can find housewares, cookware, toys, and gifts.

Whether you’re looking to buy anything or not, it’s worth a stop in Kaffie-Frederick for the feeling of nostalgia.

Explore the Louisiana Art and Science Museum

Another of the best things to do in Baton Rouge is to visit the L ouisiana Art and Science Museum .

Located in a historic railroad depot right on the Mississippi River, the museum is now a great Louisiana attraction for all ages.

Permanent exhibits at the museum include an Ancient Egypt Gallery, with a mummy from the Ptolemaic period, and galleries exploring the solar system and universe.

The Irene W. Pennington Planetarium is the “star” attraction at the museum and features sky shows and movies. Learn about the night sky and celestial events underneath a 60-foot dome.

For those looking for things to do in Louisana with kids, the museum has hands-on exhibits like “Discovery Depot” and “Science Station”, where kids ages 7-12 will enjoy learning about sound, motion, and light.

This really is one of the cool places in Louisiana for all ages!

Have a Drink at the Carousel Bar & Lounge

There are so many interesting things to do in the French Quarter of New Orleans, but one of the most unique is grabbing a drink at the carousel bar! And yes, it really does rotate!

Located in the historic Hotel Monteleone, this stunning bar has been spinning since 1949. You’ll sit in the same seats as literary greats of the past, like playwright Tennessee Williams who was a regular.

You do not have to be staying at the hotel to enjoy the Carousel Bar, but it does get busy in the evenings so if you are visiting during a weekend in New Orleans , make sure to go a bit early.

Not only is it pretty to look at and fun to ride, but the drinks are excellent as well! The Carousel Bar has an extensive cocktail list, as well as wine and beer.

On Friday and Saturday evenings, they have live music. If you are in New Orleans, add the Carousel Bar to your list of unique things to do in Louisiana.

When you visit the New Orleans French Quarter, you should make a stop here.

Traverse the Tammany Trace Trail

If you are a cyclist or just looking for a good hiking trail, one of the top things in Louisiana is to explore the Tammany Trace Trail .

Once part of the Illinois Central Railroad, the tracks have been converted to a trail for both cycling and walking, as well as a parallel equestrian trail.

This 31-mile asphalt rail-to-trail conversion spans from a trailhead in Covington to Slidell, passing through Abita Springs, Mandeville, and Lacombe.

Tammany Trace is open year-round, whether you want to go for a stroll, run, or bike ride.

The Trace also acts as a wildlife conservation corridor, connecting different greenspaces. You can observe natural habitats as you cross bridges built on original railroad trestles over streams and wetlands.

The trailhead in Covington is a point of interest in itself if you’re looking for things to do in Covington.

Looking like a railroad station, it has a clock tower, a bandstand, and a covered waiting platform. Restrooms are also located at each trailhead.

Go on a Swamp Tour

Going on a swamp tour absolutely has to be on your Louisiana bucket list.

Swamps and bayous are such an integral part of the state’s history and culture that touring one is one of the best things you can do in Louisiana.

Enter a land of moss-covered cypress trees and alligator-filled waters where turtles sunbathe and herons take off from the reeds.

Your knowledgeable guide captains you through the water and shares what they know about the local wildlife and natural history of the swamps.

When you visit Louisiana, you must do a swamp tour!

Book Here: From Lafitte: Swamp Tours South of New Orleans by Airboat

Pay Respects at the National WWII Museum

America’s official WWII museum is located in downtown New Orleans, and it is perhaps one of the more somber things to do in Louisiana.

However, the museum does an excellent job of explaining how the war came to be fought and how it was ended, so that future generations might not repeat it.

The National WWII Museum is spread throughout four buildings, each covering different aspects of the war.

Building 1, the Louisiana Memorial Pavilion, focuses on the Home Front and includes the museum’s original D-Day exhibit.

Building 2, the Solomon Victory Theater, shows a war story in a 4D experience. Next, Building 3, Campaigns of Courage, takes you through key settings in both Europe and the Pacific.

Lastly, Building 4, the Hall of Democracy, highlights the museum’s outreach initiatives.

That said, the WWII museum in New Orleans is large, so you can either take a day to see as much as possible or just pick which buildings sound most interesting.

Go Back in Time at Vermilionville Historic Village

Feel like you’ve stepped into the late 18th century at Vermilionville .

This living history museum is one of the best things to do in Louisiana to learn about what life was like in a bayou village.

At Vermilionville you can learn about the different cultures of Acadian, Creole, Native American, and African people and how those cultures blended into the 19th century.

Vermilionville features historic houses and costumed guides and artisans. Watch as people demonstrate spinning wheels and wood carving. Listen to an Avogal storyteller and tap your toes to a Creole fiddle.

There is live music on the weekends and even dance lessons if you want to join in the weekly Sunday dance. There’s also a cooking school as well as a restaurant, La Cusine de Maman, that serves authentic soul food.

Visiting Vermilionville is one of the most unique things to do in Lafayette. In fact, Lafayette used to be called Vermilionville!

If you are looking for hidden gems in Louisiana, this is one of the best!

Relax at the Rip Van Winkle Gardens

If you’re looking for stunning grounds and historic buildings, the Rip Van Winkle Gardens is one of the best things to do in Louisiana this weekend.

Located in New Iberia, the Joseph Jefferson Mansion was built in 1870 and sits on 20 acres of land. For a small fee, you can visit both the mansion and the gardens.

Joseph Jefferson was an American actor who played the character of Rip Van Winkle (who famously fell asleep for 20 years) on stage over 4,500 times.

He originally bought the land for hunting and fishing, and soon built what is now called the Joseph Jefferson Mansion on Jefferson Island.

Jefferson Island is home to 200 species of birds (including peacocks) as well as semi-tropical flowers and oak trees that are hundreds of years old.

Stroll the 15 acres of peaceful gardens…but be careful not to fall asleep!

Discover History on the African American Heritage Trail

The Louisiana African American Heritage Trail is comprised of 38 historic sites and museums throughout the state. You cannot explore Louisiana without visiting at least some of these places.

In New Orleans alone, there are six sites. If you spend 3 days in New Orleans , you should check a couple out.

These include Congo Square where enslaved people were allowed to congregate on Sundays, the St. Augustine Church which is possibly the oldest Black Catholic church in the US, and the New Orleans African American Museum.

Other sites are dotted around the state. Stop by art and history museums, universities, historic homes, and more.

Visit the birthplace of Madam C. J. Walker, the first female self-made millionaire in America, in Delta. The Arna Bontemps African American Museum in Alexandria is dedicated to the Harlem Renaissance poet.

Other spots to check out include the River Road African American Museum in Donaldsonville, the Tangipahoa African American Heritage Museum in Hammond, and Grambling State University.

Photograph the St. Louis Cathedral

Head to Jackson Square in New Orleans to see one of the best cathedrals in the US!

The towering, white St. Louis Cathedral with its three steeples is one of the most iconic landmarks in NOLA. Its architectural style is a mix of Spanish Colonial, Gothic Revival, and Renaissance.

There have been three churches on this site with the current one dating back to 1789. It is the oldest cathedral in continuous use in the US.

This church has experienced so much in its long history including a bombing in 1909, a visit by Pope John Paul II in 1987, and damage from Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

Step inside to admire paintings, stained glass windows, chandeliers, and the Rococo-style, gilded altar.

If you visit during Christmas in New Orleans , you can attend free holiday concerts at the church.

This cathedral is one of the best free things to do in Louisiana!

After exploring Jackson Square, you can walk a couple of blocks to Bourbon Street, one of the best places to celebrate Mardi Gras in New Orleans. This is one of the prettiest New Orleans streets .

Book Here: French Quarter Walking and Storytelling Tour

Find Wildlife at Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

Just south of New Orleans, the 26,000-acre Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve has something for everyone!

You will find many historic and cultural sites as well as pristine nature full of wildlife all located on the Mississippi River Delta.

There are three cultural centers dedicated to Cajun life. There are great exhibits as well as music, dancing, and cooking demonstrations.

Anyone interested in American history will want to visit the Chalmette Battlefield and Chalmette National Cemetery.

The 1815 Battle of New Orleans took place here between future president Andrew Jackson and British forces. This was one of the last battles in the War of 1812. It resulted in an American victory.

The wetlands of the Barataria Preserve are the perfect place for wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for alligators, turtles, snakes, and over 200 species of birds as you explore the boardwalks.

Make sure to stop by the visitors center to learn all about the swamps and marshes.

A Note About Visiting Plantations in Louisiana

Many lists of Louisiana tourist attractions include Oak Alley Plantation, Laura Plantation, Whitney Plantation, and Melrose Plantation.

We want to take a moment to say that we recommend against visiting these locations. Based on personal experience, plantations tend to glorify slavery and sugarcoat the enslaved people’s experience.

I’ve been to some of these in the past, and they really are not great.

I agree it is important to learn about the history of slavery and how it has affected our country, but there are better ways to do so.

We encourage you to make your own decisions on visiting Louisiana plantations, but please keep this in mind when planning your trip.

We hope you enjoyed this ultimate bucket list of attractions in Louisiana! Each area is unique, so definitely venture to more than just New Orleans. You’ll make some lasting Louisiana memories!

Next, check out my comprehensive guide to where to stay in New Orleans !

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The 12 best things to do in Louisiana

Get to know the Bayou State with our guide to the best things to do in Louisiana

New Orleans is obviously the #1 destination in Louisiana, and there are many great things to do  in the Crescent City. But for an equally unique experience, get out of the city and explore other parts of Louisiana. Known as the “Bayou State” and “Sportsman’s Paradise,” Louisiana is dominated by wetlands, the Gulf of Mexico, swamps, and other natural features that are excellent spots for fishing and boating. Southwest Louisiana is Cajun country - home to boudin, spicy crawfish, and Cajun and Zydeco music. North of New Orleans you’ll find many small, historic towns with beautiful oaks, moss, magnolias, and other flora. Plantation Country is a feast for the eyes, and the state capital, Baton Rouge, is worth a visit for SEC football and a view into Louisiana ’s colorful political history . After a visit to New Orleans, take some time to explore the best of the rest of Louisiana, including the city's top museums .

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Best things to do in Louisiana

1.  Cajun Country

What is it: Region in southwest Louisiana, home to Acadian French culture.

Why go: Just a few hours west of New Orleans, you can explore Cajun music, food, and culture in places like Eunice, Mamou, and Lafayette. The unique culture of this region descends from Acadians, French-speakers expelled from Canada by the British in 1755. You’ll find plenty of spicy Cajun food, from crawfish to boudin, throughout the region. Check out a fais-do-do at Fred’s Lounge. Spend a night in Lafayette at the Blue Moon Saloon. Or make a point to visit during the Festivals Acadiens et Créoles (dedicated to Acadian and Creole culture) or Festival International de Louisiane (celebrating connections to the Francophone world). 

2.  Plantation Country

What is it: A collection of historic plantations along the Mississippi River from New Orleans to Baton Rouge.

Why go: Follow the Great River Road and explore the history of Louisiana from centuries ago. Amidst the beautiful natural scenery, learn about early plantation life, slavery, and how the plantations fit into the history of the state. Three of the most popular plantations are Oak Alley (with its spectacular row of oaks more than 300 years old), Laura (beautifully restored and the first historic attraction in Louisiana to include stories of enslaved Africans), and Whitney (a newly-restored plantation that is a museum of slavery in the South). Take a drive to visit the plantations or choose a guided tour that will arrange transportation and entry. 

3.  Boudin

What is it: A regional specialty sausage typically consisting of pork, rice, and seasonings.

Why go: Trying boudin is a must when visiting Louisiana. Whether it’s smoked, fried as a boudin ball, or made from seafood rather than pork, there are many worthy variations. The best versions are found at gas stations and markets, like Best Stop or Billy’s, both in the town of Scott. Specialty meat markets like Don’s in Carencro offer a heart-stopping range of other meaty treats. And of course you’ll find high-end versions in restaurants like Cochon in New Orleans, but do yourself a favor and check out the real deal at some of the old-school joints throughout Cajun Country. 

4.  LSU Tigers

What is it:  Louisiana State University’s college football team, in Baton Rouge.

Why go: College football is huge in the South, and LSU has one of the biggest fan bases in the region. Tailgating on campus is a spectacle, as a sea of purple and gold takes over before games. Being in one of Tiger Stadium’s 102,000 seats provides quite the thrill, hearing the crowds roar as LSU (usually) dominates their opponents. Try to catch a night game for a lengthier tailgating experience, and make time to visit mascot Mike the Tiger’s habitat. 

5.  Natchitoches

What is it:  A charming Northwest Louisiana town, the oldest permanent settlement in the region.

Why go: If you’ve seen Steel Magnolias, you know why people visit Natchitoches, where it was filmed. This magnolia- and moss-drenched Southern town exudes hospitality. Downtown is a National Historic Landmark District with buildings dating back to the 1700s, including beautiful French Creole townhouses. The Cane River flows through the town and leads to the Oakland, Magnolia, and Melrose plantations. Be sure to grab a meat pie from Lasyone’s and stop in the Kaffie-Frederick General Mercantile, a 19th century general store still run by the same family. In December, the town is lit up with more than 300,000 holiday lights, a nearly century-old tradition. 

6.  Honey Island Swamp Tour

What is it: Popular boat tour exploring the area’s iconic swamps.

Why go: Louisiana’s swamps are home to an abundance of wildlife - egrets, alligators, otters, herons, and more. It’s a unique landscape that has to be experienced first hand. There are dozens of swamp tours around the state, but Honey Island, a protected nature preserve near New Orleans, is a good place to start. On the tour you’ll learn about the importance of the swamps, the wildlife, and the history of the region. Best of all, you’ll get an up-close view of the wildlife in their natural habitat. 

7.  Avery Island

What is it: A salt dome in Iberia Parish, home to Tabasco and Jungle Gardens.

Why go: Avery Island is an odd geological formation, one of five “islands” of rock salt that rise above the flat coastal marshes. It’s a lush area covered with oak trees, spanish moss, and other local flora. Tour the Tabasco factory and museum to learn how the hot sauce is made, or take a culinary tour. Jungle Gardens is a beautiful bird sanctuary filled with azaleas, camellias, and bamboo. You might see alligators, deer or other wildlife too. Be on the lookout for the Chinese garden that houses a centuries-old Buddha statue. 

8.  Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival

What is it: Celebration of the ubiquitous crustacean in the Crawfish Capital of the World.

Why go: Spicy boiled crawfish are another culinary must in Louisiana. Every local has a favorite spot for crawfish (many cite their relatives as the best boilers), but a great way to sample the delicacy is at the Crawfish Festival, held the first full weekend in May. There’s a parade, Cajun and Creole music, Cajun and Zydeco dance contests, and of course crawfish cooked in a multitude of ways - boiled, fried, étouffée, bisque, boudin, pie, jambalaya, and more. 

9.  Old State Capitol

What is it: Imposing, Gothic- and Victorian-style building on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River.

Why go: This National Historic Landmark was Louisiana’s seat of government from 1852 until the new capitol was built in the 1930s. Perched high above the river, it looks like a medieval fortress. The architecture, cast iron staircase, and stained glass cathedral dome are impressive. The building now houses a museum interpreting Louisiana’s tumultuous and flamboyant political history. After visiting the Old State Capitol, visit the new one - it’s the tallest in the country, with an observation deck on the 27th floor.

10.  Abita Mystery House

What is it: A quirky roadside attraction in the historic small town of Abita Springs.

Why go: A visit to the Northshore - across Lake Pontchartrain from New Orleans - is worth a trip for a variety of reasons. Highlights include the Abita Brewery, Historic Downtown Covington, and the Tammany Trace. But a particularly intriguing stop is the Mystery House. It’s filled with folk art, found objects, and homemade inventions. Enter through a vintage gas station to explore an open air area and a 90+ year old Creole cottage to see memorabilia, miniatures, old arcade machines, and “Darrel the Dogigator.” 

11.  Grand Isle

What is it: Inhabited barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico known for beaches, fishing, and birding.

Why go: To experience some of the best of “Sportsman’s Paradise,” head to Grand Isle for fishing, either from the local pier or a fishing charter. It’s a top destination for anglers, home to more than 280 species of fish and the Grand Isle Tarpon Rodeo, one of the premier saltwater fishing rodeos in the U.S. You’ll also find miles of well-maintained beaches with views of the Gulf, plus trails, campsites, and plenty of tasty local seafood spots. 

12.  Chauvin Sculpture Garden

What is it: Bizarre yet beautiful collection of sculptures created by a reclusive artist on Bayou Petit Caillou .

Why go: In the early 80s, Kenny Hill pitched a tent, built a house, then began filling the surrounding land with his sculptures depicting the struggles of his life. They include biblical characters and stories, celestial creatures, soldiers, cowboys, winged angels, and himself. Most prominent is 45-foot lighthouse built with 7,000 bricks, featuring figures clinging to the outside. He abruptly left in 2000, and the property has been open to the public since then. Spend an afternoon wandering through the colorful creations and visit the art center and museum to learn more. 

Ready to explore more of the best of Louisiana?

The 14 museums in Louisiana you must visit

• Things to do

Sure, Louisiana is best-known for music and food, but the state’s roster of things to do shine well outside the walls of its top restaurants and music lounges: the best museums in Louisiana are, in some ways, some of the best (and most bizarre) across the globe. 

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Louisiana (LA) » 19 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Louisiana

19 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Louisiana

Louisiana , also known as “Bayou State”, “Child of the Mississippi”, “Creole State”, “Pelican State (official)”, “Sportsman’s Paradise”, “Sugar State” and “The Boot”, offers some of the most beautiful and spectacular sights and places to visit! Just browse through these awesome pictures and be amazed by it’s beauty.

1. Avery Island

Avery Island is one of Louisiana’s most famous sights, known around the world for being the birthplace of Tabasco sauce. Although the island is home to a small human population, it is actually a salt dome, which was initially covered by fauna before being discovered. Avery Island’s top attractions include the visitor center and the pepper sauce factory, but there is much more to the island than its association with Tabasco sauce.

2. Christmas in New Orleans

New Orleans is one of the most unique places in the whole world, let alone in Louisiana, with Christmas a particularly special time to spend in the city. New Orleans might not get the snow some parts of the United States receives at this time of year, but that does not affect the joyful atmosphere that spreads throughout New Orleans at Christmas time. The Krewe of Jingle holiday parade kicks off Christmas in New Orleans, while the St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square hold a series of events throughout December. Among the biggest Christmas traditions in New Orleans is enjoying Reveillon, a French-inspired meal meaning ‘awakening’. Modern New Orleans food mixes with Creole cuisine for this unforgettable culinary experience.

3. St. Louis Cathedral

St. Louis Cathedral is one of the most famous sights in New Orleans, and indeed in the whole of Louisiana. Located in the city’s thriving French Quarter in front of Jackson Square, the history of the cathedral dates back almost 300 years, although the building has been regularly renovated, rebuilt and upgraded. The cathedral – the mother church of the Archdiocese of New Orleans – is the United States’ oldest continuously active Roman Catholic Cathedral. The rear of the cathedral also houses St. Anthony Garden, which has a statue of Jesus that is spectacularly lit up at night.

Venice – sometimes known as The End of the World – is one of Louisiana’s many must-see sights. Often used as a starting point for offshore fishermen, Venice was particularly badly affected by Hurricane Katrina. In the years since the horrific natural disaster, a great deal of work has been done to rebuild the community, which is now beginning to thrive again. Nearby to Venice is also the must-visit site the Breton National Wildlife Refuge of the Chandeleur Islands, which was established by the order of the then-President of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt.

5. Avery Island bird sanctuary

While Avery Island is understandably known as the home of Tabasco sauce, the island is also famous for its bird sanctuary, which is called Bird City. The wildlife refuge has been built up slowly over many decades and is now the migration site for an estimated 100,000 egrets. Nesting season begins around February and the birds remain on the island until the winter months arrive. President Roosevelt once described Bird City as “the most noteworthy reserve in the country.”

6. Chauvin Sculpture Garden

Perhaps the oddest but most beautiful place in Louisiana is the Chauvin Sculpture Garden. Developed over many years by the reclusive artist Kenny Hill before his abrupt departure from the site, the sculpture garden features a huge array of bizarre but wondrous creations, from winged angels to depictions of God himself. An art center and a small local museum are now based at the site, which provides one of the strangest and wonderful experiences in the whole of Louisiana.

7. Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge

The biggest urban wildlife refuge in the United States, Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge is located within the city limits of New Orleans and is a must-visit location for anyone who is interested in conservation. A massive wading bird rookery is one of the main attractions of the refuge, which also has alligators, bald eagles and brown pelicans that call the site home. Many people driving along I-10 in New Orleans East do not even realise they are in Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge, which covers a vast total area of 24,000 acres.

8. Horace Wilkinson Bridge

Of the many bridges that cross the epic Mississippi River, the Horace Wilkinson Bridge at Baton Rouge is perhaps the most impressive of the lot. The cantilever bridge, which is the highest to cross the Mississippi River, carries Interstate 10 from Baton Rouge to Port Allen. Six lanes of traffic cross the bridge, which is named after three separate men named Horace Wilkinson who served in the Louisiana legislature for a combined total of 54 years. Keen photographers will be keen to snap the Horace Wilkinson Bridge, which is a special backdrop for pictures.

9. Mississippi River

There is no doubt that the Mississippi River is one of the greatest rivers in the whole world. Dozens of bridges cross the river from its starting point at Itasca State Park in Minnesota to the mouth at the Gulf of Mexico. The Port of South Louisiana is based around the river, with some 500 million tons of shipped goods passing through the port every year. A journey along the Great River Road through Louisiana makes for a wonderful experience, with cities such as St. Francisville, Baton Rouge and Plaquemine among the places the river flows through, as well as Tallulah, Morganza and, of course, the city of New Orleans.

10. Atchafalaya Basin

Louisiana is known for its wetlands and the Atchafalaya Basin is the largest swamp in the whole of the United States. The Atchafalaya is a particularly unique ecosystem as a result of its unusual combination of stable wetlands and a growing delta system. Among the many attractions of the Atchafalaya Basin is the Atchafalaya National Wildlife Refuge, which houses alligators, waterfowl and a huge array of migratory birds. The basin stretches an amazing 140 miles southward and it is a massive source of crawfish, with 22 million pounds of the fish coming from the basin each year.

11. Melrose Plantation

Melrose is one of the most unique plantations in the South. Sometimes also called Yucca Plantation, Melrose was one of the biggest plantations that were built by and for free blacks. There are eight structures in total at the plantation, with the Association for Preservation of Historic Natchitoches providing guided tours of Melrose. The plantation features on the Louisiana African American Heritage Trail. Melrose was established by Louis Metoyer, a slave who became a free person of color when he was finally granted his freedom. Metoyer went on to build a uniquely African structure that is a must-visit experience for anyone spending time in Louisiana.

12. French Quarter, New Orleans

New Orleans is one of the world’s great cities, with the French Quarter by some distance the oldest neighborhood in the city. A National Historic Landmark, the French Quarter was damaged by Hurricane Katrina but after huge work to restore it, is now back to its bustling best. Among the many attractions people should see when visiting the French Quarter is Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral, the busy bars of Bourbon Street and the Audubon Cottages. The French Quarter is known around the world for its party atmosphere and it is one of the only places in the United States where consuming alcohol from open containers is permitted on the street. Bourbon Street also hosts the famous annual Mardi Gras celebration, which draws thousands of people to celebrate on the streets of New Orleans.

13. Louisiana swamp tour

Taking a swamp tour is one of the best ways to experience life in Louisiana. There are few places in the world as untouched as the swamps of Louisiana and a guided tour all-but guarantees seeing a huge variety of wildlife, all in their unspoiled natural habitat. Lafayette is one of the top starting points for a Louisiana swamp tour, but there are countless fantastic options all over the state. Alligators, herons and egrets are among the wildlife present in the state’s swamps.

14. Jungle Gardens

Many people heading to Avery Island miss the chance to explore the Jungle Gardens in favour of learning about its Tabasco-related history, but this is a huge mistake as the Jungle Gardens are one of Louisiana’s surprise gems. Azaleas, camellias and bamboo is all present in the gardens, while alligators, deer and raccoons are among the many animals living in the vicinity too. A centuries-old Buddha statue is one of the most unmissable sights on Avery Island, and indeed in the whole of Louisiana.

15. New Orleans Garden District

We’ve already covered the French Quarter, St. Louis Cathedral and Christmas in New Orleans, but the city has so much more to offer. The Garden District is a beautiful spot to while away a few hours. Superb 19th century mansions are to be found here, with the St. Charles line streetcar making access around the area simple. Landmarks to look out for in the New Orleans Garden District include the George Washington Cable House, while one of NOLA’s most famous restaurants, Commander’s Palace, is also based in this part of the city.

16. Oak Alley Plantation

Along with Melrose Plantation, Oak Alley Plantation is another of the most important historical sites in the state. Located in Vacherie, St. James Parish, Oak Alley Plantation is particularly notable for the row of trees that gave the plantation its name. The architecture and landscaping on show at the plantation have led to it being made a National Historic Landmark. Oak Alley Plantation is one of the South’s most spectacular settings. The trees at Oak Alley Plantation are over 300 years old and to this day it is a mystery who originally planted them at the site.

17. Jean Lafitte National Historic Park and Preserve

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve consists of six separate sites around the New Orleans area. Among these is the Chalmette Battlefield and National Cemetery, where the Battle of New Orleans took place in 1815, as well as the French Quarter Visitor Center in the city of New Orleans itself. Much of Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve is located just a short trip out of the city but it feels a world away, offering the chance to enjoy nature at close quarters.

18. Audubon Park

Located in the Uptown neighborhood of New Orleans, Audubon Park is one of the most beautiful places in the whole of Louisiana. The park is named after artist and naturalist John James Audubon and is built on land that was initially a plantation. Today, the park has sports fields and picnic facilities, as well as a golf course and a rookery attracting hundreds of wading birds. Part of Audubon Park is known locally as the Fly due to its butterfly-shaped river viewing shelter.

19 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Louisiana:

• Avery Island
• Christmas in New Orleans
• St. Louis Cathedral
• Avery Island bird sanctuary
• Chauvin Sculpture Garden
• Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge
• Horace Wilkinson Bridge
• Mississippi River
• Atchafalaya Basin
• Melrose Plantation
• French Quarter, New Orleans
• Louisiana swamp tour
• Jungle Gardens
• New Orleans Garden District
• Oak Alley Plantation
• Jean Lafitte National Historic Park and Preserve
• Audubon Park

The 25 Best Things to do in Louisiana

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While many know Louisiana for its famous Mardi Gras festivities in New Orleans and vibrant jazz scene, this swampy Southern state has a few surprises. With a rich, multi-cultural history, Louisiana is where delicious Creole and Cajun flavors , festive music, and cultural attractions combine to create one of the best places to visit in the US. 

After you’ve experienced the thrill of the historic French Quarter in New Orleans, explore Louisiana’s other destinations, such as the capital city Baton Rouge or Cajun country in Beaux Bridge. Options for outdoor adventures are endless. You can explore inviting beaches along the scenic coast or cruise along paddling trails to reach wildlife-filled bayous and swamplands. 

For a deeper look into this Southern state, head out on the road and experience the small-town charms of Louisiana and miles of Cajun country, including the picture-perfect town of Natchitoches. You can spend your extra days hopping aboard a riverboat cruise on the Mississippi River or deep-sea fishing in Grand Isle. 

With so many things to see and do in the Bayou State, it’s difficult to know where to begin. So, we’ve gathered a list of our favorite activities and the best things to do in Louisiana for you. This Louisiana bucket list is full of unique adventures and includes the Bayou State’s most exciting destinations, outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and must-see sites! 

Don’t forget to check out our web story:  The 25 Best Things to do in Louisiana !

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

1. Explore the Best of the French Quarter in New Orleans

There’s no visiting Louisiana without a stop in the iconic French Quarter, which is a National Historic District and the heart of New Orleans. With buildings that date back as far as 300 years, it’s the epicenter of sightseeing, dining, and entertainment!

Lively throughout the day and night, Bourbon Street is a year-round hotspot best known for its nightlife. Running 13 blocks through the French Quarter, this is also where you’ll find revelers throwing beads during the annual Mardi Gras festival! 

Lined with street artists and jazz musicians, Jackson Square is an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll. Admire the local artists who display their work along the cast-iron fence around the square, then snap a photo of the beautiful St. Louis Cathedral with its stained-glass windows. 

Stroll to North Rampart Street to see its historic buildings and dine at its excellent restaurants, or explore the antique shops and art galleries lining the pedestrian-friendly Royal Street. You can also visit Congo Square in Louis Armstrong Park or sample locally sourced foods in the covered French Market. 

2. Spend a Day in New Orleans’ Garden District 

One of the most popular areas in New Orleans, the city’s Garden District has a very different vibe than the French Quarter. Just a streetcar ride away, you’ll find elegant mansions, above-ground cemeteries, and leafy magnolia-shaded streets to explore. 

Take the St. Charles Streetcar from Canal Street and pass the Central Business District, which features buildings dating back to the 1820s. Arrive in the Garden District and stop at its most iconic structures, including the mustard-brown Rink (at the corner of Washington Avenue and Prytania Street) and the Garden District Bookstore upstairs. 

Next, visit the historic Lafayette Cemetery. Dating back to 1833, it’s one of the oldest cemeteries still standing in New Orleans! Stroll past the beautiful mansions and stop to see Colonel Short’s Villa (1448 Fourth Street), Toby’s Corner (2340 Prytania Street), and the Anne Rice House (1239 First Street). 

You can’t miss the bright blue Commander’s Palace on the corner of Washington and Coliseum Streets. It’s a great spot to recharge with traditional Cajun and Creole farm-to-table cuisine. The chef serves up gourmet dishes, including pecan-crusted lump crab, turtle soup au sherry, and corn-fried Gulf oysters.

If you’re up for a little shopping, add Magazine Street to your route. Stretching from Canal Street to Audubon Park, this retail street boasts a cluster of shops selling everything from clothes to pottery to jewelry. 

3. Listen to Live Jazz Music on Frenchmen Street

Known as a city of music and the birthplace of jazz, New Orleans boasts a long list of music venues where you can take in a live performance. It’s an experience of a lifetime and a top thing to do in the city. On any given night, you’ll find an array of both traditionalists and modern artists gracing one of the city’s many stages. 

For traditional New Orleans jazz, you can’t beat the legendary Preservation Hall in the French Quarter, which opened back in 1961. The small and intimate Spotted Cat Music Club also offers a quintessential jazz club experience and is located on Frenchmen Street. 

Also on Frenchmen Street, you can head to d.b.a for live jazz and craft beer and enjoy a variety of musical acts. Nearby, you’ll find the Blue Nile , a two-story club that is actually credited as the birthplace of the culture of live music on Frenchmen Street.

Dating back to the 1800s, Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro offers live jazz and Creole cuisine in the classic jazz lounge. Last but not least, The Maison features jazz, funk, and brass bands on its center stage in a three-story venue. 

4. Sample Louisiana’s Most Iconic Local Dishes

You won’t want to visit Louisiana while on a diet, as this foodie-centric state is full of tasty eats that are worth the splurge. From beignets to crawfish to jambalaya, add these top-rated local foods to your Louisiana bucket list!

Jambalaya is the state’s classic rice and meat combo. While you’ll find it served throughout the French Quarter in New Orleans, Mother’s Restaurant does it best. Po’ boys are another firm foodie favorite in Louisiana, and Parkway Bakery & Tavern serves this sandwich staple stuffed with a heaping pile of fried shrimp! 

A plate of gumbo is sure to warm your heart, with variations spanning chicken and sausage or a seafood medley. Li’l Dizzy’s and Gumbo Shop are two local favorites. When driving through Cajun country, make sure to stop and sample boudin. One of the best places to indulge in this cooked sausage is the Best Stop market in Scott.

Crawfish boils are a must for any seafood fan and are best sampled in the capital of Cajun country, Lafayette. Of course, you can finish any meal with a plate of beignets at Cafe du Monde . Open 24 hours a day in New Orleans, they’re known for serving their pillowy fried dough treats coated in powdered sugar. 

5. Go Museum Hopping in the Big Easy 

There’s more to New Orleans than jazz clubs, tasty eats, and Mardi Gras, as the city is also home to a collection of world-class museums. From the National WWII Museum to the New Orleans Museum of Art, it’s worth taking the time to explore the cultural attractions in the Big Easy. 

For an in-depth look at World War II, head to the interactive National WWII Museum in the Warehouse District. It tells the story of the war, including why it was fought, how it was won, and what it means today. Browse the permanent collection of artifacts, soldiers’ personal items, and an immersive submarine exhibit. 

The New Orleans Museum of Art is another must-see, featuring a five-acre sculpture garden and collection of French and American artwork. Next, stop by the Ogden Museum of Southern Art , which boasts the most comprehensive collection of Southern art in the world with over 4,000 pieces from 15 states. 

If you’re a fan of music, stop by the New Orleans Jazz Museum to learn about the city’s history of jazz through interactive exhibits. For something truly unique, add the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum to your itinerary to see everything from hand-blown apothecary bottles to antique surgical instruments. 

6. Join a Riverboat Cruise on the Mississippi River

The longest river in North America, the Mississippi River is a natural wonder that spans 10 states in the US. Meeting the Gulf of Mexico in southern Louisiana, it offers a variety of ways to enjoy its scenic beauty, including riverboat cruises!

Riverboat cruises are a popular way to explore the famous river. You can enjoy the sight of the city skylines pass from the comfort of a floating vessel. In New Orleans, you’ll find various paddle wheeler tours offering a fun way to explore the waterways. 

Daily cruises on the Steamboat Natchez offer an up-close look at the port city and depart from Jackson Square. It even includes live jazz and optional Creole food and beverages. There’s also an option for Sunday Brunch cruises! 

If you prefer dinner and dancing with your river cruise, hop aboard the Creole Queen . The Creole Queen also has a Historical River Cruise with views of the French Quarter that offers a history narrator that brings the city’s sites to life. 

You can also drive the Great River Road , which is a national collection of roads following the river. One of the best drives in the US, you’ll have the chance to stop by charming river towns in Louisiana along the way. 

7. Join a Honey Island Swamp Tour in Slidell

A must on your Louisiana bucket list, a tour of the region’s iconic swamps offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for nature lovers. You can get up-close with the wildlife-filled landscapes on a Honey Island Swamp Tour , one of the state’s most popular swamp tours. 

An experience like no other, the small boats allow the group to go deep into the Honey Island Cypress Swamp. Along the two-hour tour, you’ll travel through one of the most pristine river swamps in the United States and see wildlife in their natural habitat. 

You’ll spend the day observing egrets, alligators, otters, herons, and more on this exciting tour at Honey Island, a protected nature preserve near New Orleans. It’s also an opportunity to hear about the importance of the swamps, wildlife, and the history of the region from knowledgeable guides. 

Sit back and marvel at the primitive beauty of one of the least altered river swamps in the country on this personalized narrated tour. You’ll have plenty of opportunities for nature photography and wildlife observation, with tours departing from Crawford Landing on West Pearl River in Slidell. 

8. Kayak the Waterways in Fontainebleau State Park 

If you’re looking for a relaxing outdoor adventure, head to the popular Fontainebleau State Park . Covering 2,800 acres of land on the banks of Lake Pontchartrain, this park is just 40 miles north of New Orleans and is one of the best places in Louisiana for kayaking excursions. 

For a leisurely day exploring mossy hammocks, hop in a kayak and paddle the maze of pristine streams between the giant cypress trees. There are numerous kayaking outfitters in the area, which offer guided tours and help navigate the waters. 

Along the way, you’ll learn about Fontainebleau’s past, which was once the site of a large sugar mill. Make sure to stop by the visitor center after your adventure to see historic handmade tools and furniture on display. Alternately, opt to stroll the Tammany Trace Trail that was once an old railroad line or the 1.2-mile boardwalk route with bird-watching spots.  

After an afternoon of paddling, you can walk to the pier near the visitor center and enjoy a spectacular setting for sunset viewing. There’s also a manmade beach, picnic lawns, and a seasonal water playground for the little ones. 

9. See the Largest Free-Roaming Wildlife Preserve

If you’re an animal lover, you can add this activity to your itinerary. The Global Wildlife Center in Folsom is the largest totally free-roaming wildlife preserve of its kind in the United States. It’s also a fun day trip for families with kids, as the 900-acre habitat is home to over 4,000 exotic, endangered, and threatened animals from across the globe. 

You can feed and touch the wildlife during one of the educational guided tours that last around one hour and 15 minutes. The Safari Wagon tour explores 900 acres of beautiful Louisiana countryside as well as the park’s 12 ponds and lakes. 

Along the way, you can expect to see a variety of animals, including free-roaming bison, giraffes, zebras, and elands. You might even have a chance to spot red kangaroos from Australia, llamas, and Bactrian camels from Asia. Options to feed the animals are also available.

If you want a more intimate experience, the center also offers private tours for up to eight guests that go places the safari wagons cannot. With this tour option, you’ll get more one-on-one time with the animals. 

10. Go Deep-Sea Fishing at Grand Isle State Park

Grand Isle State Park is one of the best places in Louisiana to enjoy the outdoors. Best known for its beaches, fishing, and birding, this barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico is connected to the mainland by a bridge just 100 miles south of New Orleans. 

The family-friendly park offers a long list of outdoor activities, including canoeing and hiking. However, it boasts excellent opportunities for deep-sea fishing, with numerous fishing charters offering the best chance to reel in a catch. 

Typically held in July, a Tarpon Rodeo attracts thousands of world-class fishermen to try for prize-worthy catches in the waters of Grand Isle. Speckled trout can be caught by surf fishers year-round, especially during spring and summer, while redfish are often found in the fall and winter. 

At Louisiana’s best-known stretch of sand, you’ll find the state’s most productive fisheries, while camping on the beach is also a popular pastime. Here you’ll have the opportunity to wake up to the sound of crashing waves, while RV sites also include barbeque grills. When it’s time to dine, you’ll find plenty of tasty local seafood spots nearby. 

11. Get a Somber Look Into the Whitney Plantation

Located less than an hour from New Orleans and Baton Rouge, the Whitney Plantation offers a somber and eye-opening look at slavery in the region. In addition to historic buildings and museum exhibits, you’ll find modern memorials and first-person slave narratives that give a voice to the enslaved people who worked and lived here. 

It’s the only plantation in Louisiana with a focus on slavery, offering a unique perspective on the evolution of the area’s working plantation. Take a self-guided tour of this site to gain a deeper understanding of the history of slavery on a southern Louisiana sugarcane plantation.

On the tour, you’ll learn about the lives of the people who were held here for over 100 years. Walk past the memorials honoring over 100,000 people held in slavery in Louisiana and get up-close with the original slave cabins, outbuildings, and the owner’s house. Learn about its grounds, which were home to a sugar, rice, and indigo plantation that dates back to 1752. 

Only a short drive away, Oak Alley is another notable plantation located on the banks of the Mississippi River. Here you can see a spectacular row of oaks leading to the plantation’s entrance that is more than 300 years old. 

12. Learn About Louisiana’s History in Baton Rouge

Sitting along the picturesque Mississippi River, Baton Rouge is Louisiana’s capital city and a popular destination for history lovers. You’ll find a variety of attractions to explore here, including the iconic State Capitol!

Start your journey at the Old State Capitol , which is a striking Gothic-Revival castle dating back to 1847. A National Historic Landmark, it looks like a medieval fortress with its stained-glass cathedral dome with an on-site museum highlighting the state’s history. Afterward, visit the Observation Deck on the 27th floor of the New State Capitol. 

Next, head to the USS Kidd Veterans Memorial . Centering around the destroyer USS Kidd, visitors can climb aboard the ship (nicknamed “Pirate of the Pacific”) to learn more about its rich history. At the USS Kidd Veterans Memorial complex, there’s also a Historic Warship & Nautical Center housing unique artifacts and a model ship collection. 

Other popular historical attractions in Baton Rouge include the Magnolia Mound Plantation , which was built in the last half of the 18th century, as well as the LSU Rural Life Museum . At this site, you can take a self-guided tour of historic buildings that showcase the lives of Louisiana’s first settlers. 

13. Cheer on LSU at Tiger Stadium

Based in Baton Rouge, seeing the LSU Tigers play at Tiger Stadium is one of the best local experiences in the state. College is huge in the South, particularly Louisiana, as it boasts one of the largest fan bases in the region. 

Tailgating for one of these games is a rite of passage for experiencing the local culture, featuring a sea of purple and gold cheering on the LSU Tigers. Sitting in one of the 102,000 seats at Tiger Stadium is a thrill for sports lovers and offers a chance to hear the roar of the crowds. 

If you can’t catch a game, the stadium (also known as “Death Valley”) can be seen on a guided tour. You can walk through the locker room, in the chute, and touch the “WIN” bar. However, no trip to the LSU campus is complete without a visit to Mike the Tiger’s habitat , which is the university’s mascot. 

Other attractions nearby include the Jack & Priscilla Andonie Museum , which features 13,000 LSU Tiger sports-related artifacts such as trophies, banners, and retired jerseys. Just a short walk from Tiger Stadium is the North Gates shopping district, which boasts an array of shops, bars, and restaurants for LSU fans. 

14. Explore the Largest Wetland and Swamp in the United States

Larger than the Florida Everglades, the Atchafalaya Basin is home to the largest wetland and swamp in the United States. Visiting this destination is one of the most unique things to do in Louisiana, as you’ll have a chance to tour the spectacular environment of hardwoods, bayous, and backwater lakes full of swamp wildlife. 

Located in the south-central part of Louisiana, the area covers around 860,000 acres and is an important habitat for more than 300 species of wildlife. It’s so unique that it’s been declared a National Heritage Neighborhood, awarded for its rich cultural and ecological features. 

Take a day trip from Lafayette or Baton Rouge to see this area. A popular way to explore the wetlands is on one of the swamp airboat tours, which launch out of the Atchafalaya Basin Landing & Marina. 

Wildlife watchers can spot some of the over 50,000 egrets, ibises, and herons that nest in the Floodway. The basin is also home to the largest nesting concentration of bald eagles in the south-central United States, as well as American alligators and 65 other species of reptiles and amphibians. 

15. Learn About Acadian Culture at Vermilionville Historic Village

Located in Lafayette, the Vermilionville Living History & Folk Life Park is a fascinating destination for history buffs. At this must-see attraction, you’ll get fully immersed in the Acadian, American Indian, and Creole culture of the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

Highlights at this living history museum include 19 attractions, including seven restored homes. You’ll encounter costumed guides and historians demonstrating skills and folk crafts that have been preserved for many generations. 

Within the 23-acre site, there are restored original Acadian homes and authentic buildings that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. You’ll have the chance to explore unique exhibits that showcase the lives of Louisiana’s indigenous peoples. 

It also features rotating exhibits, which highlight the Acadian culture and language and the Civil Rights movement. After touring the exhibits, enjoy traditional food and live music at the on-site La Cuisine de Maman.

While you’re in the Bayou Vermilion District, you can also enjoy the outdoors. There are multiple recreational activities to enjoy here, including fishing, boating, and canoe and paddle trails. Some of the most popular parks nearby include Southside Park, Beaver Park, and Rotary Point. 

16. Tour the Tabasco Sauce Factory on Avery Island

Avery Island is a small, salt dome island in the coastal marshes of Iberia Parish and a popular getaway in Louisiana. While the area is a unique geological formation with beautiful nature views, its biggest claim to fame is that it’s home to the Tabasco Sauce Factory . 

Considered a must thing to do in Louisiana for hot sauce fans, you can take a behind-the-scenes tour of the Tabasco factory and sample its products. Take a self-guided tour and learn more about this iconic American sauce. Afterward, stop by the gift shop and pick up a few Tabasco-related products and souvenirs. 

There’s no doubt you’ll be hungry after a tour, so stop by the on-site Tabasco Restaurant for a taste of local eats. The casual eatery serves spicy, authentic Cajun favorites and other dishes seasoned with, of course, Tabasco sauce. 

If you have extra time, add a visit to Jungle Gardens on Avery Island. Take in the serene atmosphere of the landscaped area, as the bird sanctuary offers a beautiful setting filled with azaleas, camellias, and colorful bamboo. See if you can spot the Chinese garden, which boasts a centuries-old Buddha statue! 

17. Explore Cajun Country in Breaux Bridge

If you’re a foodie at heart and wondering what to do in Louisiana, add Breaux Bridge to your itinerary. Known as the “Crawfish Capital of the World,” it’s not only home to world-famous cuisine but also the gateway to authentic Cajun culture. 

Get to know Breaux Bridge by strolling the charming downtown area, which is dotted with a selection of quaint shops and cafes. There are also several antique shops in the area where you can pick up one-of-a-kind treasures, including the Breaux Bridge Antique Mall. 

Make time to stop by some of the amazing restaurants in Breaux Bridge, including Poche’s Market for Cajun fare and boudin, Glenda’s Creole Kitchen for Creole and soul food, and Crazy ‘Bout Crawfish for fried and boiled seafood. Afterward, you can enjoy live Cajun and zydeco music at hotspots such as Pont Breaux’s , Tante Marie , and La Poussiere . 

If you time your visit right, you can also tick the world-famous Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival off your list. It’s typically held in May every year and pays homage to Louisiana’s most famous crustacean. 

18. Paddle the Canoe Trail in Chicot State Park

Get outdoors and enjoy the beautiful setting of Chicot State Park , Louisiana’s biggest state park. You can fish, hike, and enjoy wildlife watching here, while it’s also home to the Louisiana State Arboretum as well as a variety of campsites, cabins, and lodges. 

Located in the Prairie Cajun Country between the Atchafalaya Basin swamps and central Louisiana, this park boasts some of the most beautiful ecosystems in the Bayou State. At 6,400 acres, it offers plenty of room to explore, but its eight-mile Canoe Trail is one of the most popular excursions. 

You’ll find incredible paddling opportunities at this park in addition to its other outdoor activities, offering both flat bottom boat rentals and canoe rentals. Glide along the easy-to-follow paddle trail for a leisurely day out on the water, as it’s marked by bright yellow signs. 

There are three boat launches in the park, but the north landing is recommended. Launch into the clear water and you’ll see a sign for the trail that takes you past a stunning backdrop of cypress and tupelo gum trees draped in Spanish moss. Kick back and listen to the sound of various birds soaring above as you paddle the scenic trail. 

19. Drive the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure to add to your Louisiana bucket list, plan a drive along the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road. Dubbed “Louisiana’s Outback,” the 180-mile route showcases the natural wonders of southwest Louisiana. 

Beginning in Lake Charles and the neighboring town of Sulphur, this road trip is one of only 43 designated All-American Roads in the United States. What makes it so special is that you’ll be taken south through Louisiana’s swamplands, miles of Cajun country, and more than 26 miles of Gulf Coast beaches. 

The trail is actually a combination of pull-offs and trails that you can explore on your own, with a chance to see preserved alligator populations and up to 400 species of migratory birds. The journey is a hit with nature photographers and adventurous travelers alike. You’ll even have the chance to embark on outdoor adventures such as fishing, crabbing, and boating along the way!

Before you go into America’s “Last Great Wilderness,” head to the Adventure Point visitor center to learn more about the area. Popular stops include the Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge and the Sabine National Wildlife Refuge , where you can see local wildlife in their natural habitats. 

20. Explore the Outdoors in Lake Charles 

Lake Charles is an exciting city in southwest Louisiana. It’s home to everything from nature parks to a historic district to lively casinos. Sam Houston Jones State Park is one of the best places to get outside in Lake Charles, which is the only state park in the region. 

It’s a popular spot with hikers and bird-watchers, who can discover native wildlife and beautiful flora and fauna along its five scenic trails. There’s even a historic stagecoach road! If you’re a boater or fishing enthusiast, you’ll appreciate the two boat launches with access to the Calcasieu River. 

This park is also well known for its opportunities to try disc golf, as it hosts local tournaments throughout the year. You can also pack a picnic lunch and observe the duck and geese frolicking in the ponds or see if you can spot otters and deer. If you want to stay overnight, choose from premium campsites and primitive camping areas or book a cabin. 

Other outdoor activities in Lake Charles include a trip to North Beach, Louisiana’s only white-sand inland beach. You can also join a kayak or boat tour with Lake Area Adventures to explore the local waterways. 

21. Bask in the Sunshine at Holly Beach

One of the top things to do in Louisiana is to visit the beach, especially when the weather heats up in the summer. One of the best beach destinations in the state is Holly Beach, which is often referred to as the “Cajun Riviera.” 

Located in the southwest corner of the state – about an hour south of Lake Charles and Sulphur – Holly Beach features 30 miles of golden sands that include a long, flat, and wide area for basking in the sunshine. The waters of the Gulf of Mexico warm up in the summer and offer a shallow area ideal for little ones who want to make a splash!

The landscape at this beach town features a collection of houses on stilts. Camping is allowed on the beach, while beach house vacation rentals in the area offer a chance to enjoy a beach getaway for more than just a day. 

Less than an hour away, Rutherford Beach is another hotspot for sunbathers. Located in Cameron Parish, the quiet stretch of beach is an ideal spot for shell collecting. Camping on the beach is also available. 

22. Stroll the Historic Downtown Natchitoches

Natchitoches is arguably one of the most charming towns in Louisiana and is best known as the film location for Sweet Magnolias . Founded in the early 18th century as a French colony, it’s the oldest permanent settlement in the state. 

A stroll down the historic Downtown Natchitoches reveals a collection of beautiful French Creole townhouses and 33 blocks of photogenic colonial architecture, Classic Queen Anne-style mansions, and Art Deco commercial buildings. The area is so significant that it’s been designated a National Historic Landmark District. 

You can see buildings that date back to the 1700s, with the Minor Basilica of Immaculate Conception Church being one of the most notable sites. Be sure to stop by the Kaffie-Frederick General Store , which has been family-run since the 19th century. 

The scenic setting is coupled with the Cane River, which flows through the town and leads to the Oakland , Magnolia , and Melrose plantations. Outdoor lovers can ride the Natchitoches to Alexandria bike route or kayak the saline Bayou Paddle Trail. 

When it’s time to dine, picking up a signature meat-filled pie from Lasyone ’s is considered a must on your Louisiana bucket list. If you visit at Christmas, you’ll have the chance to see the downtown district all lit up with more than 300,000 lights!

23. Admire the Vibrant Art Scene in Shreveport

Tucked away in the northwestern corner of Louisiana, Shreveport offers a mix of outdoor recreation and cultural attractions. For those who prefer to explore the art scene, you’ll find a wide variety of museums, galleries, and street art to explore. 

Start at The Agora Borealis in downtown Shreveport, where you can browse a collection of handmade local art. You can see paintings, pottery, sculptures, and more, including furniture, lighting fixtures, and jewelry. 

Another not-to-miss attraction in Shreveport is the Louisiana State Exhibit Museum . This Art Deco museum features massive frescoes and dioramas depicting life in the swamps, as well as sugarcane and rice plantations. Don’t miss the section with Native American artifacts. 

You can also opt for a visit to the R.W. Norton Art Gallery . It houses over 400 paintings of iconic American and European art, as well as a collection of rare books, tapestries, porcelain, and blown glass. It also boasts a scenic setting surrounded by lush botanical gardens. 

Alternately, a budget-friendly way of exploring the art scene in Shreveport is to drive around and see its colorful street art murals. After exploring, the family-run Herby-K’s seafood restaurant and seafood platters at Orlandeaux’s Cafe are two of the best spots to enjoy classic Louisiana cuisines in Shreveport. 

24. Explore the UNESCO-listed Poverty Point Site

One of the most important historic sites in the United States, Poverty Point is a landmark 3,400 years in the making. It’s a top thing to do in Louisiana if you love history, as this UNESCO-listed site was once an important trading hub.

American Indians built the area’s complex collection of earthen monuments hand by hand, creating a massive 72-foot-tall mound, enormous half-circles, and related earthworks. Without the use of modern instruments, these structures are considered an engineering marvel. Dating back to the time of Egyptian King Tutankhamun, this site is still largely a mystery.

Archaeologists have collected millions of artifacts here and believe it was a residential, trade, and ceremonial center. It’s now one of three archeological sites in the country with the distinction of a World Heritage Site, which makes it a must-see while exploring the state. 

At this site, visitors of all ages can enjoy guided tours to learn more about the area, as well as demonstrations and programs. There’s also a 2.6-mile hiking trail through the mounds, a museum with fascinating historic displays, and a family-friendly picnic area. 

25. Hike Barataria Preserve in Jean Lafitte

The Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve offers a taste of Louisiana’s wild wetlands. With 23,000 acres of bayous, swamps, marshes, and forests, the park’s popular Barataria Preserve is home to wildlife such as alligators, deer, and over 300 species of birds. 

While adventurous travelers can explore this area by canoe or kayak, there are also boardwalk and dirt trails that wind throughout the preserve. Follow the boardwalk to the water’s edge to see Bayou des Familles, and then see the Pecan Grove with pecan orchards that are the second or third generation of the original plantings. 

Next, hike along Christmas Road, which was originally covered with shells mined from clamshells left by American Indians. Afterward, you’ll hit the Old Barataria Trail and the entrance to the picnic grounds surrounded by oak trees and the Mixed Bottomland Forest.

You can also sign up for guided walks with park rangers, which take you on the boardwalk trail through the swamp and marsh. Before your trek, stop by the visitor center to learn how the Mississippi River built Louisiana’s wetlands and other interesting facts about the region’s history. 

There you have it! 25 of the best things to do in Louisiana. What’s your favorite thing to do in The Bayou State?

Planning a trip to Louisiana? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re an animal lover, you can add this activity to your itinerary. The Global Wildlife Center in Folsom is the largest totally free-roaming wildlife preserve of its kind in the United States. It’s also a fun day trip for families with kids, as the 900-acre habitat is home to over 4,000 exotic, endangered, and threatened animals from across the globe.

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure to add to your Louisiana bucket list, plan a drive along the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road. Dubbed “Louisiana’s Outback,” the 180-mile route showcases the natural wonders of southwest Louisiana. What makes it so special is that you’ll be taken south through Louisiana’s swamplands, miles of Cajun country, and more than 26 miles of Gulf Coast beaches.

One of the most important historic sites in the United States, Poverty Point is a landmark 3,400 years in the making. It’s a top thing to do in Louisiana if you love history, as this UNESCO-listed site was once an important trading hub. American Indians built the area’s complex collection of earthen monuments hand by hand, creating a massive 72-foot-tall mound, enormous half-circles, and related earthworks.

Grand Isle State Park is one of the best places in Louisiana to enjoy the outdoors. Best known for its beaches, fishing, and birding, this barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico is connected to the mainland by a bridge just 100 miles south of New Orleans. The family-friendly park offers a long list of outdoor activities, including canoeing and hiking. It boasts excellent opportunities for deep-sea fishing, with numerous fishing charters offering the best chance to reel in a catch.

There’s no visiting Louisiana without a stop in the iconic French Quarter, which is a National Historic District and the heart of New Orleans. With buildings that date back as far as 300 years, it’s the epicenter of sightseeing, dining, and entertainment! Lively throughout the day and night, Bourbon Street is a year-round hotspot best known for its nightlife. Running 13 blocks through the French Quarter, this is also where you’ll find revelers throwing beads during the annual Mardi Gras festival!

The longest river in North America, the Mississippi River is a natural wonder that spans 10 states in the US. Meeting the Gulf of Mexico in southern Louisiana, it offers a variety of ways to enjoy its scenic beauty, including riverboat cruises! Riverboat cruises are a popular way to explore the famous river. You can enjoy the sight of the city skylines pass from the comfort of a floating vessel. In New Orleans, you’ll find various paddle wheeler tours offering a fun way to explore the waterways.

About the Author:

Born and raised in Florida, Charity moved to London after college and caught the travel bug. She then traveled full-time as a digital nomad for over a decade, living in the UK, New Zealand, China, and Thailand. With around 60-ish travel stamps in her passport, her favorite memories include skydiving in Switzerland, eating sushi in Japan, island hopping in the Philippines, and camping overnight in the Sahara Desert. She’s now a freelance writer living in Portugal with her husband and son.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Louisiana

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on February 4, 2024

Louisiana, in the Southern United States, is an electric cultural explosion. Cajun, Creole and American Southern accents, cuisine and heritage mingle together in one scenic destination. Swamps, French colonial architecture, charming villages and historic plantations are all found within the borders of Louisiana.

New Orleans is the most-visited destination in the state, and it is certainly a worthy destination. An overview of the best places to visit in Louisiana:

10. Grand Isle

Where the Barataria Bay meets the Gulf of Mexico, there is a barrier island known as Grand Isle. On that isle, the main town goes by the very same name. The town of Grand Isle is only 100 miles south of New Orleans, but it has a distinctly different atmosphere.

Despite taking a beating from hurricanes and disasters like the BP Gulf oil spill, this beach village retains charm and character. The Grand Isle State Park overlooks the Gulf of Mexico, and swimming, canoeing and fishing are all popular pastimes.

In the summer, fishing rodeos bring the local community together and provide ample fresh fish for regional restaurants. Fishing charters are common, and they are the best way to snag a great catch in Grand Isle.

9. Avery Island

Located in Iberia Parish, just minutes from Vermilion Bay, is Avery Island. Despite the name, Avery Island is inland, and it is actually a salt dome. Most people know Avery Island because it is home to a seriously spicy condiment: Tabasco sauce! The Tabasco factory is the biggest attraction in the area, and the guided tours are fascinating.

The Tabasco brand is more than just a factory on Avery Island, however. Tabasco also owns botanical gardens and a bird sanctuary. Exploring the grounds is a wonderful foray into local wildlife, and it is a must-do activity on Avery Island.

8. Breaux Bridge

Just outside of Lafayette is the small parish town of Breaux Bridge. This charming destination is sometimes known as the gateway to Cajun culture, and it is definitely a fantastic introduction to the heritage, cuisine and history of Southern Louisiana.

Most importantly, Breaux Bridge is the crawfish capital of the world. Every May, thousands flock to the area for the Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival. Lively Zydeco music will make you want to join the locals and dance in the streets, and there is no shortage of delicious fresh crawfish to go around.

7. Natchitoches

The oldest settlement in Louisiana is Natchitoches, which boasts plenty of French and Spanish colonial architecture. Founded at the beginning of the 18th century as a French settlement, Natchitoches is now known for its historic district.

A brick street along Cane River Lake is the perfect place to set off on a walking tour, spotting charming colonial homes and more than a few bed and breakfasts offering quaint accommodation and afternoon teas. History lovers can’t miss the Fort Saint Jean Baptiste, an original 18th century fort that offers reenactments of military manoeuvres as well as ordinary colonial life.

6. Laura Plantation

Right on the banks of the Mississippi River is the Laura Plantation. This Creole plantation thrived in the early 19th century, when it was better known as the Duparc Plantation. Before the Civil War, the plantation grew and harvested sugar cane.

Six slave cabins remain on the property, highlighting this troubling part of American history. Among these slave cabins the origins of the Br’er Rabbit stories were collected, many of them rooted in West African legend. Much of the plantation’s architecture has been restored, which means that a guided tour is truly like stepping back in time.

5. Baton Rouge

New Orleans might be the most popular place to visit in Louisiana, but Baton Rouge is the state’s historic capital. Louisiana State University, or LSU, is a big attraction in the city, and the 100-year-old campus is a thing of beauty.

Sports stadiums, Indian mounds, the Greek amphitheater and several lakes open for recreation are just some of the reasons to spend a day on the LSU campus. The Art Deco Louisiana State Capitol is a stunning structure, but many locals argue that the Old State Capitol from the 19th century is even more beautiful.

4. Lafayette

The city of Lafayette is in the heart of Cajun country, making it a destination you won’t want to miss. Jubilance is a way of life in Lafayette , something the students at the University of Louisiana campus take to heart.Head to Jefferson Street in Downtown Lafayette, and there is no shortage of nightlife spots where you can drink, dance and dine all night.

Dive headfirst into the culture with a trip to the Acadian Cultural Center. Acadia is the name of the region, and where the word Cajun comes from. Of course, no trip would be complete without sampling Cajun fare. In Lafayette, gumbo and po’ boys are staples of the local diet.

3. Oak Alley Plantation

Oak Alley Plantation is situated on the banks of the Mississippi River, and it dates back to the early 19th century. The oak alley for which it is named, however, is even older. It is a remarkable landscaping feat, with a double row of trees creating a shaded canopy that looks ethereal. Like most plantations dating from the period, Oak Alley was in the sugarcane business, and it relied heavily on slave labor.

Today, visitors can tour the Oak Valley Plantation, stay overnight at its inn and dine at the onsite restaurant. Traditional culinary delights are on the menu, with some local favorites including fried Louisiana oysters, smoked sausage, crawfish etouffee and buttermilk pie for dessert.

2. Louisiana Wetlands

Much of Louisiana is made up of wetlands. These areas flood with the seasons and are generally uninhabited, but they are home to a plethora of wild animals. Swamp tours are advertised throughout the state, and they are an incredible chance to see a completely different side of Louisiana.

Although all types of vessels are used for these tours, the most exciting is the airboat. These boats are able to navigate through swampy areas because their motors are above, rather than below, the water. Plus, the speed and noise makes it a rush! On a quieter swamp tour by canoe or kayak, prepare to see alligators, owls, snakes, herons, pelicans, nutria, otters and turtles.

1. New Orleans

New Orleans, or the Big Easy, is truly unlike anywhere else in the U.S.. It is a pinch of Creole, a dash of Cajun, a spoonful of Southern and a whole lot of French. Situated in southeastern Louisiana, the city is widely known for its annual Mardi Gras celebration.

The French Quarter is the most visited part of New Orleans , and it’s easy to see why. There, you’ll find Jackson Square, a pedestrian area dominated by the spires of the historic St. Louis Cathedral. The French Quarter is also home to the famed Bourbon Street, where live music and cold drinks beckon from morning until night. It’s also where you can dine on beignets and chicory coffee at the unparalleled Cafe du Monde.

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Must-see attractions in Louisiana

Jackson Square

French Quarter

Whatever happens in the French Quarter usually begins here in Jackson Square, at Decatur and St Peter Streets. It's a gentle, carnivalesque scene,…

New Orleans

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The former seat of government in colonial Louisiana now serves as the gateway to exploring the history of the state in general, and New Orleans in…

Lafayette Cemetery No 1

Of all the cemeteries in New Orleans, Lafayette exudes the strongest sense of subtropical Southern Gothic. The stark contrast of moldering crypts and…

St Louis Cathedral

One of the best examples of French architecture in the country, this triple-spired 18th-century cathedral is dedicated to Louis IX, the French king…

Royal Street

Royal Street, with its rows of high-end antique shops, galleries and potted ferns hanging from cast-iron balconies, is the elegant yin to well known…

Ogden Museum of Southern Art

The South has one of the most distinctive aesthetic cultures in the US artistic universe, a creative vision indelibly influenced by the region's…

Sydney & Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden

The sculpture garden that sits just outside the New Orleans Museum of Art in City Park is a wooded quilt of streams, pathways, lovers' benches and, of…

Whitney Plantation

The Whitney is the first plantation in the state to focus on slavery, and in doing so they've flipped the script on plantation tours. Whereas before the…

Newcomb Art Museum

Part of Tulane University and flanked by beautiful Tiffany stained-glass triptychs, the Newcomb Art Museum is a great spot to soak up some art, with works…

Barataria Preserve

Cajun Country

This section of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, south of New Orleans near the town of Marrero (and Crown Point), provides the…

Backstreet Cultural Museum

Tremé-Lafitte

Mardi Gras Indian suits grab the spotlight with dazzling flair – and finely crafted detail – in this informative museum examining the distinctive elements…

RW Norton Art Gallery

Set amid 40 acres of lovingly manicured gardens, the Norton is a wonderful museum, especially for a mid-sized city like Shreveport. It's airy, spacious…

National WWII Museum

One of New Orleans’ most distinctive tourism attractions has nothing to do with food, music, or having a good time. Rather, it is a museum dedicated to the…

Blaine Kern's Mardi Gras World

Mardi Gras World offers a behind the scenes peek into the weird, wonderful backstage of carnival season float making.

Oak Alley Plantation

The most impressive aspect of Oak Alley Plantation is its canopy of 28 majestic live oaks lining the entry to the grandiose Greek Revival–style home.

Bayou St John

Back in the day, this was a true bayou – an overgrown morass of Spanish moss and prowling alligators. Native Americans, fur trappers and smugglers would…

New Orleans Museum of Art

Inside City Park, this elegant museum was opened in 1911 and is well worth a visit for its special exhibitions, gorgeous marble atrium and top-floor…

Esplanade Avenue

Esplanade is one of the most beautiful streets in New Orleans, yet barely recognized by visitors as such. Because of the abundance of historical homes,…

Frenchmen Street

Faubourg Marigny & Bywater

The ‘locals' Bourbon St’ is how Frenchmen St is usually described to those who want to know where New Orleanians listen to music. The predictable result?…

Upper Bourbon Street

Like Vegas and Cancun, the main stretch of Bourbon St is where the great id of the repressed American psyche is let loose into a seething mass of karaoke,…

Audubon Zoo

This wonderful zoo contains African, Asian and South American landscapes and fauna, as well as the ultra-cool Louisiana Swamp exhibit, full of alligators,…

Audubon Park

This lovely spot, riverside of St Charles Ave, is home to Audubon Zoo. A 1.8-mile multi-use paved trail loops around the central golf course, unfurling…

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A combination of preserved buildings, museums and research centers all rolled into one, the Historic New Orleans Collection is a good introduction to the…

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Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium

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Chicot State Park

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Laura Plantation

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Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center

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House of Dance & Feathers

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New Orleans Pharmacy Museum

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New Orleans   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Sean Pavone | Getty Images

29 Top-Rated Things to Do in New Orleans

Though it's known as a party city for its Mardi Gras celebration and bustling nightlife, New Orleans is so much more. With its delicious food scene, which features both classic Cajun and Creole cuisine, as well as more unique upscale spots;

• All Things To Do

French Quarter French Quarter free

If you want to experience New Orleans properly, it's best to begin your tour here. Recent visitors said the neighborhood is lively, with lots to do and see and offers a one-of-a-kind experience. The neighborhood, also known as Vieux Carré , is the heart and soul of this city, and it's also a National Historic Landmark. As the site of the original New Orleans colony (established by the French in 1718), the French Quarter has held on to its heritage, complete with street names that are still listed in French. Wander the narrow cobblestone streets to find such attractions as Jackson Square , Faulkner House Books and the  Cabildo . While you're strolling, pay attention to the neighborhood's architecture: balconies are designed with baroque ironwork and hanging plants, while leafy courtyards are filled with bubbling fountains. The scene is definitely charming, but it can also be expensive if you choose to stay at any of the French Quarter's  hotels .

Undoubtedly, the French Quarter's main draw is Bourbon Street – New Orleans' infamous party hub. You'll find this street laden with performers and fortune tellers as well as rowdy bars. Although a trip to New Orleans isn't really complete without strolling down Bourbon Street, keep in mind that boisterous evenings on Bourbon are best appreciated by adult travelers. If you're tempted to hang your hat on Bourbon Street, don't. While it's fun to be at the center of the action, there's really no escaping the late-night noise.

Frenchmen Street Frenchmen Street free

If you want an authentic New Orleans experience more removed from the touristy areas of Bourbon Street and the French Quarter , head to the lively Frenchmen Street. A popular spot for locals, Frenchmen Street stretches for several blocks and features live music, bars, restaurants, nightclubs and art galleries. Here, not only will you find fewer crowds (albeit not by much), but you'll also encounter cheaper eats and drinks, and better music – it's kind of like Bourbon Street's hipper, trendier cousin. If you don't consider yourself a night owl, the Palace Market (open Sunday through Wednesday 7 p.m. to midnight and Thursday through Saturday 7 p.m. to 1 a.m.) is a shopping haven where locals sell homemade art and jewelry.

Recent visitors agreed that a trip to New Orleans isn't complete without stopping by Frenchmen Street. Some even suggest skipping the more crowded and touristy Bourbon Street and instead meandering along Frenchmen Street where you'll find live music, specifically jazz, and great bars. Travelers and locals alike love The Spotted Cat, Three Muses and d.b.a thanks to their extensive beverage selections, fun atmospheres and, of course, talented musicians.

The National WWII Museum The National WWII Museum

You don't have to be a history buff to enjoy The National WWII Museum, according to recent travelers. Opened on June 6, 2000 (the 56th anniversary of D-Day), the museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts and educational films documenting all aspects of the war, from D-Day to the war in the Pacific to the Holocaust. The brainchild of friends Stephen Ambrose, a bestselling author and consultant on the film "Saving Private Ryan," and Gordon H. "Nick" Mueller, former historian and vice chancellor at the University of New Orleans, the museum also features oral recantations of civilians' and soldiers' experiences throughout the early 1940s.

In November 2023, the National WWII Museum opened a new fourth wing called The Liberation Pavilion, which explores the Holocaust, the end of the war and the post-war years. The three-story pavilion highlights the longlasting social and geopolitical movements that formed in the aftermath of the war, including civil rights and women's equality. The space includes a re-creation of the rooms where Anne Frank and her family hid, a multi-sensory theater, and exhibits dedicated to the Monuments Men and Women and the role of faith in wartime.

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Garden District Garden District free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Stroll past 2707 Coliseum Street to see where "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" was filmed. – Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist, Travel

Take a walking tour of the Garden District (located a little less than 3 miles southwest of the  French Quarter ) for a peek at some of the city's most beautiful homes. Like its name suggests, this historic residential neighborhood is laden with trees, ivy, and yes, gardens. Visitors rave about the beautiful houses and architecture. Some even preferred the Garden District over Bourbon Street, citing the peaceful atmosphere and well-preserved properties as a much-needed break from the city's crowded tourist spots.

New Orleans Cemetery Tours New Orleans Cemetery Tours

Some of New Orleans' must-see attractions are its cemeteries. Many of the tombs found in these "cities of the dead" are above ground to protect them from rising water levels, and they're embellished with ornate designs inspired by French and Spanish architecture. Though the city's older cemeteries are admittedly dilapidated, with crumbled tombs and patchy grass, the decaying grounds add to the ghostly atmosphere (which is why many of the city's top ghost tours make stops in them). 

The St. Louis cemeteries are some of the most popular, despite being located in somewhat edgier parts of town (just south of the Tremé neighborhood). St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 (listed on the National Register of Historic Places) is the final resting place of some of New Orleans' more unique characters, including Bernard de Marigny – former president of the Louisiana Senate and notorious playboy – and Marie Laveau, the Big Easy's very own "Voodoo queen." Many of the city's top cemetery tours stop in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1. St. Louis Cemetery No. 2 shelters the graves of local musicians like Ernie K-Doe and Danny Barker, plus it's the burial site of the notorious pirate, Dominique You. (Note: St. Louis Cemetery No. 2 is currently closed.) Movie buffs will recognize the eerie walls of Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 (situated south of Central City) from films like "Interview with a Vampire" and "Double Jeopardy." (Note: Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 is currently closed for restoration.)

Preservation Hall Preservation Hall

The idea for Preservation Hall grew out of a need to attract patrons to an art gallery known as Associated Artists by bringing in jazz musicians from all walks of life. While the plan worked to attract visitors to the building, they came for the music and not the artwork. The art soon moved out and the music continued. By the 1960s, the venue became a full-fledged jazz establishment. Today, Preservation Hall hosts intimate jazz concerts more than 350 nights of the year.

Located in the French Quarter on Saint Peter Street, Preservation Hall welcomes visitors nightly for 45 minutes of intimate traditional New Orleans live jazz performances. Recent visitors said that attending a concert at Preservation Hall is a must-do experience in New Orleans thanks to the talented musicians. However, travelers also warn that the room where the performances are held can get quite hot in the summertime as there is no air conditioning.

New Orleans Swamp Tours New Orleans Swamp Tours

Stretching from  Houston  to Mobile, Alabama, the Bayou Country played a crucial role in the development of the United States in terms of communication and transportation. In fact, there would be no New Orleans without the bayous, so you owe it to yourself to take a swamp tour .

A mix of saltwater and freshwater, the bayous are home to crawfish, shrimp, deer and alligators, which are often the main attractions for visitors. Travelers generally enjoy their tours, no matter which company they choose, but do warn that going in the winter could mean fewer wildlife sightings (some animals hibernate during the colder temperatures).

Jackson Square Jackson Square free

Jackson Square is a National Historical Landmark in the center of the French Quarter tucked away on Decatur Street between the Jax Brewery shopping mall and the French Market. Spread across more than 2 acres, the square welcomes more than 2 million visitors yearly. The square's name is inspired by the bronze statue of Andrew Jackson that stands at the center.

The square has plenty of fun things for travelers to do, including top attractions like the Cabildo and the St. Louis Cathedral . It also serves as an open-air market space for vendors and artists to share and sell their works. After shopping, enjoy a café au lait and a beignet at the world-famous Café du Monde , which is located less than a 5-minute walk east of the square.

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St. Louis Cathedral St. Louis Cathedral free

As the centerpiece of the  French Quarter , St. Louis Cathedral is one of New Orleans' most recognizable landmarks. The oldest Catholic cathedral in continuous use in the United States, St. Louis Cathedral was originally built in the early 1700s. The structure standing today is actually the third cathedral built on this spot, since the first two were destroyed. Religious services are still held here, as well as numerous cultural events, including free concerts. Even if you're not interested in attending a service, past visitors urge you to take a peek inside, describing it as "beautiful inside and out."

After touring the cathedral and the Old Ursuline Convent (the oldest building in the Mississippi Valley), consider strolling through St. Anthony's Garden to see the impressive statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The garden also has a memorial to 30 French ship crew members who lost their lives to yellow fever in 1857.

Ride the St. Charles Streetcar Ride the St. Charles Streetcar

U.S. News Insider Tip: For upscale dining with a funky NOLA twist, take the St. Charles Streetcar to the Jack Rose restaurant, where the dishes are as unique and festive as the decor. Don't miss the Lil Wayne painting in the "living room." – Lynn Brown

Though the city has several streetcar routes, the one that travels from Canal Street up St. Charles Avenue is the oldest continuously operating street railway in the world, and definitely worth a ride for anyone visiting New Orleans. For only $1.25 each way, you can take a leisurely ride through the Garden District, past some of the most beautiful and impressive architecture in the city. If you ride all the way to the end, you can check out the landscaped grounds of Audubon Park and explore both Loyola and Tulane universities before heading back.

Audubon Nature Institute Audubon Nature Institute

U.S. News Insider Tip: The Audubon Nature Institute is actually composed of three different sites: the zoo, the aquarium and the insectarium. Special discounted tickets are available that allow you to visit two or even all three sites over a span of days. – Lynn Brown

Families should make time to visit the Audubon Nature Institute. This massive facility is home to a zoo, an aquarium, a nature center, several parks and a golf course, among other amenities. At the popular zoo and aquarium, special kid-friendly exhibits feed curious minds while allowing little ones to get up close and personal with their favorite furry (or scaly or slimy) friends. You can also watch daily feedings or sit in on numerous lectures and films about the environment. Don't miss the sharks, turtles, fish and sting rays swimming in the 17-foot-deep, 400,000-gallon Gulf of Mexico exhibit at the aquarium, or the newly expanded Jaguar Jungle exhibit in the zoo, where you can not only see jaguars, but also bats, tree frogs, poison arrow frogs and much more. Note that the Audubon Nature Institute is currently undergoing a $34 million renovation. The insectarium and butterfly garden facility is located on the New Orleans Riverfront next to the aquarium.

Backstreet Cultural Museum Backstreet Cultural Museum

One of the best places to get a feel for the city's unique identity is at the Backstreet Cultural Museum. This off-the-beaten-path attraction was established by local photographer and history buff, Sylvester Francis. Visit his museum to view an eclectic collection of costumes, memorabilia, photographs, films and other artifacts related to African American culture. Fans of HBO's "Treme" may also recognize the museum from its brief cameo in the series.

Tours of the hodgepodge collection are given by curators of the museum, which many recent travelers found to be the highlight of the museum visit thanks to their wealth of knowledge. While the facilities aren't as polished as other museums in the city (the site is family-run, so don't expect a gift shop or cafe), the no-frills presentation is what continues to draw visitors.

The Cabildo The Cabildo

Flanking Jackson Square in the heart of the  French Quarter , the Cabildo was originally constructed in 1799 (when New Orleans was under Spanish rule), as the seat of the Spanish government. Later on, it was here that the Louisiana Purchase took place and after that, this Spanish-style building served as city hall and the state Supreme Court. Today, the Cabildo is home to a three-floor branch of the Louisiana State Museum, which recounts Louisiana history with the help of Native American objects, Colonial-era paintings, and even Napoleon Bonaparte's death mask. Visitors can also see the room where the Louisiana Purchase was finalized. If you're interested in more recent history, you'll find that at the Cabildo, too. An entire floor is devoted to Hurricane Katrina – the 2005 storm that left New Orleans and surrounding regions devastated. Within the exhibit you'll find multimedia displays and artifacts collected during the cleanup of both hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

When you're not admiring the many artifacts displayed here, take a minute to marvel at the building's architecture. Recent travelers said the Cabildo's design is worth seeing, even if you're not interested in the history within. And while you're here, consider stopping by the St. Louis Cathedral , located next door on Chartres Street. The bus routes servicing the area include the No. 5 and 55. The Cabildo is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission costs $10 for adults, $8 for students and seniors, and is free for children 6 and younger. For more information, visit the official  website .

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Mardi Gras World Mardi Gras World

Even if you're not in town for the actual festival, don't miss your chance to go behind the scenes of one of America's most renowned (and most raucous) celebrations. Mardi Gras World offers a close-up look at some of the flamboyant floats and costumes used during New Orleans' famous party. One thing to know upfront: This isn't a museum – it's a warehouse workshop where current floats are in the process of being completed and old floats are stored. Take the self-guided tour through the maze of props to learn more about the festival's history.

According to recent visitors, it's fascinating to see artists hard at work creating the floats. Just make sure to bring your camera: Before the tour, visitors are invited to try on authentic Mardi Gras costumes. After the tour, visitors are treated to a piece of king cake. Past travelers said the museum is a nice surprise and report learning all sorts of things they didn't know about how floats are built. They also appreciated the free shuttle to and from the attraction.

New Orleans Pharmacy Museum New Orleans Pharmacy Museum

Located in the historic and buzzing French Quarter , the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum showcases the unique heritage of medicine and pharmaceuticals. The building, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, exhibits a mid-19th-century apothecary shop. It also has numerous antiques from this instrumental era in healthcare on display. Plus, the museum celebrates Louis J. Dufilho Jr. of Louisiana, who was America's first licensed pharmacist.

Recent travelers called their experiences at this attraction informative and interesting, and they especially recommended the (adult-themed) guided tour. Others praised the friendly staff.

Know NOLA Tours Know NOLA Tours

Owner, historian and storyteller Malik Bartholomew guides visitors through his hometown while highlighting the culture and history that make the city of New Orleans so unique. Several of the tours focus on the city's Black cultural heritage and connection to the larger African diaspora, such as the African Heritage French Quarter Walking Tour, a Tremé tour and a tour of Studio BE. There are also more general tours of the Garden District and French Quarter, as well as a bike tour offering.

Past visitors have found the Know NOLA tours to be extremely impactful and informative as well as fun. They especially noted the excellent storytelling abilities of the guides and the fact that their deep love for the city and its history was so evident.     

New Orleans Museum of Art New Orleans Museum of Art

Since its opening in 1911, the New Orleans Museum of Art (known simply as "NOMA") has assembled nearly 50,000 works of art – an impressive compilation considering the museum opened with only nine pieces. It is the oldest fine arts institution in Crescent City. NOMA's vast collection ranges from early Asian works to European masterpieces from the 16th to 20th centuries.

Many recent visitors said this museum is a must-see for any art lover, and a great indoor attraction during the city's high heat and humidity. Past travelers commented on the small size of the museum, but others noted that its size allows you to see all of the exhibits in just one visit and say not to miss the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden .

New Orleans City Park New Orleans City Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Storyland is an absolute must for families with young kids. – Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist

New Orleans City Park offers a lovely respite from the city and is a great place to spend an afternoon, according to recent visitors. Take a nature stroll through the 10-acre New Orleans Botanical Garden (which boasts 2,000 different varieties of plants) or peruse the art hanging in the New Orleans Museum of Art . And while New Orleans isn't generally classified as a kid-friendly destination, New Orleans City Park has several diversions for your young ones, including Storyland (home to about 20 giant storybook and fairy tale character sculptures), Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, which features more than a dozen rides for all ages, and the Train Garden, which features miniature replicas of the streetcars and trains that traveled the city in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

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Magazine Street Magazine Street free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Start your stroll along Magazine Street at the original Surrey's Café & Juice Bar. The tiny space is home to some of the best shrimp and grits in town, not to mention the fresh-squeezed juice that give it its name. – Lynn Brown

Tucked away from the French Quarter is Magazine Street. The 6-mile stretch of roadway runs from Canal Street to Audubon Park . It's home to several of the city's top attractions, as well as a variety of shops, cafes and restaurants.

Studio Be Studio Be

A massive warehouse facility in the Bywater district of New Orleans, Studio Be is an eye-popping and illuminating display of public art. The creator, Brandan "BMike" Odums, collaborated with more than 40 other artists to create large murals and exhibits that explore activism, resistance and Black American history. Most displays use spray paint and graffiti techniques, and the entire project took six months to complete. The facility spans 35,000 square feet, and encompasses four buildings and up to five stories. It is the largest single-site public art exhibition in the American South, and it attracts visitors from all over the globe.

Multiple recent visitors called the art on display "powerful," and almost everyone agreed that the experience was well worth the $15 for general admission price. Tickets for students, teachers, seniors and first responders are $10. For children 12 and younger, tickets cost $5. The exhibits are open Wednesday through Saturday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., and the warehouses are located on Royal Street near a number of other galleries and studios. Travelers should note, reservations must be made in order to visit the facility. Check out Studio Be's website if you are interested in learning more about the artist and what's on display.  

Le Musée de f.p.c. Le Musée de f.p.c.

Le Musée de f.p.c. (the Free People of Color Museum) has an enriched history. Located in the Esplanade Ridge neighborhood of New Orleans, the area was once known as "Creole's Millionaire's Row." Pre-Civil War, New Orleans was home to a large population of free people of color. This was in part because both the French and Spaniards allowed enslaved people to purchase their freedom. They would then make their way to New Orleans to settle. Afro-Creole free people of color owned a majority of the properties along Esplanade.

The museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the free people of New Orleans. Tours are guided by the Black-led community theater company, No Dream Deferred. Performers take on the roles of actual historically free people of color who lived in New Orleans during Colonial times. During the tour, travelers learn about the impact of free people of color in the city, whether it's through cuisine, architecture or music.

Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden free

What can best be described as a garden within a park, the 11-acre Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden is a beloved outdoor attraction. The sculpture garden is located adjacent to the New Orleans Museum of Art in City Park .

Idyllically situated among the park's Spanish moss-covered live oaks, the sculpture garden doubled in size in 2019. Thanks to the increase in size, visitors will now find more than 90 works of art designed from around the world.

Steamboat Natchez Steamboat Natchez

U.S. News Insider Tip: Book a dinner cruise for sunset views, and bring a light jacket as it gets cool out on the water at night. – Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist

Steamboat Natchez launched in 1975 and is a traditional sternwheel steamboat that takes visitors on a tour of the Mississippi River. The tours aim to cultivate an atmosphere that transports guests to another era, with the captain shouting through a hand-held megaphone and old-time music lingering in the air. Steamboat Natchez offers a few tour options, including a dinner jazz cruise, a daytime jazz cruise, a Sunday jazz brunch cruise and select special event cruises. The tours last about two hours and include a concert, a narration of historical facts and an optional meal; a gift shop and bar are also available on board. The boat is equipped with indoor and outdoor seating.

New Orleans Small-Group Haunted History Carriage Tour

(1470 reviews)

from $ 60.00

New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure

(950 reviews)

from $ 35.00

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 Official Walking Tour

(1974 reviews)

from $ 25.00

Café du Monde Café du Monde

Café du Monde is a must-do experience for any foodie visiting New Orleans. First established in 1862, the cafe is located at the end of the French Market just off Jackson Square . The world-famous eatery serves as the place in the historic French Quarter to enjoy delicious coffee drinks and the original beignet – Louisiana's official doughnut. This sweet dessert, which is a deep-fried dough square covered in powdered sugar, was first introduced to Louisiana in the 17th century by the French Acadians, who filled these fried fritters with fruit. Along with its beignets, Café du Monde is also well known for its café au lait, which is a blend of milk, coffee and chicory (made from roasted, ground and brewed chicory root).

Past travelers suggest ordering from the cafe's walk-up window, since lines can be long inside the restaurant. Others also recommend visiting the cafe's City Park location to skip the lines that usually congregate around the original location near the French Quarter (there are several locations around New Orleans and Louisiana).

JAMNOLA JAMNOLA

JAMNOLA, which stands for "joy, art and music New Orleans," is one of the city's more unique and relatively new attractions. Described by its creator as a "cultural funhouse," the pop-up art installation opened in 2020 in the Faubourg Marigny/Bywater neighborhood and houses 17 exhibits across 5,400 square feet. JAMNOLA is not your typical art gallery. Each Instagrammable room in this experimental space tells a quintessential New Orleans story through the creations of more than 30 local artists. In one room you could be posing next to a life-size crawfish sitting in a lounge chair and in another, you could be trying on Mardi Gras costumes.

Past visitors said the artwork is cool and that there are plenty of opportunities for fun photos. Others said this is a great activity for all ages thanks to the interactive nature of the displays.

Louisiana Children's Museum Louisiana Children's Museum

When people say that New Orleans isn't the best place to bring kids, they're forgetting about the Louisiana Children's Museum. Located in New Orleans City Park , this 56,000-square-foot space is a playtopia in disguise. The museum features hands-on exhibits that cover everything from food to nature. The museum also hosts numerous special events, from near daily story times to holiday-related activities.

Many travelers agree that this is a must-do with younger kids, especially on days when everyone needs a break from the heat and humidity (though the museum does have a "backyard" with various outdoor exhibits). Recent families have called it a great place to play with lots of interesting, interactive exhibits.

Vue Orleans Vue Orleans

Vue Orleans is a family-friendly interactive experience perched at the top of the Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans. The tech-savvy attraction takes travelers on a journey through New Orleans as they make their way up to the top of the building. Exhibits feature gesture tracking, touchless interactives, large-scale LED walls and augmented viewers, among other high-tech elements.

Explore the "Confluence of Culture" exhibit to learn more about the historical figures who played a significant role in shaping New Orleans. Here, visitors can interact with installations, such as "Do You NOLA," which features 58 fun facts about the city. From there, engage with the "Dress for the Fest," display, where visitors can see visually stunning costumes worn during famous New Orleans festivals.

Longue Vue House and Gardens Longue Vue House and Gardens

Longue Vue House and Gardens is a lush display of Southern elegance and history. The historic estate features a museum and an interactive Discovery Garden, and it also boasts 8 acres of gardens with local plant life. The elaborate four-story house was built in the mid-20th century, and it contains 20 separate rooms, a unique basement and a large collection of English and American antiques. Visitors can take a tour of the entire facility, and enjoy the modern art on display throughout the estate. If you love exploring outdoor gardens and seeing what local plant life is in bloom, you'll appreciate wandering the pathways at this attraction.

Recent visitors used words like "gorgeous," "amazing" and "lovely" to describe the Longue Vue grounds. They also appreciated the history associated with the museum and complimented the knowledgeable tour staff.

Small-Group Airboat Swamp Tour with Downtown New Orleans Pickup

(1236 reviews)

from $ 115.00

New Orleans City and Cemetery 2-Hour Bus Tour

(1542 reviews)

from $ 49.98

Oak Alley Plantation Tour with Transportation from New Orleans

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from $ 77.08

Chalmette Battlefield & Jean Lafitte National Park Chalmette Battlefield & Jean Lafitte National Park free

Named after a French pirate who helped Gen. Andrew Jackson defend New Orleans during a battle in the War of 1812, the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve consists of six sites throughout southern Louisiana. New Orleans is home to several of these sites.

The French Quarter Visitor Center highlights the history and tradition of the lower Mississippi River Delta region through exhibits and film. Tuesday through Saturday, the center hosts a ranger history talk where visitors can learn more about the area. The center also doubles as the location for the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park. The park is dedicated to sharing the origins and evolution of jazz.

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21 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Louisiana

Louisiana, a state known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse landscapes, is home to some of the most beautiful places in the United States. From the iconic city of New Orleans to the serene wetlands, this southern gem offers a wide range of attractions for all types of travelers.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, Louisiana has something to offer. In this blog, we will explore the 21 most beautiful places to visit in Louisiana, each showcasing the state’s unique charm and allure. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on a journey through the Bayou State, where beauty and adventure await at every turn.

Table of Contents

1. New Orleans

New Orleans, often referred to as the “Big Easy,” is a city unlike any other. Known for its lively music scene, diverse culture, and vibrant festivals, New Orleans is a must-visit destination in Louisiana. One of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods is the French Quarter, a historic district steeped in rich history and charm. Walk along the vibrant streets of Bourbon Street, known for its lively nightlife and bustling atmosphere.

No visit to New Orleans is complete without experiencing Mardi Gras, a world-renowned carnival celebrated with colorful parades, extravagant costumes, and lively music. The French Quarter comes alive during this time, with locals and visitors alike joining in the festivities and indulging in delicious Creole and Cajun cuisine. Speaking of cuisine, be sure to try the famous beignets, deep-fried dough topped with powdered sugar, at Café du Monde.

2. Louisiana Wetlands

The Louisiana wetlands, a unique and important ecosystem, offer a glimpse into a world of natural beauty and biodiversity. Spanning a vast area, these wetlands are home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.

One of the best ways to explore the wetlands is by taking a swamp tour, where you can glide through the maze of waterways and witness stunning wildlife in their natural habitat. Keep your eyes peeled for alligators, turtles, and a variety of bird species that call the wetlands home.

The wetlands of Louisiana are not only a haven for wildlife but also play a crucial role in protecting the coast from storms and providing a buffer against erosion. That’s why it’s important to support conservation efforts and raise awareness about the ecological significance of these wetlands.

3. St. Louis Cathedral

Located in the heart of New Orleans’ French Quarter, St. Louis Cathedral is a historic landmark that showcases stunning architecture and rich religious heritage. As the oldest continuously active cathedral in the United States, St. Louis Cathedral is a testament to the city’s enduring spirit.

Surrounded by the picturesque Jackson Square, the cathedral stands as a symbol of New Orleans’ resilience and cultural identity. Visitors can admire the cathedral’s intricate interior, featuring beautiful stained glass windows and awe-inspiring artwork.

Take a stroll around Jackson Square, where local artists display their work, street performers entertain passersby, and the vibrant atmosphere of New Orleans comes alive. Whether you’re a history buff or a lover of art, a visit to St. Louis Cathedral is a must when exploring the unique charm of New Orleans.

4. Christmas in New Orleans

Christmas in New Orleans is a magical time of year, with the city adorned with festive decorations, holiday lights, and a joyful atmosphere. Experience the traditional lighting of the bonfires along the Mississippi River, a beloved holiday tradition that dates back centuries.

The historic neighborhoods of New Orleans, such as the French Quarter and Garden District, exude a charming and festive ambiance during the holiday season. Explore the city’s historic sites, visit the famous Preservation Hall for a memorable jazz performance, and indulge in the city’s culinary delights, from gumbo to beignets.

New Orleans is truly a city that knows how to celebrate, and Christmas is no exception. Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit as you stroll through the city’s enchanting streets, filled with music, art, and the warmth of Southern hospitality.

5. Avery Island Bird Sanctuary

Avery Island, located in the heart of Louisiana, is home to a unique bird sanctuary that attracts bird watchers from around the world. The sanctuary, nestled within the lush Jungle Gardens, provides a haven for a diverse array of bird species.

As you walk along the sanctuary’s trails, keep an eye out for egrets, herons, and other magnificent birds that call this place their home. You can also explore the peaceful bird city, a sanctuary within the sanctuary, where peculiar species of birds reside.

In addition to its bird sanctuary, Avery Island is also famous for being the birthplace of Tabasco sauce. Visitors can tour the Tabasco factory and learn about the process of making this iconic hot sauce. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the beautiful Jungle Gardens, a tranquil oasis of peculiar plants, flowers, and wildlife.

6. Chauvin Sculpture Garden

For art enthusiasts, a visit to the Chauvin Sculpture Garden is a must. Located in Chauvin, Louisiana, this unique outdoor art gallery features over 100 sculptures created by local artist Kenny Hill.

The sculptures, made from various materials including concrete, steel, and found objects, showcase Hill’s artistic expression and reflect the cultural richness of Louisiana. As you wander through the garden, you’ll be captivated by the intricate details and emotional depth of each sculpture.

The Chauvin Sculpture Garden is a testament to the creativity and artistic spirit of Louisiana. It offers a unique and visually stunning experience, allowing visitors to connect with the art while immersing themselves in the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

7. Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge

Just a short drive from downtown New Orleans, Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden gem for nature lovers. As the largest urban wildlife refuge in the United States, it offers a sanctuary for a variety of bird species, alligators, and other wildlife.

Explore the refuge’s hiking trails, or take a guided tour to discover the diverse ecosystems that make up this unique refuge. Keep your camera handy, as you may encounter great blue herons, white ibises, or even a bald eagle.

Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge is a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of Louisiana’s natural landscapes. Whether you’re a bird-watcher, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, this refuge is a must-visit destination.

8. Horace Wilkinson Bridge

Spanning across the majestic Mississippi River, the Horace Wilkinson Bridge is a prominent landmark in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Named after a former Louisiana state senator who advocated for its construction, this cable-stayed bridge is an important transportation route in the city.

The Horace Wilkinson Bridge offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding areas, providing a unique perspective of Baton Rouge. Take a drive across the bridge or find a scenic overlook to stop and admire the beauty of one of America’s longest rivers.

While exploring Baton Rouge, be sure to visit other notable attractions such as the Louisiana State Capitol and the LSU campus, both of which showcase the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. The Horace Wilkinson Bridge is not only a practical structure, but also a symbol of the city’s connection to this mighty river.

9. Mississippi River

The Mississippi River, one of the most iconic landmarks in Louisiana, is a sight to behold. Stretching along the state’s eastern border, the river offers breathtaking views, historical significance, and a myriad of recreational opportunities.

Embark on a scenic riverboat cruise to experience the grandeur of the Mississippi River up close. As you sail along, you’ll witness the beauty of the river’s meandering course, passing by picturesque river towns and historic sites.

For a more adventurous experience, follow the Great River Road, a scenic byway that spans multiple states, including Louisiana. This iconic road trip allows you to explore charming river towns, historic plantations, and natural wonders along the way, all while immersing yourself in the beauty and history of the Mississippi River.

10. Atchafalaya Basin

The Atchafalaya Basin, the largest swamp in the United States, is a natural wonder that beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Spanning over 1 million acres, this vast wilderness is a sanctuary for a diverse range of wildlife.

Explore the basin’s diverse ecosystems on a swamp tour, where you can navigate through the labyrinth of waterways, surrounded by towering cypress trees and wildlife at every turn. Keep an eye out for alligators, turtles, and a variety of bird species, as your experienced guide shares fascinating insights into the swamp’s unique ecology.

The Atchafalaya Basin is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for fishing, kayaking, camping, and hiking. Discover the beauty and tranquility of this natural treasure as you immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the largest swamp in the country.

11. Melrose Plantation

Melrose Plantation, a historic landmark located along the Cane River in Natchitoches, Louisiana, is a testament to Louisiana’s rich plantation history. Designated as a National Historic Landmark, this plantation offers a peek into the region’s cultural heritage.

Take a guided tour of the plantation, exploring the main house, outbuildings, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Learn about the history of the plantation, including the lives of the people who lived and worked there.

Melrose Plantation is also known for its support of the arts, with many famous artists and writers finding inspiration within its walls. Today, the plantation hosts various art exhibits, showcasing the talent of local and regional artists.

A visit to Melrose Plantation is a journey back in time, providing a deeper understanding of the complexities of Louisiana’s plantation era and the contributions of its people.

12. French Quarter, New Orleans

No visit to Louisiana is complete without experiencing the vibrant ambiance of the French Quarter in New Orleans. This historic neighborhood, also known as Vieux Carré, is a melting pot of cultures, art, music, and culinary delights.

Stroll down the lively streets of the French Quarter, immersing yourself in the energy and charm of this iconic district. Admire the unique architecture, with colorful Creole townhouses, intricate ironwork balconies, and hidden courtyards.

Bourbon Street is a must-visit, known for its famous nightlife scene, live music, and bustling atmosphere. From jazz clubs to street performers, there is never a dull moment on Bourbon Street. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience a traditional New Orleans jazz band at Preservation Hall, a historic jazz venue that has hosted renowned musicians for decades.

The French Quarter is also home to historic landmarks, including St. Louis Cathedral and the Cabildo, where the Louisiana Purchase was signed. Take a stroll through Jackson Square, a picturesque park where local artists display their work, and street performers captivate passersby.

13. Laura Plantation

Step back in time with a visit to Laura Plantation, a historic plantation located near Vacherie, Louisiana. This well-preserved Creole plantation offers guided tours that provide a captivating insight into the region’s plantation era.

Explore the main house, outbuildings, and beautifully landscaped gardens as knowledgeable guides share the stories of the plantation’s former owners, slaves, and their unique way of life. Learn about the plantation’s history, architecture, and the challenges faced by those who lived and worked there.

Laura Plantation offers a thought-provoking and educational experience, shedding light on a complex period of Louisiana’s history. As you wander through the plantation, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of the region’s cultural heritage and its ties to the plantation economy.

14. Avery Island

Located in Iberia Parish, Louisiana, Avery Island is a geological salt dome known for its natural beauty and historical significance. It is the birthplace of Tabasco sauce, a beloved condiment enjoyed worldwide.

Visitors can tour the Tabasco factory, where they can learn about the production process of this iconic hot sauce. From the fields of peppers to the aging process, the factory tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at the art of Tabasco making.

In addition to the Tabasco factory, Avery Island is also home to the beautiful Jungle Gardens. This serene sanctuary is a botanical garden filled with peculiar plants, wildlife, and serene bayous. Explore the gardens at your own pace, taking in the sights and sounds of nature.

Avery Island is a place of natural splendor and culinary heritage, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring the best of Louisiana’s offerings.

15. New Orleans Garden District

The Garden District, a historic neighborhood in New Orleans, is a treasure trove of Southern charm, grand mansions, and oak-lined streets. This elegant district is renowned for its beautifully preserved antebellum homes and picturesque gardens.

A walking tour through the Garden District will transport you back in time, as you admire the stunning architecture of Greek Revival, Italianate, and Victorian-style homes. The grandeur of these historic mansions, with their intricate ironwork, verandas, and colorful gardens, is a sight to behold.

While exploring the Garden District, be sure to dine at Commander’s Palace, a legendary restaurant that has been a New Orleans institution since 1880. Indulge in classic Creole and Southern cuisine, accompanied by impeccable service and a vibrant atmosphere.

The New Orleans Garden District is a true gem, offering a glimpse of a bygone era and a unique perspective on the city’s history and culture.

16. Breaux Bridge

Located along the banks of the Bayou Teche, Breaux Bridge is a charming town often referred to as the “Crawfish Capital of the World.” Known for its vibrant Cajun culture, delicious cuisine, and lively music, Breaux Bridge is a haven for food and music enthusiasts.

A visit to Breaux Bridge is not complete without sampling the local delicacy, crawfish. Feast on a traditional crawfish boil, a mouthwatering dish of spicy crawfish, corn, and potatoes, at one of the local restaurants or at the annual Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival, a lively celebration of all things crawfish.

Explore the town’s antique shops, art galleries, and boutiques, where you can find unique treasures and handmade crafts. Immerse yourself in the vibrant music scene, with live performances of Cajun and zydeco music filling the air.

Breaux Bridge is a captivating destination that showcases the rich heritage and hospitality of Louisiana’s Cajun culture.

17. Jean Lafitte National Historic Park and Preserve

Jean Lafitte National Historic Park and Preserve is a hidden gem in Louisiana, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history, diverse ecosystems, and stunning natural landscapes. The park is named after the infamous pirate, Jean Lafitte, who played a significant role in Louisiana’s history.

Explore the park’s diverse habitats, from the swampy wetlands of Manchac Swamp to the historic Chalmette Battlefield, where the Battle of New Orleans took place. Take a guided tour or hike through the park’s trails, immersing yourself in the beauty and tranquility of Louisiana’s outdoors.

Manchac Swamp is a highlight of the park, offering a chance to encounter alligators, turtles, and a variety of birds in their natural habitat. As you navigate the swamp, your guide will share fascinating stories and insights into the unique ecology of this enchanting wetland.

Jean Lafitte National Historic Park and Preserve is a true treasure, offering a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty for all to enjoy.

18. Audubon Park

Audubon Park, located in New Orleans, is a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city. This historic park, spanning 350 acres, offers a peaceful retreat where visitors can escape the city’s hustle and bustle.

Stroll along the park’s oak-lined paths, or relax on one of the park’s expansive lawns, taking in the beauty of the park’s iconic oak trees and lagoons. Feed the ducks at the park’s picturesque lake, or have a picnic with friends and family.

Audubon Park is also home to several attractions, including the Audubon Zoo, a beloved destination for animal lovers of all ages. The park’s beautifully landscaped gardens, golf course, and tennis courts provide opportunities for leisure and recreation.

Whether you’re seeking a place to unwind, enjoy outdoor activities, or simply connect with nature, Audubon Park is a must-visit destination in New Orleans.

19. Bogue Chitto State Park

Nestled in the rolling hills of Washington Parish, Louisiana, Bogue Chitto State Park is a stunning natural oasis. Outdoor enthusiasts of all ages can indulge in hiking, horseback riding, canoeing, and camping amidst diverse ecosystems, from piney woods to cypress swamps.

The park’s biodiversity attracts wildlife and offers serene opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography, making it an ideal escape into nature’s tranquility. With its picturesque landscapes and recreational options, Bogue Chitto State Park stands out as a haven for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

20. Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge, the capital city of Louisiana, thrives as a dynamic urban center, offering a harmonious blend of historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and modern amenities.

The towering art deco Louisiana State Capitol and the USS Kidd Veterans Museum pay homage to the nation’s history and heroes. Visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant arts scene, showcasing local and international talent across galleries, theaters, and performance venues.

Baton Rouge’s culinary landscape delights every palate with a fusion of Cajun, Creole, and international cuisines. The city’s scenic riverfront, rich cultural diversity, and warm Southern hospitality make it a captivating destination for travelers seeking an authentic Louisiana experience.

21. Natchitoches

Natchitoches, the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase, is a charming town with a historic district that exudes Southern charm and elegance. Located along the scenic Cane River, Natchitoches is a beacon of Louisiana’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Take a stroll through the historic district, where you’ll find beautifully preserved architecture, quaint shops, and a vibrant art scene. Explore the winding streets, lined with historic homes, and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of this charming town.

Enjoy the picturesque surroundings of the Cane River, a tranquil waterway that meanders through town. Take a boat tour or relax by the river, appreciating the serene ambiance and natural beauty of this captivating riverfront.

Be sure to visit the Lemee House, a plantation home turned museum, which offers a glimpse into the lives of the people who shaped Natchitoches’ history. Discover the unique fusion of French, Spanish, and Creole influences that define this historic town.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some must-see attractions in Louisiana?

The places to go in Louisiana, The French Quarter in New Orleans is a must-see, with its historic architecture, lively nightlife, and world-renowned cuisine.

Explore plantation tours to learn about Louisiana’s rich history, such as Laura Plantation and Oak Alley Plantation.

Take a swamp tour to experience the beauty and wildlife of Louisiana’s wetlands, home to alligators, turtles, and a variety of bird species.

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience Mardi Gras, a vibrant carnival celebrated with parades, costumes, and music.

Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known places to visit in Louisiana?

The places to go in Louisiana, The Abita Mystery House, a whimsical roadside attraction, showcases the eccentric art of local artist John Preble.

Visit Grand Isle, a barrier island off the coast of Louisiana, known for its beautiful beaches, fishing, and bird-watching.

Explore the town of Mandeville, located on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain, offering a charming historic district, art galleries, and outdoor activities.

Discover the cultural richness of Acadiana, a region known for its vibrant Cajun and Creole heritage, delicious cuisine, and lively music scene.

What are the best times of year to visit Louisiana for sightseeing?

The places to go in Louisiana, The best time to visit Louisiana for sightseeing is during the spring and fall seasons. In the spring, you can experience the famous Mardi Gras celebrations, with colorful parades and lively festivals. Spring is also the crawfish season, where you can indulge in this regional delicacy at local restaurants and festivals.

Fall brings festival season, with numerous cultural, music, and food festivals taking place throughout the state, showcasing the best of Louisiana’s traditions and heritage.

How can I make the most out of my trip to Louisiana and see as many beautiful places as possible?

The places to go in Louisiana, To make the most of your trip to Louisiana and see as many beautiful places as possible, plan your itinerary. Consider a road trip to visit multiple destinations in one day. Research the best time to visit each location to avoid crowds and maximize scenery. Don’t forget to also indulge in local cuisine and cultural experiences.

The places to go in Louisiana, Louisiana is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural attractions. From the vibrant city of New Orleans to the serene wetlands and historic plantations, there’s something for everyone in this diverse state. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or food enthusiast, Louisiana has it all.

Some must-see attractions include the iconic St. Louis Cathedral, the picturesque Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge, and the enchanting Melrose Plantation. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Bogue Chitto State Park offers hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities.

No matter where you go in Louisiana, you’ll be captivated by its charm and unique atmosphere. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the beauty of the Pelican State!

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Ferona Jose is a passionate travel writer and blogger at Travelistia. She has traveled throughout Europe, Asia and the Americas. Her writing focuses on cheap travel destinations, travel experiences, cultural insights, and travel hacks.

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17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New Orleans, LA

Written by Lana Law Updated Mar 19, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

New Orleans is one of America's most unique cities, with a vibe you simply can't find anywhere else. Known the world over for jazz music, Cajun cuisine, and outrageous Mardi Gras celebrations, the city is a melting pot of cultures with a diversity that is reflected in everything from the music and food to the language and architecture.

Most of the attraction for tourists is centered around the French Quarter , with the infamous Bourbon Street at the heart of the district. Along the Mississippi River, which borders the French Quarter to the south, are horse-drawn carriages waiting to take visitors on a tour, the Steamboat Natchez docked along the shore, and tourists lined up to buy beignets.

Beyond the French Quarter, the city has many quaint areas worth exploring, from the trendy Warehouse District to the posh Garden District.

New Orleans is a great walking city, with many of the main things to see and do located in or near the French Quarter, but to explore the Garden District, you may want to hop on a historic street car. Buses are also a great way to get around, particularly for visiting attractions like the zoo that are further afield.

Discover the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions in New Orleans.

1. French Quarter

2. mardi gras, 3. national wwii museum, 4. jackson square, 5. preservation hall, 6. st. louis cathedral, 7. city park, 8. louisiana state museum at the cabildo, 9. garden district, 10. audubon park & audubon zoo, 11. steamboat natchez, 12. mardi gras world, 13. new orleans museum of art, 14. audubon aquarium of the americas, 15. ride the historic streetcars, 16. jean lafitte national historical park and preserve, 17. crescent park, where to stay in new orleans for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to new orleans, map of tourist attractions in new orleans, la, best time to visit new orleans, la.

The French Quarter of New Orleans is what most tourists come to see when they visit the city. Set along a bend on the Mississippi River, the main attraction here is the architecture, but it is also a great area for dining and entertainment.

The old buildings, some of which date back 300 years, show French influences, with arcades, wrought iron balconies, red-tiled roofs, and picturesque courtyards. Many of these buildings now contain hotels, restaurants, souvenir shops, galleries, and a profusion of jazz spots with entertainment of varying quality.

The most famous street in the French Quarter is Bourbon Street , but it is not necessarily the highlight of the area. This street is relatively benign by day but at night transforms into a loud and boisterous pedestrian area that may not always feel safe.

Royal Street offers a great mix of history, fine cuisine, and unique shopping opportunities, with some higher end stores, galleries, and hotels. One of the notable buildings on Royal Street is the Court of Two Sisters (1832), now a restaurant known for its jazz brunch.

To hear some quality musicians playing traditional jazz music, Frenchmen Street is the place to go. Good restaurants can also be found along here, and artists frequent the area.

Also not to be missed in the French Quarter are Jackson Square and St Louis Cathedral , located just off the waterfront. Buskers, musicians, and artists set up around the square.

Mardi Gras is New Orleans' signature event, with celebrations that span a two-week period, ending with the finale on shrove Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday.

Celebrations include almost daily parades and all kinds of entertainment and festivities that increase in intensity as the event draws closer to the end. Onlookers crowd the balconies and sidewalks to watch the parades and catch strings of beaded necklaces tossed from the outrageously decorated floats.

Bourbon Street is one of the main areas where people congregate, but the whole French Quarter is generally packed. The tradition was introduced to the city by French settlers and became particularly popular by the end of the 19th century.

Official site: http://www.mardigrasneworleans.com/

The National WWII Museum is an outstanding museum with engaging exhibits and documentary snippets that tell the history of WWII as it was fought in Europe and in the Pacific.

The museum is divided into three sections, with one section devoted to the war in the Pacific, another devoted to the war in Europe, and a third building that houses WWII aircraft.

A film entitled Beyond All Boundaries , produced and narrated by Tom Hanks, is shown in the 4D Theater, with chairs that rumble as tanks go by on the screen, and stage props that turn the film into a full on sensory experience.

As you move from room to room through the exhibits, short black-and-white documentary-style film segments give a real-life look at how the items on display were involved in the war. Oral histories add to the impact.

You are assigned a profile of someone who was in the war, and oral updates are available at stations throughout the complex to follow the soldier's progression through war time.

New, starting in November 2022, is the Expressions of America outdoor show. This show is billed as an "outdoor immersive show," and takes place in the evenings at the museum on the Col. Battle Barksdale Parade Ground. You'll be amazed as the latest technology takes you back to the 1940s and wartime through light and sound special effects.

Although the main show takes place outdoors, the beginning of the show starts indoors at BB's Stage Door Canteen, with live performances, and then flows outdoors. The outdoor portion of the show is designed to be observed while standing; however, seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Address: 945 Magazine Street, New Orleans, Louisiana

Official site: http://www.nationalww2museum.org/

Jackson Square is the main square in the heart of the French Quarter, originally known as Place d'Armes . In the center of the square, surrounded by trees and greenery, is an equestrian statue (1856) of General Andrew Jackson.

Standing prominently at one end of the square is the landmark St. Louis Cathedral , with its white façade and cone shaped spires. Also in the vicinity of the cathedral are the Presbytere and Cabildo, both Louisiana State Museums.

The area in front of the cathedral, along the iron fence that surrounds the square, has long been an artist's hang out, and nearby are shops and restaurants, making it a popular spot for tourists.

The whole area is very attractively laid out along the banks of the Mississippi, with the Riverboat Docks, the promenade known as the Moon Walk, and the Millhouse, as well as a variety of stores.

Preservation Hall is an unassuming old building that has long been an institution in New Orleans known for jazz music. The historic hall still features traditional jazz by local artists .

The building is small, creating an intimate setting, and seating is limited. Patrons are all seated upon arrival on bench seats with no back support. Unless you've reserved the front bench, you'll be seated where space is available. Standing room tickets are also available. Preservation Hall sells out most nights, and performances are generally 45 minutes in length.

Opening times and events are listed on the website two weeks in advance of the following month. If you are really lucky, you might get same-day tickets, but chances are slim. It's best to keep your expectations in check; some bands are definitely better than others.

Address: 726 St. Peter Street, New Orleans, Louisiana

Official site: www.preservationhall.com/

On the north side of Jackson Square is the beautiful St. Louis Cathedral, a landmark structure in New Orleans. It was built in 1794 on the site of two earlier churches and is known for being the United States' oldest cathedral in continuous use. Pope John Paul II visited the cathedral in 1987.

The church was built through contributions from Don Andres Almonester de Roxas, a Frenchman who spent money from his fortune to rebuild New Orleans after the second great fire.

Address: Jackson Square, New Orleans, Louisiana

Official site: http://www.stlouiscathedral.org/

New Orleans City Park covers more than 1,300 acres and contains numerous attractions and things to do, including the New Orleans Botanical Garden and the New Orleans Museum of Art and Sculpture Garden. Generations of families have spent warm, summer weekends here since the mid 19th century.

Kids and families will love the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park with its 18 rides, including the Tilt-a-Whirl, Red Baron Mini Plane, a Ferris wheel, bumper cars, just to name a few. In addition to the rides, the amusement park has a classic carousel, dating from 1906, complete with intricately carved and painted wooden horses. If you and your crew tire of walking, hop on the miniature train. It circles the park on narrow gauge tracks and has long been a favorite of all ages.

Also on-site are tennis courts and an 18-hole golf course , as well as beautiful areas for walking. The park claims to have one of the world's largest stands of mature live oak trees, including several that are almost 800 years old.

The Cabildo, to the left of St. Louis Cathedral, was built in 1795 as the residence of the Spanish governor. It is noteworthy both as a historic building and for the museum and its outstanding collection.

The first town council met here in 1799, and the Louisiana Purchase was agreed to here in 1803. It was at one time the Louisiana Supreme Court, but today the Cabildo houses the Louisiana State Museum and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The museum's collections focus largely on the history of New Orleans and Louisiana, particularly the people of Louisiana and the many ethnic groups that make up the population today.

Address: 701 Charles Street, New Orleans, Louisiana

Official site: https://louisianastatemuseum.org/

The Garden District is a prosperous residential area with lovely mansions, mature trees, and lush gardens, and is probably, in some respects, the stereotypical image many foreigners have of the Deep South.

The area can be easily explored on foot, and some companies offer guided tours, which can be a good way to learn the history and see the sights. First Street, Camp Street, and Prytania Street are some good places to see large, elegant 19th-century houses with extensive grounds. The historic and famous Lafayette Cemetery #1 is also located here.

Some famous celebrities have homes in this area. Most visitors come to enjoy the tranquil environment and see the houses, but there are also boutiques and coffee shops in the area, although they are spread out, and finding a lunch spot may be more difficult than expected.

A delightful way to visit the Garden District is to take the St. Charles streetcar. Get off at 1st Street, and walk south to enter the heart of the area as indicated on the map below.

Southwest of the Garden District in Uptown New Orleans is Audubon Park, established on the grounds of what had been the site of the World's Industrial and Cotton Centennial Exposition of 1884. This is a fair distance from the French Quarter but provides a good excuse to see this part of the city.

One of the highlights in the park is the Audubon Zoo . This is a fun escape from the busy city, with lush grounds and a good selection of domestic and exotic animals. Some of the most popular residents of the zoo are the giraffes, jaguars, leopards, orangutans, elephants, rhinos, lemurs, and alligators (including the rare white alligator) just to name a few.

A small tram called the Swamp Train, runs throughout the zoo and passes by the Louisiana Swamp Exhibit, sea lions, and Reptile Encounter areas. The complete ride takes about 30 minutes, tickets are available at the train station and are valid all day.

During the summer months, the zoo offers a chance to cool off in the splash park, known as the Cool Zoo.

Also within Audubon Park are fine stands of oaks, a butterfly garden and insectarium, hothouses, the Audubon Golf Club, a number of small lakes, and plenty of open green space.

Address: 6500 Magazine Street, New Orleans, Louisiana

Official site: http://audubonnatureinstitute.org/zoo

A cruise on the paddle steamer Steamboat Natchez is a wonderful way to experience the Mississippi River and a unique way to see and learn about the city.

The harbor cruises take about two hours and provide narration on the sites, with an optional lunch of creole cuisine. The dinner cruise features a live jazz band, buffet-style dinner, and of course, wonderful views of New Orleans.

Special events cruises are also available seasonally, with special cruises offered for such occasions as Easter, Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, Christmas, and other holidays.

It's a good idea, particularly during high season, to book a Steamboat Natchez Harbor Cruise in advance. This tour guarantees your spot on the boat and also the lowest prices.

Official site: http://www.steamboatnatchez.com/

New Orleans is world famous for its elaborate Mardi Gras celebrations, drawing people from all over the world who come to enjoy the festivities that consume the city during this time period.

For a glimpse of what's involved behind the scenes in this huge event, visitors can take a Mardi Gras World tour to see working studios. The Blaine Kern Studios is one of the leading producers of floats in the world and is highly involved in the Mardi Gras Parade in New Orleans each year.

You can see sculptured props, huge floats, outrageous costumes, and all kinds of figures. This is a great way to gain a good sense of the size, color, and imagination that goes into the floats and the parade. Guided tours are offered regularly each day through the workshops where artists and sculptors work.

Address: 1380 Port of New Orleans Place, New Orleans, Louisiana

Official site: http://www.mardigrasworld.com/

In the south part of City Park is the New Orleans Museum of Art, one of the finest of its kind in the South. The museum features an excellent collection of French and American art, as well as African and Japanese pieces.

On site and another of the institutions highlights is the outdoor Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden, with more than 60 sculptures, as well as walking paths, lagoons, and mature live oak trees.

Be sure to check the museum's calendar for temporary exhibitions and a variety of themes.

Address: One Collins C. Diboll Circle, City Park, New Orleans, Louisiana

Along the waterfront in downtown New Orleans, within walking distance of the French Quarter, the aquarium focuses on species found in North, Central, and South America. The museum has an impressive collection of over 3,600 animals spread across over 250 species.

Beginning in the north, visitors can learn about creatures that lurk below the surface of the nearby surrounding waters, with exhibits that highlight freshwater fish of the Mississippi River and marine life from the Gulf of Mexico. This includes everything from sharks and stingrays to sea turtles.

The Great Maya Reef can be viewed from a 30-foot-long walk-through tunnel and is designed to look like a sunken Maya city, with fish swimming among the ruins.

The Amazon Rainforest offers a look at the colorful birds, exotic fish, and even the snakes of this region of South America.

Always popular are the sea otters and penguins, as well as the wildlife encounter programs. Available as optional extras are hands-on experiences with the African penguins and a chance to SCUBA dive or snorkel the Great Maya Reef.

Address: 1 Canal Street, New Orleans, Louisiana

Official site: http://audubonnatureinstitute.org/aquarium/

As you wander throughout New Orleans, it's hard to miss the old streetcars rumbling along the rails. One of the best deals around at $3 a day, this wonderfully preserved public transit service is a real bonus for visitors. Not only are the streetcars fun to ride, they actually go where you want to visit.

It's easy to hop on and hop off — stops are everywhere, and service is frequent, meaning you'll rarely need to wait long for a ride. Red-colored streetcars have air-conditioning; the green ones do not but have windows that open. The green ones are the oldest; most date from the early 1920s.

One of the most popular routes is the historic St. Charles Line; streetcars first rolled along here in 1835. It's one of the best ways to get to and from the Garden District.

The Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve consists of six physically separate sites in southeastern Louisiana.

Two of these sites are in the New Orleans area and are well worth a visit. The Barataria Preserve offers a chance to see some of Louisiana's natural treasures.

The preserve consists of natural levee forests, bayous, swamps, and marshes. Archeological sites here have been found to contain remnants of the ancient Troyville, Marksville, and Tchefuncte cultures.

For a more historical experience, the Chalmette Battlefield preserves the site of the January 8, 1815 Battle of New Orleans, which was a decisive American victory over the British at the end of the War of 1812.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/jela/index.htm

This park was created in 2014, when a formerly derelict area of the city near the Marigny and Bywater neighborhoods was targeted for redevelopment.

The park runs along the river; it is 1.4 miles long and is spread out over 20 acres. The main attraction in the park, apart from the pleasant green spaces, is the Piety Street Bridge . This arch spans the railroad tracks and allows access to the waterfront.

Come here if you are in the nearby areas and want to enjoy a bit of a local secret. Looking for the ultimate photo of downtown New Orleans? Snap it from the top of the bridge and catch the curve of the river in the foreground of your shot.

To experience the real charm of New Orleans, the best place to stay is in the famous French Quarter. Many of the hotels here are housed in historic buildings and exude their own unique character. Below are some highly-rated hotels in or near the French Quarter .

Luxury Hotels :

• In a great location at the foot of Royal Street is the historic Hotel Monteleone , a landmark building in the French Quarter, built in 1886. This high-end luxury hotel offers a variety of rooms and suites and a rooftop heated pool.
• The recently renovated Omni Royal Orleans is another elegant top-end hotel with a fabulous location in the French Quarter.
• With a more contemporary feel, the Hyatt Centric French Quarter New Orleans is located in the heart of the action, just off Bourbon Street, and within easy walking distance of the city's major attractions.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• In the heart of the French Quarter but offering a peaceful and quiet experience is the Hotel Mazarin . With a quaint courtyard; an outstanding complimentary breakfast; and large, luxurious rooms; this hotel is perfect if you don't need a pool.
• Also well positioned in the French Quarter and offering a free breakfast is the Hotel Le Marais , with a beautiful courtyard; small pool; and secure, quiet rooms.
• One block north of Bourbon Street Grenoble House has only 17 suites but offers a charming atmosphere, with exposed brick walls, tasteful décor, and an outdoor pool.

Budget Hotels :

• At the high end of the budget range but well positioned in the French Quarter is the Inn on St. Ann , with classic New Orleans style architecture featuring wrought iron balconies, exposed brick walls, and antique décor.
• In a similar style and with a convenient location on the edge of the French Quarter is the Inn on St. Peter .
• Outside the French Quarter but only a five-minute drive away is The Treme Hotel , with basic but comfortable rooms.

Sightseeing:

• To see the sites at your own pace and learn a little of the city's fascinating history, the best option is to take a Hop-on Hop-off Tour on an open-top, double-decker sightseeing bus. This tour stops at 18 locations around the city and gives you the option to get off wherever you like, or you can choose to stay on the bus for the full two-hour loop. Also part of this tour is a guided walking tour of the Garden District.

Bayou Tours:

• Getting out into bayou country is one of the most popular things to do around New Orleans. The Swamp and Bayou Sightseeing Tour with Boat Ride from New Orleans is the easiest way to experience the beauty of the bayou, with transportation right from the French Quarter to the wetlands. Visitors are then taken on a two-hour wildlife-viewing boat ride through the swamps, with opportunities to see alligators, snakes, birds, and other animals. Total tour time is about four hours.
• Another option, if you are looking for more of a thrill ride, is a New Orleans Airboat Ride. This two-hour fast-paced ride takes guests through the cypress swampland, not far from Jean Lafitte National Historical Park. Tours are offered in the morning or afternoon, and visitors can choose a small or large-boat tour (eight person or 25 person tours).

The best time of the year to visit New Orleans is February through May, when Mardi Gras festivities are underway and temperatures are comfortable. If you do plan to visit during this popular time of the year, you will want to book hotel rooms up to a year in advance.

Mardi Gras events take place over several weekends from February to early March, with specific dates changing each year. This is the best window to see the elaborate parades, floats, and festivities surrounding this annual event.

Mardi Gras is the most exciting time of the year to visit New Orleans, but if the steep prices are a deterrent, you can travel at the end of January, when rates for hotels are lower and Carnival season is already underway.

You can still see parades heading through the streets in January, and enjoy the celebrations without the crowds and high prices that tick up in February.

Tourists visiting New Orleans outside of Mardi Gras season can still get a taste of the festivities by visiting Mardi Gras World , the city's only museum dedicated to this annual celebration. Visitors can see floats, costumes, and other parade props, and can also watch artisans work on next year's biggest and best decorations.

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Home > Road Trip Itineraries > Southern States and Deep South > Things to Do in Louisiana: Top 10 of the Attractions in the State

Things to Do in Louisiana: Top 10 of the Attractions in the State

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Among the Southern States , Louisiana is certainly the one that can boast some of the best preserved plantations and swamps of all. Given that in the collective imagination, these are the main factors that may drive you to go on a road trip in this part of the States, I would say that it is almost a must to include the state that includes New Orleans in your itinerary.

Like all top 10 lists, this one could be accused of being extremely subjective, but I hope it might prove useful to give you a general idea of what awaits you if you decide to visit Bayou State (the nickname for the state of Louisiana). So let’s discover the best things to do in Louisiana!

New Orleans

Plantation tour, baton rouge, breaux bridge, natchitoches, avery island, bonnie and clyde ambush museum, chauvin sculpture garden.

Taking a walk around the French Quarter is definitely one of the main reasons to visit the city of New Orleans. The characteristic Bourbon Street , with its historic buildings with their decorated wooden windowsills, nightclubs, bars and pubs where you can eat the region’s typical cuisine and listen to the best live music, will surely give you the opportunity to experience a full immersion in local culture.

If you want to take a walk in nature and experience the typical atmosphere of the bayou of the south of the United States without leaving the city, you must visit City Park , which among other things includes the New Orleans Museum of Art and a beautiful botanical garden.

Other neighborhoods that are definitely worth a visit are the Garden District , where the magnolia trees and very well maintained historic buildings will make you take a real leap back in time, and the Arts District where, as you can guess from the name, art is the protagonist in all its forms.

If you love history, don’t miss a visit to The National WWII Museum , which showcases one of the largest collections of relics and vehicles used during World War II. The Confederate Memorial Hall Museum , which is housed in a Victorian-style red brick building, displays a collection of American Civil War artifacts second only to that of the American Civil War Museum in Richmond, Virginia.

To find out more in detail about what this city offers you can refer to our New Orleans Travel Guide .

This city is the heart of Cajun Country. Here, you will have many opportunities to rediscover the ancient traditions of this area of Louisiana. In fact, you can visit the Acadian Village : a typical Cajun village rebuilt as it should have been in the 1800s through the use of seven original wooden buildings of the time.

Another similar attraction is the Vermilionville Historic Village , which echoes the original name of Lafayette. Here, too, you can visit a typical village where actors in costume recreate the living conditions and customs of the people who lived in this region at the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries.

Find a hotel in Lafayette

Plantation Country: plantations in Louisiana

When one imagines something typical of the southern states, surely one of the first things that comes to mind are the typical plantation structures. Here in Louisiana you will find many of them, and very well preserved too, so much so that there is an entire area of the state that is commonly referred to as Plantation Country .

To mention all of them would be almost impossible, and certainly haphazard, so here is a selection of the most beautiful and special ones. Nowadays you can take tours inside the properties, where you can still admire the original decorations and furnishings that, for the most part, have been able to resist the passage of time.

Let’s start this tour with one of the best preserved in the United States, the Rosedown Plantation near the town of St. Francisville (12501 LA-10, St Francisville, LA 70775), also known for the beautiful gardens that surround the estate. Built in 1834 by the Turnbull family, one of the wealthiest in the nation.

Oak Alley Plantation (3645 Louisiana 18, Vacherie, LA 70090), on the other hand, is one of the most photographed plantations in Louisiana. The peculiarity of this plantation is in fact represented by the long driveway along the sides of which run dozens of oaks that contribute to creating an unmistakable landscape.

Visiting the Laura Plantation (2247 LA-18, Vacherie, LA 70090) is not just to see a plantation, and all the buildings connected to it, which are very well preserved, but to experience a real full immersion in the Creole culture so typical of this area of the state. The plantation tours have been designed based on a memoir that traces the history of four generations of Creole families. This attention to historical accuracy earned the title of “Best History Tour in the United States” awarded by Lonely Planet.

A tour of Whitney Plantation (5099 Louisiana Hwy 18, Edgard, LA 70049) is also recommended to understand the conditions in which slaves were forced to live since, of all those in Louisiana, it is the only one that can be called a museum plantation . This is because the places where slaves lived and worked have been reconstructed and preserved. You can experience with your own eyes what it was like to work on a cotton plantation in the early 1800s.

Houmas House Plantation (40136 Highway 942, Darrow, LA 70725) is particularly renowned for its beautiful, very large, well-manicured gardens and the cuisine that can be enjoyed at the restaurant inside. At the Nottoway Plantation (31025 LA-1, White Castle, LA 70788) you are going to visit what from a distance may even seem like the White House ! It is also the largest pre-war building to have survived intact to this day, and you may even decide to stay overnight.

Search for a room at Nottoway Plantation

Finally, thrill-seekers should not miss the opportunity to visit Myrtles Plantation (7747 U.S. 61, St Francisville), which boasts the title of one of the most haunted houses in the entire United States.

If you want to leave your rental car at rest for a day, you can consider one of these tours to visit the state’s most beautiful plantations.

• San Francisco Plantation and Houmas House small group tour from New Orleans
• Whitney Plantation tour from New Orleans
• Oak Alley and Laura Plantation small group tours from New Orleans

Louisiana Swamps

If plantations were the first thing that came to your mind when you thought of the southern states , then perhaps the second thing that came to your mind was the swamps , which are a real feature of the Louisiana landscape. As in the case of the plantations, here are just a few of the many swamps you may come across on your road trip around the state.The Atchafalaya Basin boasts the record for being the largest swamp in the entire United States, even larger than Florida ‘s Everglades Park . It has developed along the course of the Atchafalaya River, which formed near the town of Simmesport and flows for more than 140 miles until it reaches the Gulf of Mexico . More than 65 different species of reptiles and 250 of birds live within this swamp, as well as hosting the largest concentration of the characteristic American eagles (Bald Eagles) in all of Central America.

The Honey Island Swamp may not be as extensive as the previous one, but it is one of the swamps least altered by humans in the nation. Here you can enjoy nature in its most primal and pristine form. Mystery lovers will be thrilled to know that in this swamp a legend says that the Honey Island Swamp Monster, over 7 feet tall, with yellow eyes and a nauseating smell, roams around.

If you are visiting New Orleans , the most convenient solution for you will be to visit the Barataria Preserve , where you find many walkways built above the water level, or you can rent canoes to go into the forest amidst swamps and marshes. This swamp is part of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve complex, which contains six different parks and natural attractions that are physically separate from each other.

As with the plantations, you can also rely on convenient, pre-organized tours

• New Orleans Swamp and Bayou Boat Tours from New Orleans
• Honey Island Swamp and Bayou Tours from New Orleans
• Water slide tour of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve in New Orleans

The city’s most curious and interesting attraction is definitely the LSU Rural Life Museum , which is located on the outskirts of the city. Here, a typical Louisiana town of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries has been reconstructed with 30 historical buildings. The visit takes place both outside, to understand how life was organized in a town, and inside the buildings, where you can see a remarkable collection of historical tools, clothes and accessories.

Contemporary history buffs shouldn’t miss the opportunity to visit the USS Kidd Museum , a Fletcher-class destroyer anchored along the banks of the Mississippi that served during World War II and the Korean War.

If you want to visit a plantation without moving too far from the city, you can opt for a tour at Magnolia Mound Plantation . Finally, why not take a stroll through the Downtown area of the city, strolling through the various local bars and restaurants that extend within walking distance of the Mississippi River .

Search for a hotel in Baton Rouge

Near the city of Lafayette, you can visit the small cluster of houses of Breaux Bridge that, besides boasting about being the capital of freshwater shrimps, is also considered the gateway to Cajun culture , the traditions, music and cuisine of South Louisiana. For this reason, do not miss a visit to one of the many typical places in the city, where you can experience very special dishes and atmospheres.

If you have not yet been able to see a typical swamp in the state, head without delay to Lake Martin and you will not be disappointed by the panorama that you will find before you. If you can, don’t miss a stay or a visit to the historic bed and breakfast Maison Madeleine .

Search for a hotel in Breaux Bridge

The foundation of this town dates back to 1714, and it is the oldest continuously inhabited urban agglomeration of the whole state. A visit to the pleasant Historic District , which develops along the course of the Cane River Lake, is recommended. Here you can admire very well-preserved buildings and historic houses dating back to the colonial period.

History buffs will also not want to miss a visit to Fort Saint Jean Baptiste , an original eighteenth-century fort, where well-preserved historical re-enactments in costume effectively illustrate what life was like for the region’s early settlers and the dangers they faced.

Search for a hotel in the area

If every time you eat something you cannot resist the temptation of adding Tabasco to your dish, then you are in the right place, because Avery Island is mainly known for being the birthplace of the famous hot sauce, the first one to be industrially produced in the United States. It is possible to visit – with tasting included – the factory, with the annexed museum, where Tabasco has been produced for more than 5 generations.

You can combine the tour of the factory with a walk along the lush Jungle Gardens, where you can see many species of animals living in their natural habitat (including alligators). The curiosity is that inside the gardens there is a statue of Buddha dating back to 1100 kept in a small temple.

The criminal adventures of Bonnie and Clyde ended in Louisiana, since there was a fatal ambush for them just near the town of Gibsland. In the place where they died, today there stands a plaque that commemorates the event, while where Rosa’s Cafe , the place where the two criminals had lunch for the last time,  once stood, there is a now museum that tells the story of their lives and exhibits a collection of memorabilia related to their criminal activity.

Some details may seem a bit gory, but if you are passionate about the history of these two famous criminals, you should definitely consider a stop to find out more about their lives, taking advantage of the availability of the museum manager, who is obviously very experienced and willing to give information.

Where to stay near the museum

We have arrived at perhaps one of the strangest and most curious attractions in the state. Everything was born from the mind of Kenny Hill, a mason who in 1990 began his personal journey into spirituality by building several statues inspired by religious themes. This is one of those places that one would expect to find perhaps while traveling along Route 66 , but in this case we are in Louisiana and for this reason maybe it has had a little less success.

Standing out above all the other sculptures is the representation of a lighthouse accompanied by the most disparate figures, ranging from angels to cowboys, who almost seem to want to climb the entire structure. You can take a real trip in this place that mixes kitsch and religiosity inside the garden, which is now cared for by Nicholls State University.

Filippo Nardelli

I have a degree in History of North America and have always been fascinated by the United States.

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