Overview

Louisiana is a vibrant blend of French, African, Spanish, and Creole cultures, known for its music, food, festivals, and bayous. From the jazz-filled streets of New Orleans to the swampy wetlands and historic plantations, the Pelican State offers a one-of-a-kind Southern experience rich in tradition and flavor.

  • Capital: Baton Rouge
  • Largest Cities: New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, Lafayette, Lake Charles
  • Population: ~4.6 million (2024 est.)
  • Time Zone: Central Standard Time (UTC−6) / CDT (Daylight Saving)
  • Climate: Humid subtropical — hot, humid summers and mild, wet winters

Top Destinations in Louisiana

New Orleans

A world-famous city of jazz, parades, and Creole culture, known for the French Quarter, Bourbon Street, and Mardi Gras.

Baton Rouge

The capital city offers riverfront attractions, museums, and LSU game day excitement.

Lafayette

The heart of Cajun Country with lively zydeco music, unique cuisine, and French-speaking heritage.

Natchitoches

Louisiana’s oldest town with colonial architecture, festive lights, and classic Southern charm.

Lake Charles

A laid-back destination on the Creole Nature Trail with casinos, birding, and Gulf Coast access.

Must-See Attractions

  • French Quarter (New Orleans) – Historic streets, live jazz, and iconic architecture
  • National WWII Museum (New Orleans) – A top-rated museum experience
  • Oak Alley Plantation – Classic Southern plantation with oak-lined drive
  • Atchafalaya Basin – The largest swamp in the U.S., perfect for airboat tours
  • Louisiana State Capitol (Baton Rouge) – The tallest U.S. state capitol building

Things to Do

  • Enjoy live jazz and street performances in New Orleans
  • Take a swamp tour to spot gators, egrets, and cypress trees
  • Eat your way through Cajun and Creole dishes like gumbo and jambalaya
  • Attend Mardi Gras parades and festivals
  • Explore historic homes and plantations

Getting There & Around

Major Airports

  • Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY), Baton Rouge Metropolitan (BTR), Lafayette Regional (LFT), Shreveport Regional (SHV)

Transport

  • Streetcars and ferries operate in New Orleans
  • Amtrak and intercity buses connect major cities
  • Rental cars recommended for rural areas, bayou drives, and scenic routes

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (Feb–May): Mardi Gras, music festivals, and warm temps
  • Summer (Jun–Aug): Hot and humid with frequent afternoon storms
  • Fall (Sep–Nov): Cooler weather and harvest celebrations
  • Winter (Dec–Jan): Mild temps and fewer crowds (except during Mardi Gras season)

Local Food & Culture

  • Cuisine: Bold, flavorful, and unique — heavily influenced by French, African, Spanish, and Native traditions
  • Specialties: Crawfish étouffée, jambalaya, gumbo, beignets, po’boys, muffulettas, red beans and rice
  • Drinks: Sazerac, hurricanes, café au lait, and local craft brews
  • Events & Festivals:
  • Mardi Gras (statewide, especially New Orleans)
  • Jazz & Heritage Festival (New Orleans)
  • Festival International de Louisiane (Lafayette)
  • Bayou Country Superfest (Baton Rouge)
  • Red River Revel (Shreveport)

Souvenirs from Louisiana

  • Mardi Gras beads, masks, and doubloons
  • Hot sauce (Crystal or Tabasco) and Cajun spice blends
  • Beignet mix or chicory coffee from Café du Monde
  • Local zydeco or jazz music CDs and merch
  • Gator-themed gifts or swamp tour keepsakes

Fun Facts

  • Louisiana is the only U.S. state with parishes instead of counties
  • The Superdome in New Orleans is one of the largest fixed domes in the world
  • Louisiana is the birthplace of jazz music
  • Home to more than 400 festivals annually — the most per capita
  • The state has the tallest state capitol building in the U.S.

Suggested Itineraries

3-Day New Orleans Getaway

  • Day 1: French Quarter – walking tour, beignets, and Bourbon Street
  • Day 2: Garden District – streetcar ride, cemeteries, and dinner jazz cruise
  • Day 3: Swamp tour and WWII Museum

5-Day Louisiana Culture Trip

  • Day 1: New Orleans – food, music, and museums
  • Day 2: Plantation tour – Oak Alley or Laura Plantation
  • Day 3: Baton Rouge – capitol, riverfront, and LSU
  • Day 4: Lafayette – Cajun music, food, and bayou boat rides
  • Day 5: Drive Creole Nature Trail near Lake Charles

Cities

  • New Orleans