Day Trips in New Orleans

New Orleans, known as the “Big Easy,” offers a unique blend of culture, history, and cuisine that attracts tourists from around the world. If you’re looking to explore beyond the city limits, here are some exciting day trip ideas to consider:

Plantation Tours

• Location: Approximately 30-60 minutes west of New Orleans
• Highlights: Experience the opulence and history of plantations such as Oak Alley, San Francisco, and Laura. Learn about the lives of enslaved people, the sugar industry, and the architectural wonders these estates represent.

Cajun Country (Lafayette & Avery Island)

• Location: Approximately 2 hours west of New Orleans
• Highlights: Immerse yourself in Cajun culture by visiting Lafayette’s Vermilionville, where you can learn about the Acadian way of life. Don’t forget to sample some delicious Cajun cuisine! Also, take a tour of Avery Island, home of Tabasco Sauce and Jungle Gardens.

Swamp Tours

• Location: Approximately 30-60 minutes southwest of New Orleans
• Highlights: Embark on a swamp tour to see alligators, raccoons, nutrias, and various bird species in their natural habitats. Many tours offer airboat rides through the marshes for an unforgettable experience.

Baton Rouge

• Location: Approximately 1 hour north of New Orleans
• Highlights: Visit Louisiana’s capital city to explore the state capitol building, LSU’s campus, and the Old Governor’s Mansion. Don’t miss out on a trip to the Baton Rouge Zoo or the Louisiana Art & Science Museum.

Mississippi River Cruises (Baton Rouge or Natchez)

• Location: Approximately 1-2 hours north of New Orleans
• Highlights: Experience the mighty Mississippi River by taking a scenic cruise from Baton Rouge or Natchez. Enjoy views of antebellum mansions, learn about steamboat history, and spot wildlife along the way.