Reviewed on May 18, 2021
Reviewed on Feb 16, 2020
Reviewed on Mar 29, 2020
Reviewed on May 16, 2021
Louisiana is a state with many sides that all come together to make up its huge personality. With the fun-loving New Orleans in the south to the outdoor adventures on offer at Kisatchie National Forest further north, Louisiana vacation packages have a bit of everything. With its friendly Southern attitude and huge historical diversity, Louisiana vacations are so much fun you’ll want to return every year.
Because it never gets very cold in Louisiana, you can head down here on a family vacation any time of year. New Orleans (aka The Big Easy) is an amazing city throughout the year, with its historic French Quarter, its world-famous food (you haven’t experienced the South until you’ve tasted New Orleans gumbo!), and its never-ending nightlife. Families will fall in love with Louisiana, and there are activities from hiking and canoeing to zoos and amusement parks that everyone can enjoy.
For a stroll through history, take a walk down Bourbon Street in the French Quarter of New Orleans. Stop by the blacksmith shop where the French pirate Jean Lafitte stayed with his brother. Bourbon Street is a raucous place that’s great for couples and groups of friends looking for a fun night out.
Right on the Mississippi River, Baton Rouge is a great place to visit on Louisiana vacations. The Louisiana State Capitol building is an absolute must-see with its huge tower. Afterward, head to the Old State Capitol, a Gothic revival castle that’s now a museum.
1. New Orleans - With live music and a huge food scene, New Orleans pops up in all the travel guides about the United States. Visit in early spring to witness the famous Mardi Gras festival. Lasting for two weeks each year, New Orleans does music celebrations and parades better than almost anywhere else in the country. For outdoor adventures, visit a nearby National Wildlife Refuge or head to the Jungle Gardens at Avery Island.
2. Venice – Sitting right on the banks of the Mississippi as it finishes its journey to the Gulf of Mexico, Venice is a great place for fishing and hiking to see wetland birds and wildlife. If you’ve always wanted to go deep sea fishing or simply want to get out on the water, this is a great place to charter a boat.
3. Baton Rouge - There’s lots to do for children in Baton Rouge, and it’s an ideal place for Louisiana vacations with the whole family. Visit the Baton Rouge Zoo to see exotic animals, and head to the Dixie Landin’ amusement park for a day of exhilarating fun. Baton Rouge also has great nightlife and a delicious southern food scene.
4. Shreveport - Up in the north-west, Shreveport is an arty city with lots to do. Take the kids to the huge aquarium and marvel at the exhibitions in the Sci-Port Discovery Center. The R. W. Norton Art Gallery gives you a glimpse into the art scene here, and the whole family will enjoy roaming the beautiful gardens.
With hot summers and a thermometer that never drops too low, Louisiana vacations can be taken all year. Sign up for some outdoor adventures on Grand Island for a fun family vacation or go for a river cruise on the Mississippi. Even during winter, hiking is still a wonderful activity as it never really gets too cold to strap on your boots and get walking. Louisiana’s cities are also perfect winter destinations with lots going on and plenty of indoor attractions for rainy days.
It’s easiest to get around Louisiana by car and you can hire one from major airports. Fly to New Orleans Louis Armstrong International Airport (MSY) or Alexandria International Airport (AEX) to get started on your vacations in Louisiana. If you’re staying in New Orleans only, it’s easy to get around on foot, by taxi, on one of the iconic heritage streetcars, or by renting a bicycle.