Introduction
When I first visited St. Charles in Louisiana, I didn’t quite know what to expect. I’d heard of the area—its riverside setting, its history—but driving through I discovered a place where big-southern charm meets hidden adventure. I found old plantation homes, bayou views I didn’t anticipate, festivals where fried alligator is served, and quiet spots where you can walk and just breathe. Over a few visits, I pulled together the things that stood out as fun, memorable and totally worth doing, and in no particular order here are 12 of the best and fun things to do in St. Charles, LA—with a little personal flavor and practical tip for each.
12 Best & Fun Things To Do In St. Charles, LA (2026)
1. Visit Destrehan Plantation
One of the most striking stops for me was Destrehan Plantation. Built beginning in 1787, it’s the oldest documented plantation home in the lower Mississippi River Valley. Walking through the grand halls and hearing the guide talk about the enslaved persons’ cabins nearby made the visit deeply personal.
Tip: Go early in the day for the guided tour, bring a camera (the gardens are beautiful), and plan for 1.5–2 hours.
See Also: 24 Best & Fun Things To Do In Santa Rosa, CA
2. Enjoy the riverside scenery at Bonnet Carré Spillway
This big engineering marvel just outside St. Charles Parish is more than flood control — it’s a scenic spot for walking, bird-watching and river views. I visited near dusk, the light on the water was rich, and the peaceful vibe was a contrast to the busier plantation areas.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, bring binoculars if you have them (for birds) and pack some water.
3. Take in the local flavour at the annual Alligator Festival
If you time your visit right (last full weekend in September) you’ll catch the Alligator Festival at Westbank Bridge Park. Deep-fried gator, carnival rides, bands, craft vendors — you name it. I went one afternoon, sampled some unusual food, and wandered through craft booths.
Tip: The Thursday “locals night” has free entry. Parking can fill up quickly — arrive early or use the shuttle lots.
4. Explore the historic river road and bayou views
Just driving along River Road in St. Charles Parish is a treat. Old plantation homes, sprawling oaks, glimpses of the Mississippi River or bayous — it has that “old-Louisiana” feel. I pulled off at little turn-outs, took photos, and felt like I was stepping back in time.
Tip: Rent a car if you can, or at least allow time for a slow drive with stops; some homes offer guided tours or have picnic-areas nearby.
5. Visit the riverside park at Westbank Bridge Park
This park in Luling offers great views of the river and the West Bank side of St. Charles Parish. It’s also where the Alligator Festival happens. I spent an early morning here walking the trail, sipping coffee, and just enjoying the quiet before the festival chaos.
Tip: Use the park for a relaxed picnic, bring binoculars for river-traffic or birds, and check out any special events happening there.
6. Discover local culture at the museum or heritage sites
Learning the history of St. Charles Parish — from indigenous people, through colonial times, plantations, to modern industry — gives the place so much depth. On my visit I found that spending even an hour in a heritage museum made me appreciate the whole region more.
Tip: Pair a heritage tour with another activity (like the plantation home) so you get the full context without feeling rushed.
7. Take a nature walk or kayaking in the wetlands/bayous
St. Charles is more than history and festivals — the natural landscape around it is powerful. On one trip I rented a small kayak and paddled near a bayou edge, hearing frogs, seeing herons, watching the light filter through the trees.
Tip: Bring insect repellent, check the weather, and if you can, go at sunrise or early morning for calm water and minimal crowds.
8. Sample regional cuisine — Cajun & Creole influence
I’ll admit: I came for the scenery and stayed for the food. From gumbo and jambalaya to fried catfish and more unusual things like gator bites (especially at festival time), the cuisine in St. Charles Parish has flavor. After a full day of exploring, I sat down at a riverside eatery, ordered local seafood, and just soaked it in.
Tip: Ask locals for recommendations—sometimes the smallest roadside café has the best dish. Consider trying something you’ve never eaten before.
9. Visit lesser-known plantations and architecture
Besides Destrehan, there are other historic homes and plantation-style architecture in St. Charles Parish. For example, the Ormond Plantation House (built in 1789) is in the area and catches the eye. I found hopping between one or two of these smaller sites gave a quieter experience than the major tourist stops.
Tip: Check ahead for opening times, and note that some homes are privately owned and only accessible via guided tour or special event.
10. Enjoy walks & leisure time by the river
Sometimes the best part of visiting is simply sitting by the river, watching the barges drift by, and letting your mind slow down. I found a bench near the levee, picked up a pastry from a local bakery, and spent an hour reading as the sun set over the water.
Tip: Bring a light jacket (evenings can be breezy), a snack, and aim to go about an hour before sunset for nice light.
11. Join local events, markets & crafts
Beyond major festivals, I stumbled upon smaller community events, craft markets and local gatherings. One morning I found a farmer’s-style market selling local honey, crafts, and fresh produce – a lovely way to interact with the community.
Tip: Check local parish calendars or chamber of commerce websites for market dates, crafts fairs and small-town events.
12. Family-friendly fun & relaxed outings
If you’re travelling with kids or simply looking for low-stress fun, St. Charles Parish offers nice picnic spots, riverside walks, and easy outings. I went with a pair of cousins and we spent a morning doing a nature walk followed by lunch and ice-cream. No rush, no big plan, just time together.
Tip: Bring a picnic blanket, maybe choose a morning outing (less heat, more comfortable) and plan for somewhere you can easily stop for a treat.
Final Thoughts
St. Charles Parish in Louisiana may not always appear on every top-destination list, but that’s part of its appeal. It offers a blend of rich Southern history, natural beauty, local flavour and relaxed pace. On my trips there I found myself returning to favourite spots, discovering new corners, and really absorbing the vibe of the place.
A few extra pro-tips if you’re planning a visit:
- Go slowly. Don’t rush from one big attraction to the next. Some of the best moments were un-planned, just sitting by the river or wandering through trees.
- Bring layers. The weather by the water or in the shade of trees can shift.
- Talk with locals. I found friendly people who gave me recs for food, quiet spots, sometimes off-map ideas.
- Plan time for both indoor & outdoor. History tours, plantation visits might be inside/cool; nature walks add the outdoor element.
- Mind special events. If you time it for the Alligator Festival or another community festival you’ll get an extra layer of fun.
- Respect the heritage. Some places (plantations, old homes) carry deep history — including difficult history — and visiting thoughtfully adds meaning.
Whether you’re going solo, as a duo, with family or friends, St. Charles Parish offers a versatile backdrop: you can have adventure, deep history, outdoor quiet and delicious meals all wrapped into one stay. I left each time with a sense of having found something unique — and a feeling that I’d like to come back. I hope you’ll do the same.
Happy travels!