Louisiana is one of the most interesting states to visit in the United States. With its unique history, culture, and cuisine, it’s a great place to explore. From the bayous in the south to the rolling hills of the north, there is plenty to do here. Here’s a list of 20 of the best things to do in Louisiana.
1. Take a Swamp Tour
Louisiana is home to some of the most beautiful and unique swamps in the world. Take a swamp tour and explore the many wildlife and plants that make Louisiana so unique. You’ll get to see alligators, turtles, and other swamp dwellers up close.
2. Visit the French Quarter and Jackson Square
The French Quarter is the heart of New Orleans. This is the oldest and most historic part of the city. Here you can find all kinds of music, restaurants, and shops. Make sure to check out the street performers and the many art galleries.
3. Eat Crawfish
This is one of the most traditional dishes of Louisiana. Crawfish are boiled in a spicy broth and then served with potatoes and corn. It’s a great way to experience the local cuisine.
4. Take a Ride on the Natchez Steamboat
The Natchez Steamboat is the oldest steamboat in the world. It takes visitors up and down the Mississippi River for a unique sightseeing experience.
5. Visit the Audubon Zoo
The Audubon Zoo in New Orleans is one of the best in the country. It’s home to more than 1,500 animals, including giraffes, zebras, and elephants.
6. Go Fishing
Louisiana is a great place to go fishing. Whether you’re fishing from a pier or chartering a boat, there are plenty of places to catch some bass, catfish, or even a shark.
7. Visit Cajun Country
Louisiana is home to the Cajun people, a unique culture with its own language and traditions. Visit Cajun Country to learn about this culture and try some authentic Cajun cuisine.
8. Take a Plantation Tour
Louisiana is home to some of the most beautiful plantation homes in the world. Take a tour of one of these homes and learn about the history of the area. Notably is Houmas House where visitors can leisurely tour the mansion and grounds, stay in the inn, enjoy Louisiana cuisine, and host one-of-a-kind weddings and events.
9. Visit the State Capitol
The Louisiana State Capitol is a beautiful building in the heart of Baton Rouge. It houses the state legislature and is open for tours.
10. Tour the National WWII Museum
The National WWII Museum in New Orleans is one of the best in the country. It houses artifacts, photos, and stories from World War II and is an incredible place to learn about the history of warfare.
11. Take a Plantation Cooking Class
Louisiana was once home to many large plantations. Take a plantation cooking class and learn how to make traditional dishes such as shrimp Étouffée and gumbo.
12. Visit a Turtle Farm
Louisiana is home to some of the largest turtle farms in the world. Take a tour of one of these farms to learn about the process of raising and harvesting turtles.
13. Take a Haunted History Tour
Louisiana is home to some of the most haunted locations in the country. Take a haunted history tour and learn about the ghosts and hauntings of the area.
14. Go Birdwatching
Louisiana is a great place to go birdwatching. Take a tour of one of the many bird sanctuaries in the state to spot some of the unique species of birds that call Louisiana home.
15. Take a Cemetery Tour
Louisiana cemeteries are some of the most unique cemeteries in the United States, especially those in New Orleans. Many movies, music videos, and documentaries have been filmed in and around them for this reason.
16. Visit a Wide Range of Parks and Wildlife Areas
Louisiana parks and wildlife areas range from beaches to swamps. You can rent cabins, pop a tent, or just spend the day at one of the many historic and recreational sites. (for a list of state parks and wildlife areas visit: State Parks
17. Visit Breaux Bridge
Breaux Bridge is home to The Breaux Bridge, which is the oldest bridge in Louisiana. It spans the bayou Teche and is a great place to take pictures and enjoy a walk. Plus Breaux Bridge is the crawfish capital of the world.
18. Visit an Alligator Farm
Louisiana is home to some of the largest alligator farms in the world. Take a tour of one of these farms to learn about the process of raising and harvesting alligators.
19. Take a Tour of the Honey Island Swamps
The Honey Island Swamp is one of the most unique swamps in the world, because it’s one of the least-altered river swamps in the country. Unlike many other swamp tours that are staged, this tour is a natural wonderment.
20. Visit Avery Island
Built on a salt dome, it’s a mysteriously beautiful place where the red peppers grow, the famous TABASCO factory hums, and abundant wildlife can be seen in Jungle Gardens. Especially noteworthy is the snowy egret private refuge founded by Tabasco sauce heir and conservationist to save the wildfowl from extinction.
No matter what your interests, whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or a history buff, Louisiana has something for everyone. From its unique culture and cuisine to its natural beauty, Louisiana is a great place to explore.
