Discover Louisiana's Top Attractions

Louisiana, with its rich culture and historical charm, offers a slower pace of life where enjoyment is paramount. New Orleans, the heart of the state, is famous for its vibrant Mardi Gras and the historic French Quarter, a hub for dining, shopping, and entertainment. Nearby, Baton Rouge, the state capital, boasts a haunted capitol building, while Lake Charles invites nature lovers to its scenic beauty.

For a complete exploration, consider renting a car to journey through the bayous, plantations, and cities. Plan your trip with our guide to Louisiana's top attractions.

1. New Orleans' French Quarter

The French Quarter, the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans, is renowned for its stunning architecture, including buildings with wrought iron balconies. Bourbon Street and Royal Street are hotspots for tourists, offering live music, antique shops, and art galleries. Louis Armstrong Park is a must-visit, featuring the historic Congo Square.

2. National WWII Museum

This museum in New Orleans provides an immersive experience into WWII history, with exhibits like "Road to Berlin" and a vast collection of artifacts. Visit the official site at www.nationalww2museum.org.

3. Mardi Gras

New Orleans' Mardi Gras is an iconic festival with parades, balls, and street parties. Visitors can see float construction at Mardi Gras World and learn more at the Mardi Gras Museum. For details, visit www.mardigrasneworleans.com.

4. Melrose Plantation

Once a Creole plantation, Melrose Plantation is now a historical site showcasing the lives of freed slaves and the arts. More information is available at www.melroseplantation.org.

5. Old State Capitol

Baton Rouge's Old State Capitol, a Gothic-Revival castle, now serves as a political history museum. Admission is free, and more details can be found at www.louisianaoldstatecapitol.org.

6. Swamp Tours

Explore Louisiana's bayous and swamps on a boat tour, where you'll encounter diverse wildlife and learn about Cajun culture.

7. Laura Plantation

Visit the Laura Plantation to understand the history of sugarcane farming and the lives of slaves. The official site is www.lauraplantation.com.

8. Vermilionville

This living history museum in Lafayette celebrates Acadian culture. Visit https://bayouvermiliondistrict.org/vermilionville/ for more information.

9. Spend a Day at the Beach in Louisiana

Enjoy the beaches of Louisiana, such as Holly Beach and Grand Isle, for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing.

10. Sci-Port Discovery Center

A family-friendly science center in Shreveport with interactive exhibits and an IMAX theatre. Check out www.sci-port.org.

11. USS Kidd and Veterans Memorial

Explore a historic WWII destroyer and learn about naval history at this Baton Rouge memorial. Visit www.usskidd.com.

12. Rosedown Plantation and Gardens

Experience the grandeur of a Southern plantation and its gardens at Rosedown. More details at www.nps.gov/nr/travel/louisiana/ros.htm.

13. St. Martin de Tours Catholic Church

Visit one of the oldest churches in Louisiana, with ties to the story of Evangeline. For more, go to https://saintmartindetours.org/.

14. DeQuincy Railroad Museum

Discover railroad history and see model trains at the DeQuincy Railroad Museum. More information at www.dequincyrailroadmuseum.com.