Introduction
Hey friends, I’m so happy you’ve landed here—I recently took a road trip through Louisiana and it was one of those travel experiences that just sticks with you. From swamp boats gliding beneath moss-draped cypress trees, to live jazz echoing down ancient streets, to comfort food that hugs your soul—Louisiana has that magical mix of culture, nature, history and good times. If you’re planning a visit (or dreaming of one), here are 12 of the most fun things to do and places to visit in Louisiana. I hope you’ll find some inspiration—and that you’ll get to enjoy them too.
12 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Louisiana (2026)
1. Explore the French Quarter in New Orleans
There’s no better place to start than the heart of New Orleans: the French Quarter. Stroll through its narrow streets, admire wrought-iron balconies, dip into cafés, hear live music on almost every block. The atmosphere here is electric and rich with history. According to travel guides, the Quarter is New Orleans’ oldest and most famous neighbourhood, with architecture and ambience that date back centuries.
Tip: Visit early in the morning when it’s quieter; midday and evening bring crowds—but they bring energy too.
See Also: 38 Best & Fun Things To Do In Fredericksburg, TX
2. Take a Swamp Tour in the Bayous
For a completely different side of Louisiana, book a swamp or bayou tour. Think: airboats, alligators, bald cypress trees, reflective water, and the quiet hum of nature. One guide describes swamp tours as a top experience in Louisiana: “You’re likely to see all of those … plus some unexpected surprises.”
My experience: I went out just before sunset, the light on the water was golden, and hearing the squawk of a bird in the trees while gliding past a log made it feel like a scene from a movie.
3. Visit Historic Plantations Along the Mississippi
One of the most contemplative and beautiful experiences: driving the Great River Road and stopping at historic plantations. These places hold both architectural beauty and deeply important (and often difficult) history. As one guide puts it: visit the plantations “to learn about early plantation life, slavery and how the plantations fit into the history of the state.”
Tip: Choose a plantation tour that includes the full story—not just the house, but the land, the enslaved workers’ lives, and the wider context.
4. Discover the Charm of Natchitoches
This one is a bit of a hidden gem: Natchitoches (pronounced “Nack-a-tish”) is the oldest permanent settlement in Louisiana, with French Creole houses, a calm riverfront, and a slower pace. Travel guides highlight it as a place to escape the hustle and explore deep roots.
Why I loved it: Breakfast by the river, then wandering into antique shops and historic buildings—felt like stepping into a storybook.
5. Sample Cajun & Creole Cuisine
If you’re going to Louisiana, you’re definitely going to eat well. The food here is bold, soulful, delicious. From gumbo and jambalaya, to beignets, to crawfish boils and every spice in between. One source says “crawfish… another culinary must in Louisiana.”
My favourite: A late-night stop at a local Cajun place after a swamp tour—perfect way to refuel.
6. Wander the Creole Nature Trail
For something off the beaten path, check out the Creole Nature Trail: a 180-mile scenic byway of marshes, prairies and beaches. It’s nature at its most untouched. According to travel guides, this is a top pick for nature lovers.
Bonus tip: Keep your camera ready. The light and landscapes are incredible in the late afternoon.
7. Visit the Abita Mystery House
This one is quirky in the best way. Located in Abita Springs (about an hour north of New Orleans), the Abita Mystery House is a folk-art museum/roadside attraction filled with oddities, handmade art, and a weird wonderful vibe. One travel feature calls it a “fever dream of a folk art genius.”
Why it’s fun: It’s unexpected. A little off-trail, but memorable—and perfect for photo-ops.
8. Enjoy the Historic & Cultural Baton Rouge
The state capital has more than politics—it’s got cultural attractions, a cool arts scene, and plenty of family-friendly fun. One list of most exciting places in Louisiana highlights Baton Rouge’s mix of arts, museums and theme-parks.
My take: For families or anyone wanting to balance history + chill time, this is a good stop.
9. Relax at a State Park – e.g., Tickfaw State Park
Need a break from city life? Head into nature. Tickfaw State Park is a favourite: canoeing, boardwalks through swamp forest, nature trails, cabins and campsites. It’s one of Louisiana’s most-visited parks.
Tip: Bring insect repellent. The beauty comes with a little bug company, depending on season.
10. Cruise the River & Visit Oak Alley Plantation’s Famous Oak Row
If you drive along the Great River Road, you’ll hit some iconic views. Oak Alley Plantation’s corridor of massive live oak trees is unbelievably picturesque. Pair that with a river cruise or scenic stop, and you’ve got a full day of stunning vistas. Travel guides highlight plantation tours for both beauty and history.
Personal moment: Sitting on the porch of the plantation house, gazing down that oak-lined path—it felt like time slowed down.
11. Dive Into Music & Live Entertainment
Music is alive everywhere in Louisiana—whether you’re in a jazz club in New Orleans, a zydeco dance hall in Cajun country, or simply listening to street performers. The state’s culture thrives through sound. As one feature notes: jazz, jambalaya and Mardi Gras all celebrate Louisiana’s resilience and rich culture.
Must-do: After dinner in the Quarter, find a piano bar or stray into a live set. Let the rhythm take over.
12. Experience Family & Kid-Friendly Fun
Travelling with kids (or want a lighter, fun-filled day)? Louisiana offers options: water parks, children’s museums, interactive learning spots. For example, family-oriented travel guides for Baton Rouge mention water-parks and museum centres.
Bonus tip: Even if you’re travelling solo or as a couple, these spots make great low-stress afternoon stops when you want to chill.
Final Thoughts
Louisiana surprised me in the best way. It’s vibrant, soulful, historically rich, visually beautiful—and it’s also just plain fun. Whether you’re into nature, music, food, history or just exploring good vibes, this state has layers.
Here are a few parting thoughts:
- Plan for variety. Mix one high-energy experience (like live music or swamp tour) with one relaxed moment (like a plantation drive or park stop).
- Think seasonally. Summer can be hot, but early spring or fall? Lovely. Also check for local festivals (they’re everywhere).
- Prioritise experiences, not just Instagram spots. Some of the best memories for me came from unexpected moments—chatting with locals, hearing a street musician, sitting quietly by the water.
- Go deep. Don’t just scratch the surface of the Quarter or a plantation; ask questions, listen to guides, pay attention to the whole story.
- Stay flexible. Map out your must-sees, but leave space for spontaneity. Some of the best stops were the ones we almost skipped.
So: pack your camera (and comfortable shoes), bring an appetite for flavour, music and nature—and get ready to fall in love with Louisiana.