Louisiana Road Trips and Day Trips: Exploring the Pelican State

Road Trips in Louisiana | Day Trips in Louisiana

What Louisiana is Known For: Jazz music, Creole and Cajun cuisine, and vibrant festivals.
Louisiana’s Nickname: The Pelican State
Louisiana’s Official Hobby: Fishing
Louisiana’s Most Popular State Park: Fontainebleau State Park | Mandeville, Louisiana

The pelican state offers a variety of opportunities for Louisiana road trips, from its lively cities to its serene bayous and historic plantations. Whether you’re exploring its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, or unique cuisine, Louisiana promises a delightful and memorable journey.

Start your journey in New Orleans, the state’s largest city known for its vibrant music scene and historic French Quarter. Visit the National WWII Museum, stroll through the French Quarter, and enjoy live jazz music on Frenchmen Street. Don’t miss the iconic Jackson Square and the historic St. Louis Cathedral.

Drive to the historic town of Natchitoches, known as the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase territory. Explore the Kaffie-Frederick General Mercantile Store, visit the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame, and stroll along the Cane River Lake in the historic district. Enjoy local cuisine at Lasyone’s Meat Pie Restaurant, famous for its meat pies.

Head to the picturesque town of St. Francisville, located on the bluffs of the Mississippi River. Visit the Rosedown Plantation State Historic Site, explore the historic downtown area filled with shops and cafes, and enjoy outdoor activities at the nearby Tunica Hills Wildlife Management Area. Don’t miss a stay at The Myrtles Plantation, known for its beautiful grounds and ghostly legends.

Don’t miss the scenic beauty of the Louisiana bayous, especially in the Atchafalaya Basin. Take a swamp tour to see alligators, birds, and other wildlife, and visit the town of Breaux Bridge, known as the “Crawfish Capital of the World.” Enjoy fresh crawfish at Crazy ‘Bout Crawfish Cajun Café and explore the charming downtown area.

Louisiana’s scenic byways, such as the Great River Road, provide breathtaking views and lead to quaint small towns like Plaquemine and New Roads. In Plaquemine, visit the Plaquemine Lock State Historic Site, and in New Roads, enjoy the scenic False River and visit the Pointe Coupee Parish Courthouse.

Louisiana Road Trip Checklist

Before you go on any road trip or day trip its advised you prepare and get the items you need including a phone charging cable, fix-a-flat tire repair, a cozzy neck pillow and more. This all inclusive guide is a day trip checklist to make sure if your road trip goes a little too long you are still covered. Make sure to check it out!

Top Road Trip Routes in Louisiana

1. The Creole Trail

Route: I-10
Cities: New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Lafayette
Attractions: National WWII Museum, Louisiana State Capitol, Acadian Village

2. The Plantation Route

Route: LA-1
Cities: St. Francisville, Donaldsonville, Thibodaux
Attractions: Rosedown Plantation State Historic Site, Nottoway Plantation, Laura Plantation

3. The Bayou Byway

Route: US-90
Cities: Houma, Morgan City, New Iberia
Attractions: Bayou Terrebonne Waterlife Museum, International Petroleum Museum and Exposition, Shadows-on-the-Teche

4. The River Road Journey

Route: LA-22
Cities: Plaquemine, Gonzales, Ponchatoula
Attractions: Plaquemine Lock State Historic Site, Tanger Outlets, Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival

Best Times to Visit

Louisiana experiences a subtropical climate, offering unique opportunities throughout the year.

• Spring (March to May): Ideal for enjoying mild weather, blooming flowers, and outdoor festivals.
• Summer (June to August): Perfect for exploring state parks, attending music festivals, and enjoying water activities, though it can be hot and humid.
• Fall (September to November): Offers cooler temperatures and numerous harvest festivals, especially in the rural areas.
• Winter (December to February): Best for experiencing Mardi Gras in New Orleans and enjoying milder temperatures.

Local Cuisine

Louisiana’s culinary scene features a unique blend of Creole and Cajun flavors. Here are some must-try foods and restaurant recommendations in smaller towns:

• Gumbo: Try this Louisiana classic at Dooky Chase’s Restaurant in New Orleans.
• Crawfish Étouffée: Enjoy this flavorful dish at Prejean’s Restaurant in Lafayette.
• Beignets: Savor these delicious pastries at Café Du Monde in New Orleans.
• Po’boys: Visit Domilise’s Po-Boy & Bar in New Orleans for an authentic po’boy sandwich.
• Pralines: Try these sweet treats at Aunt Sally’s Pralines in New Orleans.

Most Unique Stays in Louisiana

1. The Myrtles Plantation
   • Location: St. Francisville, Louisiana
   • What makes it unique?: A historic plantation known for its beautiful grounds and ghostly legends, offering unique accommodations and a rich history.
2. Maison D’Memoire Bed & Breakfast Cottages
   • Location: Rayne, Louisiana
   • What makes it unique?: Romantic cottages set in the heart of Cajun Country, offering a peaceful retreat with homemade Cajun breakfasts.
3. Nottoway Plantation & Resort
   • Location: White Castle, Louisiana
   • What makes it unique?: A grand plantation resort offering luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and beautiful grounds.
4. Dauphine Orleans Hotel
   • Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
   • What makes it unique?: A historic hotel located in the French Quarter, featuring charming rooms and a rich history dating back to the early 19th century.
5. St. Francisville Inn
   • Location: St. Francisville, Louisiana
   • What makes it unique?: A charming bed and breakfast offering elegant accommodations, a cozy wine bar, and a tranquil garden setting.

Travel Tips

1. Explore Local Festivals: Louisiana hosts numerous festivals, such as Mardi Gras in New Orleans and the Crawfish Festival in Breaux Bridge. Plan your trip around these events for a unique experience.
2. Scenic Byways: Take advantage of Louisiana’s scenic byways for a leisurely drive through picturesque landscapes and charming small towns.
3. Historic Sites: Many of Louisiana’s historic sites offer guided tours. Check the schedules and book in advance to make the most of your visit.
4. Weather Preparedness: Louisiana weather can vary greatly. Pack layers and be prepared for changing conditions, especially if traveling through different regions of the state.