Top 19 Stunning Destinations in Louisiana You Must See

Louisiana, also referred to as the “Bayou State”, “Child of the Mississippi”, “Creole State”, “Pelican State (official)”, “Sportsman’s Paradise”, “Sugar State”, and “The Boot”, presents some of the most stunning and extraordinary sights and locations to explore. Simply peruse through these captivating images and revel in its beauty.

1. Avery Island

Avery Island stands out as one of Louisiana’s most renowned attractions, celebrated globally for being the origin of Tabasco sauce. While the island harbors a small human population, it is predominantly a salt dome that was initially enveloped by vegetation before being unveiled. The key highlights of Avery Island include the visitor center and the pepper sauce factory; however, there is significantly more to experience on the island than its link to Tabasco sauce.

2. Christmas in New Orleans

New Orleans is regarded as one of the most distinctive cities globally, especially during the Christmas season, which is particularly enchanting. Although New Orleans may not receive the snowfall experienced in other regions of the United States, this does not diminish the festive spirit that permeates the city during the holiday season. The Krewe of Jingle holiday parade inaugurates Christmas festivities in New Orleans, while the St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square host numerous events throughout December. One of the most cherished Christmas traditions in the city involves savoring Reveillon, a French-inspired meal that symbolizes ‘awakening’. Contemporary New Orleans cuisine intertwines with Creole flavors, creating an unforgettable dining experience.

3. St. Louis Cathedral

St. Louis Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in New Orleans, and indeed throughout Louisiana. Situated in the bustling French Quarter adjacent to Jackson Square, the cathedral’s history reaches back nearly 300 years, although it has undergone numerous renovations and reconstructions over the years. Serving as the mother church of the Archdiocese of New Orleans, the cathedral is the oldest continuously active Roman Catholic Cathedral in the United States. Additionally, the rear of the cathedral features St. Anthony Garden, home to a beautifully illuminated statue of Jesus that dazzles at night.

4. Venice

Venice, often referred to as “The End of the World,” is an essential destination in Louisiana. Frequently serving as a launching point for offshore anglers, Venice was severely impacted by Hurricane Katrina. In the aftermath of this devastating natural disaster, significant efforts have been invested in reviving the community, which is now starting to flourish once more. Additionally, located close to Venice is the Breton National Wildlife Refuge of the Chandeleur Islands, established by the directive of then-President Theodore Roosevelt.

5. Avery Island Bird Sanctuary

While Avery Island is notably recognized as the home of Tabasco sauce, it is equally famous for its bird sanctuary, known as Bird City. This wildlife refuge has been gradually enhanced over many years and currently serves as a migratory site for an estimated 100,000 egrets. The nesting season commences in February, with the birds remaining on the island until winter arrives. President Roosevelt once described Bird City as “the most noteworthy reserve in the country.”

6. Chauvin Sculpture Garden

Possibly the most unusual yet beautiful location in Louisiana is the Chauvin Sculpture Garden. Created over numerous years by the reclusive artist Kenny Hill before his sudden departure from the site, the garden showcases a vast array of unique and captivating sculptures, ranging from winged angels to representations of God. An art center and a small local museum are now situated at this location, offering one of the most intriguing and remarkable experiences in Louisiana.

7. Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge

Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge is the largest urban wildlife refuge in the United States, situated within the city limits of New Orleans. It is a vital destination for those interested in conservation. One of the primary attractions of the refuge is its massive wading bird rookery, which is home to alligators, bald eagles, and brown pelicans. Many motorists traveling along I-10 in New Orleans East remain unaware they are passing through the Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge, which spans an impressive total of 24,000 acres.

8. Horace Wilkinson Bridge

Among the numerous bridges traversing the monumental Mississippi River, the Horace Wilkinson Bridge at Baton Rouge is arguably the most remarkable. This cantilever bridge, which is the tallest to cross the Mississippi River, facilitates Interstate 10, connecting Baton Rouge to Port Allen. The bridge features six lanes of traffic and is named in honor of three different individuals named Horace Wilkinson, who collectively served in the Louisiana legislature for 54 years. Enthusiastic photographers will appreciate capturing images of the Horace Wilkinson Bridge, which provides a striking backdrop for photographs.

9. Mississippi River

The Mississippi River undoubtedly ranks among the greatest rivers in the world. Numerous bridges span the river from its source at Itasca State Park in Minnesota to its mouth at the Gulf of Mexico. The Port of South Louisiana is located along the river, handling approximately 500 million tons of shipped goods annually. A journey along the Great River Road through Louisiana offers a delightful experience, with cities such as St. Francisville, Baton Rouge, and Plaquemine lying along the river’s path, including Tallulah, Morganza, and, of course, the vibrant city of New Orleans.

10. Atchafalaya Basin

Louisiana is renowned for its wetlands, with the Atchafalaya Basin being the largest swamp in the United States. The Atchafalaya Basin represents a particularly unique ecosystem due to its remarkable blend of stable wetlands and an expanding delta system. Among the numerous attractions in the Atchafalaya Basin is the Atchafalaya National Wildlife Refuge, which supports alligators, waterfowl, and a diverse array of migratory birds. The basin stretches an impressive 140 miles southward and produces a significant quantity of crawfish, yielding around 22 million pounds annually.

11. Melrose Plantation

Melrose is considered one of the most distinctive plantations in the South. Occasionally referred to as Yucca Plantation, Melrose was one of the largest plantations built by and for free individuals of color. The plantation consists of eight structures in total, and the Association for Preservation of Historic Natchitoches offers guided tours of Melrose. This plantation is featured on the Louisiana African American Heritage Trail. Melrose was founded by Louis Metoyer, a formerly enslaved person who gained his freedom and went on to construct a uniquely African structure that is an essential experience for anyone visiting Louisiana.

12. French Quarter, New Orleans

New Orleans is recognized as one of the premier cities in the world, with the French Quarter being the oldest neighborhood in the city by a considerable margin. As a National Historic Landmark, the French Quarter suffered damage from Hurricane Katrina; however, extensive restoration efforts have returned it to its vibrant state. Notable attractions in the French Quarter include Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, the lively bars on Bourbon Street, and the Audubon Cottages. The French Quarter is famous globally for its festive atmosphere, and it is one of the rare locations in the United States where consuming alcohol from open containers is allowed on the street. Bourbon Street also hosts the iconic annual Mardi Gras celebration, drawing thousands to revel in the streets of New Orleans.

13. Louisiana Swamp Tour

Experiencing a swamp tour is one of the most effective means to immerse oneself in the essence of Louisiana. Few places in the world are as pristine as Louisiana’s swamps, and a guided tour virtually guarantees the opportunity to observe a wide variety of wildlife within their natural environment. Lafayette stands out as a prominent starting point for swamp tours; nonetheless, exceptional options exist throughout the state. Among the wildlife commonly found are alligators, herons, and egrets.

14. Jungle Gardens

Many visitors to Avery Island overlook the opportunity to explore the Jungle Gardens in favor of learning about its Tabasco-related history; however, this is a significant oversight, as the Jungle Gardens constitute one of Louisiana’s hidden treasures. The gardens feature azaleas, camellias, and bamboo, while alligators, deer, and raccoons populate the area. A centuries-old Buddha statue stands out as one of the most remarkable attractions on Avery Island and indeed throughout Louisiana.

15. New Orleans Garden District

Having covered the French Quarter, St. Louis Cathedral, and the festive atmosphere of Christmas in New Orleans, it is essential to recognize that the city offers a plethora of attractions. The Garden District provides a stunning environment to leisurely spend a few hours. This area is home to magnificent 19th-century mansions, with the St. Charles line streetcar facilitating easy navigation throughout the district. Key landmarks in the New Orleans Garden District include the George Washington Cable House and Commander’s Palace, one of New Orleans’ most prestigious restaurants.

16. Oak Alley Plantation

Alongside Melrose Plantation, Oak Alley Plantation is one of the most significant historical sites in Louisiana. Located in Vacherie, St. James Parish, Oak Alley Plantation is particularly recognized for the iconic row of trees that inspired its name. The architectural and landscaping features present at the plantation have earned it the status of a National Historic Landmark. Oak Alley Plantation represents one of the South’s most breathtaking settings, with its trees being over 300 years old, and the identity of the original planter remains a mystery.

17. Jean Lafitte National Historic Park and Preserve

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve comprises six distinct sites within the New Orleans area. Among these are the Chalmette Battlefield and National Cemetery, the site of the 1815 Battle of New Orleans, as well as the French Quarter Visitor Center located in the heart of New Orleans. Much of the park and preserve is situated a short distance outside the city yet offers a distinctly different experience, allowing visitors to appreciate nature in an intimate setting.

18. Audubon Park

Situated in the Uptown neighborhood of New Orleans, Audubon Park represents one of the most picturesque locations in Louisiana. Named after the naturalist and artist John James Audubon, the park is established on land that originally functioned as a plantation. Presently, the park features sports fields, picnic areas, a golf course, and a rookery that attracts countless wading birds. A section of Audubon Park, known locally as the Fly, boasts a butterfly-shaped river viewing shelter.