Louisiana is a state rich in culture, music, food, and natural beauty. From New Orleans’ lively atmosphere to bayous filled with wildlife, there are so many incredible places to explore in the Pelican State.
If you’re planning a Louisiana vacation, here are the top 5 must-visit tourist sites:
1. French Quarter – New Orleans
No trip to Louisiana is complete without spending time in the iconic French Quarter of New Orleans. This historic neighborhood is the birthplace of jazz and oozes charm with its wrought-iron balconies, colorful architecture, street music, and indulgent Cajun cuisine.
Make sure to stop by Jackson Square, stroll down lively Bourbon Street, marvel at St. Louis Cathedral, and sample beignets at Cafe Du Monde. A visit to the French Quarter is easily one of the most memorable parts of any Louisiana getaway.
2. Swamp Tours
To really experience the essence of Louisiana, take a boat tour through the swamps and bayous where you can encounter alligators, turtles, egrets, herons, and even bears.
Many different swamp tours along the Mississippi River and in the Atchafalaya Basin allow you to learn about the ecosystems from expert guides. Seeing the iconic cypress trees draped in Spanish moss while floating through lush greenery makes for an unforgettable adventure.
3. Louisiana State Museum – Baton Rouge
In the state capital of Baton Rouge, the must-see attraction is the Louisiana State Museum showcasing the state’s rich history and culture. Located in an intriguing art deco building, exhibits chronicle everything from the colonial era through Hurricane Katrina recovery.
Highlights include Mardi Gras artifacts, a replica streetcar, goods traded along the Mississippi River, civil war items, jazz instruments showcasing Louisiana’s musical heritage, and much more. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the state after visiting.
4. Avery Island
Home to world-famous Tabasco hot sauce, Avery Island is a fascinating tourist destination. Visitors can take a factory tour to see how Tabasco is produced along with the onsite warehouse holding aging barrels filled with mash.
Afterward, explore Jungle Gardens containing exotic plants and breathtaking live oak trees draped in Spanish moss. Try samples of different Tabasco sauces as you learn about this historic company and brand.
5. Plantation Country – Between Baton Rouge & New Orleans
A trip to Louisiana isn’t complete without experiencing the historic plantations along the Great River Road between Baton Rouge and New Orleans. Here you’ll find several magnificent antebellum mansions and estates like Oak Alley Plantation and Laura Plantation that offer behind-the-scenes tours rich in history and insight into Creole culture.
Wandering the grounds is like taking a step back in time. Each plantation has its own unique story and architecture to discover.
Start Planning Your Louisiana Getaway!
From world-famous New Orleans to the mystifying bayou, Louisiana offers one-of-a-kind experiences. Add these top 5 attractions to your travel itinerary when visiting. Let us know in the comments below about your favorite tourist sites in Louisiana!
