louisiana day trips from new orleans

9 day trips from New Orleans

Nov 27, 2022 • 6 min read

Only 45 minutes from New Orleans, you can paddle through bayous – one of many exciting day trips © Macduff Everton / Getty Images

The truest way to show your love for  New Orleans ? To leave it for the day.

Whether you’re fleeing from the brutally hot and humid weather, seeking an outdoorsy adventure or simply looking for a respite from the Big Easy’s riot of colors and sounds, here are a few of the best ideas for easy day trips from New Orleans.

1. Explore the swamps of Barataria Preserve

Travel time: 40 minutes by car

One of our favorite ways to experience south Louisiana ’s rich wetlands is a visit to  Barataria Preserve , a national park located about 25 miles south of New Orleans. Easy dirt trails and boardwalks thread through the swamps here, and you may be able to spot local alligators (although wildlife sightings are often hindered by prolific invasive water flora). On your way back to New Orleans, make sure to pop into the superlatively good Tan Dinh for some excellent Vietnamese food.

How to get to Barataria Preserve from New Orleans: Take US-90 and cross the Crescent City Connection Bridge over the Mississippi to the New Orleans Westbank. From US-90, take exit 4B to access Barataria Blvd, which leads to the preserve.

2. Encounter the sobering history of slavery at the Whitney Plantation

Travel time: 1 hour by car

A cluster of restored antebellum mansions sits roughly 50 miles west of New Orleans, with the Whitney Plantation  being the most interesting of the bunch to visit. While most plantation sites now at least pay lip service to the history of slavery, the Whitney is a museum dedicated to confronting and unpacking the grim institution head-on. Through a series of thoughtful exhibits, the Whitney demonstrates how the South did not just benefit from but was built upon chattel slavery.

How to get to the Whitney Plantation from New Orleans: Take I-10 west for about 40 miles, then detour south on LA-641 for another 10 miles.

3. Feel the beach vibes of Mississippi’s Gulf Coast

Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes to Gulfport by car

Despite being completely tied to the water, there’s no real beach access in New Orleans, barring a few stretches of not very friendly sand on Lake Pontchartrain. While the beaches of Gulf Shores and Dauphin Island, Alabama, are pretty lovely, they’re also a fair distance away. Consider instead the decent sand, friendly restaurants and generally laid-back seashore vibe at Mississippi Gulf Coast towns like Bay St Louis and Gulfport. While this area can get inundated with day trippers on hot weekends, a relatively quiet escape beckons during the week.

How to get to Mississippi Gulf Coast from New Orleans:  Heading east on I-10 will take you along the entire Mississippi coast to the Alabama state line.

4. Get all Cajun in Lafayette

Travel time: 2 hours 30 minutes by car

As fabled a destination as New Orleans itself,  Cajun Country is a land of low prairies, deep swamps, good music and delicious meals that you will probably not want to let your cardiologist know about. “Acadiana,” as the area is known, consists of many small towns scattered around southwest Louisiana. The capital of the region is Lafayette, a small, friendly city located 140 miles west of New Orleans that’s packed with great food and excellent live music venues. Don’t leave without stopping in for a night of dancing at the Blue Moon .

How to get to Lafayette from New Orleans: Take I-10 west. Part of the route goes through the preserved Atchafalaya Basin, one of the state’s remaining wild wetlands.

5. See small-town Louisiana in St Francisville

Travel time: 2 hours by car

When the furnace of New Orleans gets too hot, head north about 120 miles to St Francisville, a tiny, tidy bohemian retreat set amid hills and forests. A glut of historical buildings, cute cafes, antiques vendors, artsy stores and hiking trails through the woods makes for a perfect break from New Orleans.

How to get to St Francisville from New Orleans: Take I-10 west toward Baton Rouge, getting off at exit 8C and onto I-110 north. From there, take US-61 north to St Francisville.

6. Experience the spectacle of sporty Baton Rouge

Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes by car

A lot of New Orleanians blow off Baton Rouge (named for a red stick used as a geographic marker by local Native Americans) as the state’s gray, faceless capital. Yet it’s also a sprawling town with some decent attractions worth checking out. In particular, football games at LSU are a non-stop display of pageantry and spectacle. Game days serve up the football-mad culture of the American South at its liveliest, where team loyalty is tribal and tailgating is a form of art. For a quieter experience, the Rural Life Museum  offers a window onto the state’s past.

How to get to Baton Rouge: The “BR” is an easy 80-mile drive northwest of New Orleans via I-10.

7. Head up to the sleepy (and a little weird) North Shore

The north shore of Lake Pontchartrain is made up of several bedroom suburbs of New Orleans and radiates a sedate vibe. Make the drive to sample some brews at the Abita Brewery  or explore the surreal madness of the Abita Mystery House , one of the state’s great roadside attractions. Need a place to stay? Cabins at Fontainebleau State Park are raised on stilts over Lake Pontchartrain, making for a supremely relaxing, breezy escape.

How to get to the North Shore from New Orleans: To cross Lake Pontchartrain, take I-10 west and exit to cross the Pontchartrain Causeway, one of the longest bridges in the world.

8. Smell the flowers and taste the hot sauce in New Iberia

The hazy, humid town of New Iberia sits about 140 miles west of New Orleans. On its sleepy main streets you’ll find the well-preserved plantation  Shadows on the Teche . Just outside of town is the area’s main attraction: Avery Island (though you’ll have difficulty finding the waterways that make it one), home of a huge salt mine and the headquarters of iconic hot sauce maker Tabasco. If you like heat, take a tour of the Tabasco Factory , then amuse yourself afterward by exploring the nearby Jungle Gardens , a sort botanical retreat, wildlife preserve, aviary and a slice of historical trivia all in one.

How to get to New Iberia from New Orleans: US-90 west gets you almost the whole way to New Iberia, with plenty of low-lying Louisiana farmland along the way.

9. Paddle Louisiana’s swamps

Travel time: meet in New Orleans; the swamp is about 45 minutes away

While it’s great fun to tread a boardwalk at Barataria or watch an old fisherman point out gators on a motorized boat tour, there’s something utterly otherworldly about paddling the Louisiana swamps. This strange, primal and beautiful experience immerses you in the wildness of the bayou, making you aware that you are but a visitor to this ecosystem – or a fish out of water, if you will (or at least a human gliding across it).

Louisiana Lost Land Tours  are led by local environmental experts, who give participants an excellent kayaking experience, as well as a solid introduction in the unique environmental issues confronting south Louisiana.

How to get to the Louisiana swamps from New Orleans: Lost Lands will help you coordinate the launching point for your swamp adventure.

This article was first published July 2019 and updated November 2022

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Louisiana (LA) » 15 Best Day Trips from New Orleans

15 Best Day Trips from New Orleans

An incredible city with an amazing array of things to see and do, New Orleans has long been a popular tourist destination in the United States.

Drawing on French, Spanish and Creole influences, the ‘Big Easy’ has an eclectic mix of cuisines, architectural styles and nightlife for visitors to enjoy.

Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz and the home of Mardi Gras; a festival that showcases its unique cultural heritage.

While there are a plethora of sights and sounds to enjoy within the city, New Orleans’s surroundings make for a number of fascinating day trips.

Whether it is exploring the old plantation houses or the unforgettable swamps; here are the best day trips from New Orleans .

1. A Day Cruise on the Mississippi River

Jump on board the Steamboat Natchez and enjoy a scenic trip along the Mississippi.

Drifting along the river is a delightful way to see New Orleans and explore another part of its history.

The only authentic steamboat still in use, the Natchez offers a number of different cruise options that cater to a range of diverse interests.

Whether you are a history buff learning about the lucrative cotton trade, a steamboat enthusiast or jazz aficionado; the tranquil ambiance on the boat harkens back to times gone by and is sure to soothe your soul.

After running around New Orleans, the Natchez is the perfect place to sit back, relax and watch the world go by.

2. The Louisiana Bayous

Head into the depths of Cajun Country and explore the stunning swamps and wetlands that surround New Orleans.

Otherworldly in appearance, Manchac Swamp is the perfect place to discover the unique fauna and flora of Louisiana.

Best seen by water, be sure to book a boat trip through the bayous.

As you drift dreamily through the murky wetlands, keep an eye out for the amazing animals concealed amongst the foliage.

Home to alligators, snakes and deer among others, myths and legends of the area are brought to life by the experienced captains who know the waterways like the back of their hand.

3. The Great River Road

The spectacularly scenic road weaves its way alongside the Mississippi River, meandering through the swamps and wetlands.

Despite its beauty, however, the Great River Road in Louisiana is primarily known for the former plantations that line the route.

While the sugar plantations themselves are stunning in style, they were once home to wealthy families’ who built their fortunes on slave labour.

Each plantation has its own history and visiting numerous properties makes for a very interesting experience as you explore a mosaic of stories that give you the bigger picture.

This trip is not to be missed for anyone looking to gain a greater understanding of the area’s past.

4. INFINITY Science Visitor’s Center

Just across the state border in Mississippi is the INFINITY Science Visitor’s Center.

Interactive, engaging and educative for all the family, INFINITY is a fun day out that will leave you curious to learn more about the world we live in.

Right next to the Stennis Space Center, the site acts as a NASA visitor center.

Here, interesting exhibitions will enlighten you about the secrets of the cosmos and dive you deep down into the dark depths of the ocean before taking you to explore the Earth’s crust.

Well worth the one hour drive, the center will leave you hungry for more.

5. Global Wildlife Center

If you are an animal lover then this wildlife center is the place for you.

Here, over 4000 animals from all around the world roam free in this huge preserve.

From giraffes and zebras, to llamas and kangaroos; it is delightful seeing them playfully run about and frolic in the open air.

Travelling in old style wagons, you can feed the animals if they approach the convoy and at times whole herds of deer pass by.

It is a magical experience and although it is just an hour away from New Orleans, it feels a million miles away from the city.

Impressively, the Global Wildlife Center is the largest free-range preserve in the whole of the USA.

6. Baton Rouge

The capital of the state of Louisiana, Baton Rouge has a number of attractions to entice tourists away from New Orleans.

From sumptuous Southern cuisine to metropolitan museums and amusement parks; there are a diverse range of activities for you to explore.

The Louisiana Art and Science Museum has great exhibitions on show as does the African American Museum for those looking to learn more about the local Louisiana culture.

If you are a thrill seeker intent on getting your fill of adrenaline, head to the Blue Bayou Water Park and give the massive Conja water slide a go.

7. Mississippi’s Coast

Just an hour and a half away from the city lie the tranquil beaches that form Mississippi’s coast.

The small, laid-back coastal towns are the perfect getaway for some rest and relaxation with the best stretch being between Gulfport and Ocean Springs.

Lying on the soft sand in the sun is idyllic after having explored all that New Orleans has to offer.

Taking a dip in the Gulf also feels magnificent and is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and revitalised.

If the Big Easy’s nightlife and partying has not yet quenched your thirst for thrill seeking then head to one of the casinos at Biloxi and try your luck.

8. Atchafalaya National Heritage Area

This incredible national park is well worth a day trip from New Orleans.

The largest river swamp in the USA, the park has endless waterways for you to explore and is composed of a number of diverse ecosystems.

Weaving their way through the wetlands are trails and paths for you to follow either on foot or by bike.

Alternatively take to the water and paddle your way among the submerged trees that create such a distinctive environment.

With its mesmerising landscapes and breathtaking scenery, Atchafalaya makes for an unforgettable day out.

Just over two hours outside of the city, you won’t regret making the journey to this amazing national park.

9. Plaquemines Parish

Jutting out into the Gulf of Mexico is the picturesque Plaquemines Parish.

The thin peninsula runs either side of the Mississippi River and is home to the southernmost point of the river.

Here, Venice, the last accessible town by land, is appropriately nicknamed the ‘end of the world’. The surrounding areas of the delta make for good fishing and many city folk head here at the weekend.

Famous for its freshwater fishing and deepwater fishing alike; the Plaquemines Parish is one of the best locations in the world.

The peaceful quiet and fresh air of the isolated Parish makes for a lovely day trip from New Orleans.

10. De Soto National Forest

America is rightly renowned for its national parks and while De Soto is not as famous as Yosemite or the Grand Canyon, it still has a wealth of pristine protected nature to enjoy.

In fact, De Soto is crucial in many respects as it is home to numerous types of endangered pine forests.

In the park, crystal clear streams wind their way through the wild forests and if you are looking for a secluded spot, you have come to the right place.

In the end two hours of driving isn’t too long to end up so far away from the world.

Two hours east of New Orleans lies Mobile, a port city on the Gulf of Mexico.

While Mobile has the usual conveniences of a city on hand, it has a number of interesting historical sites that make it worth visiting.

Historic Fort Conde, for instance, is a beautiful reconstruction of a French fort that was previously built on the site in 1723. Also of note is the Battleship Memorial Park that is home to the USS Alabama and the USS Drum, both of which were used in the Second World War.

The city’s cathedral is also worth a visit due its stunning architecture.

12. Saint Bernard Parish

The Parish has a diverse range of things to see and do and, just outside New Orleans, the area makes for a very convenient day trip.

On the outskirts of the city, for example, is Chalmette: the site of the Battle of New Orleans.

It was here that the British invasion was stopped and history changed course.

Further along, the beautifully scenic road links the city to the shore at Shell Beach.

Serene and secluded, the beach is a stone’s throw away from Fort Proctor.

Although only accessible by boat, the dilapidated 19th Century fort makes for fun exploring if you have the chance.

13. Abita Springs

Located in St. Tammany Parish, the relaxing countryside and peaceful forests have long been a favourite haunt for people looking to escape the hubbub of New Orleans.

Abita Springs in particular is lovely to visit and is conveniently less than an hour’s drive from the city.

While the area’s pristine nature is a draw for many, others prefer to head to the Abita Springs Brewery to sample some of the local beers.

For those intrigued by the weird and wacky, the ‘Mystery House’ is sure to entertain and astound in equal measure.

With a park, picnic and playground, Abita Springs is perfect for parents looking for a peaceful day out.

14. Lafayette

For anyone looking to learn a bit more about the culture of Louisiana, Lafayette is a great place to visit.

The Acadian Cultural Center for instance explores the rich cultural heritage of the Cajuns who inhabit the south, delving deep into their origins and history.

At Breaux Bridge, not far from Lafayette, is the perfect experience to consolidate what you have learnt.

Visiting Maison Madeleine, a restored traditional Creole Cottage, you cannot help but be immersed in the local culture.

Maison Madeleine’s is absolutely beautiful and harkens back to a bygone era.

Only a couple of hours from New Orleans, this educative yet entertaining trip is invaluable to understanding Cajun history and culture.

15. Lake Charles

Just over three hours away from the Big Easy, Lake Charles has it all.

From delicious food and lively nightlife to gambling and great expanses of beautiful nature; you cannot go wrong with this day trip.

As the city hosts a huge number of festivals each year, you are very likely to experience a whole new part of local Louisiana culture.

Bordering Lake Charles are pristine wetlands for you to explore and you can also take to the lake and enjoy a boat trip on its waters.

The city is also home to the largest Mardi Gras Museum in the world which is sure to interest and astound any visitor with the bright costumes and floats on display.

15 Best Day Trips from New Orleans:

• A Day Cruise on the Mississippi River
• The Louisiana Bayous
• The Great River Road
• INFINITY Science Visitor’s Center
• Global Wildlife Center
• Baton Rouge
• Mississippi’s Coast
• Atchafalaya National Heritage Area
• Plaquemines Parish
• De Soto National Forest
• Saint Bernard Parish
• Abita Springs
• Lake Charles

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48 Hours in New Orleans

Day Trips From NOLA

The 11 Best Day Trips from New Orleans

DaveMcDPhoto / Getty Images

The weird and wonderful spirit of New Orleans goes beyond its city limits, with nearby destinations to swamplands , beaches, Cajun Country, and monuments of Antebellum and Civil War history. While you’ll get your fill of great dining in New Orleans itself, small restaurants on the city’s outskirts often highlight the best fresh seafood , cajun and creole dishes, and lesser-known flavors the area has to offer. These are the best day trips from New Orleans.

Abita Springs: The Abita Mystery House and Abita Brewery

Infrogmation of New Orleans / Wikimedia Commons /  CC BY 2.0  

Crossing Lake Pontchartrain to what New Orleanians refer to as "The North Shore," you’ll find the charming town of Abita Springs , best known for Abita Brewery , Louisiana’s most famous local beer. The brewery’s tap room is open daily, with guided tours Wednesday through Sunday (and Abita-made sodas for the kids). Just outside the brewery entrance, you can hit the Tammany Trace Trail , a repurposed railroad line that now serves as a hiking and biking path through the entire North Shore area.  

Locals will tell you of an equally worthwhile destination in Abita Springs, known as the Abita Mystery House : a little museum full of oddities, collections and, well, plenty of mystery. Owner John Preble’s personality and sense of humor shine through in the strange walkabout that is a tour of the Abita Mystery House, self-led (though John is often around), and open every day for $3.

Getting There: Drive across Lake Pontchartrain on the Causeway Bridge to LA-59, about an hour from downtown New Orleans. There is a toll ($3) for returning to the south side of the lake.

Travel Tip: The 23.8-mile, two-lane bridge across Lake Pontchartrain is a fascinating feat of engineering, but driving at night or in inclement weather can be nerve-wracking for novices. 

River Road: The Historic Whitney Plantation

Elsa Hahne / Whitney Plantation 

Former plantation homes dot the historic River Road , a country byway following the Mississippi along the west bank of the river, and most are now museums dedicated to the Antebellum period and plantation life. There is no plantation home quite like the Whitney Plantation Museum : It’s the only plantation museum in the country dedicated to the lives of enslaved people. The 90-minute guided tours take you through the restored sugar plantation, memorials dedicated to the daily lives and operations, and offer a broader, somber look at the legacy of slavery in Louisiana. Guided tours are required to visit, and tickets can be purchased ahead of time. The plantation is closed Tuesdays.

Getting There: Follow LA-18 toward Edgard/Vacher to get to the Whitney Plantation, located in the historic district near Wallace, Louisiana. There is no public transportation to Whitney, but several popular tour companies in New Orleans ( GrayLine Tours , BigEasy , Cajun Encounters ) offer transportation to the plantation museum and combined plantation tours.

Travel Tip: Purchase tickets online ahead of time to avoid sell-out days in spring and early summer. Prepare for weather (which in Southern Louisiana can mean heat, humidity, and rain storms), because most of the tour is outside. 

Bay St. Louis: The Mississippi Gulf Coast Scenic Byway

Frank Kovalchek / Wikimedia Commons /  CC BY 2.0

About an hour east of New Orleans lies the little beachside town of Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, a charming stop on the way to other Gulf Coast destinations or an enjoyable day trip on its own. Aside from miles of beaches, Bay St. Louis is home to a charming downtown, two casinos , and the Starr Boarding House, the leading role in Francis Ford Coppola’s motion picture, "This Property Is Condemned."

Along the water, The Blind Tiger in Bay St. Louis opens its beachside patios for island-inspired drinks, live music, and casual, fresh seafood. If time permits, take a drive along Highway 90, a scenic Gulf Coast beach road hugging the Gulf of Mexico.  

Getting There: Take 1-10 to 90, about 60 miles from downtown New Orleans. Continuing on Highway 90 across the Bay St. Louis bridge, you’ll follow the coast to more Mississippi towns, beaches, and cities like Gulfport, Biloxi, and Ocean Springs.

Travel Trip: When visiting the Mississippi Gulf Coast in late summer or fall, seafood lovers must try the Royal Reds: a deepwater shrimp species larger and sweeter than common shrimp, with a taste and texture comparable to lobster. The Blind Tiger, and most other seafood restaurants along the coast, serve these beauties fresh during season. 

Ocean Springs: Walter Anderson Museum of Art and Gulf Islands National Seashore

Simplyphotos / Getty Images 

Just past the city of Biloxi along the Gulf Coast is Ocean Springs, Mississippi, a quiet, picturesque town with restaurants, art galleries, and a small museum dedicated to Gulf Coast artist Walter Anderson , known for his ethereal portraits of coastal landscapes and wildlife. 

Gulf Islands National Seashore , a national park with over 100 miles of protected Gulf Coast beachfront area, begins in Ocean Springs and stretches all the way to Florida. The park provides unspoiled views of the water, white sand beaches, and opportunities for camping, fishing, and boating. 

Getting There: Take 1-10 East out of the city, about a 1.5-hour drive from The CBD or French Quarter in New Orleans. Alternatively, take Highway 90 for a slower route along the coast. 

Travel Tip: When dining in Ocean Springs, try the fried chicken or catfish plates at Aunt Jenny’s Catfish Restaurant . After eating, request a tour of the historical property, which includes The Julep Room, a basement bar and favorite hangout of Elvis Presley. 

Grand Isle: Fishing, Birdwatching, and Beaches

Judy Darby / Getty Images

Popular for fisherman, birdwatchers, and beach goers, the drive south from New Orleans down to Grand Isle is an enjoyable experience on its own, past fresh seafood shacks, small business, and incredible views of places where the land simply melts away into water. The east end of Grand Isle is protected by state park, with a fishing pier, walking trails, and beach campgrounds.

With nearly 300 species of fish, Grand Isle is a fisherman’s paradise, and there are marinas , charter fishing companies , and kayak rentals available. For non-anglers, it’s entertainment enough to drive to the pier or beach and watch local experts at work. 

Getting There: It's 100 miles (about a two-hour drive) south of New Orleans, 1-10 West eventually connects you south to LA-1 to get to Grand Isle.

Travel Tip: Before doing any type of fishing in Louisiana, take a few minutes online to purchase a Recreational Fishing License . 

The North Shore: Fontainebleau State Park

William Blackwell / Wikimedia Commons /  CC BY-SA 4.0  

You’ll explore the best of Lake Pontchartrain at Fontainebleau State Park, a picturesque lakeshore area with beaches, recreation and picnic areas, and hiking paths through swamp land and oak groves. For lunch, pack a picnic or check out choice restaurants in the nearby town of Covington, like Oxlot 9 or Lola .

For extra adventure, spend the night by booking a choice renovated cabin along the water, or one of the beach campgrounds. If you’re in the mood for a less rustic end to your day, book a room at the Southern Hotel  in Downtown Covington, a renovated boutique hotel in a historical building.

Getting There: The park is 45-50 minute drive north of the city. Most of the drive (23.83 miles of it) are across the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway Bridge, one of the longest continuous bridges over water in the world.

Travel Tip: A guided canoe or kayak tour can be the best way to experience otherwise hard-to-access swamps and waterways around New Orleans, including Manchac swamp, and Cane Bayou, leading into Lake Pontchartrain. Check out Canoe and Trail Adventures for trip opportunities. 

Algiers Point: History and Charm Across the Mississippi River

 Matthew D. White

Take a short jaunt across the Mississippi River to explores New Orleans’ second oldest neighborhood, Algiers Point , first founded as private land in 1719. Local pubs and coffee shops have a small-town feel, and blocks of colorful shotgun houses and cobblestone streets resemble classic New Orleans neighborhoods. A walk along the levee path in Algiers Point includes great views of the river, St. Louis Cathedral, and the Downtown New Orleans skyline. 

Getting There: The ferry runs twice an hour ( check online for the schedule) and costs $2 cash, or can be paid for through the RTA app on your smartphone. Driving across the Crescent City Connection Bridge is another easy option, about a 10 to 15 minute drive from the French Quarter.

Travel Tip:  Plaques along the Algiers Point levee walking path tell of the neighborhood’s long, strange history. At different times, it was residency to a private plantation home, a slave barracks, a colonial gunpowder magazine, and slaughterhouse. 

New Orleans East: Dong Phuong Bakery and Civil War Ruins

Infrogmation / Wikimedia Commons /  CC BY 2.5  

A trip east of New Orleans is a good excuse to visit Dong Phuong Bakery , a small, James Beard-Awarded Vietnamese bakery home to fantastic bread, banh mi sandwiches, sweet and savory pastries, and highly celebrated King Cake during the carnival season (January 6 until Fat Tuesday). A full restaurant next door serves Vietnamese staples like pho and spring rolls.

Continuing along Chef Menteur Highway, you’ll arrive at two notable Civil War ruins, Fort Pike and Fort Macomb. You can’t walk through the spooky fort ruins (more recently featured in a Beyonce music video, and the first season of HBO’s "True Detective"), but both are viewable from the road and several vantage points.

Getting There: 1-10 East connects with 90-east/Chef Menteur Highway, a 25-40 minute trip from New Orleans. The 94 city bus takes you to New Orleans East, leaving from the corner of North Broad Street and Esplanade Avenue in New Orleans.

Travel Tip: The area to the east of New Orleans (locally known as “New Orleans East”), Gentilly, and the Lower Ninth Ward were largely lower-income neighborhoods devastated by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. On your way out of town, visit the little Lower 9th Ward Living Museum for a comprehensive history of the neighborhood before and after Katrina, as told by members of the local community. 

Breaux Bridge: Cajun Culture and the Atchafalaya

Dietmar Rauscher / Getty Images

One of the most adorable towns in Louisiana is Breaux Bridge, about two hours from New Orleans in the heart of Cajun Country. Highlights of Breaux Bridge and its surroundings include a small brewery , cajun restaurants , antique shops, and visits to Bayou Teche and the Atchafalaya National Wildlife Refuge . Every Saturday morning, Buck and Johnny’s restaurant in Downtown Breaux Bridge throws a Zydeco Brunch, with live local Zydeco music (a subgenre of Cajun rock), great food, and plenty of dancing. 

Getting There: It’s a two hours-drive from New Orleans on 1-10 West through Baton Rouge, and therefore best to avoid rush hour times (before 9 a.m. or after 5 p.m.) when Baton Rouge — New Orleans commuters can clog the roads.

Travel Tip: For three days at the beginning of May, Breaux Bridge throws an annual Crawfish Festival with live music, cajun cultural events, and tons (upon tons) of boiled crawdaddies. 

Bogue Chitto: Canoeing and Tubing

Judy Darby / Getty Images 

Adventures through the Bogue Chitto River, cypress-tupelo swamps, and other varied waterways start from Bogue Chitto State Park, which also includes a disc golf course, a lodge, campgrounds and cabins, and horseback riding and fishing opportunities. Bogue Chitto Tubing Center in Bogalusa arranges two-to-four hour float trips down the Bogue Chitto River, and two hour canoe and kayak rentals, including shuttles.

Getting There: A little over an hour drive from New Orleans will take you across the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway to LA-25, Bogue Chitto State Park and its surrounding towns.

Travel Tip: Tubing on the Bogue Chitto River, a popular activity with groups in the warm days of late spring and summer, is a relaxing, longer day down the water. Navigating the river in a canoe or kayak is appropriate during cooler and warmer seasons alike, and requires a little more skill and energy. 

The West Bank: Barataria Preserve and Vietnamese Dining

DejaVu Designs / Getty Images

New Orleans’ closest preserved wetlands offer miles of trails and boardwalks through swamps, marshes, and bayous at the Barataria Preserve, part of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Nature Preserve . Rangers lead guided trail walks at 10 a.m. on Wednesdays through Sundays (stop at the visitor’s center for information on that day’s tour). 

For lunch, experience another highlight of the West Bank: much of New Orleans’ Vietnamese immigrant population has settled on the West Bank, and sampling their casual cuisine (dishes like pho, spring rolls, and banh mi sandwiches) at restaurants like Tan Dinh is a true delight.

Getting There: It’s about a 30-minute drive across the river from downtown New Orleans (take US 90 BUS W to LA-45 S) to get to the Barataria Preserve in Marrero, La.

Travel Tip: Beware of alligator crossing! On warmer days you’ll see alligators of all sizes (mostly small) sunning themselves on rocks and branches in the Lafitte Park waterways. Don’t worry—they tend to keep their distance.  

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28 Best Day Trips from New Orleans, Louisiana (2023)

Day trips from New Orleans are always a good idea.

New Orleans, Louisiana, is a fantastic city to visit with loads of things to do — and eat — on even an extended stay. If you want to get out of town , though, there’s no shame in leaving the French Quarter for some fun further afield. 

We’ve spent a full month and then some in New Orleans, one of our favorite American cities , so you can dig into this guide with confidence that what you’ll read isn’t some robot nonsense.

If I don’t like something, by the way, I always say so !

Check out some New Orleans day trips that may be of intrigue to you, including all of my favorites from our month-long stay in the Crescent City.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, including links through the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program . As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I won’t recommend something I have not used/would not use myself, and any income earned supports the upkeep of this site.

How many days is best to spend in New Orleans?

Three days is best to spend in New Orleans if you want a cursory overview of the city. Spend two days in New Orleans proper then head out of town on any one of the best day trips outside New Orleans.

Where should I visit after New Orleans?

You should visit the Gulf Coast, slower-paced towns just over the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, or areas of intrigue along the Mississippi River. It’s all waiting for you within a few hours’ drive.

New Orleans is also well-situated for day trips to towns throughout Alabama and Mississippi once you’re done traversing Louisiana.

What are good day trips from New Orleans?

Good day trips from New Orleans include swamp tours, Fontainebleau State Park, Baton Rouge, and the Whitney Plantation. Coastal destinations in Mississippi and Alabama are also possible on New Orleans day trips.

Are there day trips from New Orleans without a car? There are day trips from New Orleans without a car. You can take public transporation to some popular destinations from the city or book a guided tour. If you’re able, driving will be the most efficient use of your time.

You can also combine nearby day trips together for a full day of fun on the road from New Orleans if you rent a car. Reserve a car ahead of time using a site like  Hotwire  or  Priceline  to find the best deals. You can search by car rental company, too, if you feel a loyalty there.

Interested in a visual of all the trips I’ll mention here? Follow the Google link below:

GIMME MY MAP OF DAY TRIPS FROM NEW ORLEANS, LA!

1. jean lafitte national historical park and preserve.

Distance:  6 miles+ Drive Time:  20 minutes+

The Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve is made up of several sites in one. Several of those sites are part of the Atchafalaya National Heritage Area, a region of 14 different Louisiana parishes that showcase the state’s rich Cajun history. 

We were staying in Arabi, Louisiana, during our month in New Orleans, so we were within jogging distance of the Chalmette Battlefield.

Fun fact: Brian literally ran there a few times. I did not.

The battlefield is the site of the Battle of New Orleans in 1815. Visits on the property are self-guided, with interpretive signage along the way. Don’t miss the exhibits inside the visitor’s center, and the two short films that will give you a background on the site before you head out.

Here’s a bit on the other sites that are part of this system of parks:

• Barataria Preserve: Experience the wild Louisiana wetlands over 26,000 acres just half an hour from the city. If you time things right, you can link up with a guided ranger walk for more information on the flora and fauna you may see.
• Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center: Book ​​boat tours of Bayou Lafourche and learn about the Cajun culture along Louisiana’s bayous at this site, about an hour and 15 minutes from the city.
• Acadian Cultural Center: You’ll need to head out to Lafayette, just over two hours drive, to see this site. This history museum tells the story of the groups who settled here, including the Acadians, or Louisiana’s Cajuns.
• Prairie Acadian Cultural Center: This center is about three hours away, and it tells the story of how the cultures of the Cajun and Creole people blended with the cowboys to create something distinct in the Louisiana prairies.

2. Lake Pontchartrain Causeway

Distance:  28 miles Drive Time:  20 minutes

If you’re seeking short trips from New Orleans, taking a drive down the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway is an easy undertaking…unless you’re afraid of record-breaking bridges.

I’m mostly kidding. It’s not as bad as many people say. I’ve got it all detailed in my guide to the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway . 

Expand your day with a visit to any of the small towns and New Orleans suburbs on either side of the bridge. Mandeville is just over the bridge and adjacent to Fontainebleau State Park, another recommended stop on this list.

Keep reading for a highlight in Abita Springs, another fun town with a great brewery and a whole lotta mystery.

3. Swamp Tours

Distance:  37 miles+ Drive Time:  45 minutes+

A popular day trip from New Orleans is a swamp tour in any of the surrounding waterways . Manchac Swamp and the mossy bayous near Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve are popular options. 

We made our booking through Dr. Wagner’s Honey Island Swamp Tours, one of the original swamp tours in the area.

I’ve done swamp trips in New Orleans before, but years before this last attempt. I remember guides back then feeding the gators marshmallows and other treats to get them to come up to the boats, snapping their jaws at passengers in awe of what they were looking at.

Well, it’s still a thing that happens.

I don’t love that we’re getting creatures with that many teeth so comfy with humans. While we only saw a little guy on our trip, our guide was also throwing treats at the raccoons who came by to visit us, too. Was it cute as heck? Of course, it was.

Do I love that all of these critters are associating humans with treats? Not especially. 

I do love that they employ locals for that added color on your boat tour, even if we’re being told that swimming with gators is perfectly safe. What if the gators mistake those little toes for marshmallows? I’m not here to find out.

Do alligators hibernate in New Orleans? Alligators don’t hibernate in New Orleans, but they do brumate. That means they enter a period of inactivity in the colder months but will come out on warmer days to bask on the banks.

That all said, if you hit the swamps in the winter as we did, you may not see much wildlife . They’re all hiding, trying to survive the relative chill just below the surface.

Want to do some comparison shopping for swamp tours from New Orleans? Check out these options:

4. INFINITY Science Center

Distance:  45 miles Drive Time:  50 minutes

The INFINITY Science Center is just over the border in Pearlington, Mississippi. While a visit there no longer includes a bus trip out to NASA’s Stennis Space Center, it’s still a neat place to see, especially if you’re looking for day trips from New Orleans with kids or science nerds.

I don’t have kids, but I do have Brian.

My only beef was that the center is a little organizationally crazy. They don’t seem to have the staff to deal with large school groups, something we quickly realized when we had to share a line for both gift shop trinkets and tickets to get into the exhibit space.

Note: I don’t usually say this, but a weekend visit may be preferable for this one.

Highlights included the outdoor Biome Boardwalk, the Saturn V rocket, and the 3D theater. For just a few more dollars, you can watch short 3D movies inside. Ours was about predators, and I found it a great way to escape from the middle schoolers elsewhere in the exhibit spaces.

While it’s not the Kennedy Space Center, it’s an excellent place to spend a nerdy afternoon.

5. Fontainebleau State Park

Distance:  40 miles Drive Time:  50 minutes

We enjoyed a brief visit to Fontainebleau State Park as part of a longer afternoon in nearby Abita Springs. It’s lovely, and I can imagine spending more time there in the warmer months. It’s one of the best beach day trips from New Orleans in the summertime.

Stretch your legs on the 1.6-mile Fontainebleau Nature Trail. You’ll see some interpretative signs along the way letting you know more about the plants you’re looking at. 

We missed out on one of the more popular spur trails on this one, the Alligator Boardwalk, as it was still being repaired following Hurricane Ida’s damage. The 3.7-mile Cane Bayou Trail looks perfect for those with more time.

The state park has an entry fee of $3 per person. When you park, you’ll see ruins of a sugar mill at the visitor center.

Fun fact: Those ruins are remnants of a mill built here in 1829 by Bernard de Marigny de Mandeville. The nearby town of Mandeville was named after him, so you know he’s a big deal in these parts.

6. Whitney Plantation

Distance:  46 miles Drive Time:  50 minutes

I wasn’t that interested in a plantation tour while we were in New Orleans until I read about the Whitney Plantation , the only one of its kind in the state dedicated to the history of slavery on the site.

The tour at this one is self-guided. You can download a guide on your phone or use one of their audio devices to hear stories from historians and descendants of slaves who worked the sugar, rice, and indigo fields here.

You’ll walk through original slave cabins and the Big House, or the main house. One of the most moving stops was The Wall of Honor, a memorial dedicated to all of the enslaved people who worked the plantation over the years.

You’ll read accounts from those slaves, and the often matter-of-fact descriptions of abuse that was both physical and mental.

Additional exhibits inside describe the plantation’s more recent history all the way up to 1975, the year it was abandoned as an operational plantation. While it wasn’t slaves working the fields by that time, many of the workers there post-emancipation were descendants of slaves who had worked there before slavery was outlawed.

Low wages and garnished wages for food, clothing, and other necessities made it difficult for any of the free men and women to leave, so they essentially entered into an agreement with plantation owners that was slavery by another name.

Note: If you’re interested in a visit, book tickets online ahead of time if you’re interested in a particular day. I imagine it gets busy on weekends, although it was fairly empty when we arrived on an overcast weekday morning.

7. Abita Mystery House

Distance:  44 miles Drive Time:  1 hour

Babydolls with gator heads. Aliens in lockup. A career counseling machine that told me I should be a bass fisher(wo)man.

It’s all waiting for you at the Abita Mystery House in Abita Springs.

This is the ultimate roadside attraction. Run by Louisiana inventor and artist John Preble, this place comes together thanks to over 50,000 found and recycled objects in varying states of…I don’t even know. You truly just have to visit for yourself to see.

Give them a call or check their Facebook page to see if they’re open. It’s only $5 to visit, and I promise it’s worth every penny. You pay as you exit, just in case you want to take anything home with you from the attached gift shop.

Give your visit that well-rounded feel with a visit to the Abita Brewing Company afterward. It’s just down the street, and you’ll want to talk about what you saw in there!

To make a day out of it, drive over the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway to get there.

8. Houma, Louisiana

Distance:  58 miles Drive Time:  1 hour 10 minutes

This is Louisiana’s bayou country. If you really want to feel like you’re miles away from Bourbon Street — I seriously don’t blame you — Houma is an excellent choice for those seeking the best weekend getaways from New Orleans.

Book a fishing adventure, go wildlife-spotting at the Mandalay National Wildlife Refuge, or continue driving north to see the Magnolia Plantation.

The plantation is on the National Register of Historic Places, but it’s more well-known for scenes filmed here for the movie 12 Years a Slave .

You won’t be welcomed into the main house as it’s still privately owned, but 20 historic buildings on the grounds tell the story of the cotton economy and slave history here .

It isn’t as focused on the enslaved population as the Whitney Plantation, so if you’re seeking more of the real deal when it comes to the state’s plantation history, head there, instead.

9. The Mississippi Gulf Coast

Distance:  60 miles+ Drive Time:  1 hour 10 minutes +

The best day trips from New Orleans to Mississippi have to include the Gulf Coast. This is where Louisianians go to party…beach party style.  Here are a few of the Gulf Coast destinations you can choose from along the Mississippi coast:

• Bay St. Louis: Go on a ghost ride, find your patch of beach from miles to choose from, or take a walking tour of filming sites for the Robert Redford classic This Property Is Condemned in charming Bay St. Louis. You can be there in about an hour and 10 minutes from New Orleans.
• Gulfport:  Charter a fishing boat, spend the afternoon at Jones Park, and snap a pic of that giant rocking chair. If you’re with the kids, don’t miss the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, a hub of interactive learning. This one is about an hour and 20 minutes from New Orleans.
• Biloxi: Biloxi is one of the more well-developed towns along the Gulf, which means you’ll have lots to do to fill the day or a weekend away from New Orleans. Head up to the Biloxi Lighthouse, find some nighttime intrigue along the boardwalk, or hit the casinos. Biloxi is about an hour and 30 minutes from the city.
• Ocean Springs: Ocean Springs is part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, home to blissful beaches, impressive stargazing, and a variety of marine wildlife. I hear the camping here is spectacular, but it’s just not me, folks. You’ll get there in about an hour and 30 minutes.
• Ship Island: Ship Island requires a bit more effort, as you can’t simply drive there. You’ll need to get to Gulfport, first. From there, you’ll catch a ferry before getting to the island’s white sand beaches and Fort Massachusetts, built after the War of 1812.

10. Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Distance:  81 miles Drive Time:  1 hour 20 minutes

Baton Rouge has two state capitol buildings for you to check out — both are designated as national historic landmarks, which is pretty impressive — and something called “beignet fingers.”

If you’re not sold on it yet, the town also boasts a tiger on the Louisiana State University campus. It’s true. Mike the Tiger lives in a nearly $1 million enclosure, so it’s definitely upgraded digs over what you usually see at the local zoo. 

He purred at us, and now I want one. I’m not going to get one, obviously. Kimmy loves cats but it’s not mutual.

Sold on this one? Check out my detailed guide to our trip to Baton Rouge .

11. Mississippi River Towns

Distance:  86 miles+ Drive Time:  1 hour 30 minutes +

The Mississippi River cuts through 10 different states in the middle of the United States over 3,000 miles. New Orleans is well-situated as the terminus of the river, but you’ll be within a short drive of a number of river towns along the Great River Road if you’re feeling ambitious.

Baton Rouge, St. Francisville, Plaquemine, Vidalia, and Venice are all within driving distance. I’ll highlight Baton Rouge and Venice elsewhere on this list, but here’s more on the rest:

• Plaquemine: Drive over the Horace Wilkinson Bridge, see the historic homes of downtown, or marvel at the engineering of the Plaquemine Lock State Historic Site. This town is just a little over an hour and a half from the city.
• St. Francisville: Explore the remote waterways of the Tunica Hills Wildlife Management Area, stroll the Afton Villa Gardens, or go on a ghost tour at the Myrtles Plantation in this town in the West Feliciana Parish two hours north.
• Vidalia:  Vidalia is approaching a three-hour drive from New Orleans, but it’s worth a stop if you’re following the river. Walk the riverfront to get a feel for this small town.

Extend your trip by following the river north into Mississippi, Arkansas, and even Tennessee.

12. Venice, Louisiana

Distance:  76 miles Drive Time:  1 hour 35 minutes

You don’t need to fly all the way out to Italy to experience Venice. You don’t even need to head out to California . Louisiana has its own version, and it’s even further south than New Orleans. This Venice in Plaquemines Parish is known for stellar fishing and its resiliency as an “end of the world” destination. 

The town has survived a number of devastating hurricanes, including Hurricane Katrina in 2005, and the Deepwater Horizon oil spill of 2010.

The fact that you can still take a day trip out to Venice, Louisiana, is a testament to the local population and their refusal to give in to disasters both natural and man-made.

13. Bayou la Batre, Alabama

Distance:  139 miles Drive Time:  2 hours 10 minutes

We actually took a day trip out to Bayou La Batre during our stay in nearby Mobile, but it’s still easy enough from New Orleans. Our motivation to do so was simple. Bayou La Batre was the hometown of Benjamin Buford “Bubba” Blue in Forrest Gump .

I love a good pop culture reference.

I put together a guide to Bayou La Batre , but visits here are more about taking in the atmosphere. Stroll past the fishing boats at the harbor, plan a fishing trip yourself, or shuck some oysters at Murder Point Oysters.

I don’t actually like oysters, but Brian does. I let him have this.

14. Mobile, Alabama

Distance:  144 miles Drive Time:  2 hours 10 minutes

We didn’t travel to Mobile on a day trip from New Orleans, choosing instead to stay there a week after our New Orleans jaunt. It’s basically a mini New Orleans. Here are a few highlights from our Mobile, Alabama stay:

• Mobile Carnival Museum: I usually have zero interest in large crowds, but I do have an interest in learning more about local party culture. The costumes in this place are wild.
• Langan (Municipal) Park: This lovely green space is an urban oasis. Just don’t get triggered by all of the people feeding the birds while you’re there.
• The Cheese Cottage : What can I say? I’m a sucker for cheese, wine, and places that combine the two. This was my favorite spot in all of Mobile.
• Meaher State Park: We didn’t see any gators on our visit, but the boardwalk here offers some fantastic delta views regardless.
• Squid Ink : This eatery was recommended to us by two Mobile residents, and it did not disappoint. Can everything come on a potato bun, please?

15. Dauphin Island, Alabama

Distance:  154 miles Drive Time:  2 hours 30 minutes

Dauphin Island is an easy addition to day trips that already include Bayou La Batre. Cross the Dauphin Island Bridge and there you are. The guide I already mentioned to Bayou La Batre includes some stops across the bridge, too, but the historic Fort Gaines is the big draw here.

You’ll be able to see the original cannons used in the Battle of Mobile Bay during the American Civil War, complete with live reenactments if you’re lucky.

16. Fairhope, Alabama

Distance:  162 miles Drive Time:  2 hours 40 minutes

This charming Alabama town on Mobile Bay is ideal on a sunny day. Visit Fairhope Municipal Pier, the town’s fishing pier and general gathering place. Walk the trails of North Beach Park. Sip on pints at the Fairhope Brewing Company. It’s a great place to have yourself a relaxing time, especially if you’re in New Orleans during a busy time of year.

We took Kimmy on our own trip to Fairhope and found the town quite dog-friendly , too.

17. Jackson, Mississippi

Distance:  186 miles Drive Time:  2 hours 50 minutes

If the traffic is in your favor, you can get to Jackson in under three hours, but it’s really best-suited for a weekender from New Orleans.

I’ve only been to Jackson briefly to check out the bookshop scene there — Jackson has an impressive literary history — so I definitely owe this city a deeper visit. The Mississippi State Capitol, Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, and Eudora Welty House & Garden are all at the top of my list.

More Side Trips from New Orleans

Even with a full month in New Orleans, you can’t see everything there is to see within a few hours of the city. Exploring things to do in New Orleans alone will take a good chunk of time.

Here are a few more things to do outside of New Orleans that are still on my list:

• Oak Alley Plantation (53 miles/1 hour): This is one of the most popular plantations to visit on day trips from New Orleans. I can’t say much about the authenticity of that one as I didn’t visit, but I can say the photos look quite beautiful.  Just keep in mind that sometimes there’s some ugliness associated with pretty things, too.
• De Soto National Forest (102 miles/1 hour 35 minutes): You’ll need to head into Mississippi for this one, but it’s a great city escape for the adventurous sort looking for hiking near New Orleans. If it’s your first time, head to the Black Creek National Scenic River. It stretches for about 30 miles and offers plenty of wildlife opportunities.
• Grand Isle State Park (110 miles/2 hours 15 minutes): The barrier island in Louisiana’s Jefferson Parish is big on fishing and birding, the second of which is highlighted during the annual Grand Isle Migratory Bird Celebration. If you’re here for some relaxation, the park is home to miles of pristine beaches and opportunities for dolphin spotting.
• New Iberia, Louisiana (133 miles/2 hours 15 minutes): This is where you’ll find Lake Peigneur, the deepest lake in Louisiana, and the Bayou Teche, a waterway of over 135 miles. There are also all kinds of cute accommodations here for romantic getaways from New Orleans. It’s easy to combine with Avery Island.
• Lafayette, Louisiana (135 miles/2 hours 15 minutes): Visitors in the springtime can expect blooming azaleas, best experienced on the Lafayette Azalea Trail. Don’t miss the aforementioned Acadian Cultural Center while you’re here, or just check out this guide to Lafayette highlights . 
• Avery Island (138 miles/2 hours 25 minutes): If you like things spicy, you won’t want to miss a day trip out to Louisiana’s privately owned Avery Island. The island is less known for its geological importance as a giant salt dome and more for what originated here: Tabasco hot sauce.
• Natchez, Mississippi (176 miles/2 hours 55 minutes): This historic city on the Natchez Trace Parkway is known for its antebellum mansions. It has more of them than any other place in the United States. Recent efforts to address the region’s violent slave history have made this an important stop on civil rights-themed trips, as well.

Best Weekend Trips from New Orleans

With more time, you can plan a New Orleans weekend getaway.  Any of the options below are all over three hours from the city, so they’re more suitable as the best road trips from New Orleans. 

You could certainly tick these off in New Orleans side trips if you were feeling aggressive, but I wouldn’t recommend it. Some of these were really made for lounging.

25. Orange Beach

Distance:  196 miles Drive Time:  3 hours 20 minutes

This coastal Alabama beauty is easy to combine with some of the towns I’ll get into next. If you’re sticking to Orange Beach proper, the real draw is in the name. You’ll want to start with the beach when you’re here, as this is heaven for sunbathers.

I’m no beach enthusiast, but I can’t pretend like the sand here wasn’t lovely. Head to Orange Beach Waterfront Park for a classic boardwalk experience or Shell Beach for fewer crowds and sand dune views.

If you’re hungry, the seafood at The Gulf is almost as good as the water views.

26. Gulf Shores

Distance:  196 miles Drive Time:  3 hours 25 minutes

Some come to Gulf Shores to party. We came for the history. Gulf Shores is home to the Fort Morgan State Historic Site, a 19th-century fort built to guard Mobile Bay. Its most talked-about claim to fame is its role in the Civil War and the Battle of Mobile Bay.

Yes, you’ve seen that mentioned in this post already. The region is lousy with forts connected to that battle.

Outside of that history, Gulf Shores has those pristine white-sand beaches and inviting warm waters folks love to lounge around. The seafood scene here is naturally yummy, too.

27. Flora-Bama

Distance:  201 miles Drive Time:  3 hours 30 minutes

Flora-Bama is one of the most recognizable beach bars in the world. I’m not even kidding. It’s a whole thing.

This place that straddles the Florida and Alabama border has been serving up cheap drinks, quirky entertainment, and live music since 1964. I was curious enough about the beachside attraction that I celebrated one of my birthdays there. I definitely had a fun time, but it’s also going to be a one-time thing for me.

I mean, if someone wanted to invite me to the annual Mullet Toss I guess I’d go, but that’s where I draw the line.

28. Lake Charles

Distance:  206 miles Drive Time:  3 hours 30 minutes

Lake Charles is big on outdoor adventure as the hub of the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road. If you visit, expect miles of bird-watching in marshlands bursting with wildlife activity. That can mean gators, too, so keep your eyes peeled.

If you’re not that invested in the fauna, this part of Louisiana is also known for its lively nightlife and casino scene. Gambling isn’t my thing, but I don’t hate it for you if you’re recreating responsibly. The Golden Nugget Lake Charles Hotel & Casino and Horseshoe Lake Charles are two popular options, but they’re not the only casino hotels here.

Where to Stay in New Orleans

We stayed at a long-term rental that I wouldn’t recommend during our month in New Orleans, but that doesn’t mean I don’t have recommendations for you.

Use the map below for comfortable New Orleans hotels and apartments after you’re done with your NOLA day trips:

Where is easy to get to from New Orleans?

Towns on either side of the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, swamp tours, Fontainebleau State Park, and the Whitney Plantation are all easy to get to from New Orleans.

That’s just a taste of everywhere you can go with New Orleans as your base. Cities along the sunny Gulf Coast, historic forts, and foodie adventures await if you budget time for day trips from New Orleans.

I’ve spent extensive time in the region and it still doesn’t feel like enough!

Ready for Things to Do Outside New Orleans?

Your Flight:  To get to New Orleans, you’ll fly into Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. I use a variety of tools to find cheap airfare, but if you’re looking to book during a particular period of time, you should use  Skyscanner . It’s especially good for big hubs like Chicago and New York City.

Unless you’re booking day tours from New Orleans, you’ll need a car. Reserve a car ahead of time using a site like  Hotwire  or  Priceline  to find the best deals. You can search by car rental company, too, if you feel a loyalty there.

For adventurous folks who travel on the reg, I also subscribe to  Going , formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights. You’ll get cheap flight deals from your home base straight to your inbox. 

Your Accommodations: I typically recommend sites like  Booking.com  and  Hotels.com  for your accommodation needs.  Vrbo  has become my preferred Airbnb alternative.

Seeking even more wallet-friendly accommodations? Try  Hostelworld . Their picks are heavily vetted and reviewed to offer you a safe experience on a budget.

Etc.:  For general travel goodies, visit my  Favorite Things  page. For more information on planning your travel, visit my  Travel Tools  page.

Love this guide to great day trips from New Orleans? Pin me!

Traveling the American South? Check out these guides:

• Plan a Trip to Delicious Nashville, TN
• Visit Historic Selma, Alabama
• A Complete Trip Guide to Augusta, Georgia
• Travel to Underrated Athens, Georgia
• Plan a Couples Trip to Lovely Charleston

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Agnes Groonwald

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16 Best Day Trips from New Orleans

Planning an incredible trip to the Big Easy and want to explore some of the best day trips from New Orleans during your visit?

With more incredible towns, cities, parks, and places to visit you can add on more incredible destinations to your amazing New Orleans trip either as a day trip from New Orleans or even an overnight trip. Most of our day trips from New Orleans are just a few hours drive, but some are a bit longer.

We recommend planning accordingly and leaving early enough if you plan on returning back to NOLA that night, or you can plan to take your time, and spend the night before returning home.

We’ve included the approximate driving time and distance for each of these day trips from New Orleans as well as why these are great options for where to visit in addition to your trip!

If you’re still planning your New Orleans activities consider checking out how to spend 3 days in New Orleans itinerary and where to stay in New Orleans to help you plan your trip.

New Orleans Day Trips

1. lafayette, louisiana.

~ 2 hours 10 minutes, 135 miles

Just 2 hours from the city and an amazing day trip from New Orleans (but a world away), the city of Lafayette is the place to go to discover the heart of Louisiana’s Acadiana, or Cajun , culture.

From the unique local Cajun food, historic attractions, marshy landscape, and rowdy Zydeco dance halls, there are so many fun things to do in Lafayette. 

To discover Lafayette’s interesting Cajun history, head to Vermilionville and Acadian Village. Both are fascinating glimpses into the French Canadian exiles who carved their home in the swamps of Louisiana in the mid-1700s.

And a trip to Avery Island, the home of the McIlhenny family and their famous TABASCO hot sauce (but more on that later) is a must for a tour, and to explore the nearby Jungle Gardens. 

For foodies, there’s a lot to love about Lafayette with its unique local cuisine like po’boys, fried catfish, shrimp etoufee, and all things boudin.  Prejean’s  and  The French Press  do some killer Cajun specialties.

Like New Orleans, Lafayette shares a love of merriment and dance, so check out one of a dozen or so spirited dance halls, try your hand at dancing to zydeco music, and discover the true heart of Cajun culture!

Contributed by Lori of Travlin Mad

2. Tabasco Factory Tour on Avery Island

~ 2 hours 20 minutes, 137 miles

Louisiana’s popular food history is all about spice and flavor, which brings us to one of the best New Orleans day trips located in Lafayette.

One of the most popular hot sauces in Louisiana and most famous in the world is Tabasco sauce. The Tabasco Brand Factory is located a little over two hours drive from New Orleans on Avery Island, where it has been made for over 150 years.

On-site you can dine at their restaurant, visit the gift shop for all things Tabasco and even take a tour of the factory and museum.

On the tour learn how this famous hot sauce is made from seeing the peppers growing in the greenhouse, to seeing thousands of barrels of sauce being aged all the way up to the bottling process.

You can also learn about the five generations of the McIlhenny family that have grown this hot sauce into an empire being sold in 195 countries around the world.

At the 1868 restaurant try Tabasco chicken poppers, Avery Island red beans and sausage and even a slice of Tabasco cake for dessert.

Contributed by Cailin of Travel Yourself

3. Honey Island Swamp Tour in Louisiana

~ 50 minutes, 38 miles

One of the shorter day trips from New Orleans that’s perfect for anyone wanting to explore beyond the city but not get too far away is the Honey Island Swamp tour.

You’ll get to experience the unique biodiversity and wildlife of the Louisana swamps and bayous while you embark on this unique tour of the swamps.

Experience narrow slews, Cajun villages on the water, and all the wildlife including tons of alligator sightings, birds, insects, and even wild pigs!

This ended up being one of our favorite things to do in New Orleans because the swamps were somehow calmingly beautiful and all the wildlife we encountered was thrilling! It really is unlike any other place we’ve ever been in the United States.

If you don’t want to drive yourself to this day trip from New Orleans, you can book the Honey Island Swamp Tour that provides you your tour ticket, guide, and everything you need in advance picking you up and dropping you off in the French Quarter lasting a total 4 hours before returning.

This is just one of many amazing tours in New Orleans to check out.

4. Infinity Science Center in Mississippi

~ 52 minutes, 45 miles

Another great day trip from New Orleans if you’re looking for something not too far away but truly unique is visiting the Infinity Science Center in Mississippi. Just under an hour away from the heart of New Orleans, you can learn all about space, earth, and science programs in this amazing science center and museum!

Besides being an immersive space and science museum, this is also the official visitor center for the NASA Stennis Space Center, a rocket testing facility.

This New Orleans day trip is fun and educational for people of all ages and great for families, or just adults too! 

Learn about the different discoveries on earth to space from exhibits like the Hurrican Prediction Lab, Carnivorous Plants Conservatory teaching you all about meat-eating plants, the kid’s exhibit Big Blue Blocks which teaches engineering, to the outdoor Biome Boardwalk that takes you through different natural habitats, plus more!

There are also other artifacts and exhibits here featuring past space missions.

5. Natchitoches, Louisana

~ 4 hours 10 minutes, 259 miles

An amazing day trip from New Orleans, or an overnight trip, is the quaint town of Natchitoches. This town is an original French colony in Louisiana, and also the oldest settlement in the Louisiana Purchase.

Established in 1714, Natchitoches still retains a European flavor. The National Historic Landmark District includes French Creole townhouses, a Basilica with pretty stained-glass windows – there is both Creole and Catholic culture here.

Stop at the 19th-century Kaffie-Frederick General Mercantile, the city’s oldest general store that is still run by the same family for three generations, you might find some trinkets and treasures. The whole town has a nostalgic charm about it. 

Cane River National Heritage Area and the Natchitoches Historic District Development Commission offer a free guided walking tour of the Natchitoches National Historic Landmark District.

You can learn about the Cane River region prior to Europeans, the French & Spanish colonial period and all about the antebellum plantation culture. The tours are family-friendly and run Tuesday through Saturday beginning at the Natchitoches Visitors Bureau located at 780 Front Street.  

You can easily spend a weekend at Natchitoches but we were on our way to New Orleans and only spent a few hours in town, you can also easily make this a day trip from New Orleans if you leave really early or an overnight trip taking your time and making other stops along the way.

Make sure to try the meat pie while you are there, a fried pie shell stuffed with minced meat, typically a mixture of beef and pork. One of my favorite stops was at the Beau Jardin, a beautiful garden with water features in the historic downtown area located on banks of the Cane River. 

Contributed by Priya of Outside Suburbia

6. De Soto National Forest

2 hours, 121 miles

One of the most incredible and best day trips from New Orleans to experience the great outdoors and even more unique biodiversity in the region is De Soto National Forest just two hours away from New Orleans.

Named after the 16th-century Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto, you can find some of the most unique of pine forests in the US right here in Southern Mississippi. 

Home to some of the only existing and surviving longleaf pine savannas, pine flatwoods, and longleaf pine forests which are protected as most of this type of ecosystem has been completely lost in the country and are considered endangered.

Besides plants, there are also endangered animals in De Soto National Forest including gopher tortoises, gopher frogs, and carnivorous plants.

You can do anything from hiking, camping, canoeing/kayaking, fishing, to bird watching here. 

7. The Towns of Coastal Mississippi

various towns, approximately 1 hour 30 minutes drive, 95 miles

Coastal Mississippi is a great day trip from New Orleans. While most people drive directly between New Orleans and Mobile, those who venture south of I-10 will discover the phenomenal Secret Coast (as Mississippi Gulf Coast now calls itself). And what a secret it is.

Bay St Louis is only an hour from the French Quarter and locals call it “where New Orleans goes for vacation.” Perhaps nowhere else in the US can you drive long stretches and see nothing out your window except water and sugar sand.

There’s an ample amount of FREE beachfront parking that begs for you to stop OFTEN and let your feet explore that clean and soft sand. Do it!

Biloxi is the seafood capital of America and you must try Gulf shrimp on your Coastal Mississippi road trip—try a bahn mi po boy from Le Bakery Cafe or shrimp and grits from White Pillars.

Allow time to savor Ocean Springs, one of the most romantic towns along the US Gulf Coast. Stroll downtown among the magnificent live oaks, visit the extraordinary (and hidden gem) Walter Anderson Art Museum, treat yourself to dinner at Vestige.

Should you find yourself in Pascagoula—the birthplace of Jimmy Buffett—visit the Pascagoula River Audubon Center and explore the largest natural free-flowing river in the lower 48 states.

But whatever you do in Coastal Mississippi, make sure you are on a beach for an exceptional sunset.

Contributed by Charles of McCool Travel

8. Lake Pontchartrain at  Fontainebleau State Park 

30-50 minutes, 27-39 miles

Another one of the most accessible and easy to get to and one of the best day trips from New Orleans is Lake Pontchartrain at Fontainebleau State Park just outside of the city.

Escape to the largest inland body of water in the state of Louisiana connected to the Gulf of Mexico, bayous, and rivers. Even though the name is Lake Pontchartrain, it’s actually not a lake but an estuary, or a tidal mouth of a river.

Be sure to drive across the longest bridge over water in the world stretching 23 miles in length known as The Causeway Bridge. It takes around 50 minutes to cross the entire bridge by car!

You can find many incredible things to do at Lake Pontchartrain from boating, biking, fishing, shopping, eating fresh seafood at local restaurants, visit the National World War II Museum, or the New Canal Lighthouse Museum to name a few!

There’s even a casino here. If you find yourself wanting to spend more than just a day trip from New Orleans here we recommend spending the night and staying in the overwater cabins in Fontainebleau State Park which are as magical as they look.

You can read more about them in our cabin getaways in the US guide .

9. Abita Springs, Louisiana

55 minutes, 45 miles

Another great place to explore and day trip from New Orleans is Abita Springs, Louisiana. This can easily be combined with or done on its own with Lake Pontchartrain and Fontainebleau State Park. 

Getting to Abita Springs from New Orleans you’ll get to cross the world’s longest bridge over water in that runs 23 miles long known as The Causeway Bridge already mentioned above over Lake Pontchartrain. 

Once you get to Abita Springs you can’t miss Abita Brewery which is known for its beer which uses the famous artesian water from Abita Spring. The brewery is the largest and oldest in all of Louisiana as well.

This beautiful town has a quaint and charming main street to wander down, bike rentals so you can ride along the Tammany Trace, and of course, you can’t leave without trying their famous water and beer.

10. Baton Rouge, Louisiana

1 hour 30 minutes – 2 hours, 98 miles

Another amazing New Orleans day trip just under two hours up the Mississippi River lies Baton Rouge, the capital of Louisiana.

It’s here where southern charm mixes with cajun and creole culture resulting in a town that is equal parts tradition and cutting edge.

Just like New Orleans, you’ll find some amazing food here, ranging from boudin and oysters to catfish and collard greens. If you have just one meal in Baton Rouge make it Elsie’s Plate and Pie (their s’mores pie is to die for!).

As Louisiana’s state capital, Baton Rouge is home to not just one, but two state capital buildings. The Old State Capital is a Gothic castle overlooking the Mississippi River with a whimsically colorful interior.

A few blocks away the New State Capitol features beautiful art deco architecture and at 450 feet high is the tallest state capital building in the country.

Contributed by Brianna of Casual Travelist

11. Fishing at Plaquemines Parish

1 hour 25 minutes, 66 miles

One of the best day trips from New Orleans is just outside the city center in Plaquemines Parish , the peninsula that runs along both sides of the Mississippi River where it flows into the Gulf of Mexico.

Located on the southeast border and edge of New Orleans, this area is considered more like a county and is quite spread out. This area is also the location where some of the worse and most catastrophic damage from Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

With over hundreds of miles of coastline, and nearly 80 fresh and saltwater lakes thanks to its location to the Gulf of Mexico, Mississippi River, and wetlands, Plaquemines Parish is known as a world-class fishing destination with large amounts of both fresh and saltwater fish.

Besides fishing, there are also other activities to do here including visiting historic landmarks like Fort Jackson, a Civil War fort.

12. Mobile, Alabama

2 hours 15 minutes, 145 miles

Another fantastic day trip from New Orleans is Mobile, Alabama. You may be surprised to find that Mobile has many similarities with New Orleans, but in a smaller, more family-friendly package and is just over a two hour drive away making it very accessible to visit from New Orleans!

Although it’s now part of the state of Alabama, it was the original capital of French Louisiana. Thus, in addition to the stately antebellum mansions, you’ll also see brick buildings with wrought-iron balconies reminiscent of the architecture in New Orleans’ French Quarter.

And the locals will proudly tell you that the Mardi Gras celebrations held here every year are the oldest in the United States!

In fact, it was a Mobilian who brought the tradition to New Orleans. Parades and masked balls are held over a two-week period leading up to Lent.

The Mardi Gras celebrations in Mobile are popular with local children as well as adults and are not as raucous as the street parties in NOLA. 

Another popular event is the Azalea Trail Festival, which takes place in mid-March when pink and white azalea flowers bloom all over town.

Senior girls from local high schools dress up in frilly, pastel-colored hoop skirts and welcome visitors with their quintessential Southern hospitality.

Even if you can’t make it for either of these local festivals, you can enjoy Mobile’s delicious restaurants, historic mansions and beautiful beaches at any time of year.

Contributed by Wendy Werneth of The Nomadic Vegan

13. Grand Isle State Park

2 hours 15 minutes, 110 miles

Note: Grand Isle State Park is temporarily closed due to damage from Hurricane Ida, be sure to check to see the status of the park before visiting to ensure it’s reopened before visiting.

Another one of the best day trips from New Orleans is Grand Isle State Park on Grand Isle in Louisiana. Located on a barrier island that was seriously damaged and destroyed during 2005’s Hurricane Katrina, you can help by visiting the renovated and restored beaches and park as their efforts of rebuilding continue.

Another tragedy that took place here caused the beach to close in 2010 due to oil contamination and spillage from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Volunteers worked relentlessly to get the beach back open just a year later as well as plant more mangrove trees and other efforts to help protect the biodiversity and natural beauty here.

Enjoy kayaking, fishing, beachcombing, boating, bird watching, wildlife spotting, and camping here. Also, be sure to visit the two main piers.

If you’re into ghosts and the supernatural you’ll be excited to hear that Grand Isle State Park is considered one of the most haunted places in the US including America’s Most Haunted Beach. Just be aware of that in case you extend your day trip from New Orleans to an overnight one!

14. St. Francisville, Louisiana

2 hours 15 minutes, 112 miles

One of the best day trips from New Orleans heading to the north is the small town of St Francisville. Full of historic homes, plantations, historic sites, and antebellum gardens this has become a popular road trip stop in the region for its beauty and historic landmarks.

You’ll find that the town has an artsy feel to it with some cute shops, gorgeous old homes, cafes, and other historic buildings. 

Besides an adorable downtown, you can also find some great outdoor activities to do here including trails in the Tunica Hills Wildlife Management Area . You can hike, bike, or horseback riding to some incredible viewpoints.

Another notable attraction in this day trip from New Orleans is Imahara’s Botanical Garden, a private collection of rare plants, flowers, and trees including their own mini Mount Fuji and man-made ponds.

15. Whitney Plantation

55 minutes, 46 miles

New Orleans is a popular destination and for very good reasons – Bourbon Street, Cajun food, beautiful architecture, and so much fascinating history. While you could visit New Orleans without ever needing a car, there are plenty of great day trips from New Orleans outside of the city center.

Visiting New Orleans, or Louisiana in general, should never be without learning more about the history – including the dark side. Plantation tours have long been a tourist attraction on many people’s wish lists, but these are usually about the “beautiful” homes and not what the plantations really were – where many, many people were enslaved, tortured, and died.

There is one exception though – the Whitney Plantation . This particular plantation has instead taken the focus off of the home and onto what it should be about – the people who unwillingly even made that home possible.

The museum is devoted to slavery in the Southern United States and is the only plantation advisable to visit. The Whitney Plantation is a somber experience, but incredibly important and worth a day trip from New Orleans.

Contributed by Ashley from Wild-Hearted

16. Louisiana Northshore

45 minutes, 32 miles

Another amazing New Orleans day trip is a short drive from the heart of the French Quarter in New Orleans across the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway into Louisiana’s Northshore. The scenic drive on the causeway alone was worth the trip.

In Louisiana Northshore, explore Madisonville, a cute little town filled with boutique shops, a great bookstore and café, some great restaurants, and local bars. From there, we make your way to Covington, where you can enjoy High Tea in the English Room and browse through their historic shopping district.

Adventure seekers will love a pontoon boat tour with Louisiana Tours & adventures on the Tchefuncte River, where you can admire the many alligators, birds, and wildlife. Plan your trip during sunset and get a spectacular photo of the Tchefuncte River Lighthouse as the sunsets.

Cyclists can rent bikes and follow the Mandeville Trailhead, which runs through the communities of Louisiana Northshore, including Covington, Abita Springs, Mandeville, Lacombe and Slidell.

Contributed by Sharon of Daily Dream 360

Did we miss any of the best New Orleans day trips? Let us know in the comments below! Bookmark for later on Pinterest below!

Best Day Trips from New Orleans Summary:

• Lafayette, Louisiana
• Tabasco Factory Tour on Avery Island
• Honey Island Swamp Tour in Louisiana 
• Infinity Science Center in Mississippi
• Natchitoches, Louisiana
• De Soto National Forest in Mississippi
• Coastal Mississippi
• Lake Pontchartrain at Fontainebleau State Park
• Abita Springs, Louisiana
• Baton Rouge, Louisiana
• Plaquemines Parish
• Mobile, Alabama
• Grand Isle State Park, Louisiana
• St. Francisville, Louisiana
• Whitney Plantation
• Louisiana Northshore

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25 Best Day Trips From New Orleans

New Orleans may be the ultimate destination with its unique mix of culture, music and architecture, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't explore what the rest of Louisiana and beyond has to offer.

Most of our day trips from New Orleans will take you around southern Louisiana, but some of the destinations will head to Mississippi and even as far as Alabama.

Our list has alligator-filled swamps and marshes, famous plantations along the Mississippi, historic cities and great beaches as well as the odd surprise option.

We've put together our list of the 25 best day trips from New Orleans in order of time it takes to get there.

Make sure you look further down the list - some of the best day trips like the plantations along the Great River Road are right at the end!

1. Steamboat Natchez

Tours start from New Orleans

If you are after a day trip from New Orleans that requires the least possible amount of effort and zero driving time, Steamboat Natchez may be the perfect option.

The tours for Steamboat Natchez start at the Toulouse Street Wharf just one block from Jackson Square in the French Quarter.

Your options for tours are two daily 2-hour tours during the day at 11.30 a.m. and 2.30 p.m. and a dinner cruise that sets off at 7 p.m. You have to make sure you get to the pier early as boarding happens half an hour before the cruise departs.

As you go up and down the Mississippi and see the city and the New Orleans port from the water, the Steamboat Stompers Jazz Band will play jazz and you can roam around the boat, buy gifts or get some lunch. On Sundays the Southern brunch menu is a definite upgrade if you're flexible with dates.

With the viewing much better from the parts of the boat that are outside, Steamboat Natchez is a considerably better option during good weather. You'll still be able to enjoy the sights, food and music in the winter, but the warm sunshine adds a lot to the experience!

2. Barataria Preserve, Jean Lafitte National Historical Park

25 minutes from New Orleans (15 miles)

If you like the idea of a swamp tour, but you don't want to spend a long day travelling to and from the swamp and then the few hours it'll take to get around, Barataria Preserve is less than half an hour from New Orleans.

Here you can walk along the trails through the vegetation and over water or take a ride in an airboat (one of those flat boats with a giant propeller on the back).

If the water is warm enough, you have a decent chance of seeing some alligators and they may even come up close to the boat, but even if you don't it's a great day out.

Barataria Preserve is not quite as spectacular as the marshland swamps further away and you'll be going up and down canal-like waterways instead of pushing through grass and pass cypress trees, but this is a great option for families - the kids will love the various sights on show along the way.

Remember that Jean Lafitte National Historic Park that the Preserve is part of has 6 different sites which are in completely different locations including the famous Chalmette Battlefield a few miles east of the French Quarter where the 1815 Battle of New Orleans took place.

If you're heading for Barataria Preserve, don't navigate to one of the other sites by mistake!

3. Explore the Northshore - Mandeville and Fontainebleau State Park

45 minutes from New Orleans (39 miles)

The Northshore is a very popular destination for the locals who want to get away from the city for the weekend.

Less than an hour away from New Orleans, it is the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain. The scenery is relaxing and peaceful - think huge live oak trees with moss hanging down, a bayou and some swamps.

You can go on a swamp tour here but the Atchafalaya Swamp (see #16 below) is a better option for that. The bayou is good for kayaking and paddle boarding through picture-perfect Louisiana wilderness.

With some great restaurants in Mandeville and a few local craft breweries, you may want to stay until the evening or even overnight!

If you do stay the night, the Abita Springs Mystery House (#6 below) is only a few miles further north so you can combine the two into a single trip out.

4. Ponchatoula, Louisiana

50 minutes from New Orleans (52 miles)

Ponchatoula is in the Tangipahoa Parish which is famous for agriculture. In fact, very unusually for the local area, the main focus of local farmers are strawberries.

Strawberries are such a big deal in Ponchatoula that there is an annual Strawberry Festival held in April complete with fairground rides, every kind of food that you can theoretically make with strawberries and amazing live music.

For those who want to see nature, just to the north of the city is Kliebert & Sons Gator Tours where you can come up and close to alligators, snakes and other animals - many of them rescued from previous owners where they lived in poor conditions.

South of Ponchatoula is the Joyce Wildlife Management Area - the swamps here offer tours and attract birdwatchers. For a more chilled option, take a stroll along the swamp boardwalk where signs will tell you about the local wildlife and point out things to look at.

If time is on your side, take the (more) scenic route back and follow Louisiana Highway 22 down to Sorrento before heading back to New Orleans. This part of the highway is known as the Southern Swamps Byway which will pass through a lot of swamps and highlight exactly how the Bayou State got its nickname.

5. John C. Stennis Space Center, Mississippi

50 minutes from New Orleans (50 miles)

The INFINITY Science Center is located at a NASA rocket engine building and testing facility just across the border from Louisiana in Mississippi.

It should take you just under an hour to get here from New Orleans - the Center is very easy to find just off the I-10. The cue to turn off is when you come across a giant Saturn V rocket with 5 enormous F-1 engines - pretty hard to miss!

The museum itself is alright, but not spectacular - there's some interactive displays, some NASA exhibits and a short movie you can watch about space exploration.

The main reason to come, however, is not the museum but the opportunity to go on a bus tour of the rocket testing facility where you can see the real NASA rocket engines being put through their paces. The size of the things is mind boggling and the tour is well worth the cost of the entry ticket!

6. Abita Springs, Louisiana

50 minutes from New Orleans (44 miles)

Abita Springs is the place to go if you want to spend a day visiting a sleepy town less than an hour away from New Orleans where the highlights include a wacky Mystery House and a Trailhead Museum with local folk art.

Located 20 minutes north of the Northshore area, start your visit by stopping by the Abita Springs Mystery House.

This is a museum full of random exhibits like a comb collection, a collection of antique barbed wire and Buford, the bassigator - a weird 22-foot long alligator - seabass hybrid creature made of plywood, fabric, craft paper and beach balls.

I told you it was weird!

If you are into bike rides, Abita Springs is on the Tammany Trace - a 31-mile bike trail that runs from Covington to Slidell. The trail that runs along a disused railway passes right through the middle of Abita Springs.

7. Spend a day fishing in the Biloxi Marsh

50 minutes from New Orleans (34 miles)

If you love fishing or have never caught a fish in your life, there are few better ways to spend a day than go on a fishing boat through the marshes, waterways, lakes and rivers found in the delta of the Mississippi.

The Biloxi Marsh sits along the edge of Lake Borgne and is a huge mix of connecting waterways with grass, trees and other swamp vegetation creating the perfect habitat for fish.

There are a few fishing companies that operate out of Hopedale offering the opportunity to catch redfish, flounder, drum, speckled trout and sheepshead. The best time to go is around sunrise - remember to book ahead and allow at least 5 to 6 hours for the day trip.

For those who like to catch fish the old fashioned way, redfish are popular with anglers in the area and they can be pretty big.

The tours are expensive - expect to spend $500 to $1,000 for a decent one as well as forking out $10 for a fishing licence (get it online in advance). At the end of your trip, you can have your fish cooked at one of the local restaurants for a perfect late lunch!

8. Houma - Louisiana's Bayou Country

1 hour from New Orleans (58 miles)

Many people automatically think that New Orleans epitomizes everything about Louisiana but wait until you've had a chance to visit Houma, an hour southwest of The Big Easy.

Bayous, swamps and tall dark cypress trees growing out of the water. Tick. Large colonial mansions and column-fronted historic houses. Also tick.

The plantation chosen as the set of the oscar-winning 12 Years A Slave is the Magnolia Plantation, a few minutes drive out of the city. Some of the best Cajun restaurants you will find anywhere in Louisiana along with live music are right here - sat along the Bayou Terrebonne.

I am not talking fancy. I mean the real deal mom and pop's type of place where you'll find the darkest, thickest and best tasting gumbo you've ever had. I might be biased - the Louisiana Cajun gumbo is my all time favorite dish I have ever tried and I'm not normally a seafood guy.

9. Bay St. Louis and Gulfport, Mississippi

1 hour 15 minutes from New Orleans (78 miles)

If the goal of your day trip from New Orleans is to find yourself a pristine sand beach where you can lie on a lounge chair and listen to the waves roll in while listening to panpipes music (this bit is optional), the Gulfport coast is the closest option available.

It'll take a little over an hour to get to Bay St. Louis up the I-10 and across the border into Mississippi. Gulfport is another 20 minutes further along the coast and the entire way you'll have pristine white sand to your right.

The scenery is perfect for a relaxing day out - the houses on stilts and the harbor are worth a stroll and you can grab lunch looking out to the sea in Pass Christian or Gulfport.

Take care if you're visiting in early summer - the Mississippi can have high flows starting in late spring and the high volumes of fresh water can close the beaches due to algae growth.

10. Bogue Chitto State Park

1 hour 20 minutes from New Orleans (63 miles)

The Bogue Chitto State Park sits along a length of the Bogue Chitto river that meanders south from Franklinton just over an hour north of New Orleans.

Bogue Chitto is known for its diversity - you've got hardwood forests lining the banks of a fast flowing river and a mile away is a swamp with cypress trees growing out of the water.

Entrance to the park is only $3 per person and if you come when the weather is good, you can paddle along the river in a canoe or kayak, set up a picnic under a live oak tree or check out the sandstone spires of Fricke's Cave.

Before you head back to New Orleans, cross over to the east bank of the river through Franklinton and make a stop at the C&C Smokehouse down Highway 16. This is the place to buy out of this world wild game smoked sausages and meats.

For the more adventurous, try the hog head cheese - it's not actually a cheese, but a terrine made with meat from parts of a hog's head - a local speciality!

11. Baton Rouge, Louisiana

1 hour 20 minutes from New Orleans (82 miles)

We love a day trip from New Orleans to Baton Rouge so much we have two of them on our list! This one takes half the time - the other is the drive up the Great River Road (#24 below) that will take a good 3 hours following the twists and turns of the Mississippi before you add the plantation stops along the way.

If you're keen and want to set off early, you could take the slow route up to Baton Rouge, check out the sights and plantations, then have lunch and spend the rest of the day in Baton Rouge before heading back.

Baton Rouge is the capital of the State of Louisiana and being right in the middle of southern Louisiana, it has a bit of everything for you to see. When you first arrive you'll notice the somewhat unusual State Capitol building.

Where most States build a dome-capped 2 to 4 floor building, the locals felt that a 450 foot (137 m) tall building with 34 stories is more appropriate. Especially as it was designed and built during the Great Depression!

If you want to spend longer than a day here, there's plenty to see and do without having to go far.

The Old Governor's Mansion, Old State Capitol, the Capitol Park Museum, Spanish Town Historic District, Pentagon Barracks Museum, LSU Museum of Art are all within a 10 minute walk of the Capitol building.

12. Ocean Springs, Mississippi

1 hour 25 minutes from New Orleans (92 miles)

If you are longing for the beach and you've done Bay St. Louis and Gulfport or you're after more of a seaside resort feel, then add the extra 10-20 minutes and keep on driving along the Mississippi coast until you get to Ocean Springs.

Ocean Springs is all about the sea - it sits in the Gulf Islands National Seashore which is one of only two along the entire stretch of the U.S. Gulf Coast (the other one is Padre Island near the Mexican border in Texas).

Things to do include relaxing on Front Beach (also called the Ocean Springs Beach), checking out the spectacular Biloxi Bay Bridge and the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum across the bridge in Biloxi.

For those who don't want to spend their entire day on the beach, there are a few great art museums - check out the Walter Anderson Museum of Art and the Ocean Springs Museum in Ocean Springs and the Ohr-O'Keefe Museum of Art across in Biloxi.

But beach is what you really are coming to Ocean Springs for - the Front Beach in Ocean Springs is relaxed and the water is calm as Deer Island creates a natural bay.

Biloxi Beach stretches further and can be quieter and the water is still relatively calm - a few long barrier islands further out in the Gulf break the sea waves before they reach Biloxi but they are so far out you won't see them.

13. Drive to Louisiana's southernmost point - Venice in Plaquemines Parish

1 hour 30 minutes from New Orleans (80 miles)

It might seem that New Orleans is about as far south as you can go in Louisiana - there are miles upon miles of marshland that separate The Crescent City from mainland Louisiana.

So you may be surprised to know that you can head south out of the city along Louisiana Highway 23 and keep going for another 90 minutes until you get to Venice. The highway follows the land that has been created by soil deposited by the Mississippi as it has flown into the Gulf.

Over the years over 80 miles of this soil have created a long stretch of land along both banks of the river and Venice is the last port you can drive to.

Its unique location means everything here is about the river and the Gulf - you can do almost every kind of fishing that exists. From large tuna in the gulf to redfish in the many bays and marshes to freshwater crawfish.

If fishing is not your thing, then grab a seat at one of the amazing fish restaurants in Venice and take a leisurely lunch trying the best of the morning's catch!

I was thinking what to suggest for those who don't like fish or fishing. The best answer is to keep reading - Venice, Louisiana is not the place for you!

14. De Soto National Forest, Mississippi

1 hour 50 minutes from New Orleans (119 miles)

If you've had enough of bayous, marshes, alligators and fish and want a good old trip to a National Forest for your day out from New Orleans, the best option is the De Soto National Forest in Mississippi.

Named after the famous 16th century explorer of the Americas, Hernando De Soto, the forest has everything you'd want for the perfect day trip.

Hiking trails, horseback trails, ATV offroad vehicle and bike trails, special driving trails, rivers you can canoe, paddleboard or kayak along are the ways you can explore the area.

If you do fancy a bit of fishing the lakes and Black Creek offer plenty of options. Otherwise you can do things like hunting, shooting or even disc golfing.

Not sure what disc golfing is? It's basically playing a golf-type game, except you use a frisbee instead of golf balls and clubs. It is awesome fun and you can spend a good few hours at the 18-hole course at Ashe Lake Recreation Area.

15. St. Francisville

1 hour 50 minutes from New Orleans (112 miles)

If you want a day trip out to see the best of traditional Louisiana and learn about local history, then head up the Mississippi river to St. Francisville.

I say head up the river loosely - if you literally follow the Great River Road from New Orleans, it'll take you a solid 4 hours to get to St. Francisville and that's before accounting for any stops.

Instead, follow the much faster I-10 to Baton Rouge and US-61 from there to St. Francisville. By all means, do drive along the Great River Road (we have a shorter drive along it at #24 below), but if you do, you'll need to make it into at least a weekend away to make the most of the trip.

When you get to St. Francisville, take a long stroll through the historic district to find amazing houses, shops, churches and a courthouse listed on the national historic registry.

Just outside the town, there are 6 plantations that are open to visitors where you can explore the mansions and the grounds on the bank of the Mississippi.

If you have time on your hands, the Angola Museum is another 30 minutes further north from St. Francisville. It is the only museum located in an active U.S. maximum security prison and details the history of what is known as America's Bloodiest Prison.

16. Go on an airboat tour to the Atchafalaya Swamp

2 hours from New Orleans (125 miles)

If you've never experienced it, there are few things that are more Louisiana than going on an airboat tour through gator-infested marshes.

One of the best places you can do this is in the Atchafalaya Swamp - about 2 hours headed west along the I-10 from New Orleans and just before you get to Breaux Bridge (see #17 below) and Lafayette (#20).

If you don't know what an airboat is, I bet you've seen them dozens of times in movies. They are flat and wide boats with a giant propeller on the back. The propeller means the boat can make it through thick marshland without getting stuck in the weeds.

In Atchafalaya, you'll find all the key ingredients to a proper Louisiana swamp - the tall cypress trees growing straight out of the water, the still waters of the bays and lakes and the occasional alligator coming to say hello.

It's an experience like no other and if you are in New Orleans and there's just one day trip you're going to take, this is probably it!

Make sure you book ahead - the tours can sell out in advance and they usually take around 2 hours all in. If you take one of the early or late tours, you can drive along the Great River Road (see #24 below) on the way there or back to make for the ultimate Louisiana day trip!

17. Breaux Bridge - a day trip to Cajun Country

2 hours from New Orleans (128 miles)

Breaux Bridge is a town near Lafayette that has declared itself to be the Crawfish Capital of the World.

Sitting on the Bayou Teche, there are some amazing local restaurants where you can try Cajun and Creole food - seriously do give the crawfish a try. You've driven 2 hours to get here!

Sitting right on the edge of the Atchafalaya Swamp and with Lake Martin within walking distance of the city, make sure you find time to explore the outdoors.

From unique Louisiana cypress trees and plants to birds and gators, it's well worth spending at least part of the day trip outside downtown Breaux Bridge.

In the town itself, the bridge after which it was named is not much of an attraction - it's an old iron bridge that spans the Bayou Teche below and connects the busier downtown to the east bank part of the city.

The Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival at the beginning of May is a great time to come - you can try every kind of crawfish dish that you can think of (and many more you can't).

You can also watch some seriously wacky events like crawfish racing (no, really!) and a crawfish eating contest. Plan ahead and make it a full weekend if you have the luxury of time!

18. A day trip to the beach on Grand Isle, Louisiana

2 hours from New Orleans (108 miles)

Grand Isle is the only barrier island off the Louisiana Coast that you can drive to and is a few miles east of Venice (#13 above).

The reasons to come and list of things to do is similar to Venice, although Grand Isle is a little better set up for visitors. Fishing is the name of the game and you can go out on a fishing boat or just sit back and watch the boats come and go from the marina.

There are great restaurants and bars along the island and a few hotels you can spend the night if you want to enjoy an evening meal.

Right at the end of Grand Isle is the Grand Isle State Park. The beach that runs the whole length of the island continues through the park and the pier is the most popular spot for fishers as well as a great place to watch the birds and waves of the park.

The beaches here are amazing and the season is long. The relatively unknown location and the 2 hour drive from New Orleans means that they are much less crowded than the options along the Mississippi coast

Use this to your advantage and make your day trip from New Orleans all about relaxing on the white sand with the Gulf of Mexico waves rolling in.

19. Mobile, Alabama

2 hours 10 minutes from New Orleans (144 miles)

Mobile is one of the furthest day trips on our list and the only one that doesn't take you to Louisiana or even one of its neighbor states

To get to Mobile, you have to follow the coastline east through the width of Mississippi and across the State border into Alabama. The I-10 will take you the entire way which should make it a relatively straight-forward 2 hour drive.

Mobile is one of the oldest cities along the Gulf Coast and there is a lot to see and do here - certainly plenty for a day trip and more than enough if you want to make it into a whole weekend away.

Fort Conde is an interesting visit - it's only a scale reconstruction of the original one as the old structure was gradually torn down to make way for the city of Mobile.

The historic district is great for a stroll to see some buildings that date as far back as the 1830s and there are some very good art and history museums.

Don't miss the USS Alabama battleship. It was built for and decommissioned after World War II and you can tour it to see everything on board as well as fighter planes of the era in the Memorial Park.

In the afternoon, hop across Mobile Bay and spend some time in Fairhope - it is a beautiful small town that has an art culture and some amazing local restaurants. Get your dinner early before heading back to New Orleans.

If you're coming during the summer, the beaches down in Gulf Shores are a great way to spend a few hours. However, if you're just coming for the day, it might be a lot to fit in and there are other beaches that are just as great closer to New Orleans.

20. Dive into Cajun culture in Lafayette, Louisiana

2 hours 10 minutes from New Orleans (136 miles)

A 2 hour drive from New Orleans in the opposite direction along the I-10 will get you to Lafayette - the Heart of Cajun Country.

You will pass right through the Atchafalaya Swamp (#16 above) and past Breaux Bridge (#17) - you can easily add these to your itinerary to make more of the day trip.

Lafayette is rich in cultural sites and the two main places to visit are Vermilionville and the Acadian Village. Both are a little outside downtown and detail the history of the Acadian (Cajun) people.

The Acadian people originally settled in what is today's Quebec and parts of northeastern United States. During the settlement, wars and expansion during the 18th century, they were moved to Louisiana creating the unique French-inspired cultural mix.

Both are villages with homes and other buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries and offer an amazing insight into the lives of these people when Louisiana was building its roots.

Downtown Lafayette is worth some time as well - a lot of the lively restaurants, bars and music venues as well as quirky shops are along Jefferson Street.

Alongside museums, there are a few great parks too including the famous Cypress Lake (in the picture above). There are few inner city parks that can make you feel this far away from the hustle and bustle!

21. Visit the home of Tabasco Sauce on Avery Island

2 hours 15 minutes from New Orleans (138 miles)

Getting to Avery Island from New Orleans will take a little over 2 hours along Highway 90. The word island is used frequently in Louisiana and its use is pretty flexible - don't expect to have to take a ferry to get here. The various bayous and streams do segment the land into technical islands, but it's all very much part of the mainland.

Avery Island sits on top of a huge rock salt deposit with an estimated several miles of pure salt underneath it.

But the most famous thing about the island is that it is the birthplace and the only factory in the world that produces Tabasco Sauce. Wherever you might have found the hot sauce, this is the place it was made!

You can go on a self-guided tour of the factory. There is a huge amount of information and videos that detail every step in the manufacturing process.

At the end, pop into the Tabasco Country Store. Aside from the mementos and gifts, there is a big selection of sauces, dips and foods that are all based on Tabasco. We're talking things like very spicy soup and Tabasco flavour ice cream. You know you have to try it!

22. Natchez, Mississippi

2 hours 45 minutes from New Orleans (172 miles)

One of the best places to explore real Southern culture, history and architecture is, funny as it sounds, almost 3 hours north of New Orleans in the city of Natchez.

We're getting into the realm of pretty long drives towards the end of the list so if you want to make the most of the day, you'll need to set off early and plan to have you dinner late, on the way or before you set off!

Natchez sits on the Mississippi river and is the oldest European settlement along the length of the river having been founded 2 years before New Orleans.

The city is full of character - there's the finest antebellum homes, some of which are open to visitors, and some grand plantations within and just outside the city.

Over 1,000 of the houses in Natchez are on the National Register of Historic Places and if you time your day trip right, the Natchez Pilgrimage is an event that runs twice a year over a few weeks in spring and fall.

During this time, some of the finest classic private houses open their doors to visitors for tours which is a unique way to see these buildings in use today.

23. Jackson, Mississippi

2 hours 50 minutes from New Orleans (187 miles)

A little further north than Natchez and 45 minutes' drive east from the Mississippi is the city of Jackson. It should take about as long to get here as Natchez along the I-55 which runs almost directly north from New Orleans.

Like Natchez, if you want to visit Jackson on a day trip, an early morning start will set you up nicely and give you the time to see all the main sights.

Jackson was one of the most prominent cities during the Civil Rights Movement and there is a lot to take in - the Smith Robertson Museum is located on the site of the first public school for African-American students and well worth visiting.

The Farish Street Historical District is a neighborhood where all you have to do is stroll and soak in the history - the area was home to one of the largest communities of Black-owned businesses in the country in the 19th and 20th centuries.

The Mississippi Civil Rights Museum is a good place to complete your cultural tour.

As Jackson is the capital of the State of Mississippi, don't miss out on the rest of what it has to offer. There are two State Capitol buildings - the old one is a museum but you can go inside the new one too to have a look.

In Jackson's Fondren District you'll find some quirky shops and bars and there are lots of museums, galleries and places to visit - the Mississippi Museum of Art being the best known with a large collection of American artists and a particular focus on local Mississippi painters.

24. See the plantations along the Great River Road

2 hours 50 minutes from New Orleans (123 miles)

This is an amazing day trip out of New Orleans and highly recommended if you want to dive into the culture and history of Louisiana.

The driving time here is a little deceptive - it'll take a good 3 hours to drive up the Great River Road from New Orleans to Baton Rouge, but it's only about an hour and 20 minutes to drive back along the I-10 and unlike the other destinations on our list, the driving is part of the experience!

The Great River road is not strictly speaking a specific road - it's actually a number of different roads that run along both banks of the Mississippi all the way up the country.

In some states, this road is a big deal and you'll see massive signs that are easy to follow. In Louisiana, you'll need a little self guidance and you might not see a single reference to the road on your way if you're not looking carefully enough!

Some of the most outstanding plantations in the whole country can be found along the Great River Road. The Oak Alley plantation has the famous oak tree-lined drive to its front door and Whitney Plantation is a museum dedicated to slavery in the Southern United States.

It can take 2 to 3 hours per stop so pick the plantations you want to see and plan your journey in advance!

25. Lake Charles, Louisiana

3 hours 10 minutes from New Orleans (207 miles)

The furthest option on our list will take just over 3 hours of driving along the I-10 west from New Orleans.

Lake Charles is known for its party atmosphere - the Festival Capital of Louisiana hosts over 75 different festivals through the year with the State's 2nd largest Mardi Gras through to quirky events like the Louisiana Pirate Festival.

Located close to the border with Texas, Lake Charles is known for its casinos and gambling as much as the nature that surrounds it.

Sure - the Sam Houston State Park, some of the local trails, 5 National Wildlife Refuges and even more local conservation areas are amazing for exploring the best of Louisiana's wildlife, but there are many places much closer to New Orleans for day trips to forests and bayous for gator spotting.

If you're in town to party and plan to spend some time at the local casinos, you might want to stay the night rather than drive back home in the early hours. Places like the Golden Nugget Casino and its neighbor L'Auberge Lake come with fancy rooms, spas, restaurants and endless game options that wouldn't look out of place in Las Vegas.

Don't miss out on the historic parts of Lake Charles - the Charpentier Historic District has some 400 homes and buildings and the 1911 Historic City Hall is a great place to visit to see art and learn about the city's history.

If you want to take the scenic route on the way up to Lake Charles, the Great River Road, Baton Rouge, Atchafalaya Swamp, Breaux Bridge and Lafayette are all en route and all in our list above in their own right.

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Best Day Trips from New Orleans, Louisiana. Self-Guided Driving Tour

New Orleans, Louisiana, is chalk full of things to do . but there is also so much more to explore outside of New Orleans on a day trip. Use this list and the map below to take yourself on a self-guided driving tour of day trips from New Orleans, Louisiana.

If your reading this and thinking “ Do I need to rent a car on my visit to New Orleans? ” The answer is yes if you’d like to check out the best days trips outside of New Orleans. You can check out Discover Cars to find the best deals on rental cars.

Before leaving the city, start your trip off right with some of the best banh mis found in New Orleans! Founded in East New Orleans at 14207 Chef Menteur Hwy, Dong Phuong Bakery and Restaurant is a local tradition. They first opened 30 years ago and specialize in French pastries and Vietnamese sweets and cuisine. Some feature items include Banh Mi Box and Steamed Bao. They are open every day except Tuesday from 8 am – 5 pm. More information can be found on their website .

Bánh mìs are Vietnamese sandwiches that are a fusion of traditional Vietnamese and French food.

Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge is found within the city limits of New Orleans. The 23,000-acre brackish nature reserve is one of the largest urban wildlife refuges and is integral to the hurricane levees of New Orleans. There are numerous nature trails to explore, and it’s home to a wide variety of wildlife. Make sure to visit the nature reserve’s official page for the most updated information.

Fisherman’s Castle at the Irish Bayou is a small castle built on the Irish Bayou in honor of the 1984 World’s Fair that was held in New Orleans. It is meant to resemble a 14th century French Chateau. It was built strong enough to withstand Hurricanes Katrina and Isaac. Unfortunately, the only way to visit is to view it from the street.

The John C. Stennis Space Center is in Mississippi and is one of ten field stations owned by NASA in the United States. The site was originally founded to assist with the Saturn rockets that were found on the Apollo spaceships. Later on, the NASA location continued to work as a testing site for various rockets used by NASA over the decades. Today, this space center is one of the largest rocket test facilities in the United States and houses the Infinity Science Center . The Infinity Science Center hosts the Stennis Space Center and has many exhibits connected to the work of the space center and about science including meteorology and local ecosystems. This is a place not to be missed. They’re open Thursday – Sunday from 9:00 am – 4 pm; prices of admission can be found on the website .

Boy Scout Road Trail is a hiking trail found in Lacombe, Louisiana, in Big Branch Marsh. The trail is five miles long and takes visitors through a boardwalk trail through the many landscapes of the area. Visitors can try and birdwatch for many of Louisiana’s waterfowl and other native animals. Make sure to follow the visiting hours of Big Branch Marsh to access this hiking trail.

You might catch a glimpse of some wild flowers.

Part of the Tammany Trace Trail that goes from Slidell, Louisiana to Covington, Louisiana. You can park and ride this 7.17-mile trail on your bicycle and it’s a great way to see the Northshore. Park and Ride Slidell Trail is located near various restaurants and shops that you can explore afterward as well. There is also a playground located in downtown Slidell at Heritage Park. Visitors can also visit the 9/11 Memorial Plaza. For more information, including directions and other important news, visit this site .

Located in St. Tammany Parish, Fontainebleau State Park is open daily for exploration. The land was originally owned by Bernard de Marigny in the early 1800s as a sugar mill. There are sources that have documented this area as the home of 153 enslaved persons in 1840. De Marigny was also the founder of the city of Mandeville. This location is on the Louisiana African American Heritage Trail. Today, Fontainebleau State Park hosts overnight camping, a playground, and many areas to explore. There is also a nature trail to hike. Unfortunately, Fontainebleau State Park suffered some damage from Hurricane Ida in 2021, so visit their page for the latest updates and more information.

This park is also accessible via the Tammany Trace bike path.

Mandeville, found in southern Louisiana, was originally a stop steamboat traffic during the mid-19th century and later became a weekend getaway for the residents of New Orleans. Today, Mandeville is a stunning lakefront community rich in history. Mandeville is also home to landmarks such as Ruby’s Roadhouse , a local establishment with a long tradition of jazz that continues today, and other historic sites including The Dew Drop Jazz and Benevolent Social Hall . The Old Mandeville Jail is also worth checking out. Located on 1900 Madison Street, the jail was built in 1938. Despite being built by the city, there was no official record of it. It had red bricks and iron bars. NOLA.com even highlighted the comparisons this jail had to the one found in Mayberry on The Andy Griffith Show. In addition, there are numerous local, quaint eateries and shops to visit as well.

The Dew Drop.

Located in Madisonville, Louisiana, the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Maritime Museum was once the location of the Jahncke Shipyard dating back to 1900. Their exhibits include information about the Jahncke Shipyard exhibit, the Civil War submarine exhibit, information about the lighthouses in Louisiana, learning about steamboats and the steamboat era, and dioramas depicting the Tchefuncte Bayou and 19th-century life in the bayou. It’s open Tuesday – Saturday 1 pm – 4 pm (10 am on Saturdays). Additional information can be found on their website .

Abita Springs is found east of New Orleans in the St. Tammany Parish. Abita Springs is a small town that has been known for its many things. Originally it was known as the home to the Choctaw Native Americans until settlers came to the area in 1820. Later, Abita Springs became known for its medical properties in 1887 found in its springs. It attracted many doctors and patients to try its curable possibilities. Today, Abita Springs continues to host the small-town appeal. They still celebrate the springs with the Abita Springs Water Festival in October The city offers many things to do and explore. You can explore many local restaurants and sights. Probably one of the most famous places to visit is Abita Brew Pub , home to the same company that owns Abita Brewery. But there is more to see and do. For nature lovers, there is the Abita Springs Trailhead and Park and the Tammany Trace, a 31-mile bike path that stretches from Covington to Slidell. There is also the Abita Springs Museum filled with local art and the Abita Springs Farmers Market. The city also hosts a series of local and musical events including the Abita Springs Opry, the Northshore Cajun Dance, Earth Fest, and Busker Fest. For more information, visit the city’s local page .

The Abita Mystery House/UCM Museum is located outside of New Orleans near Abita Springs. It is an odd museum with folk art, homemade inventions, and other odds and ends located in a vintage gas station. There is something for everyone and was featured on the show American Pickers. Currently, it is closed due to covid/damage from Hurricane Ida. Visit their website for more up-to-date information or give them a call at 985-373-0097.

Abita Trailhead Museum is also found in Abita Springs at 22044 Main Street and is located near the Tammany Trail. This small-town museum features a lot of information about the local history and art of Abita Springs. Exhibits are changing so there is always something new to explore. In addition, the Abita Trailhead Museum features events like Cajun Dance, Push Mow Parade, Busker Festival, the Whole Town Garage Sale, and En Plein Air. Make sure to check their calendar of events to see what is coming up. They’re open Fridays and Saturdays 10 am – 4 pm and on Sundays from 10 am – 3 pm. Admission is free.

Louisiana Highway 22 stretches from Mandeville all the way to Livingston Parish. This stretch of highway offers scenic views that go through rural and suburban roads. Some notable places Highway 22 goes through and is near places like Houmas House Plantation and Gardens and the Lake Maurepas Swamp . One can view a variety of natural sights and quaint places. This twisting road is great for those who love exploring or want to enjoy an exciting motorcycle or car ride.

Avery Island is found in the Iberia Parish of Louisiana and is famously the home of the Tabasco Factory , the makers of the legendary hot sauce. Avery Island itself has more than just the Tabasco factory. It is also home to Jungle Gardens and a bird refuge. Avery Island rests on a huge salt deposit across over 2,000 acres that had served Native Americans and, later, settlers when it was resettled in the early 19th century. Three families (Avery, Marsh, and McIlhenney), all interrelated, have called it home. The Jungle Gardens was founded in 1895 by Edward Avery “Ned” McIlhenny. He continued his conservation efforts and decorated Jungle Gardens with other exotic plants along with the native species. This can still be seen today. People can visit the Tabasco Factory with a self-guided tour or visit Jungle Gardens and do a tour there as well. Visit the respective website for more information.

The Jungle Gardens.

Ville Platte is the largest part of the Evangeline Parish, found West of New Orleans. Ville Platte, translated roughly to mean “flat town,” is also known as the “Smoked Meat Capital of the World” and is home to the Louisiana Smoked Meat Festival . In addition, Ville Platte also claims the title of the “Swamp Pop Music Capital of the World.” Swamp Pop is a style of music that was popularized in the 1950s. Ville Platte is also home to the Swamp Pop Museum, which is open Friday and Saturday 10 am – 3 pm. Chicot State Park is also located nearby. Ville Platte has many roots in Creole and Cajun culture and influences on Afro-creole zydeco music. Ville Platte offers many things to do and explore.

True Detective is an American anthology crime TV show that was shown on HBO from 2014 to 2019. The first season took place in Vermillion Parish, Louisiana, around the murder of Dora Lange in 1995. One of the more interesting places featured in the backdrop of Louisiana was the tree where the first body was found. The iconic tree that serves as a backdrop is found in Vacherie, Louisiana, and still can be found today.

Oak Alley Plantation is located on the Mississippi River in the St. James Parish of Louisiana. The land was purchased in 1830 by Valcour Aime to grow sugar cane, however, it was later given to his brother-in-law, Jacques Télesphore Roman, who later built Oak Alley. While the plantation was not physically damaged during the Civil War, the war did drive it to financial ruin where it was later sold in 1866. The plantation fell into disrepair until it was bought by private owners in 1920. It was opened to the public in 1972.

The Oak Alley Plantation is an example of Greek Revival architecture and is worth seeing in person up close. At the same time, the plantation still remembers its past and reminds visitors of the slaves who built and maintained the property going to the emancipated laborers who maintained it while living in poor conditions during the 20th century through a self-guided tour. Visitors can also learn about the Oak Alley gardens and Louisiana blacksmithing as well. If you’re interested in taking a tour, contact them and visit the Oak Alley Plantation website for the latest up-to-date information.

Whitney Plantation was founded in 1752 by German immigrants, the Haydels, until it was sold in 1867 to businessman Bradish Johnson. From there it got its name, the Whitney Plantation, from one of Johnson’s daughters. It became a public museum in December 2014. The Whitney Plantation focuses on the history of slavery and remembers the lessons learned from it. It illustrates the history of slavery, how they had to work the trade of indigo and sugar, and slave owners grew profits at the expense of the slaves.

On the property, the main house is an example of French-Creole raised-tradition. There are other buildings including a dovecote, a plantation store, a French Creole barn, and slave quarters. This place is both the National Register of Historic places and the Louisiana African American Heritage Trail. The Whitney Plantation is located at 5099 Highway 18 in Wallace, Louisiana. They are open 9:30 am – 4:30 pm with tours going from 10 am- 4 pm (last entry 3 pm). Visit their website for the most up-to-date information and to schedule a tour.

Chauvin, Louisiana, is a small town located within the Terrebonne Parish. In addition to visiting the quaint town, Chauvin is also home to the Sculpture Park . Found on Bayou Petit Caillou, the park is home to many works of art created by bricklayer Kenny Hill back in 1990. There are over 100 sculptures about Hill’s life including a 45-foot lighthouse to a cowboy. During the course that Hill lived there creating his art, he kept to himself and insisted that his art not be shared. However, he left the property in January 2000 after being evicted. In 2002, it was turned into a park and opened to the public.

Grand Isle is found on one of Louisiana’s southern barrier islands, south of New Orleans, in Jefferson Parish. There are numerous beaches and fishing spots to explore in Grand Isle. For bird lovers, Grand Isle hosts the Grand Isle Migratory Bird Festival every year where people gather to learn about the local wildlife. Grand Isle is also home to Grand Isle State Park , which offers a beach, fishing, and birdwatching opportunities. Unfortunately, the park is temporarily closed due to damage from Hurricane Ida but visit the website for the latest details. Grand Isle is also a great place to visit if you’re into fishing. The barrier island is also home to many conservation efforts to preserve the integrity of Louisiana’s Gulf Coast. Grand Isle also has a wide variety of shops and restaurants to visit. This isn’t a place to be missed; you can learn more about visiting Grand Isle here .

Pirates weren’t just found in the Caribbean, but also Louisiana! John Laffite is the most famous pirate in the area. There is not a lot known about John Laffite, but records show he was residing in New Orleans by 1810. In 1807, the United States banned trading with Great Britain and France. This impacted merchants everywhere, including in New Orleans, and businesses began to run out of supplies to sell. Plantations were also having difficulty finding slaves to work for them. As a result, Laffite stepped in.

The National Park Service points out that Laffite was quick not to associate himself as being a pirate, but a privateer (and even then, the National Park Service emphasizes he considered himself to be more of a businessman). A privateer is commissioned by a government to take ships and supplies at sea on their behalf. Privateers were a common thing throughout the 18th century on all sides. According to the National Park Service, Laffite and his men received their privateer papers from Cartagena (present-day Columbia), but the United States failed to recognize these papers. As a result, Lafitte and his men were seen as pirates. Laffite and his men worked the swamps and lands around Barataria. His men became known as the Barataraians. He established an elaborate operation that included infrastructure and people working for him. During the War of 1812, the British reached out to Lafitte to help wage war against the Americans on their behalf. Instead, Lafitte warned American authorities in exchange for pardons for his men. He helped General Andrew Jackson with his battles in Louisiana and the Battle of New Orleans.

In 1966, Louisiana established the Barataria Reserve, which later became the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Reserve. Today, these areas are open and worth exploring. Because Jean Laffite has many connections to history and Louisiana, there isn’t one specific place to visit. Instead, if you want to explore Laffite’s entire story, there are multiple parks and places to visit. You can look at the National Park Service’s official page of Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Reserve to see what is currently open and the hours of operation.

Taking a swamp tour is another popular option for visitors. Not only can you explore the swamps of John Laffite’s Louisiana, but you can get up-close and personal with the diverse ecosystems of the Gulf coast. There is no other place like it in the country. There are plenty of tour guides and companies that offer swamp tours via airboat, kayak, or boat. But if you’re willing to take time to drive out into the swamps, there are also opportunities to do self-tours as well!

St. Bernard Parish is located south of New Orleans but is still considered part of that metro area. Many original residents were of Spanish descent, became known as “Spanish Cajuns” and even developed their own dialect. St. Bernard’s itself was important following the years after the Civil War where militants tried to suppress the votes of recently emancipated freed African Americans who threatened to vote for Ulysses S. Grant. But today, St. Bernard Parish makes for an ideal day trip while visiting southern Louisiana. If restaurants are your thing, there are numerous cuisines and establishments to eat from. There is also a State Park to explore. In addition, there are many attractions including 40 Apent Wetlands Observatory, Historic Beauregard Courthouse, the Hurricane Katrina Memorial, and the Chalmette Battlefield (this includes the location of the Battle of New Orleans in 1815 where Jean Lafitte helped defeat the British). There is St. Bernard’s State Park to name a few. Nearby St. Bernard’s State Park, you can find L os Isleños Heritage and Cultural Society of St. Bernard , a site dedicated to the cultural history of Los Isleños. You can visit the St. Bernard’s Parish Tourist Commission for more information about the sites and locations.

Shell Beach is a small community found in the St. Bernard Parish of Louisiana. Many original residents of St. Bernard’s Parish were of Spanish descent and made up the Isleños or Spanish Cajuns. As mentioned previously, St. Bernard Parish is a community full of scenic places and cultural experiences to explore. Shell Beach is included in this. It is the perfect place to explore and escape. There is a beach access and areas for fishing and boating. It is also close to Fort Proctor , an abandoned 19th-century fort that can be accessed by boat.

Fort Proctor, only accessible by boat.

What Nola Tour Guy is about:

Nola Tour Guy is a collective of passionate guides, both men and women, who are experts in the history of New Orleans. Our goals are to give tours that are intellectually stimulating, historically accurate and FUN. We only offer walking tours because we believe that walking is the best way to see a city and learn about it and at a price everyone can afford. Nola Tour Guy offers no novelty tours only the real history brought to life by our passionate guides. Join us, you won’t be disappointed..

Our guide to Planning your Trip to New Orleans

Let us help you plan your trip to New Orleans. We are experts of all things New Orleans and we’ve been putting our knowledge together into a guide. This guide is a collection of articles that can act as a free trip planning guide giving you an idea of some of the best things to do, tours that are worth your time and money, places to see and where to eat. So check out our free trip planning guide.

Author:  Kelly Perriello

Kelly Perriello holds masters in English from Old Dominion University and has fascinated by the history and stories of New Orleans since she was a child. When she isn't busy writing, she can be found reading, watching her favorite tv shows, and chilling with her cats

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from New Orleans

Day trips from new orleans.

• New Orleans to Vacherie
• New Orleans to Westwego
• New Orleans to Luling
• New Orleans to Gramercy
• New Orleans to Donaldsonville
• New Orleans to Marrero
• New Orleans to Saint Francisville
• New Orleans to Maurepas
• Private Day Trips
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Swamp Boat Ride and Oak Alley Plantation Tour from New Orleans

2. Oak Alley Plantation Tour with Transportation from New Orleans

3. Oak Alley Plantation and Large Airboat Swamp Tour from New Orleans

4. Whitney Plantation Tour with Transportation from New Orleans

5. Oak Alley Plantation and Swamp Boat Tour from New Orleans

6. Airboat and Plantations Tour with Gourmet Lunch from New Orleans

7. Whitney Plantation and Airboat Tour from New Orleans

8. Manchac Swamp Kayak Tour - Extended

9. New Orleans City and Swamp Full-Day Tour

10. Small-Group Laura and Whitney Plantation Tour from New Orleans

11. Oak Alley and Laura Plantation Tour with Transportation from New Orleans

12. Oak Alley Plantation Half-Day Tour from New Orleans

13. Oak Alley Plantation and Small Airboat Tour from New Orleans

14. Whitney Plantation & Museum Tour

15. Full Day Plantation - N- Swamp Tour in New Orleans

16. Airboat Swamp and Destrehan Plantation Tour from New Orleans

17. Destrehan Plantation and Swamp Tour from New Orleans

18. Whitney Plantation Tour with Transportation from New Orleans

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Best Day Trips From New Orleans, Louisiana (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Make the most of your time in the Big Easy with this guide to the most incredible day trips from New Orleans! You won’t want to plan your visit without this!

New Orleans is an amazing city on the Mississippi River that blends art, history, and culture.

Whether reveling in the festivities of Bourbon Street, exploring the solemn beauty of St. Louis Cemetery, or savoring the soulful sounds of jazz in the birthplace of the genre, New Orleans beckons visitors with its dynamic spirit, celebrating both the exuberance of life and the resilience of a city with a captivating cultural mosaic.

Visitors can go for a jazz cruise on the Mississippi River or admire historic mansions in the New Orleans French Quarter. But these day trips from New Orleans are a great way to take your exploring outside the city center!

Explore Cajun country with a visit to Lafayette and tour the Acadian Cultural Center, or admire historic buildings in the Louisiana state capital of Baton Rouge.

Lounge on beaches and swim in Lake Pontchartrain, or tour the Tabasco Factory in Avery Island. Whether you’re looking for a town filled with American history or a serene escape into nature, here are some great day trip options from New Orleans!

Check out these fun things to do in New Orleans for some inspiration before you head out of the city.

Table of Contents

Fontainebleau State Park

Lake charles, avery island, jean lafitte national historic park and preserve, honey island swamp, baton rouge, global wildlife center, de soto national forest, atchafalaya natural heritage area, oak alley plantation, ocean springs, stennis space center, abita springs, best day trips from new orleans.

From exploring the greenery in De Soto National Forest to visiting a historic plantation on the Mississippi River, here are some of the top day trips from New Orleans.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

• Distance from New Orleans: 38 miles
• Driving time: 47 minutes

Situated on the shores of Lake Pontchartrain in Mandeville, Louisiana, Fontainebleau State Park is a scenic haven that combines natural beauty with historical significance.

Covering over 2,800 acres, the park features diverse ecosystems, including swamps, hardwood forests, and waterfront areas, creating an ideal setting for outdoor recreation and nature appreciation.

The park’s picturesque trails wind through ancient live oaks draped in Spanish moss, providing a tranquil escape for hikers, birdwatchers, and nature enthusiasts.

Visitors can explore the park’s sandy beaches, fish along the shoreline or Lake Pontchartrain, or enjoy a leisurely picnic amidst the stunning scenery. It’s a lovely day trip destination for those looking to connect with nature.

One of Fontainebleau State Park’s notable attractions is the remnants of a former sugar mill and plantation, which adds a historical dimension to the natural beauty of the park. The park’s visitor center provides insight into the area’s history, ecology, and wildlife.

From trying water sports in Lake Pontchartrain to breathing in the fresh air on a hike, Fontainebleau State Park is a beautiful New Orleans day trip.

• Distance from New Orleans: 205 miles
• Driving time: 3 hours

Another one of the best day trips from New Orleans is Lake Charles , though it’s a bit of a far drive. But the visit is worth it! Lake Charles, situated in the southwestern part of Louisiana, is a city that harmoniously blends Southern charm, cultural richness, and economic vitality.

At the heart of the city is the shimmering Calcasieu Lake, a sprawling body of water that not only lends its name to the city but also serves as a focal point for various recreational activities. The lake is a haven for fishing enthusiasts, offering an abundance of speckled trout, redfish, and flounder.

Lake Charles also boasts a rich and fascinating history, evident in historic landmarks like the Historic Charpentier District, characterized by beautifully preserved Victorian-era homes.

Lake Charles is renowned for its authentic Cajun cuisine as well. The Lake Charles Boudin Trail is a culinary adventure that takes visitors to a variety of local establishments, each showcasing its unique twist on the traditional Cajun sausage. This is a great way to learn about Cajun culture in Lake Charles!

Find more amazing things to do in Lake Charles !

• Distance from New Orleans: 138 miles
• Driving time: 2 hours and 20 minutes

Avery Island, nestled in the heart of Louisiana’s bayou country, is a captivating and unique geological formation known for its iconic role in the production of Tabasco sauce. This salt dome island rises unexpectedly from the surrounding marshes and is adorned with lush botanical gardens, showcasing a remarkable diversity of plant life.

The island’s verdant landscapes are home to Jungle Gardens, a botanical paradise created by Edward McIlhenny, the son of the Tabasco sauce inventor.

Visitors can explore this 170-acre semi-tropical garden, encountering a fascinating mix of azaleas, camellias, bamboo groves, and an expansive collection of Buddha statues amidst the natural beauty of the bayou.

Beyond its botanical wonders, Avery Island is synonymous with Tabasco sauce, which has been produced here since the 1860s. The Tabasco Factory on the island offers guided tours, providing insight into the sauce-making process and the McIlhenny family’s rich history. Avery Island is one of the most exciting day trips from New Orleans!

• Distance from New Orleans: 15 miles
• Driving time: 23 minutes

A quick and easy day trip from the city is Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, a multifaceted treasure that encapsulates the rich cultural and natural heritage of the region. It’s located right outside New Orleans and is a great place to try a swamp tour without having to travel far.

Named after the notorious pirate and privateer Jean Lafitte, the park consists of six separate sites, each offering a unique perspective on the history and ecosystems of the area.

From the Barataria Preserve, where elevated boardwalks lead visitors through lush swamplands teeming with wildlife, to the Chalmette Battlefield, a site of the historic Battle of New Orleans, the park provides a diverse range of experiences.

The park also encompasses the French Quarter Visitor Center in New Orleans, acting as a gateway to the city’s historic district.

With its commitment to preserving the cultural mosaic of Louisiana and protecting its natural wonders, Jean Lafitte National Historical Park preserves the stories and environments that define this unique corner of the United States.

• Distance from New Orleans: 145 miles
• Driving time: 2 hours and 10 minutes

Mobile, Alabama, situated on the Gulf of Mexico, is a city steeped in history, known for its Southern charm, vibrant cultural scene, and significant maritime influence.

Home to the original Mardi Gras celebration in the United States, Mobile exudes a lively and festive atmosphere during the carnival season, attracting visitors from near and far. The city’s historic district showcases antebellum architecture, with well-preserved homes and tree-lined streets, contributing to its reputation as one of the South’s most charming cities.

The USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park is a prominent attraction, offering a glimpse into the area’s military history and providing a striking backdrop along Mobile’s waterfront.

The city’s cultural offerings include museums, art galleries, and a lively music scene, making Mobile a vibrant day trip destination for all types of travelers.

• Distance from New Orleans: 108 miles
• Driving time: 2 hours

The picturesque barrier island of Grand Isle is another one of the best New Orleans day trips. With its white sandy beaches, warm Gulf waters, and abundant wildlife, Grand Isle is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and beachgoers.

The island is a popular destination for fishing, attracting anglers from around the region eager to cast their lines into the fertile Gulf waters, known for its diverse marine life.

Beyond its reputation as a fishing paradise, Grand Isle is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. The island’s strategic location along migratory bird routes makes it an excellent spot for birdwatching, with opportunities to observe a wide variety of species.

The Grand Isle State Park provides a serene setting for hiking, birding, and enjoying the coastal environment, while the nearby Elmer’s Island Wildlife Refuge offers additional opportunities to explore the island’s unique ecosystems.

Grand Isle provides a tranquil retreat for those looking to connect with nature along the Gulf Coast, and it’s only a two-hour drive from New Orleans!

Continue further east along the Gulf Coast to Destin, Florida for another beach getaway.

• Distance from New Orleans: 37 miles
• Driving time: 42 minutes

Honey Island Swamp , located in southeastern Louisiana, is a captivating and ecologically rich wetland that spans over 70,000 acres. It’s a popular day trip destination within the Pearl River Basin that is filled with untouched natural beauty and diverse wildlife.

The swamp is characterized by its labyrinthine waterways, cypress-tupelo forests, and expansive marshes, creating a unique and enchanting ecosystem.

This vibrant ecosystem is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including alligators, turtles, snakes, and a variety of bird species. The swamp is also a critical habitat for numerous fish species and invertebrates, contributing to the overall biodiversity of the region.

Visitors to Honey Island Swamp have the opportunity to explore its wonders through guided boat tours, immersing themselves in the tranquility of nature while learning about the swamp’s ecological significance and cultural history.

With its unique blend of biodiversity and natural beauty, a Honey Island Swamp tour is a fantastic day trip idea if you’re looking to explore more of Louisiana.

• Distance from New Orleans: 81 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour and 17 minutes

Definitely one of the best day trips from New Orleans is the state capital city, Baton Rouge. Situated along the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, the city exudes Southern charm with its antebellum architecture, oak-lined streets, and a warm hospitality that reflects the unique Creole and Cajun influences of the region.

Baton Rouge is home to the Louisiana State Capitol, an imposing Gothic-Revival structure that stands as the tallest state capitol building in the United States.

The Old State Capitol, with its distinctive castle-like appearance, serves as a testament to the city’s own history, hosting exhibits that delve into Louisiana’s political and cultural evolution.

Beyond its political and historical prominence, Baton Rouge is a dynamic cultural hub. The city is renowned for its lively music scene, especially along the famous Third Street Historic District, where blues, jazz, and zydeco fill the air. Louisiana State University (LSU), a major research institution, contributes to the city’s youthful energy and collegiate spirit.

Visitors can go for a boat trip on the Mississippi River, or check out fun family attractions near the city such as Blue Bayou Water Park. Baton Rouge is an amazing place for a New Orleans day trip.

• Distance from New Orleans: 57 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour

Located only an hour away from New Orleans is the Global Wildlife Center , the largest free-roaming wildlife preserve of its kind in North America.

Spanning over 900 acres, the center is home to a diverse collection of over 4,000 exotic and endangered animals from six continents, including giraffes, zebras, kangaroos, and many more.

Visitors can embark on guided safari tours through the expansive preserve, encountering these magnificent creatures in a natural and spacious environment, fostering a sense of connection and appreciation for global wildlife conservation. Or go on a self-guided tour through the center.

The Global Wildlife Center’s commitment to education, conservation, and providing a one-of-a-kind wildlife encounter makes it a standout destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone eager to explore the wonders of the animal kingdom in a unique and ethical setting.

Head just a few hours further west from New Orleans and spend some time in Houston, Texas !

• Distance from New Orleans: 102 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

A prime destination for exploring the lush nature of the American South is De Soto National Forest . Located in southern Mississippi this sprawling expanse of natural beauty and biodiversity spans over 500,000 acres and is a top day trip from New Orleans.

Named after the 16th-century Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto, this national forest is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Its diverse landscape encompasses pine-covered hills, bottomland hardwoods, and meandering streams, providing a rich tapestry of ecosystems that support a wide array of flora and fauna.

Visitors to De Soto National Forest can explore a network of trails, including parts of the historic Old Natchez Trace and the Longleaf Trace, which winds through picturesque pine forests.

The forest also features scenic recreation areas such as Black Creek, a designated National Wild and Scenic River, where canoeing and kayaking enthusiasts can paddle through pristine waterways surrounded by lush greenery.

• Distance from New Orleans: 135 miles

Lafayette , nestled in the heart of Cajun Country in southwestern Louisiana, is a city that is renowned for its live music, distinctive cuisine, and warm hospitality.

This cultural hub is steeped in the traditions of the Acadian people, and visitors can immerse themselves in the region’s unique heritage through festivals, music venues, and local eateries.

The Acadian Cultural Center in particular allows visitors to delve into the rich cultural tapestry of the Acadian people. Here you can explore their history, traditions, and enduring influence on the vibrant Cajun heritage of the region.

Stroll downtown to admire the historic architecture and artistic murals of Lafayette. Places like Vermilionville Living History Museum and Folklife Park provide an immersive journey into the area’s Cajun roots.

Lafayette is also celebrated for its role as a musical epicenter, particularly in the realms of Cajun, zydeco, and swamp pop music. The city’s dancehalls and music venues come alive with the infectious beats of accordions and fiddles, inviting locals and visitors alike to join in the spirited revelry.

Lafayette’s culinary scene is equally captivating, with a plethora of restaurants serving up delectable Cajun and Creole dishes, from gumbo and étouffée to boudin and crawfish. It’s definitely one of the best day trips from New Orleans!

Read about more of the best things to do in Lafayette !

• Distance from New Orleans: 114 miles
• Driving time: 1 hour and 50 minutes

Less than two hours from the city lies another amazing day trip destination. The Atchafalaya Natural Heritage Area , located in south-central Louisiana, is a sprawling expanse of diverse ecosystems that showcase the rich natural heritage of the region.

Encompassing over 1 million acres, this vast area includes cypress-tupelo swamps, bottomland hardwood forests, and expansive marshes, creating a haven for a wide array of plant and animal species.

The Atchafalaya River, with its intricate network of distributaries, defines the landscape and plays a crucial role in shaping the region’s ecology.

Visitors to the Atchafalaya Natural Heritage Area can explore the unique beauty of this dynamic environment through recreational activities such as birdwatching, hiking, and wildlife observation, gaining a deeper appreciation for the importance of preserving Louisiana’s natural treasures.

Exploring more of the US South? Check out these fun things to do in Atlanta, Georgia .

• Distance from New Orleans: 53 miles
• Driving time: 58 minutes

Just under an hour’s drive from New Orleans is Oak Alley Plantation , one of the most popular day trips from the city. Located on the Mississippi River in Vacherie, Louisiana, this plantation stands as a mesmerizing testament to the antebellum South’s grandeur and complexity.

The iconic plantation is renowned for its breathtaking quarter-mile alley of 28 evenly spaced, towering live oak trees, creating a dramatic canopy that leads to the majestic Greek Revival-style mansion.

Built in 1837, the mansion exudes Southern charm and historical significance, featuring a dual-level veranda with 28 columns mirroring the symmetry of the oak alley.

An Oak Alley Plantation tour provides insight into the lives of those who lived and worked on the plantation, exploring the complexities of the sugar industry, the architectural beauty of the mansion, and the challenges faced by enslaved individuals who toiled on the estate.

• Distance from New Orleans: 92 miles

Ocean Springs is a picturesque coastal town that captivates visitors with its blend of artistic flair, Southern charm, and natural beauty.

Nestled along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, Ocean Springs is renowned for its vibrant arts community, featuring numerous galleries, studios, and the Walter Anderson Museum of Art, dedicated to the works of the renowned regional artist.

The town’s historic downtown area is a delightful mix of tree-lined streets, charming boutiques, and diverse dining options, creating a welcoming atmosphere for locals and tourists alike.

With its scenic beaches, a lively cultural scene, and a strong sense of community, Ocean Springs offers a serene coastal escape with a touch of creative spirit on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

• Distance from New Orleans: 51 miles
• Driving time: 50 minutes

One of the more educational New Orleans day trips is Stennis Space Center , situated in Hancock County, Mississippi. Named after Senator John C. Stennis, a key advocate for space exploration, the center is operated by NASA and serves as a critical hub for testing engines used in space exploration.

Covering over 13,000 acres, the facility houses a complex of test stands and facilities dedicated to the development and evaluation of rocket propulsion systems. The Infinity Science Center is a highlight of the complex due to its engaging exhibits and interactive displays that cater to visitors of all ages

The rocket engine testing conducted at Stennis Space Center has been pivotal in advancing space exploration efforts, contributing to the success of various NASA missions and programs.

With its commitment to advancing the frontiers of space exploration and scientific discovery, NASA Stennis Space Center remains a vital asset in NASA’s quest for new knowledge and capabilities in the realm of space travel and technology. Places like the Infinity Science Center make knowledge accessible for everyone, which is a super cool way to learn about science and space.

• Distance from New Orleans: 44 miles

Last but not least on our list of the best day trips from New Orleans is Abita Springs. Nestled in the piney woods of St. Tammany Parish, Abita Springs, Louisiana, is a charming and historic town known for its idyllic setting and artistic community.

Renowned for the crisp, pure water of the Abita Springs, the town was once a popular destination for those seeking the healing properties of its artesian springs.

Today, travelers can have fun exploring the quaint downtown area of Abita Springs, featuring eclectic shops, and fascinating museums. Be sure to check out the historic Abita Mystery House, a folk art museum showcasing quirky exhibits.

The town is also famous for the Abita Brewery, a craft brewery that has gained national acclaim for its range of unique and flavorful beers.

Abita Springs exudes a laid-back atmosphere, making it a delightful retreat for visitors seeking a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and small-town charm on the Northshore of Lake Pontchartrain.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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Top Five Day Trips from New Orleans

Explore louisiana.

Last Updated: Thursday, October 20, 2022 3:57 PM by Lauren Saizan

New Orleans is a destination that tops many travelers’ lists, but Louisiana is full of interesting places just a short day trip away from the city. We’ve got state parks, beautiful nature, and historical sites just waiting to be explored. Pack a snack , hop in the car, and discover Louisiana with these destinations under 90 minutes from downtown New Orleans.

Baton Rouge

Baton rouge, la.

Distance from New Orleans: 1.5 hours

As the capital city of Louisiana, Baton Rouge is full of history. Visit several landmarks, including the Louisiana State Capitol, the Old State Capitol, the USS Kidd, the Red Stick Sculpture, and the Old Governor’s Mansion. Sports fans should jump at the chance to attend an LSU or Southern University athletic game. Like New Orleans, Baton Rouge hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Baton Rouge Blues Festival. For more information on things to do in the capital city, see here .

Chalmette Battlefield

Chalmette, la.

Distance from New Orleans: 20 minutes

The last land battle ever fought on American soil between the United States and a foreign enemy took place on January 8, 1815, in Chalmette just outside of New Orleans on a site now known as The Chalmette Battlefield . At the site today is a monument built in the style of an ancient Egyptian obelisk and a large open field, on which markers show the approximate locations of the American and British positions. The battlefield is a unit of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service. Each year, the battle is reenacted on the closest weekend to the anniversary date, but visitors flock to the site year-round.

Fontainebleau State Park

Mandeville, la.

Distance from New Orleans: 45 minutes

Situated on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain, Fontainebleau State Park is a 2,800 acre oasis with everything from camping grounds and bike trails to hiking, birding, boating, and a beach. The site is open daily and requires a small cash entrance fee. You’ll most likely cross the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, known as the world’s longest continuous bridge over water, which requires a small cash toll when returning to New Orleans. Pack a picnic and enjoy a day trip to Fontainebleau State Park. Bonus for movie buffs: the state park was featured prominently as a backdrop in the film adaptation of Where the Crawdads Sing.

LaPlace, LA

Distance from New Orleans: 30 minutes

If you’re interested in taking a traditional swamp tour, see here . But, if you’re looking for an added adventure, head to LaPlace for Zip NOLA , Louisiana’s only zipline over a swamp. View wildlife including alligators, turtles, snakes, waterfowl, whitetail deer, wild boar, racoons, and more from the safety of the treetops. There are five separate ziplines over the Maurepas Swamp, plus two sky bridges, and a 2,000-square-foot elevated spectating deck. Find more information and book your tour here . While you’re out that way, you might as well also swing by Middendorf’s to try out what very well may be the best fried catfish in the state.  

INFINITY Science Center

Pearlington, ms.

Distance from New Orleans: 40 minutes

Located just past the Louisiana-Mississippi state border, the INFINITY Science Center is a family-friendly destination where guests can explore our earth, oceans, and space through museum exhibits, live presentations, and engaging events. The STEM-focused approach provides hands-on opportunities for learning. Enjoy a short nature film at the 3D Immersive Theater, take an up-close look at spacecraft rocket engines, or visit for a scheduled event. Purchase tickets and plan your trip here .

Author: Lauren Saizan

Lauren Saizan is a New Orleans native raised in the Gentilly neighborhood. In addition to being the editorial and online content manager for New Orleans & Company, she is also a member of Mélange Dance Company. Lauren has performed professionally in many venues across the city, including the Sydney & Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden, the New Orleans Museum of Art, Longue Vue House & Gardens, and Marigny Opera House. When not writing or dancing, she can be spotted sipping the Blue Eyes tea at French Truck, attending a concert downtown, or visiting a local library.

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12 Best Day Trips from New Orleans

By: Author Susan Moore

Posted on Last updated: January 2, 2024

New Orleans is an enchanting city along the Mississippi River in Louisiana. It’s a prime destination for a weekend getaway or a couple weeks vacation. But you’ll also find there are tons of fun day trips from New Orleans to mix it up a bit and get away from the city for a while to recharge your batteries.

Get out on the water for a boat cruise or watersports, explore the trails in neighboring Mississippi, get you dancing shoes on and visit the heart of Cajun Country for some of the best music and food around South Louisiana.

With all the cute towns and interesting cultural experiences you’ll never run out of fun things to do around The Big Easy.

Here is our list of the 12 best day trips from NOLA .

Best Day Trips from New Orleans

1.   mississippi river cruise.

Sit back and watch the world go by on a relaxing river cruise along the Mississippi.

If you want to take an authentic cruise, jump on board the only steamboat that still runs today, the Natchez. Or hop on an authentic paddlewheeler, the Creole Queen, for a unique river boat cruise experience.

The views of the city are spectacular.

2.   Lafayette

The city used to be called Vermilionville but was renamed Lafayette in 1884.

Lafayette is the heart of Creole and Cajun country. Two of the things Lafayette is most famous for are the traditional Cajun/Creole food, and live music events where everybody eventually gets on the dance floor.

Sampling the Cajun foods is something you’ll want to do. Check out Johnson’s Boucaniere for brunch or lunch, Spoonbill for happy hour or dinner, and Olde Tyme Grocery if you have a craving for a po’boy sandwich.

To truly experience Lafayette’s culture you’ll need to spend a night or two so you can visit some of the best dance halls in town like Blue Moon Saloon or the new in 2022 venue Hideaway Hall (formerly the Schilling Shack).

Visit the Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum , The Acadian Village , and Vermilionville Historic Village . Check out our full list of things to do in Lafayette .

If you stay for a weekend or more you can also plan on having some amazing day trips from Lafayette like the Rip Van Winkle Gardens , Avery Island , and lots of picturesque small towns for the best food and dancing!

Try and come while there’s a local festival on, the Cajun and Zydeco music will get your feet stomping. On the way to or from Lafayette stop by Lake Martin to look for alligators and do some birdwatching among the giant cypress trees.

Let’s go dancing! Allons danser! mural by miche + dyl gives you the basics – now find a partner and dance!

3.   Great River Road

You can drive a portion of the Great River Road in Louisiana. It’s on our list of best USA road trip routes !

To do the entire scenic road trip you would need several days because the Great River Road follows the Mississippi River from Wisconsin all the way to Louisiana.

On this day trip history and scenery combine along one road.

The Great River Road is lined by old sugar plantations that were once owned by wealthy landowners who profited off slavery and the rising demand for sugar around the world.

4.   Clark Creek Natural Area (Mississippi)

Chasing waterfalls? Then cross over into Mississippi and spend the day in a park that has some 50 waterfalls. On hot days you can cool off beneath a waterfall.

Stroll along one of the hiking trails in Clark Creek and enjoy exploring the forest.

The best option is to take the Clark Creek Trail and then join up with the Waterfall Trail, that way you’ll see a bit of everything the park has to offer.

Hop in the car for an outstanding day trip from NOLA to Mississippi.

Head east to the Magnolia State and hike to the waterfalls at Clark Creek – so refreshing!

5.   Lake Pontchartrain at Fontainebleau State Park

With a beautiful white sand beach Lake Pontchartrain makes for a pretty awesome beach day getaway. The lake is shallow so it’s perfect for swimming and it’s also a great place to relax and do some fishing.

Once you’ve taken in the views go out and explore the abandoned sugar mills dotted around the lake.

Love to hike or bike? Well, you can walk or cycle a portion of the Tammany Trace Trail in Fontainebleau State Park.

If you’re into birdwatching you’ll love Lake Pontchartrain – especially in the winter months and during migration seasons when millions of birds visit the area. Definitely bring your binoculars and zoom lens for the best photos!

6.   Avery Island Tabasco Factory Tour

Avery Island is the birthplace of the world famous Tabasco sauce.

The recipe has been in the McElhenny family for generations, and the sauce is now sold in 195 countries globally.

Come and learn about the family’s history, secrets of the trade, and buy the sauce in bucket loads at their store.

Taking a tour will let you see the whole process, from the peppers growing in the fields to the final bottling step.

Also on Avery Island you can enjoy the outdoors at the Jungle Gardens and see all kinds of birds like herons and egrets at Bird City .

With a day trip to Avery Island from NOLA you can tour the Tabasco factory

7.   Infinity Science Center

If you’ve come on a family vacation to New Orleans and you want to do something that is fun and educational, then look no further.

The INFINITY Science Center has everything from rockets to exhibitions on the deep sea.

Come and learn at the Earth and Space Galleries where you’ll find fascinating and inspiring exhibits for curious minds of all ages.

It’s also just down the road from the NASA Stennis Space Center where they do some cool stuff like rocket testing. In fact, Stennis Space Center is the largest rocket engine test center in America.

The science center is just an hour’s drive from New Orleans, and it’s well worth the trip.

8.   Swamp Tour

The best way to explore the boggy, wetland habitats that are unique to Louisiana is with a boat tour.

That way you can learn about the flora and fauna from your tour guide and know for sure you won’t get lost out in the swamp.

A locally famed spot to go on a swamp tour is Honey Island Swamp and Cajun Encounters Tour Company in Slidell offers entertaining and informative tours. They’ll show you the best spots to check out local wildlife like egrets, turtles, wild pigs, and of course alligators too!

Who lives in the swamp? Alligators! And you can go see them on a swamp tour from NOLA

9.   Natchitoches

The French city of Natchitoches (pronounced “NACK-a-tish”) was established in 1714.

It has an evident European influence and lots of sites of interest, and you can’t leave without trying a meat pie.

Explore the National Historic Landmark District that has a pretty Basilica and lots of French Creole townhouses.

You can take a free walking tour of the district to get all the facts and inside knowledge from a local.

10.   Jean Lafitte National Historical Park

Unlike most parks, this one is spread out across six different sites in the state. You could spend all your time at the Jean Lafitte National Historical Parks .

There’s the Prairie Acadian Cultural Center in Eunice that explores Acadian history.

And also, the Chalmette Battlefield and National Cemetery where you can learn all there is to know about the war of 1812.

Then you can enjoy ranger led activities through the vast wetland at the Marrero’s Barataria Preserve south of NOLA.

There’s also an Acadian Cultural Center in Lafayette, the Wetlands Acadian Cultural Center in Thibodaux, and the French Quarter Visitor Center in NOLA.

The Jean Lafitte National Historical Park includes 6 locations in South Louisiana

11.   Grand Isle

Grand Isle is a little fishing village and state park along the Gulf, in fact it’s the only state park along the Gulf of Mexico in Louisiana.

The area is known to be frequented by an incredible diversity of migratory birds and Grand Isle is a prime fishing spot.

If you want to do something unique, visit during annual events like the Grand Isle Migratory Bird Festival and International Grand Isle Tarpon Rodeo .

All of this is just two hours from New Orleans.

12.   Baton Rouge

New Orleans has a lot to offer, but so does the capital city of the state of Louisiana, Baton Rouge.

Like most big cities it’s got a little bit of everything – fantastic dining options, and fascinating museums, and fun amusement parks.

It’s also home to the Blue Bayou Water Park, the perfect place for a fun family day trip.

Some of the most worthwhile things to do in Baton Rouge include a visit to the African American Museum , the Louisiana Art and Science Museum , and Louisiana’s Old State Capitol museum.

Take a day trip from New Orleans to Baton Rouge to visit the Capitol and lots of cool museums

Final Thoughts on New Orleans Day Trips

And there you have it, 12 amazing NOLA day trips for fun, food, and exploring the best of South Louisiana whether you’re into history or hiking you’re going to have a great time. Now you just have to decide which place you want to visit!

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3 Best Day Trips from New Orleans

By Paul Oswell

There’s a wealth of scenic and cultural activities to be found on day trips from New Orleans. Just a quick drive over beautiful Lake Pontchartrain delivers a delightful change of pace on the North Shore. Just a little further away is Lafayette, where Cajun culture—especially the food—is celebrated. And less than two hours from New Orleans is the town of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, where visitors can outdoor adventure or explore the jazz scene. Curious? Read on for our picks for the best day trips from New Orleans—along with what to do when you get there.

Click the link to read our complete New Orleans guide .

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

THE NORTHSHORE

Just across Lake Pontchartrain and a short drive from downtown New Orleans, the Northshore is a scenic collection of towns that includes Covington, Mandeville and Slidell. There's a relaxed, village-like feel to the area. And besides all the history and nature there are also a few hidden foodie gems.

Abita Mystery House Arrow

The museum is the collection and living gallery of home-grown artist John Prebel. The furthest stretches of his imagination are all on display here, from wall-sized mosaics to miniature city scenes, to sculptures of half-human hybrid creatures to an Airsteam trailer that has collided with a flying saucer. Eclectic almost begins to cover it.

Honey Island Swamp Tour Arrow

This company has been successfully running some of the region’s best tours of this pristine swampland since 1982. The swamp isn’t too far from some urban centers, but it feels undeniably rural, and outside of the company facility there’s no real sign of modern life. The wildlife was the main event, with small alligators, feral boars, raccoons, water snakes, and turtles. If any of that sounds intimidating, the whole outing is very safe, but your tour guide will bring a hit of bravado to the presentation, which adds some fun drama. 

Southern Hotel Arrow

As you pull into the forecourt, you’re presented with a Mission Revival-style building, the modernity of which belies the hotel’s history, which stretches back over a century to 1907. The interiors—the hotel was refurbished and reopened in 2014—is the very model of boutique charm, with colorful contemporary furniture that doesn’t look cookie-cutter, modern art and furnishings with personality. Even coming from a city as laid back as New Orleans , there’s a palpable change in pace, and time spent here feels even more relaxed. Southern Hotel is really the only choice for a North Shore stay that isn’t an anonymous chain hotel.

Anna Borges

Jessica Puckett

Karthika Gupta

Lake Pontchartrain Arrow

There are spots to view Lake Pontchartrain that are closer to the city limits of New Orleans , and some neighborhoods even lie up against it, but it’s on the Northshore where you can really explore this scenic natural resource to its fullest. Nature trails, hiking, fishing, sailing and all manner of water sports and outdoors activities take place on the shores of Louisiana’s own great lake.

Middendorf's Arrow

The restaurant brings in many of its guests with its famed thin-cut catfish. It is breaded and fried to order and is unlike any other catfish steaks you’ve likely tried, with elevated levels of crispiness and flavor. You can be a contrarian and order it cut the usual, thicker way, or you can go completely rogue and explore the soft shell crab or broiled shrimp options. Seafood restaurants in Louisiana don’t last unless they’re doing something right, and the thin catfish specialty has served this place well. It might be a one-trick pony, but it’s a trick worth driving out for.

The Shack Arrow

You might think that a place called The Shack selling soul food in the suburbs would be a lazy nod to regional favorites, but you would be wrong. The menu also throws in Cuban and Caribbean influences to stellar effect. The appetizers set the stage, with a dreamy duck quesadilla and guacamole with crab and bacon. There’s a taco bar and daily specials that include a Wednesday night shrimp and grits dish that will stand up against any in the region. Expectations are further exceeded on the drinks menu with cute twists on classic cocktails. Execution, presentation, and ingredient quality are all top-notch, and the prices make it one of the best value dining experiences on the North Shore.

This quirky city is the real heart of Louisiana's Cajun Country. It's got a completely different cultural vibe than New Orleans, and the city proudly celebrates its own history and traditions. One of the best features of visiting is the chance to try some authentic Cajun cuisine.

Blue Dog Cafe Arrow

The blue dog in question here is the subject of revered late local artist, George Rodrigue, whose work can be seen all across the state, especially in New Orleans and here in Lafayette. Rodrigue’s art is incredibly accessible, and loved by kids and adults alike, so there’s a good showing of families at the café. There’s also an arty crowd that passes through to pay their respects while chowing down. Guests are drawn in with some southern classics and then introduced to more unusual dishes that might tempt them to broaden their horizons. Crab cakes and boudin balls for appetizers are standard in this part of the world, but there are also some glorious seafood wontons and a shrimp en brochette that comes with jalapeños and bacon that really stands out. 

Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist Arrow

Historic churches and cathedrals are hardly a rarity in this religious part of the world, especially with the Catholic influence that looms so large in Louisiana. This imposing red and white brick cathedral, though, is impressive even within that well-populated arena. The cathedral is just a century old and is a memorable example of the Dutch Romanesque Revival Style, the striking brick structure framing historic stained glass windows imported from Germany. The domed interior opens up to reveal a wonderfully-preserved, colorful and airy church. It's a tranquil place for reflection, as are equally the cemetery and the beautiful, centuries-old Cathedral Oak tree. There are no regular guided tours on site, but they can easily be arranged by contacting the cathedral through a phone number on their website.

Acadian Village Arrow

The village may be a recreation of a 300-year old Cajun settlement but given that seven of the eleven homes that have been erected are authentic buildings, the site, operated by (and in support of) an organization that supports people with intellectual disabilities doesn’t feel contrived. There’s a real sense of achievement that shines through as you wander between the carefully-constructed buildings. This is especially true when you read that the land here was cleared and that the homes were moved from various other parts of the region and rebuilt, complete with wooden pegs and mudded walls. There aren’t too many authentic examples of real Acadian history in the region, even though Cajun influences run through lots of local music and food, so it’s inspiring and impressive to see this accurate reconstruction.

The French Press Arrow

There’s a wealth of casual dining options in Lafayette, but few that even slightly elevate their dining room or ingredients. This café delivers refinement without adding pretension. Breakfast and lunch are the main events here (the restaurant only opens for dinner at the weekend), and the menu is a thoughtful mix of classics and local twists. The Cajun Benedict uses boudin sausages and andouille gumbo, for instance, and the Croque Monsieur was a melty delight of Gruyère and béchamel sauce. Historically, this long, narrow room was a working print shop, and the good looks of the original building have been retained. The exposed, polished stone and dark, wooden floors make for a classy atmosphere that stands out in town.

Johnson's Boucaniere Arrow

This simple yellow building with a rickety-looking wooden porch looks somewhat anonymous, aside from a hand-written specials board outside and a basic patio attached to the side. If you didn’t know what a "boucaniere" was you’d drive straight past it, but once you know that it means "a place for smoking meats," you won’t make that mistake again. The dedication here—whether to pork, chicken or brisket—truly is a delight to behold. You can order individual portions of each, or have the kitchen whip up a sandwich or salad bowl. Cajun classics such as gumbo and boudin sausage complete a mouthwatering picture. It’s one of those casual spots that has an underlying seriousness about what they serve and is going to impress any BBQ fan.

Carriage House Hotel Arrow

A search for accommodation beyond cookie-cutter national chains in Lafayette doesn't turn up many results, especially if you’re looking for relatively upscale digs. An unflashy brick building in a newish part of town, the Carriage House has some 21 luxury suites and a handful of extended-stay condos, and given the very ordinary local competition in the local hotel portfolio, it’s a refreshingly contemporary and fresh property. There are some welcome neoclassical flourishes to the building and a scenic courtyard. The amenities at the City Club (of which the hotel is part) really elevate the experience. The outdoor pool has extensive lounging areas, a water slide, and fountains, making for a fun spot for families. The Club also has some pristine all-weather tennis courts and a wonderful fitness center, with a gymnasium, sauna, and a wealth of exercise classes.

HATTIESBURG, MS

Just under two hours from New Orleans is this lovely Mississippi town. As well some great history, Hattiesburg is neighbored by huge stretches of scenic forests, welcoming everyone from hikers to kayakers with plenty to occupy them.

DeSoto National Forest Arrow

There’s just over half a million acres of coniferous forest here, which is among the most important natural regions in the Gulf Coast area. After a 35-minute drive from central Hattiesburg, exploring the forest is a relatively straightforward task, thanks to several trails. Hiking, ATV, horse, and bike trails are all incorporated into the landscape, meaning that different levels of challenge are available, and there's something for both casual and more experienced hikers. The well thought out trails devoted to different means of transport and hiking, as well as the ability to kayak and canoe, means that the forest is attractive for almost everyone that enjoys the outdoors.

African American Military History Museum Arrow

African-American soldiers have fought for the United States in every war since the founding of the country, and the museum has dozens of impressive multimedia exhibits that interpret events from the Revolutionary War right up to modern day anti-terrorism operations. Presentations range from evocative reconstructions of wartime conditions to recorded first-person accounts to interactive games. There are so many inspiring and pioneering stories told at the museum. One of the most interesting is that of Hattiesburg's own Jesse L. Brown, who was America's first Black naval aviator. There’s an exhibit dedicated to heroic World War II nurse Ruth Bailey Earl, also of Hattiesburg. The story of the Buffalo Soldiers post-Civil War is also a must-see, as is the movie presentation, Patriots to the End: The African American Soldier.

Cotton Blues Arrow

This is a casual spot that feels special. A caveat before attempting to summarize the food: the menu is huge. It’s hard to even skim over any of the sections—even the pasta offerings include a dish with crawfish and quail. There's obviously all the fried seafood favorites you know and love in the south, catfish and shrimp among the major ingredients, and a list of artery-crowding entrees. Steaks, tacos and salads are lengthy lists in their own right, while the sandwich and burger options alone would take you a few weeks to work through eating here every day. Add to this desserts, sides, soups and an actually intriguing apps selection (pulled pork fries and deep south egg rolls with rabbit among the must-haves) and you have a behemoth of a menu. The kicker: everything is made fresh. Every day.

Okatoma Creek Arrow

Okatoma Creek is a tributary of the Bouie River and is about a twenty minute drive from downtown Hattiesburg. The combination of whitewater runs and calmer waters mean that visitors can engage in all manner of water sports, from intermediate canoeing to kayaking to swimming. The Class I kayaking run is one of the most popular reasons for water sports enthusiasts to come to the creek. It’s one of the few whitewater experiences in the region, and although it’s not at the high end of things technically, it’s still a moderately challenging run, with three falls/chutes. It usually takes around three and a half hours to complete the run of around 19 miles.

Hotel Indigo Hattiesburg Arrow

Outside of the major cities, finding hotels with character can be a challenge in the South, so this relatively new property from IHG’s Indigo brand is a welcome addition to Hub City’s accommodation portfolio. The rooms are notably fresh and elevated and real thought has gone into incorporating the neighborhood’s history into the design. The railroad industrial chic here stands out among local hotels and the property signals a new, contemporary breed of accommodations that are springing up in towns such as Hattiesburg.

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• Destinations

25 Best Day Trips from New Orleans, Louisiana

Last Updated By VacationIdea on April 4, 2024

Lake Charles

One of the best outdoor attractions in Lake Charles is the Creole Nature Trail, a scenic byway which parallels 26 miles of beaches.

Gulfport, MS

Notice the designated Least Tern Nesting areas along Highway 90, which protect the habitat of these native birds in what’s been designated as a Globally Important Bird Area, or IBA. Gulfport beaches are among the best places to visit in Louisiana .

Abita Springs

Good to know: Best Time to Visit New Orleans & the Weather Year Round

Shell Beach

Fishing in Lake Borgne is among the best in the area. The protected waters make it a good spot for redfish. Charters can be arranged through several nearby outfitters. More things to do in Louisiana

Avery Island

More ideas: Best Islands in the United States

Baton Rouge

Among the best things to do in Baton Rouge outdoors are the Botanical Gardens at BREC's Independence Park and Louisiana State University’s Hilltop Arboretum.

Bayou St. John

Get on the water by renting a paddleboard or kayak, take a yoga class or enjoy a picnic on the grassy shores. Where to Stay in New Orleans

More ideas: Best Things to Do in Covington, Louisiana

De Soto National Forest

De Soto National Forest , 654 West Frontage Rd, Wiggins, Mississippi 39577, Phone: 601-528-6160

Global Wildlife Center

Global Wildlife Center , 26389 Hwy 40, Folsom, LA 70437, Phone: 985-796-3585

Dining on the island includes several seafood restaurants for dining in or take away. Shop for souvenirs along Highway 1. Grand Isle Map

Honey Island Swamp

Honey Island Swamp , 41490 Crawford Landing Rd, Slidell, LA 70461, Phone: 985-641-1769

Annual events include April’s Chauvin Folk Art Festival, September’s Best of the Bayou Festival, and November’s Bayou Beer Fest. Houma Map

Jean Lafitte National Historic Park and Preserve

Events and ranger-led programs for each of the park’s regions are regularly updated on the National Parks website. Jean Lafitte National Historic Park and Preserve Map

Stennis Space Center

Stennis Space Center , One Discovery Circle, Pearlington, MS 39572, Phone: 228-688-3333

When downtown, notice the murals take a food tour for samples of Louisiana’s best Cajun and Creole seafood, gumbo and boudin. Best things to do in Lafayette for outdoor adventure enthusiasts include trail hiking, kayaking, birding, and swamp tours in the surrounding wetlands and swamps.

Mandeville is also located along Tammany Trace, a 31-mile cycling route that follows the course of an abandoned railroad track.

Mississippi River

More ideas: Best Dog-Friendly Beaches on the Gulf Coast

Best things to do in Downtown Mobile include shopping and dining along Lower Dauphin Street, or LoDa, where you’ll find one of a kind items. Don't forget to spend a day relaxing on one of Mobile's best beaches .

Plaquemines Parish

More ideas: Best Gulf Coast Beaches

St. Bernard Parish

Annual events include the Battle of New Orleans Commemoration in January, March’s Los Islenos Festival, and the Blessing of the Fleet in August. St. Bernard Parish Map

Atchafalaya Natural Heritage Area

Atchafalaya Natural Heritage Area , 114 Tourist Dr, Gray, LA 70359, Phone: 985-868-2732

Slidell , LA 70461

The Great River Road

Plantation Country, LA

Ville Platte

Ville Platte , LA 70586

• 1. Lake Charles
• 2. Gulfport, MS
• 3. Abita Springs
• 4. Shell Beach
• 5. Avery Island
• 6. Baton Rouge
• 7. Bayou St. John
• 9. De Soto National Forest
• 10. Global Wildlife Center
• 11. Grand Isle
• 12. Honey Island Swamp
• 14. Jean Lafitte National Historic Park and Preserve
• 15. Stennis Space Center
• 16. Lafayette
• 17. Mandeville
• 18. Mississippi River
• 19. Mobile, AL
• 20. Plaquemines Parish
• 21. St. Bernard Parish
• 22. Atchafalaya Natural Heritage Area
• 23. Slidell
• 24. The Great River Road
• 25. Ville Platte

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Explore > Type of vacation > Day trips > 11 of the best day trips from New Orleans

11 of the best day trips from New Orleans

Any way you slice your muffuletta or dice your beignet, you’ll find that New Orleans is utterly captivating. Yes, one spoonful of gumbo and you’ll be plotting ways to reside here, but this eclectic city has more to offer beyond its food (and nightlife and music!) scene. In fact, it has more to offer beyond its city limits, too.

New Orleans didn’t just pop up out of nowhere. It’s part of a much bigger network of neighboring cities and communities, where the nature is thriving, the music is streaming, and the food is sizzling. Creole Country, Bayou Country, and swamp country are just a short car ride away from the bead-strewn streets of NOLA. In just a few hours, you’ll find yourself tapping your feet at fais do-dos, stepping back into the past, and maybe even dodging alligators.

After conducting a survey of 1,000 Americans, we discovered that 83.7 percent of travelers like to explore outside of the main city they’re visiting, so we determined it was time to reveal 11 destinations that are an easy one-day trip from New Orleans. What are you waiting for? Laissez les bon temps rouler!

Under an hour away*

Slidell : 40 mins away

Why go: If you’re looking for a different kind of thrill outside of the NOLA party scene

Ready for excitement beyond the Bourbon Street revelry? Adventure awaits in Slidell, where gators lurk below the bayou, less than an hour away from the French Quarter. The good times begin by reeling in trophy trout on Lake Pontchartrain with Angling Adventures of Louisiana, and blasting above the water on an Aquafly New Orleans flyboard. Better yet, venture ridiculously close to the wild boars and alligators on a Honey Island Swamp Day Tour . Between catching sight of turtles and snakes beneath the cypress trees, you might even get a glimpse of the ever-allusive Honey Island Swamp Monster—take a photo for evidence! Don’t worry, if you’re looking for something a little tamer on the outskirts of NOLA, you can find it in Slidell, too: order a scoop of Creole Cream Cheese at Old Town Slidell Soda Shop and scour the knick-knacks at the antique shops.

Mandeville : 45 mins away

Why go: If you’re looking for nightlife vibes, away from the tourist traps

Yes, the Birthplace of Jazz rattles with rhythm and blues as the bartenders whip up stiff cocktails, but the nightlife doesn’t stop and end with New Orleans. Brass bands wail on stage, long into the night, in neighboring towns, like Mandeville, just across the lake from NOLA. Here you’ll find Dew Drop Jazz & Social Hall, one of the world’s oldest rural jazz halls, built in 1895, the same year scholars agree that traditional jazz started making noise. Ruby’s Roadhouse is another local joint that’s been bringing down the house since 1984. Indulge in more than just jam sessions while you’re in town—imbibe some of the local brews at Old Rail Brewing Company and Chafunkta Brewing Company. A pint of Cow Catcher Milk Chocolate Stout or Voo Ka Ray IPA, and you’ll be ready to crank up the sound.

1-2 hours away

Houma : 1 hour 15 mins away

Why go?: If you’re looking to see what Bayou Country is all about

In just a little over an hour’s drive away, you can leave behind the cobblestone streets of New Orleans for the wetlands of Houma. In the thick of Bayou Country, you’ll find yourself surrounded by marshlands, accented by shrimp boats and moss-draped trees, an enchanting sight to be sure! Do yourself a favor and experience the region’s very first tour of its kind: Annie Miller’s Son’s Swamp & Marsh Tour, which winds through the Mandalay National Wildlife Refuge. Perhaps the ultimate way to explore Houma is on a GeoTour though. After all, Houma is one of the world’s select geocache locations, where you hunt for and unlock hidden caches along the way. Before leaving Houma, add Jolly Inn to your treasure map, where you’ll discover the meaning of fais do-dos for yourself.

Bush : 1 hour 10 mins

Why go: If you’re looking to explore (and sample!) the local harvest

Some of the spiciest and most flavor-packed cuisine comes straight from this state, but there’s plenty of goodness to be found before the ingredients even hit the gumbo bowl. Get down to the root of things in nearby Bush, where you can sample the local Louisiana crops. Keaton’s Blueberries, and Blue Harvest Farm (in neighboring Covington) invite you to grab a bucket and pick your weight in berries galore. Prefer to sample some harvest of the 21-and-up variety? Pack a picnic for a tipsy afternoon at Pontchartrain Vineyards & Winery, or plan a visit during the annual Jazz in the Vines concert series. For more fermented pleasure, toast a glass of white at LA Serendipity Vineyards and relish the grapevine-tangled landscape.

2-3 hours away

Grand Isle : 2 hours 10 mins away

Why go: If you’re looking for a beach getaway

If your home base is in New Orleans, you’re just two hours from salty air whipping through your hair and waves splashing the shoreline. It’s too tempting to resist, huh? Make the trek to Grand Isle, where you’ll be greeted by seven miles of beaches along the Gulf Coast. Kick your shoes off and stroll along Grand Isle State Park, scanning the horizon for brown pelicans, or go kayak fishing through the marshes with Calmwaters Charter. If your timing’s right, plan to venture here during April when you can join the flocks of visitors at the Grand Isle Migratory Bird Celebration, where more than 100 kinds of feathered ones gather to rest during their journey up north. Bring your binoculars on the Grand Isle Birding Trail and listen for the music of the songbirds—bliss at its finest!

Avery Island : 2 hours 15 mins away

Why go: If you’re looking to add some spice to your vacation

Ready to spice up your life? Feel the heat on Avery Island, where fields of red peppers supply the zest for the hot sauce favorite: TABASCO. You may not have even known Tabasco ice cream and Tabasco soda existed, but now’s your chance to sample the good stuff during a tour of the TABASCO factory and museum. Discover the story behind the zingy red condiment, and then dare your taste buds to brave a meal at the TABASCO Restaurant 1868. When it’s time to beat the heat, romp around the semitropical Jungle Gardens along the Bayou Petite Anse—seek some shade under the willow-like limbs of Southern live oaks and wander under the whimsical Wisteria Arch. With your pockets filled with miniature bottles of hot sauces and your tongue still sizzling, you’ll know you’ve done Avery Island justice.

St. Francisville : 2 hours away

Why go: If you’re looking to uncover the past

Two hours in the car is nothing when you discover just what’s waiting for you in time-honored St. Francisville. The past is perfectly persevered here, where you can uncover its allure at historical stops in town, from the Freyhan School to the Afton Villa Gardens. Tour the WFP Historical Museum and read the tombstones at the Locust Grove State Historic Site. Intrigued by more mysterious elements of the past? Take a lap of the Rosedown Plantation , which is said to be haunted by its original owners, or listen for the sounds of a crying woman at Myrtles Plantation, regarded as one of the most haunted locales in the nation. Your time here may be spooky and a little kooky, but that’s half the fun!

Breaux Bridge & Lafayette: 2 hours away

Why go: If you’re looking to get an authentic taste of Louisiana

Allow yourself to follow the scent of crawfish etouffee and boudin blanc to Breaux Bridge and nearby Lafayette, where Creole and Cajun cooking is the main course. They don’t call Breaux Bridge the Crawfish Capital of the World for nothin’, so get ready to start peeling those critters! Breaux Bridge has as long history of serving up crustaceans on the menu, and the delicacy has become such a treat, the town has hosted the annual Crawfish Festival since 1960. Meanwhile, day trips from New Orleans to Lafayette will bring you to another LA staple: boudin. Here you can explore the Boudin Trail, sampling the sausage links, from Johnson’s Boucaniere to Earl’s Cajun Market. And whatever you do, don’t forget to get crackin’ on some cracklin’!

3+ hours away

Lake Charles : 3 hours 20 mins away

Why go: If you’re looking to embrace the great outdoors

New Orleans has a lot of allure, from its architecture to its history, but when you’re craving some fresh air and open space, Lake Charles is where you belong. Celebrated for its Creole Nature Trail All-American Road, this region is celebrated as one of the nation’s top birding destinations, where you can spot more than 400 kinds of avians and maybe even an alligator along the way. Visit Lake Charles, where 619 square miles of water in the area means it’s prime time for some fishing! Scout out some crawfish, cast a net for some shrimp, and reel in some bass to put dinner on the table. And as long as you’re exploring, soak up some vitamin D among the lagoons and hardwood forest at Sam Houston Jones State Park .

Ville Platte : 3 hours 30 mins away

Why go: If you’re looking to experience true Louisiana traditions

There are some deep-seated Louisiana traditions and you’ll only get a sneak peek if you’re willing to venture outside the tourist hub. The journey to Ville Platte will be well worth the trek when you’re welcomed by the Swamp Pop Museum, home to the best memorabilia of the Acadiana region. You’ll soon realize why Ville Platte is known as the Smoked Meat Capital of the World, as the city hosts Le Festival de la Viande Boucanée (Smoked Meat Festival), where the cook-off competition is strong. Come late summer and early fall, you’ll face carnivals and parades at the Annual Cotton Festival and the Louisiana Tournoi, a jousting ritual that dates back to the 1880s. Now that’s how they do Louisiana traditions!

Natchitoches : 4 hours away

Why go: If you’re looking to discover true Creole country

You’ll be doing this area a severe disservice if you don’t make the journey over to Natchitoches, the oldest settlement in the Louisiana Purchase. Established in 1714, this city has some stories to tell, and you can hear them for yourself as you visit the Magnolia Plantation in the Cane River Creole National Park, and swing by nearby Melrose Plantation, which was built and owned by free slaves. You’ll also want to take a gander at Kaffie-Frederick General Mercantile, the state’s old general store and a must-see. However, perhaps the best way to get a taste of Creole country in Natchitoches is with an order of meat pies at Lasyone’s and a block of goodness from Louisiana Purchase fudge shop.

* Driving times depend on traffic and the specific route taken

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The 13 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Louisiana

Louisiana native and LSU Alum (Geaux Tigers!), Jackie has lived in Louisiana for over three decades and currently lives in New Orleans. She's been writing for OnlyInYourState since 2016 and can often be found with a coffee at her side, dreaming of her next adventure.

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There’s so much to do in Louisiana, it can often get a bit overwhelming for anyone visiting. Even locals have their pick from outdoor activities, events, attractions, and more. For anyone searching for the “best day trips near me” in Louisiana, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve listed 13 of the very best day trips you can possibly take in Louisiana, north to south, east to west. If you’ve ever wanted to find a list of the most unique attractions in Louisiana, then welcome! Just make sure you click the links within each attraction to find out more about these wonderful day trips in Louisiana!

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Whether you enjoy exploring charming small towns in Louisiana or the wilds of nature, our great state has plenty to do and see all year long. What are your favorite day trips in Louisiana ? Share one or two in the comments!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Where can I go on one tank of gas in Louisiana?

Some of the places you can go on one tank of gas in Louisiana include:

• Sicily Island Hills State Park
• Delta Music Museum
• Tunica Hills State WMA
• Longleaf Vista Recreation Area
• Louisiana’s Old State Capitol

Sometimes the best day trips in Louisiana are able to be enjoyed on one tank of gas. While of course, this depends on the type of car you have, we’ve compiled a list of trips that are all within 300 miles, the standard for a tank of gas. So fuel up folks, and check out these eight amazing places to go in Louisiana on one tank of gas .

What are the best free things to do in Louisiana?

Some of the best free things to do in Louisiana include:

• Go for a scenic drive
• Visit the Acadian Cultural Center
• Tour the Bayou Rum Distillery
• Hike the Barataria Preserve

One of the greatest adventures you can have in Louisiana that are free to enjoy in terms of admission is exploring the highways and byways. Scenic byways in Louisiana are filled with incredible natural beauty, wildlife, and more. Check out these nine scenic drives in Louisiana that will make you fall in love with the state.

What places in Louisiana should I see before I die?

Some of the places in Louisiana you should see before you die include:

• Masur Museum of Art
• Driskill Mountain
• Chennault Aviation and Military Museum
• Chimp Haven
• Bonnie and Clyde Roadside Marker

There are some pretty unique attractions in Louisiana that are touted as hidden gems, even to locals. While visiting the more touristy or populated places is fun, we have a few places to check out that are off-the-beaten-path. Check out these 12 hidden gems in Louisiana you have to see before you die.

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Explore Louisiana

What Not to Miss on a Girls Trip to New Orleans

N ew Orleans is a vibrant, exciting place brimming with history, music, and amazing food. From its quiet Garden District to bustling Jackson Square, there’s something for everyone in this Louisiana city. If you’re planning a girls trip to New Orleans, you’re in for a great time. 

Ahead, we’re sharing our favorite things to do in the Big Easy (plus the best places to eat!). Whether you’re visiting for a bachelorette party, a mother-daughter trip, or a girlfriend getaway, you’ll make lifelong memories and will be counting down the days until your next trip here. 

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

How to Get Around New Orleans

If you’re flying into New Orleans, you may wonder if you should rent a car during your girls trip. If your entire group can fit into a taxi or Uber, skipping the car rental may be more cost-effective. Many hotels charge steep parking fees, and you’ll likely do a lot of walking anyway. 

Plus, you can use the New Orleans trolley or call a ride-share when you need time off your feet. 

However, if you’re planning to spend a lot of time exploring the surrounding towns, or if you need to squeeze into a full seven-passenger minivan, then renting a car might give you the flexibility and ease of travel you need. 

Things to Do on a Girls Trip to New Orleans

1. have a spa day.

New Orleans may not feel like the most tranquil city, but it’s still a great place to have a spa day. Most five-star hotels in the Central Business District have world-class spas designed with luxury and relaxation in mind. 

2. Go shopping on Magazine Street

You could easily spend multiple days shopping along Magazine Street. This avenue stretches six miles and features something for everyone. There are yoga studios, coffee shops, boutiques, and fantastic restaurants. Most of it’s locally owned, so you can find plenty of unique treasures. 

3. Admire the Houses of the Garden District

Walking through the Garden District of New Orleans is one of our top things to do in the city. It’s so relaxed and quiet – probably one of the best places in the world to take a stroll. Here, you’ll find intriguing architecture, leafy sidewalks, and a few cafes. 

Come in the morning or evening to stretch your legs and enjoy this unique place. Or, book a walking tour of the Garden District to learn about the history of this beautiful place. 

4. Take a Food or Cocktail Tour of the City

You only have so many meals and cocktail hours during your girls trip to New Orleans. Don’t leave them up to chance. A guided food or cocktail tour will make sure you’re hitting up all the best places – and ordering the best things. 

Whether you want to sip the best drinks or try the most delicious Cajun cooking, a guided tour is an excellent investment for your limited time in the city. 

And if you want to get really creative, consider taking a cooking class in New Orleans. Find some options HERE

5. Get Dressed up for Fancy Brunch 

You need to enjoy a fancy brunch while vacationing with your girlfriends in New Orleans. We’re sharing a few of our favorite spots below. Be sure to make reservations at all these New Orleans brunch spots, as they’re very popular (for good reason). 

• Commander’s Palace: We’re always quick to recommend Commander’s Palace for its white-glove service and exceptional style. They open late morning on Saturdays and Sundays for their jazz brunch. There’s a dress code here, so it’s a great chance to dress up for an Instagram-worthy outing. 
• Court of Two Sisters: You can’t beat a courtyard brunch in the French Quarter. Dine al-fresco in a secret garden-style setting as you enjoy jazz music and a delicious buffet meal. They have a great selection of classic brunch fare and Cajun favorites, like gumbo and duck a l’Orange. Court of Two Sisters also offers brunch throughout the week, so it’s a great option if you’re in town on a weekday. 
• Muriel’s : We love the ambiance of Muriel’s on Jackson Square. Its multiple rooms and patio each have a distinct character. Besides its perfect setting, the classic Muriel’s Bloody Mary is reason enough to visit this great place. But their entire menu is delicious. Come on Saturdays for a classic brunch or Sundays for a jazz brunch.

6. Find Cocktails with a View

Whether you are day drinking your way through the city or just want to sip with some scenery, you need to find the New Orleans bars with the best views. We think Hot Tin is one of the best rooftop bars in the city, as it overlooks the New Orleans skyline and has such a sleek ambiance. For something closer to the French Quarter, head to Vue Rooftop Bar at the SpringHill Suites.

7. Visit a Museum

You could dedicate your entire New Orleans vacation to museum hopping. And for your girls trip, we recommend you visit at least one of these fascinating places. 

• New Orleans Museum of Art has an array of artwork, but its sculpture garden is its main draw. Plus, its location in City Park allows you to get away from the Business District and French Quarter to see another great area of the city. 
• The National WWII Museum is a surprising gem in New Orleans. History buffs in the group will love the stories and artifacts from this world-changing era. It’s located on Magazine Street and you can get tickets HERE .
• Mardi Gras World is the perfect place to get up close to the wonders of Mardi Gras, as it’s home to the famous parade floats. Take a guided tour to see how they build these incredible masterpieces from the ground up. 

8. Tour a Plantation

If you want to get out of the city and walk through history, then a plantation tour could be a great thing to add to your New Orleans itinerary.

Whitney Plantation is our top recommendation because it focuses solely on the experiences of enslaved people. Laura Plantation also features the stories of enslaved people and how they influenced Creole culture.  Oak Alley Plantation looks straight out of a movie with its giant oaks draped in Spanish moss. Some of “Interview with a Vampire” was filmed here.

9. Join a Walking Tour of the French Quarter

Even if you spend days wandering around the historic French Quarter, you’ve still only hit the surface of this amazing place. The music, art, scenery, architecture, and (most importantly!) the people’s stories are so interwoven. The best way to better appreciate the vibrancy of the French Quarter is through a walking tour. 

An expert tour guide will take you through the neighborhood, highlighting some of its most interesting parts and revealing hidden gems. 

New Orleans Tours We Recommend

• New Orleans Sightseeing Tour with Viator
• New Orleans Garden District Tour with Get Your Guide
• The Ultimate Historical Plantation Day Tour – WithLocals

10. Cruise on the Creole Queen Riverboat

See New Orleans from a different point of view while enjoying quality time with your girlfriends. The Creole Queen is an authentic paddle-wheeler that offers day and night cruises along the Mississippi River. They offer jazz excursions, historical tours, and holiday events that are perfect for a girl’s trip. 

11. Wander Jackson Square and Bourbon Street During the Day

You can’t visit New Orleans without seeing Jackson Square and Bourbon Street. Though often crowded and loud, these places hold a distinct energy and are fun to see. Impromptu parades, street performers, and sidewalk artists bring these streets to life.

We recommend going during the day if you plan to simply wander around. You’ll feel safer and can better see the architecture and landscaping around Jackson Square, home of St. Louis Cathedral, and lots of entertainment. 

12. Get Scared on a Ghost Tour

New Orleans is widely considered the most haunted city in the United States. It seems like each building holds some kind of paranormal (or just creepy) story. Whether you want to learn a little about its haunted past or get your socks scared off by horrid stories, there’s a ghost tour for you. 

This is a great way to learn about the city’s voodoo culture, the above-ground cemeteries, and catastrophic horrors. 

13. Tour the Swamps on an Airboat

If you and your friends crave a little adventure, then an airboat tour will do the trick. Get out of the city and see the swamplands in an unforgettable excursion. Feed alligators or spot wildlife from afar on a thrilling tour through Louisiana’s bayou. 

14. Listen to Live Music 

New Orleans is home to some of the world’s best jazz and blues musicians. Even if you’re not typically a fan of this enthralling style of music, you should still check out the live music venues during your girls trip to New Orleans. Here are some of the best spots to find great sounds:

• Preservation Hall: This French Quarter icon has been home to traditional New Orleans Jazz since 1961. Today, they present 45-minute shows every night, a great way to appreciate the music without committing an entire night to it.  Reserve your tickets online in advance . 
• Blue Nile: This music club hosts a range of music styles, including classic jazz, funk, and rock. Its indoor detailing holds true to the colors and artistry of New Orleans. 
• Maple Leaf Bar : This fun venue has nightly performances from great acts, including brass bands and talented soloists. Come back on Sunday for poetry nights.
• House of Blues Restaurant & Bar: This multi-room event venue sees several big-name and local acts. There’s a full restaurant, bar, lounge, and nightclub, making this place a great spot to visit as part of a well-planned evening or a spontaneous outing. 

15. Take a City Bike Tour

New Orleans is a beautiful place to bike, plus it’s a great way to get in some casual exercise during your girls getaway. However, it can be tough knowing where to bike in a new city.

A guided New Orleans bike tour will allow you to pedal through the city without getting stuck in impossible intersections or tight corners. Guides can offer great insight into the incredible history and culture of the city while helping you navigate its unique streets. 

Best Restaurants for a Girls Trip to New Orleans

New Orleans is famous for its delicious food. Many people come from all over the world just to try some of the city’s best restaurants. For your girls trip, you need to plan on visiting some of these places that put New Orleans on the map for delicious, soul-nourishing food. 

Café du Monde

You will wait in a long line, and get powdered sugar in your hair, but you will eat one of the most delicious treats in the world. This is Cafe du Monde in New Orleans, a place on nearly every visitor’s bucket list. The warm fluffy donuts and fresh coffee are worth the wait, and the ambiance is unbeatable: a crowded French Market cafe that allows for the best people-watching and jazz-listening. 

If you want to avoid the lines, consider visiting one of  the ir other locations  outside of the French Quarter. Otherwise, enjoy the chance to slow down and take in the sights and sounds of this unique neighborhood. 

Going to Mother’s in New Orleans is a whole experience—a taste of true local flavor from an 85-year-old establishment. Food here is served from a fast-moving lunchline, and it’s almost always crowded. This is a great place for a po’ boy, Jambalaya, or glazed ham. Mother’s is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with lines typically going out the door and around the corner. 

Central Grocery and Deli

Central Grocery is the French Quarter icon that’s home to the original Muffuletta sandwich. This Italian-style sandwich uses the freshest meats and house-made olive salad. This is where you’ll go before a girl’s trip picnic, as it’s just a quick lunch counter (often with a long line). The sandwiches are great and are another bucket-list meal for most visitors. 

For a fine dining experience, we recommend Brennan’s, a colorful yet classy establishment on Royal Street. Their history dates back to 1946, and today they offer an inventive menu full of creole flavor. Though it is an upscale restaurant, it’s still a really fun place – the perfect balance for a fancy dinner during your girls trip. 

Arnaud’s in New Orleans is super classy, with tuxedo-clad servers carrying artful plates of French dishes. Feeling adventurous? Opt for their chef’s tasting menu to get some of the most inventive and delicious options curated for the most discerning diners. 

Best New Orleans Hotels for a Girls Trip

New Orleans has many four and five-star hotels that are perfect for a girls trip. Most will be in the Central Business District, where there are high-rise buildings, lots of entertainment venues, and endless shopping. This area neighbors the French Quarter across Canal Street, less than a mile from Jackson Square.  

• The Ritz-Carlton – The Ritz offers a decidedly posh ambiance while maintaining a strong sense of place. The building dates back to 1908, and the entire hotel honors over a century of New Orleans hospitality and rich culture. But the rooms are still incredibly comfortable and up-to-date. CHECK RATES HERE
• Eliza Jane – Eliza Jane in New Orleans will be perfect if you love staying at boutique hotels during your girls’ trips. It’s convenient to both the business district and the French Quarter, though there’s more to this spot than its great location. Its 196 rooms are simple yet comfortable, and the lobby lounge is incredibly inviting. CHECK RATES HERE
• Roosevelt – The New Orleans Roosevelt Hotel is under Hilton’s Waldorf Astoria Brand, a five-star line that promises luxury and comfort. It’s got spacious rooms, sleek interiors, and a rooftop pool. Plus, there are great restaurants and a spa onsite.  CHECK RATES HERE
• Windsor Court  – Though New Orleans is famous for its French influences, the British-inspired Windsor Court still fits in as a historic, charming hotel. Anyone visiting for a girls trip will love its heated rooftop pool, oversized rooms, afternoon tea service, and perfect location near the French Quarter and the Mississippi River.  CHECK RATES HERE
• VRBO – If you need more space and flexibility than a hotel room will provide, then a vacation rental could be a better fit for your girls trip. The Garden District is a quiet neighborhood to escape to, but there are also some good rentals in the French Quarter if you want to be near the hustle and bustle. CHECK RATES HERE

The post What Not to Miss on a Girls Trip to New Orleans appeared first on Groups Are A Trip .

Travel | Travel: How to visit New Orleans during the…

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Travel | travel: how to visit new orleans during the annual jazz & heritage festival.

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival provides an overflowing musical feast each day for two weekends, Thursday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. But the city doesn’t fall quiet when night descends and the fairgrounds close. Nighttime in New Orleans is always bright with music, but it never sounds fuller and sweeter than those 11 nights during the festival, which this year goes from April 25 through May 5.

Keith Abel, who gives music-related walking tours in the city, emphasizes that the special shows go nonstop, from the first night of the festival to the last. For the opening night, he recommends the Threadhead Cultural Foundation’s free concert in the New Orleans Botanical Garden. And each day you can leave the festival and walk two blocks to a street party called Sauvage Fest.

The final Sunday at 1 p.m. will feature a street naming, complete with a second line band, honoring influential piano player Professor Longhair. (It starts at the Old Caledonia Inn on Rampart Street and goes to 1738 Terpsichore Street.) “That’s so New Orleans,” Abel says. And after the festival’s finale, head to Papa Mali’s Poylester Birthday Party for a tribute to David Lindley featuring The Iguanas, Alvin Youngblood Hart and others at the intimate Chickie Wah Wah’s. “It’s as big as my house,” Abel says.

Members of Cha Wa perform at d.b.a. on Tuesday, May 3, 2022, in New Orleans. (Photo by Amy Harris, Invision/AP)

Festivalgoers are seen in the rain at the 2023 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival on Saturday, May 6, 2023, at the Fair Grounds Race Course in New Orleans. (Photo by Amy Harris/Invision/AP)

Ivan Neville of Dumpstaphunk performs at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, on Sunday, May 1, 2022, in New Orleans. (Photo by Amy Harris, Invision/AP)

George Porter Jr., from left, Zigaboo Modeliste, Ivan Neville, Ian Neville, and Tony Hall of the Foundation of Funk performs at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival on Friday, April 26, 2019, in New Orleans. (Photo by Amy Harris, Invision/AP)

George Porter Jr. performs at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, on Saturday, April 30, 2022, in New Orleans. (Photo by Amy Harris, Invision/AP)

Production engineers record the band Galactic for a video stream concert, inside an empty Tipitina’s music club in New Orleans. (Photo by Gerald Herbert, Associated Press)

Bass player George Porter Jr., a longtime fixture on the New Orleans music scene and a founding member of the influential funk band the Meters, poses at the Maple Leaf Bar in New Orleans, Thursday, April 20, 2023. (Photo by Kevin McGill, Associated Press)

But there are dozens of clubs and theaters featuring performances by the musicians in town for the festival. George Porter Jr., the bass player for the Meters who now has his own band, explains that many New Orleans acts spend much of the year on the road because local clubs’ exclusivity requirements make it difficult to earn a living at home — but those requirements vanish during Jazz Fest so the venues are packed each night with visiting stars and local legends.

“There’s lots of gigs to be had for a lot of cats,” says Ivan Neville, son of Aaron Neville of the Neville Brothers and leader of Dumpstaphunk. “Everyone comes to play shows, which gives people so many different choices and different types of music. This is the most amazing fun-filled, musically enriching, soul-feeding 11 days, man. There’s nothing like it.”

He says the first super jam was organized years ago by Zigaboo Modeliste, the Meters’ drummer, for a Thursday night show at 2 a.m. at the old Howlin’ Wolf location (another club, The Republic, is now there). “There was a line around the block of people waiting to get in,” Neville recalls. “That was something to behold and led to promoters bringing together different configurations of musicians for super jams during Jazz Fest.”

Porter says most tourists just think Bourbon Street is New Orleans, “but the bands there just play the top hits so why even bother — that’s music you can hear anywhere in the world. You’ve got to get off Bourbon Street to clubs like the Maple Leaf Bar or Tipitina’s to really hear New Orleans.”

Neville’s favorite club is Tipitina’s, which has survived for nearly 50 years — the members of the band Galactic bought it in 2018 to help keep it alive — but he says visitors should also check out Chickie Wah Wah, Howlin’ Wolf, DBA and Blue Nile.

“If you’ve never been here you’ve got to experience everything you can,” he says. “You should eat at Jacque-Imo’s which is right next door to the Maple Leaf Bar and then go in there.”

With so much to choose from, perhaps the easiest way to build a schedule is to focus on four members of New Orleans musical royalty: Porter, Neville, Galactic, and Trombone Shorty … If you can keep up with them:  Porter, who is 76, will be playing 21 shows across that span, although in a concession to age he says this is the first year he’s not playing a show that starts after 1 a.m.

“He’s inspiring, if not insane,” says Robert Mercurio, Galactic’s bass player, who is plenty busy himself — playing with Galactic, with FiyaPowa (which includes Galactic drummer Stanton Moore, Neville and other members of Dumpstaphunk), and with Dragon Smoke. That band, which rarely plays outside Jazz Fest, features Mercurio, Moore Neville and Eric Lindell. They play on the home turf of Tipitina’s on the Tuesday between wekeends but Mercurio says they started years ago at a place called The Dragon’s Den off Frenchman Street which he recommends as “a really cool room.”

These days, of course, Mercurio is mostly playing at Tipitina’s, which is “a cultural center for New Orleans music lovers,” he says, which means the band feels tremendous responsibility as owners.

“People here view it as their bar, we are just stewards. Playing here was always magical but since we took over that feeling just has been elevated. Some stages just feel like a cold shower where you’re just constantly trying to find that right temperature. But the second we step on stage at Tipitina’s it’s like we’re just soaking in a beautiful warm bath.”

While Mercurio doesn’t get to see many other shows during these eleven days —“I’m either eating, sleeping, rehearsing or performing” — he sees plenty of other musicians. “Tipitina has a loose side door — you never know who is going to stop by and play,” he says, adding that, “we  stretch out and jam a little more than normal here.”

Neville says that all these musicians in all these configurations frequently choose songs they know so they can rehearse on their own. “If you do your homework you can show up for soundcheck knowing what’s going on,” he says. Still, part of the thrill is knowing things won’t always go smoothly in these jam sessions. “There’s still a bit of an edge, which adds to that feeling of spontaneity. Sometimes the fun is knowing there could be a train wreck happening … although hopefully I’m not involved in any of those train wrecks.”

While most of the best shows are in clubs, where there’s time for bands to jam and room for fans to dance, the one worthy theater show is Trombone Shorty’s eighth “Treme Threauxdown” at the Saenger Theater on Saturday, April 27.

With the deaths of many of New Orleans’ elders in the last decade (Alan Toussaint, Art and Charles Neville, and Dr. John), Shorty has, to some extent, become the face of the city’s music scene, deftly blending jazz, funk, soul, hip-hop and rock — all with a great balance of virtuosity and showmanship.

Shorty, whose real name is Troy Andrews, attracts an endless list of stars to the Threauxdown, which has featured Galactic and Dumpstaphunk but also Mavis Staples, Dr. John, Joan Jett, Gary Clark Jr, Usher, and Steve Miller as announced guests, plus spontaneous additions like Jon Batiste and Wyclef Jean. Among the guests announced for this Threauxdown are Paul Janeway from St. Paul & The Broken Bones, Big Freedia, and Marcus King.

“If I was visiting from out of town I wouldn’t go to the big theater shows because what makes New Orleans is the unique vibe in the bar and club scene,” says Mercurio. “Troy’s ‘Threauxdown’ is the only theater show I’d go to because he gets these great special guests — a cavalcade of stars — so it’s not a show you’ll ever see anywhere else. “

Andrews also hosts Shorty Fest at Tipitina’s on April 29, which, in addition to a concert featuring his band and Galactic offers a free outdoor “Cultural Block Party,” with performances by local brass bands and Mardi Gras Indians as well as food trucks.

Meanwhile, Neville has lined up at least dozen shows, at both theaters and clubs, beyond his official Jazz Fest gig. On April 29, he’ll join Soulive’s Eric Krasno and Anders Osborne for the first day of the NOLA Crawfish Festival, which runs outdoors at a club called The Broadside for three days between the Jazz Fest weekends.

“It’s a different little thing,” Neville says. “There’s jambalaya and crawfish and it starts in the afternoon and goes into the night. You can come get some crawfish and listen to music and then go back out.”

On the middle Wednesday, he’s bouncing to three different shows and on Saturday May 4 that FiyaPowa gig with Mercurio and Moore starts at 2 a.m. (which technically makes it May 5, but in New Olreans no one is counting). Neville will also take part in “Rejuvenation 50: A Celebration of the Meters,” at the Civic Theatre on May 2 sharing the stage with George Porter among others. Along the way he’ll also be jamming with everyone from Government Mule to Chuck Leavell, the keyboardist for the Allman Brothers and the Rolling Stones, to soul and gospel legend Irma Thomas to the Preservation Hall Jazz Band.

Neville’s schedule is so busy that in the middle of our conversation he starts reorganizing his set lists on his phone and later he loses track of which gig is where.

“But I know I’ll be playing somewhere that day,” he says with a laugh. “You can look it up.”

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Man shocked by $143,000 phone bill from overseas trip

(Gray News) - When it comes to your phone plan, it helps to read the fine print. A Florida man learned that the hard way after he incurred a fortune in roaming charges during a trip to Europe.

Rene Remund told WFTS he was charged $143,269 for using 9.5 gigabytes of roaming data during a three-week trip to Switzerland.

He said he’s been a T-Mobile customer for more than 30 years and said he had been assured beforehand at a T-Mobile store that he would be “covered” while overseas.

At first, Remund said his eyes deceived him, as he thought the bill was for $143.

He said he got in touch with a representative, who assured him the bill was correct. At that point, he turned to legal help.

T-Mobile ended up crediting him for the account.

The Federal Communications Commission encourages people to know the details of their cellular plan coverage before they go on international trips, including whether your mobile phone will work there, what the roaming rates are and how to track your usage.

T-Mobile similarly encouraged its customers to check the details of their plans before setting out, as some older plans don’t include international roaming.

“If you’re not on a Go5G, Magenta, ONE Plan, Essentials, or a Simple Choice plan and you’ll be traveling outside the U.S., you can add World Class International Roaming to each line,” T-Mobile said on its webpage devoted to explaining its international roaming services . Customers can do this by managing their plan .

Other options include blocking international data and having a prepaid plan while overseas.

Copyright 2024 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Louisiana bills seeking to place restrictions on where people can carry guns receive pushback

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BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) — As Louisiana prepares for a new law to go into effect that allows those 18 and older to carry a concealed handgun without a permit, a Republican-controlled committee pushed back Wednesday against bills seeking to restrict where people can carry guns.

Among the Democratic-authored legislation was a measure rejected along party lines that would have added child day care centers, early learning centers, developmental centers and nursing homes to the list of firearm-free zone. Places currently on the list include schools, churches, courthouses, police stations and the State Capitol.

Opponents of the bill argue that the measure threatens their Second Amendment right and that gun-free zones don’t stop criminals from committing violence.

“This is going to do nothing but restrict law-abiding citizens’ ability to defend themselves,” said Kelby Seanor, director of the National Rifle Association’s Louisiana chapter.

Supporters of the measure say it is a logical extension of other zones, such as schools, and would help police get illegal guns off the street.

“What I’m hearing today is this hysteria of, ‘Oh, they are coming for our guns.’ Nothing in this legislation implies or suggests that,” Democratic Rep. Alonzo Knox said during the House committee hearing.

Knox proposed a bill that still may have a chance. It seeks to limit people who can carry guns in “major entertainment districts” to only those who choose to obtain a concealed carry permit, a process that includes paying the government a fee, having their fingerprints taken and completing a firearm training course.

Entertainment districts are defined as high traffic public spaces that host more than 15 million people annually and have a sports or entertainment venue with a capacity for more than 75,000 people. Among such districts is New Orleans’ French Quarter, home to the famous and raucous Bourbon Street.

Members of the city police department, parish sheriff’s office and city council testified in support of the bill, saying it would help law enforcement to control the areas, seize illegal guns and hopefully prevent shootings.

After some GOP lawmakers expressed their opposition, Knox deferred the measure in the hopes of making changes in the language or amendments to satisfy the committee and advance the bill at a later date.

The committee did approve of a bill that would allow law-abiding citizens to carry concealed weapons in restaurants that serve alcohol. Bill author Republican Sen. Blake Miguez reiterated that bars would still be off-limits and that anyone with a blood alcohol level of 0.05% or higher would not be allowed to carry a concealed weapon. The bill now heads to the House for final passage.

Gov. Jeff Landry signed legislation six weeks ago that will allow law-abiding citizens to carry concealed handguns without a permit or training. The law goes into effect July 4.

Proponents of the law, which they describe as a “constitutional carry bill,” say it will help protect themselves against criminals who ignore laws. Opponents, including multiple police organizations, fear that by removing the permitting process, more guns will be on the street with untrained owners — placing more people in dangerous situations.

In addition, officers say the regulation of concealed carry permits is a tool they use to crack down on illegal weapons. Last Carnival season, New Orleans police seized 111 guns, a number that New Orleans Police Department Deputy Chief Nicholas Gernon said would not be possible under the new permit-less concealed carry law because “no reasonable suspicion for the stops would have existed.”

“This is the kind of tool that we’ve lost within the city of New Orleans and our fight against violent crime,” Gernon said.

Louisiana had the country’s second-highest number of gun-related deaths in 2021 with 1,314, according to the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The figure includes suicides and homicides. Recently, a shooting that occurred Sunday outside a New Orleans nightclub killed one woman and injured 11 other people.