After delving into the vibrant array of things to do in New Orleans, from jazz clubs to historic French Quarter tours, you might find yourself yearning to explore beyond the city’s bustling streets. Day trips from New Orleans offer just that, a chance to discover the rich culture, natural beauty, and historical depth of Louisiana and the Gulf Coast beyond the city’s confines.
Venturing out from New Orleans, the landscape of things to do in Louisiana broadens, taking you from the haunting beauty of the bayous to the historic plantations that dot the Mississippi River. These journeys enrich your experience, connecting you with the diverse ecosystems, culinary traditions, and storied past of the region.
Selecting where to stay in New Orleans is crucial for tapping into the city’s eclectic rhythm while ensuring a comfortable base for your explorations. The right location not only puts you in the heart of the city’s legendary nightlife and culinary scene but also positions you perfectly for day trips into the surrounding areas, blending urban excitement with the allure of Louisiana’s natural and historical sites.
Discover Best Day Trips from New Orleans, United States
1. Plantation Country, Louisiana
Explore the historic plantations along the Mississippi River, such as Oak Alley, Laura, and Houmas House. These grand estates offer a glimpse into the antebellum South and are surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Distance: Approximately 50-70 miles
Travel Time: Most plantations are within a 1-hour drive from New Orleans
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Oak Alley Plantation, Laura Plantation, Houmas House
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Oak Alley Plantation: $27
- Laura Plantation: $25
- Houmas House: $24
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Oak-lined alleyways, Mississippi River views
Travel Tip: Many plantations offer guided tours that provide insights into the history and culture of the era, so be sure to join one.
2. Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Louisiana’s capital city, Baton Rouge, is rich in history and culture, featuring attractions like the Old State Capitol, LSU Museum of Art, and the USS Kidd. The city combines political history with a vibrant college-town atmosphere.
Distance: Approximately 80 miles
Travel Time: It takes about 1.5 hours to reach Baton Rouge by car from New Orleans
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Old State Capitol, LSU Museum of Art, USS Kidd
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Old State Capitol: Free
- LSU Museum of Art: $5
- USS Kidd: $10
Budget: Approximately $30-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Mississippi River, Louisiana State Capitol
Travel Tip: Don’t miss a tour of the Louisiana State Capitol building, the tallest state capitol in the U.S., offering panoramic views of the city and the Mississippi River.
3. Cajun Country, Louisiana
Immerse yourself in Cajun culture in the heart of Louisiana. This area is known for its unique music, delicious cuisine, and swamp tours, where you can see alligators and other wildlife.
Distance: Approximately 135 miles
Travel Time: Lafayette, the heart of Cajun Country, is about a 2-hour drive from New Orleans
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Cajun music, cuisine, swamp tours
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Swamp Tour: $20-$30
- Vermilionville Historic Village: $10
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Bayous, swamps, historic villages
Travel Tip: Try authentic Cajun dishes like jambalaya, gumbo, and crawfish étouffée, and consider a swamp boat tour for a real Cajun experience.
4. Gulfport, Mississippi
Gulfport offers sandy beaches, deep-sea fishing excursions, and the Island View Casino. It’s a great spot for those seeking a beach day or some fun in the sun.
Distance: Approximately 80 miles
Travel Time: Gulfport is just about a 1.5-hour drive from New Orleans
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Sandy beaches, deep-sea fishing, Island View Casino
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Lynn Meadows Discovery Center: $10
- Fishing Charter: $100-$200
Budget: Approximately $50-$150 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Jones Park, Gulf beaches
Travel Tip: Visit the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center if you’re traveling with kids, or enjoy the waterfront views at Jones Park.
5. Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, Louisiana
This park offers a mix of nature and history, with swamp tours, walking trails, and the chance to learn about the region’s unique ecosystem and the Cajun way of life.
Distance: Approximately 15 miles
Travel Time: The park is approximately a 30-minute drive from New Orleans
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Swamp tours, walking trails, wildlife
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Swamp Tour: $25-$30
Budget: Approximately $30-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Barataria Preserve, Mississippi River Delta
Travel Tip: Take a guided swamp tour to fully appreciate the area’s natural beauty and wildlife, including alligators, birds, and lush vegetation.
6. Honey Island Swamp, Louisiana
Experience one of the wildest swamps in Louisiana with a tour of Honey Island Swamp. It’s a fantastic place to see alligators, wild boar, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Distance: Approximately 45 miles
Travel Time: The swamp is about a 45-minute drive from New Orleans
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Wildlife viewing, swamp tours
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Swamp Tour: $25-$30
Budget: Approximately $30-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Swamp ecosystems, wildlife habitats
Travel Tip: Choose a smaller boat tour for a more intimate and closer view of the wildlife and flora.
7. Abita Springs, Louisiana
Abita Springs is known for its quaint small-town charm, the Abita Brewery, and beautiful natural springs. It’s a great destination for beer enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy Louisiana’s natural beauty.
Distance: Approximately 45 miles
Travel Time: It’s just a 1-hour drive to Abita Springs from New Orleans
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Abita Brewery, natural springs, Tammany Trace
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Abita Brewery Tour: $10
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Abita Springs Park, Tammany Trace trail
Travel Tip: Tour the Abita Brewery to learn about their brewing process and sample their famous craft beers.
8. St. Francisville, Louisiana
St. Francisville is a picturesque town filled with historic homes, beautiful gardens, and charming antique shops. The area is rich in history, with attractions like the Myrtles Plantation and Rosedown Plantation.
Distance: Approximately 110 miles
Travel Time: The town is about a 2-hour drive from New Orleans
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Historic homes, gardens, antique shops
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Myrtles Plantation Tour: $15
- Rosedown Plantation: $10
Budget: Approximately $30-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Historic plantations, Afton Villa Gardens
Travel Tip: Visit the Myrtles Plantation, known as one of America’s most haunted homes, for a historical tour or even a ghost tour if you’re feeling brave.
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FAQ About Best Day Trips from New Orleans, United States
What are some recommended day trips from New Orleans?
Recommended day trips from New Orleans include exploring the historic plantations along the Mississippi River, such as Oak Alley and Laura Plantation, taking a swamp tour in the Bayou, visiting Baton Rouge, and exploring the Gulf Coast’s beaches.
Is a visit to the Oak Alley Plantation worth it?
Definitely! Oak Alley Plantation offers a glimpse into the South’s antebellum past, with its stunning avenue of oaks and well-preserved mansion. It’s a beautiful and educational experience about the region’s history and culture.
Can I take a swamp tour near New Orleans?
Yes, swamp tours are a popular activity near New Orleans. These tours provide an up-close look at the unique ecosystem of the Louisiana bayou, including wildlife sightings such as alligators, birds, and possibly snakes.
What attractions are there in Baton Rouge for a day trip?
Baton Rouge, the capital of Louisiana, offers several attractions for a day trip, including the Old State Capitol, LSU Rural Life Museum, and the USS Kidd Veterans Museum. It’s a great way to explore more of Louisiana’s history and culture.
Are there beaches near New Orleans suitable for a day trip?
Yes, there are several beaches near New Orleans that make for a great day trip. The Gulf Coast, particularly areas like Gulfport and Biloxi in Mississippi, offers sandy beaches, seafood restaurants, and casinos.
Is a day trip to the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve recommended?
Absolutely! The Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve offers a chance to explore Louisiana’s wetlands, learn about the area’s history and culture at the French Quarter Visitor Center, and hike through scenic nature trails.
Can I explore Cajun culture on a day trip from New Orleans?
Yes, a day trip to the Acadiana region allows you to dive into Cajun culture. Visit Lafayette for its Cajun and Creole cuisine, live Zydeco music, and the Vermilionville Historic Village to learn about the early Cajun settlers.
Are there any wine or food tours recommended around New Orleans?
While New Orleans is known for its food scene, exploring the culinary delights of the surrounding area can be a treat. Look for tours that offer tastings of Southern and Creole cuisine, or visit local distilleries and breweries for a taste of local brews and spirits.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/new-orleans-l370?activity_type=dayTrip
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