Uncover the gems of Louisiana with our list of top attractions. From historic New Orleans streets and majestic plantations to wild swamps and cultural sites, delve deep into what makes the Pelican State truly enchanting.
French Quarter, New Orleans: The heart of NOLA, it's renowned for its historic buildings, vibrant nightlife, Jackson Square, and the iconic St. Louis Cathedral.
Garden District, New Orleans: Stroll amidst antebellum mansions, ancient oaks, and visit the famous Lafayette Cemetery No. 1.
Mardi Gras World, New Orleans: Discover the magic behind Mardi Gras with a glimpse into float-making and the carnival's history.
Oak Alley Plantation: A breathtaking plantation with a quarter-mile canopy of giant oak trees leading up to the main house.
The National WWII Museum, New Orleans: A world-class museum offering a deep dive into the American experience during WWII.
Swamps and Bayous: Visit areas like the Atchafalaya Basin for boat tours to see alligators, birds, and dense swamp forests.
Cane River National Heritage Area: Experience Creole culture, historic sites, and the beauty of Natchitoches.
Louisiana State Capitol, Baton Rouge: The nation's tallest capitol building with stunning architecture and panoramic views.
Tabasco Factory and Avery Island: Learn about the famous hot sauce's production and explore the lush Jungle Gardens.
Rosedown Plantation and Gardens: A well-preserved example of a domestic plantation complex, with stunning gardens to boot.
Frenchmen Street, New Orleans: Known for its jazz clubs, it's a must-visit for music enthusiasts.
Poverty Point World Heritage Site: Ancient earthworks and mounds that reflect a society over 3,000 years old.
Audubon Zoo and Aquarium, New Orleans: A world-class zoo and aquarium offering an array of exhibits from the Louisiana swamp to exotic locations.
Breaux Bridge: Often called the "Crawfish Capital of the World," it's a charming town perfect for seafood lovers.
Vermilionville, Lafayette: A living history museum showcasing Acadian, Native American, and Creole cultures.
Shreveport Aquarium: A window into marine life with various species and interactive displays.
Global Wildlife Center, Folsom: A 900-acre preserve where visitors can see and feed free-roaming animals like giraffes, zebras, and kangaroos.
Rip Van Winkle Gardens, New Iberia: Beautiful semi-tropical gardens surrounding the Joseph Jefferson Mansion on Jefferson Island.
Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve: Dive into the rich natural and cultural history of Louisiana's Mississippi River Delta.
Lake Pontchartrain Causeway: Drive the world's longest continuous bridge over water, connecting Metairie to Mandeville.
Boudin Trail: Savor this regional specialty by journeying through various stops offering unique versions of this beloved sausage.
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, New Orleans: The city's oldest extant cemetery, home to unique above-ground tombs and the reputed resting place of Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau.
Creole Nature Trail: A scenic byway offering views of Louisiana's diverse landscapes, from marshlands to Gulf beaches.
Old State Capitol, Baton Rouge: A Gothic architectural gem that has been turned into a political museum.
Honey Island Swamp: Known for its pristine wilderness, it's a great spot for guided swamp tours and wildlife viewing.
Atchafalaya National Heritage Area: Spanning 14 parishes, the Atchafalaya National Heritage Area is the country's largest river swamp, containing nearly one million acres of hardwoods, swamps, bayous, and backwater lakes.
Bald Cypress Trees: These trees are emblematic of Louisiana's swamps and wetlands. The bald cypress is the state tree of Louisiana, known for its unique "knees" that emerge from the water and its ability to thrive in waterlogged conditions.
Houmas House Plantation and Gardens: this antebellum estate provides a peek into the lavish lifestyle of the 19th-century sugarcane planters.
The Cabildo in New Orleans: This historic building in Jackson Square was the site of the Louisiana Purchase transfer and now serves as a museum.
Destrehan Plantation: The oldest documented plantation in the Lower Mississippi Valley, offering daily heritage tours.
From its rich history and diverse cultures to natural wonders and culinary delights, Louisiana boasts attractions that offer a wide array of experiences. Whether wandering the streets of historic cities, exploring plantations, or venturing into wild swamps, visitors are sure to be enchanted by the Pelican State's unique charm.
