Travel Discovery

Day Trips from New Orleans: Exploring Louisiana's Charms

Destination: New Orleans

    1. Swamp Tours in Cajun Country
    2. Overview: Venture into the heart of Louisiana's wetlands with a swamp tour in the Cajun Country. Glide through bayous aboard a flat-bottomed boat, guided by locals who share fascinating tales of the area's ecology and wildlife. Spot alligators basking in the sun, egrets soaring overhead, and turtles sunning on logs, all while immersed in the serene beauty of the swamp. This experience scores a high 4.6/5 rating for its unique immersion into Louisiana's natural habitat.
    3. Duration: Approximately 2 hours

    4. Next Stop: Sample authentic Cajun cuisine at a local eatery, savoring dishes like gumbo, crawfish étouffée, and jambalaya.

    5. Plantation Tours along the Mississippi River

    6. Overview: Step back in time to the Antebellum era with a visit to one of the many stately plantation homes that line the Mississippi River. Destinations such as Oak Alley Plantation, known for its iconic alley of 300-year-old oak trees, or the grandiose Houmas House Plantation showcase the opulence and complexity of Louisiana's past. With tours highlighting both the architectural marvels and the stories of those who lived and worked on these estates, this activity earns a solid 4.5/5 rating for historical significance and educational value.
    7. Duration: Half-day including travel time

    8. Highlight: Enjoy a mid-afternoon mint julep on the veranda, taking in the genteel Southern ambiance.

    9. Historic City of Natchitoches

    10. Overview: Drive northwest to Natchitoches, the oldest settlement in the Louisiana Purchase territory. This charming city, pronounced "Nack-a-tish," is a National Historic Landmark District filled with beautifully preserved buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries. Meander along the Cane River Lakefront, explore Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site, and indulge in the town's famous meat pies. Natchitoches rates 4.7/5 for its well-preserved history and quaint charm.
    11. Duration: Full day recommended
    12. Evening Activity: Attend a live performance at the historic Steel Magnolias Playhouse if visiting during a show season.