Louisiana is the kind of place that doesn’t just get under your skin, it gets into your soul.
Whether you’re a music aficionado, food lover, history buff, or an outdoor enthusiast, there’s a unique experience awaiting you here.
Let’s embark on a journey of the top 17 things to do in Louisiana, each with its own spicy kick.
In this article...
1. Experience the Magic of New Orleans’ French Quarter
The beating heart of NOLA, French Quarter, is a vibrant melting pot of cultures, sounds, and flavors.
The architecture, live music, and street performers create an enchanting atmosphere.
Traveler’s tip: Experience it all – the beignets at Café Du Monde, a carriage ride, and a saunter down Bourbon Street.
2. Visit the Historic Plantations
Louisiana’s antebellum history comes alive in its beautifully preserved plantations.
Places like Oak Alley and Laura Plantation offer a glimpse into the past with a dose of Southern charm.
Traveler’s tip: Opt for a guided tour to understand the rich (and sometimes dark) history.
3. Immerse in Live Jazz at Preservation Hall, New Orleans
You can’t visit Louisiana without soaking in its jazz heritage.
Preservation Hall is the mecca for jazz lovers, offering intimate concerts in an historic setting.
Traveler’s tip: Arrive early – the hall is small, and the line can be long.
4. Sample Creole and Cajun Cuisines
Your taste buds are in for a treat with Louisiana’s Creole and Cajun dishes.
Think gumbo, jambalaya, crawfish étouffée and po’ boys.
Traveler’s tip: For an authentic experience, try a cooking class.
5. Explore the Louisiana Bayous
Louisiana’s swamplands offer a unique eco-system teeming with wildlife.
Hop on a swamp tour to see alligators, herons, and possibly even a swamp monster.
Traveler’s tip: Choose a guided tour for insider information about this unique environment.
6. Pay Respects at the National WWII Museum, New Orleans
This world-class museum offers an immersive look into the American experience during WWII.
Traveler’s tip: Don’t miss the 4D cinematic experience in the Solomon Victory Theater.
7. Stroll Through the Garden District, New Orleans
Home to well-preserved antebellum mansions and iconic oak-lined streets, it’s perfect for an afternoon walk.
Traveler’s tip: Stop by the Lafayette Cemetery for a peek into New Orleans’ unique burial traditions.
8. Experience Mardi Gras World, New Orleans
This is where the magic of Mardi Gras comes to life all year round. Tour the warehouse to see the fantastical floats and costumes.
Traveler’s tip: Try on costumes and sample King Cake.
9. Attend a Crawfish Boil
These social events are a springtime ritual in Louisiana. Good food, great company, and a whole lot of messy eating.
Traveler’s tip: Wear casual clothes. Peeling crawfish can get messy.
10. Visit St. Louis Cathedral, New Orleans
Overlooking Jackson Square, it’s one of NOLA’s most notable landmarks. Its stunning architecture is a sight to behold.
Traveler’s tip: Don’t miss the free concerts during the holiday season.
11. Browse the Shops on Magazine Street, New Orleans
This six-mile-long stretch offers an eclectic mix of boutiques, art galleries, antique stores, and restaurants.
Traveler’s tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a shopping bag.
12. Explore the Frenchmen Street, New Orleans
A popular spot for locals, it’s a hub for live music and night markets. The street embodies the vibrant spirit of NOLA.
Traveler’s tip: Try to visit different clubs to experience the music variety.
13. Wander the Historic Rosedown Plantation, St. Francisville
Experience the grandeur of the past as you explore the mansion and its beautifully maintained gardens.
Traveler’s tip: Join a guided tour to learn about the plantation’s history.
14. Visit the Cabildo, New Orleans
A significant historical building in the French Quarter, it’s where the Louisiana Purchase was signed.
Traveler’s tip: Check out the Battle of New Orleans exhibit.
15. Attend the Festival International de Louisiane
This annual event celebrates the French heritage of the region with music performances, art exhibitions, and food stalls.
Traveler’s tip: Arrive early to get a good spot for the performances.
16. Explore the Avery Island
Known for its Tabasco factory and the lush Jungle Gardens, it’s a spicy little piece of paradise.
Traveler’s tip: Take the Tabasco factory tour.
17. Discover the Chennault Aviation and Military Museum, Monroe
Get an in-depth look into the world of aviation and military history, particularly during WWII.
Traveler’s tip: Don’t miss the interactive exhibits.
There you have it – 17 fun, food-filled, and occasionally freaky things to do in Louisiana.
So, grab your dancing shoes, your appetite, and your sense of adventure and explore the unbridled joy that is Louisiana.
