While New Orleans may be Louisiana’s best-known destination, some of the state’s most memorable experiences lie beyond the city. From charming Cajun towns and scenic bayous to historic river roads and wildlife-rich wetlands, Louisiana is filled with hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Whether you’re planning a fly-drive holiday or simply looking to explore a different side of the Deep South, these destinations offer authentic culture, incredible scenery, and unforgettable adventures.
Lafayette: The Heart of Cajun Country
Known as the heart of Cajun Country, Lafayette is where Louisiana’s unique culture truly comes alive. Live music, incredible food and warm Southern hospitality make this one of the state’s must-visit destinations.
Best Things to Do in Lafayette
- Experience authentic Cajun and Zydeco music
- Sample traditional gumbo, boudin and crawfish
- Visit Vermilionville Living History Museum
- Explore local farmers’ markets and artisan shops
- Enjoy one of the city’s many cultural festivals
Top tip: Visit on a Saturday morning to experience local markets before spending the evening enjoying live Cajun music.
Breaux Bridge: A Charming Cajun Escape
Just a short drive from Lafayette, Breaux Bridge is famous for its beautiful setting along Bayou Teche and its reputation as the Crawfish Capital of the World.
Highlights
- Wander through the historic downtown
- Browse antique shops and boutiques
- Enjoy authentic Cajun cafés
- Discover the scenic Bayou Teche waterfront
- Visit during the annual Crawfish Festival
Top tip: Start your day with breakfast in one of the town’s famous cafés before exploring the local shops.
Natchitoches: Louisiana’s Oldest Town
Founded in 1714, Natchitoches offers beautifully preserved French Creole architecture, riverside walks and a slower pace of life.
Best Things to Do
- Walk along Front Street
- Explore Cane River National Heritage Area
- Visit historic plantations nearby
- Browse independent shops and galleries
- Enjoy riverside dining
Top tip: Stay overnight to experience the town after sunset when the riverfront becomes beautifully illuminated.
Avery Island: Home of TABASCO®
Avery Island is world-famous as the home of TABASCO® sauce, but there’s far more to discover than its iconic factory.
Highlights
- Tour the TABASCO® Factory
- Visit the Jungle Gardens
- Spot alligators and native wildlife
- Explore beautiful botanical gardens
- Learn about the island’s fascinating history
Top tip: Allow a few hours to explore both the factory and the surrounding gardens.
Atchafalaya Basin: Louisiana’s Wild Side
The Atchafalaya Basin is the largest swamp in the United States and one of Louisiana’s most spectacular natural attractions.
Things to Experience
- Take a guided swamp tour
- Spot alligators, turtles and birdlife
- Cruise beneath ancient cypress trees
- Learn about Louisiana’s wetland ecosystem
- Experience peaceful bayou scenery
Top tip: Early morning tours offer the best opportunities to spot wildlife.
Abita Springs: Relaxed Small-Town Charm
Nestled north of Lake Pontchartrain, Abita Springs is known for its natural spring water, local breweries and welcoming atmosphere.
Best Things to Do
- Visit the famous Abita Brewery
- Explore the quirky Abita Mystery House
- Walk or cycle the Tammany Trace Trail
- Relax in local cafés
- Browse independent shops
Top tip: Combine your visit with a scenic drive across the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway.
Lake Martin: A Nature Lover’s Paradise
Surrounded by towering cypress trees draped in Spanish moss, Lake Martin is one of Louisiana’s most beautiful wildlife areas.
Highlights
- Enjoy peaceful boat tours
- Spot nesting birds and alligators
- Photograph stunning swamp scenery
- Experience guided kayaking trips
- Visit one of Louisiana’s top birdwatching locations
Top tip: Sunrise offers the most spectacular scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities.
River Road: History Along the Mississippi
Stretching between New Orleans and Baton Rouge, River Road follows the Mississippi River past some of Louisiana’s most impressive plantation homes.
Must-See Stops
- Oak Alley Plantation
- Laura Plantation
- Whitney Plantation
- Scenic Mississippi River viewpoints
- Historic gardens and oak-lined avenues
Top tip: Take your time exploring multiple plantations to fully appreciate Louisiana’s fascinating history.
Houma: Gateway to the Bayous
Located deep in bayou country, Houma offers one of the most authentic Louisiana experiences you’ll find.
Best Things to Do
- Take an unforgettable swamp tour
- Explore Cajun fishing communities
- Enjoy fresh Gulf seafood
- Learn about bayou life at local museums
- Experience Louisiana’s wetlands from the water
Top tip: Book a guided boat tour with a local captain for fascinating stories about life in the bayous.
Why Explore Beyond New Orleans?
Beyond New Orleans lies a Louisiana filled with authentic culture, charming towns and unforgettable natural beauty. From the music-filled streets of Lafayette and the historic charm of Natchitoches to the peaceful waters of Lake Martin and the winding bayous of Houma, every destination offers something unique.
For travellers looking to experience the real Louisiana, venturing beyond the city’s famous streets reveals a side of the state rich in heritage, wildlife, cuisine and Southern hospitality.
Discover Louisiana with Tour America
Whether you’re planning a fly-drive adventure through Cajun Country or exploring Louisiana’s hidden gems one town at a time, Tour America can help you create the perfect itinerary. Discover the culture, cuisine and unforgettable scenery that make Louisiana one of the USA’s most rewarding destinations to explore.
