Louisiana, in the Southern United States, is an electric cultural
explosion. Cajun, Creole and American Southern accents, cuisine and
heritage mingle together in one scenic destination. Swamps, French
colonial architecture, charming villages and historic plantations are
all found within the borders of Louisiana. New Orleans is the
most-visited destination in the state, and it is certainly a worthy
destination. An overview of the best places to visit in Louisiana:
8. Breaux Bridge
Just outside of Lafayette is the small parish town of Breaux Bridge.
This charming destination is sometimes known as the gateway to Cajun
culture, and it is definitely a fantastic introduction to the heritage,
cuisine and history of Southern Louisiana. Most importantly, Breaux
Bridge is the crawfish capital of the world. Every May, thousands flock
to the area for the Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival. Lively Zydeco music
will make you want to join the locals and dance in the streets, and
there is no shortage of delicious fresh crawfish to go around.
7. Natchitoches
The oldest settlement in Louisiana is Natchitoches, which boasts
plenty of French and Spanish colonial architecture. Founded at the
beginning of the 18th century as a French settlement, Natchitoches is
now known for its historic district. A brick street along Cane River
Lake is the perfect place to set off on a walking tour, spotting
charming colonial homes and more than a few bed and breakfasts offering
quaint accommodation and afternoon teas. History lovers can’t miss the
Fort Saint Jean Baptiste, an original 18th century fort that offers
reenactments of military manoeuvres as well as ordinary colonial life.
6. Laura Plantation
Right on the banks of the Mississippi River is the Laura Plantation.
This Creole plantation thrived in the early 19th century, when it was
better known as the Duparc Plantation. Before the Civil War, the
plantation grew and harvested sugar cane. Six slave cabins remain on the
property, highlighting this troubling part of American history. Among
these slave cabins the origins of the Br’er Rabbit stories were
collected, many of them rooted in West African legend. Much of the
plantation’s architecture has been restored, which means that a guided
tour is truly like stepping back in time.
5. Baton Rouge
New Orleans might be the most popular place to visit in Louisiana,
but Baton Rouge is the state’s historic capital. Louisiana State
University, or LSU, is a big attraction in the city, and the
100-year-old campus is a thing of beauty. Sports stadiums, Indian
mounds, the Greek amphitheater and several lakes open for recreation are
just some of the reasons to spend a day on the LSU campus. The Art Deco
Louisiana State Capitol is a stunning structure, but many locals argue
that the Old State Capitol from the 19th century is even more beautiful.
4. Lafayette
The city of Lafayette is in the heart of Cajun country, making it a
destination you won’t want to miss. Jubilance is a way of life in
Lafayette, something the students at the University of Louisiana campus
take to heart. Head to Jefferson Street in Downtown Lafayette, and there
is no shortage of nightlife spots where you can drink, dance and dine
all night. Dive headfirst into the culture with a trip to the Acadian
Cultural Center. Acadia is the name of the region, and where the word
Cajun comes from. Of course, no trip would be complete without sampling
Cajun fare. In Lafayette, gumbo and po’ boys are staples of the local
diet.
3. Oak Alley Plantation
Oak Alley Plantation is situated on the banks of the Mississippi
River, and it dates back to the early 19th century. The oak alley for
which it is named, however, is even older. It is a remarkable
landscaping feat, with a double row of trees creating a shaded canopy
that looks ethereal. Like most plantations dating from the period, Oak
Alley was in the sugarcane business, and it relied heavily on slave
labor. Today, visitors can tour the Oak Valley Plantation, stay
overnight at its inn and dine at the onsite restaurant. Traditional
culinary delights are on the menu, with some local favorites including
fried Louisiana oysters, smoked sausage, crawfish etouffee and
buttermilk pie for dessert.
2. Louisiana Wetlands
Much of Louisiana is made up of wetlands. These areas flood with the
seasons and are generally uninhabited, but they are home to a plethora
of wild animals. Swamp tours are advertised throughout the state, and
they are an incredible chance to see a completely different side of
Louisiana. Although all types of vessels are used for these tours, the
most exciting is the airboat. These boats are able to navigate through
swampy areas because their motors are above, rather than below, the
water. Plus, the speed and noise makes it a rush! On a quieter swamp
tour by canoe or kayak, prepare to see alligators, owls, snakes, herons,
pelicans, nutria, otters and turtles.
1. New Orleans
New Orleans, or the Big
Easy, is truly unlike anywhere else in the U.S.. It is a pinch of
Creole, a dash of Cajun, a spoonful of Southern and a whole lot of
French. Situated in southeastern Louisiana, the city is widely known for
its annual Mardi Gras celebration. The French Quarter is the most
visited part of the city, and it’s easy to see why. There, you’ll find
Jackson Square, a pedestrian area dominated by the spires of the
historic St. Louis Cathedral. The French Quarter is also home to the
famed Bourbon Street, where live music and cold drinks beckon from
morning until night. It’s also where you can dine on beignets and
chicory coffee at the unparalleled Cafe du Monde.
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