8 Storybook Towns In Louisiana
Louisiana is one of the most culturally diverse states in the South. It is also filled with storybook towns filled with history, elegant architecture, and natural beauty. The state's nickname is the "Sportsman's Paradise" because of the many offshore and inland adventures. The scenery adds beauty to the following eight towns, making them ideal for a weekend getaway or longer destination.
Other small towns like Natchitoches and Breaux Bridge are storybook for introducing visitors to a different side of Louisiana culture. Breaux Bridge is known for its trademark crawfish dinners and Zydeco music, while Natchitoches is known for its Spanish and French architecture. Whatever your idea of a storybook looks like, it can be found in these eight towns.
Natchitoches
The third-oldest settlement in Louisiana, Natchitoches, is characterized by its historical architecture and tranquil atmosphere. Much of the history comes from the fact that it is the oldest permanent settlement of the Louisiana Purchase, and much of the architecture in the historic district reflects the settlement's French and Spanish heritage. Beau Jardin is a landmark that should not be missed on any visit.
The riverfront garden is a well-manicured marvel that has been known to host weddings for its beautiful appeal. Another unique venue is the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame, honoring local athletes and coaches. Of course, no trip to Louisiana is complete without sampling authentic Creole or Cajun food. Natchitoches offerings include Lasyone's Meat Pie Restaurant and Mama's Oyster House.
Breaux Bridge
Breaux Bridge has been dubbed the "Crawfish Capital of the World" since the town coined the moniker in 1959. The landmark bridge that frames the downtown area even has a red crawfish emblazoned on the top beam, and the community looks for a reason to celebrate its culinary heritage. The annual Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival in May features three band stages and three days of Louisiana music, crawfish, and fun, and is one of the best times to visit.
The community spirit makes Breaux Bridge a storybook town, as does its downtown area. Crawfish may be king in this storybook town, but there are plenty of Southern comfort foods and other delicacies in the downtown area. Chez Jacqueline features traditional French and Cajun cuisine, while Buck and Johnny's offers Italian fare with a Cajun twist, providing a truly unique culinary experience.
Abita Springs
Abita Springs is renowned for its natural beauty and artesian water, which can be found at the landmark Abita Springs Brewery. It is an ideal destination for a getaway, boasting natural attractions such as the 31-mile Tammany Trace with numerous trailheads. There are also quirky attractions such as the Abita Mystery House and the UCM Museum. The roadside attraction, housed in a vintage gas station, features thousands of local exhibits, including the can't-miss Buford the Bassigator and Darrell the Dogigator. Another charming aspect of Abita Springs is the community pride, shown in restaurants like the Abita Springs Cafe. It serves regional cuisine like Gulf seafood and its signature Southern Fried Pecan Pie. Enjoy this with a cup of local coffee by the Abita Roasting Company.
Covington
Covington shares a county with Abita Springs, making both an ideal dual destination for a weekend, with a focus on the arts and history. This small town is known for its Arts District, filled with galleries, which hosts several unique events throughout the year. Festivities include the fun Krewe of Bogue Falaya. The event happens on Fat Tuesday, which kicks off Mardi Gras.
Part of the festivities happens at the Covington Trailhead, another interesting aspect of this town. Located on the Northshore, the site features the Covington Trailhead Museum, bandstand, and amphitheater. The trailhead is not only a fantastic way to enjoy nature, but there are also community events like free concerts held throughout the year here.
Donaldsonville
Donaldsonville has small-town appeal and is quite a charming town to explore on foot, primarily in the historic district. The friendly community gathers at quintessential Louisiana restaurants such as Grapevine Cafe and Gallery for early morning coffee and to catch up on the latest news, providing an ideal way to meet the residents.
The historic district feels like looking into the past at Louisiana's first capital. The town is also known as the “Gateway to Cajun and Plantation Country” because of its many preserved plantation homes, including the Palo Alto Plantation, surrounded by oaks as well as the palatial home itself. Cultural landmarks include the River Road African American Museum. The small museum with a tin roof started in 1994 as a way to honor local African American contributions to the community, offering a comprehensive look at local history.
St. Francisville
St. Francisville is an elegant town with natural and architectural beauty. Main Street has been designated as an Accredited Main Street America program, and over a dozen local shops are to be found in the Historic District along Ferdinand, Commerce & Royal Streets. To immerse yourself in this unique history, book a room at the Myrtles or the 3-V Tourist Court. The Myrtles is a series of cottages around a 1796 plantation home that also serves a fine dining menu, while the 1938 Court looks like it did in the 1930s with modern amenities.
Another stunning example is the Rosedown Plantation State Historic Site. This hotel is located on one of Louisiana's most famous corridors and allows guests to explore the historic buildings on site. The ancient oaks and plantation homes are what make St. Francisville a storybook town, and it is ideal for a peaceful retreat.
Thibodaux
Charming Thibodaux has an interesting mix of gallant and quaint architecture. The St. Joseph Co-Cathedral is an early 20th-century brick masterpiece that replaced the original wooden structure when it burned in 1916. There is also the Laurel Valley Plantation, the largest surviving 19th and 20th-century sugar plantation complex in the U.S.
The complex features span the centuries, from the Arcadians who built homes on the bayou to the establishment of sugar plantation homes. Walking through the complex is a tangible way to walk through regional history and should not be missed. It is recommended to book a visit to coincide with a live play at the Thibodaux Playhouse. The red brick building downtown hosts several shows a year and is another way to experience the community spirit.
Grand Isle
Grand Isle's rugged scenery and offshore adventures make it a storybook town. The biggest attraction is the Grand Isle State Park. The 140-acre park takes up the northern end of the island and is a premier destination for swimming, birding, and camping. Offshore fishing is also a significant draw, and there are plenty of charters available, including Cast and Catch and A Day in Paradise.
Unsurprisingly, there are quintessential Louisiana-style restaurants on the island, serving up authentic fare like Carmadelle's. The eatery offers boiled seafood dinners and fresh seafood available for pickup. The island's small restaurants are perfect after a day offshore or exploring the state park. If spending time in nature is your idea of a storybook town, look no further than Grand Isle.
Louisiana is a truly unique state, full of history, charm, and a vibrant, infectious culture. Outdoor enthusiasts love the natural scenery, renowned for its angling and other nature adventures. One can also find an abundance of historical structures, many of them preserved. One of the best things about visiting the state is its diverse and vibrant culture.
This is a rare region where its music and food have defining elements in the overall aesthetic and culture. The vibrance extends from a melting pot of cultures, lending a unique blend of Zydeco music and Creole and Cajun culture. Whether seeking outdoor adventures or a walk through yesteryear while exploring vintage architecture, these eight towns do not disappoint.
