Weekend Trip Ideas in Louisiana

If you like a little spice on your taste buds, Avery Island is just the place. Tour the Tabasco factory and barrel warehouse, then stop at the country store and restaurant to sample a wide range of the iconic hot sauces.

With four casinos and a racetrack, Lake Charles offers a lot of winning opportunities. Experience the Creole and Cajun culture of this area with Southern culinary delights at Pat’s of Henderson. Go crabbing, shrimping, or fishing along the local stretch of the Creole Nature Trail.

Stop in New Orleans for fascinating entertainment that will delight all ages. If you’re visiting in February, don't miss the Mardi Gras festival that takes place along Bourbon Street and the French Quarter. For a sobering look at an important part of American history, take a tour through the National WWII Museum.

Located right at the confluence of the Mississippi River and the Gulf of Mexico, Venice boasts numerous offshore fishing hotspots. You can sign up for a guided fishing excursion to try your hand at bringing in a catch. Rent a kayak or a boat, and explore the waters on your own.

A vacation in Louisiana wouldn’t be complete without visiting Baton Rouge's attractions. They include the Baton Rouge Gallery and Magnolia Mound Plantation, among others. Take the kids to the Blue Bayou Water Park for a fun splash under the sun.

A tour of this garden takes you through a fantastic trail rich in plant diversity. Starting from the Buddha statue, walk through landmarks such as the Cleveland Oak, Survey Tree, and the palm gardens. Look out for birds such as pintails and little blue herons.

If you visit between mid-August and early September, check out the Insta-Gator Ranch for some hands-on encounters with native alligators. Witness as a gator egg hatches while holding it in your palm. Buy leather belts, wallets, and other gator-sourced accessories as well.

The beautifully quiet stretches of undisturbed sand in southwest Louisiana make for good beachcombing. Enjoy peaceful walks as you collect seashells along areas like Cameron Parish's beaches.

A bottle of your favorite drink offers the best accompaniment to a relaxing ride. Pedal down the Tammany Trace Bike Trail and stop by an array of local breweries. Some of these include Abita Brewing Company and Old Rail Brewing.

Saddle up and explore the extensive trail of woods in the Kisatchie National Forest. The park has numerous riding paths suitable for all experience levels. If you’re a beginner, the guides will offer you some basic training.

Casual attire in layers is best. You'll need to consider both rain and warmer temperatures. Light layers are the best bet in both situations.

Pack comfortable water shoes for aquatic excursions, walking shoes for strolling downtown, and sturdier boots for hiking.

For daytime excursions, you'll need sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Also, bring some insect repellent for those tiny critters that thrive in Louisana's swamps and other wetlands.

Bring a good camera to snap those stunning moments on the water, in the woods, and with wildlife. A waterproof camera is a bonus. In addition, pack a power cord and portable charger for your camera, phone, and other devices.