Louisiana
What to do in Louisiana
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Louisiana is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and many festivals occur. Spring brings the lively Mardi Gras season and various music and food festivals, while fall offers cooler temperatures and events like the Voodoo Music + Arts Experience. Summers can be hot and humid, with hurricane risks during the late summer and early fall months.
Things to do in Louisiana
- Stroll through the French Quarter in New Orleans to enjoy live jazz music on Bourbon Street and savor iconic dishes like gumbo and beignets
- Attend Mardi Gras to experience world-famous parades and celebrations
- Tour historic plantation homes like Oak Alley and Laura Plantation
- Immerse yourself in the Cajun culture in Lafayette with zydeco music, crawfish boils, and swamp tours
- Explore Louisiana's wetlands with a bayou tour
- Enjoy a scenic riverboat cruise on the Mississippi River
- Take advantage of Louisiana’s world-class fishing, hunting, and water sports opportunities
Where to go in Louisiana
National & State Parks
Louisiana NPS Sites: https://www.nps.gov/state/la/index.htm
Louisiana State Park Website: https://www.explorelouisiana.com/state-parks
Major Cities
Baton Rouge
The state capital and an industrial, cultural, and political hub with landmarks like Louisiana State University and the Capitol Park Museum.
Lafayette
Known as the “Hub City,” it is the heart of Cajun culture and famous for its festivals and food.
Lake Charles
A center for petrochemical industries and home to several casinos, Lake Charles also offers outdoor recreation in nearby parks.
Monroe
Known for its scenic beauty and the Biedenharn Museum and Gardens.
New Orleans
A cultural hotspot with a rich history, known for its music, Mardi Gras celebrations, and diverse cuisine.
Shreveport
Located in northwest Louisiana, Shreveport offers a mix of entertainment, casinos, and cultural attractions.
Where to Stay
Major Airports
- Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) in New Orleans
- Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR) in Baton Rouge
- Shreveport Regional Airport (SHV) in Shreveport
- Lafayette Regional Airport (LFT) in Lafayette
- Alexandria International Airport (AEX) in Alexandria
Louisiana Basics
Baton Rouge
Central
LA
Southwest
Magnolia
Brown Pelican
The Pelican State
New Orleans