The 6 Can't-Miss Towns In Louisiana
From its early days as a French Colony, Louisiana is a state imbued with culture. From music and festivals to politics and food, the state is a hub for tourism. Those who want to experience the authentic history and culture of the Bayou State can take a trip to one of the many small towns that have it all. Whether it is the coastal views of Grand Isle or the rich tales imbued in St. Francisville, there is something for everyone in Louisiana. These six towns are some of the best destinations in the state that visitors cannot miss.
Breaux Bridge
Breaux Bridge, located in St. Martin Parish, Louisiana, is famous for its nickname as the “Crawfish Capital of the World.” This seemingly quaint town of 7,500 comes to life during the annual Crawfish Festival, which takes place at the end of April and early May. Entry charges start at $10, and visitors can take part in an array of activities, from musical concerts and the yearly parade to the Crawfish Eating Contest, wherein contestants compete to eat as many boiled crawfish as possible in 45 minutes. If you miss out on the event, there’s no need to fret, as Crazy ‘Bout Crawfish is a lively restaurant where one can enjoy Cajun specialties and tons of seafood delights.
Those who want to experience the rich outdoors of Louisiana can head over to Lake Martin, home to swamps, nesting colonies, and more. Adventure enthusiasts can venture out on a kayak to witness the many species, such as alligators, snowy egrets, and broad-banded watersnakes. After exploring, head back into town to explore the many thriving businesses. Tourists looking for a souvenir should visit Lagniappe Antiques, Etc., to take a piece of history back home, easily found in its 17,000-square-foot marketplace of collectibles.
Houma
If Lake Martin seemed interesting, you’re sure to adore a trip to Houma in Terrebonne Parish. While most see it as the parish’s largest city, home to over 32,000 people, Houma also abounds with outdoor opportunities. It is a great starting point for anglers, hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, and more. Most of these activities are possible at the Mandalay National Wildlife Refuge, a 4,400-acre expanse of marshes and swamps. One can spend hours here exploring the lush greenery as they spot waterfowl, wading birds, and songbirds. The Mandalay Nature Trail is also a lovely option, offering nearly a mile of elevated boardwalk with an observation deck for sightseeing.
Back in town, culture is palpable when visiting sites like the Southdown Plantation & Museum and the Regional Military Museum. The former was built in 1858 by the son of the secretary to the Spanish Governor of Louisiana and now showcases the family’s rich history, the sugar industry, and the workings of the once 10,000-acre fields. Meanwhile, the Regional Military Museum is housed in a warehouse with vintage military machinery like the HAWK Missile Launcher and the Huey.
Natchitoches
Whether it is the 33-block National Historic Landmark District or the world-famous Natchitoches Christmas Festival that brings you here, Natchitoches is a can’t-miss destination in Louisiana. Those here for the former rejoice at the abundance of rustic landmarks, including churches, government buildings, and historic stores. Some historic standouts are the Prudhomme-Rouquier House and Fort St. Jean Baptiste. The Prudhomme-Rouquier House dates back to the 1800s and offers visitors tours of the French-Creole home, with various artifacts and furniture from the era. Meanwhile, the fort, while a replica of the original from the 1700s, is a blast to the past, showcasing living history re-enactments of life in the past and tales of military endeavors.
On the other hand, people looking for a modern experience should plan their vacation in December. This is so you can attend the Natchitoches Christmas Festival, a bustling celebration that has taken place since 1927. With over 300,000 lights, a fireworks show, musical performances, and more, it is perfect for anyone with a festive spirit. Last but not least, be sure to visit the Kaffie-Frederick General Mercantile Store for a souvenir of your trip. This store is known as one of the state’s oldest and has all sorts of hardware, antiques, cookware, and trinkets.
St. Francisville
If 33 blocks of history were fun in Natchitoches, St. Francisville should be next on your itinerary. Settled in the 1800s, this town has many historic structures scattered throughout, providing an insight into the state’s storied past. Plantations are among the most popular, and the Myrtles Plantation is one of the most visited. This historic home was built in 1796 by a lawyer and has since become a rustic hotspot. Visitors can tour the 10-acre plantation grounds, explore the 22-room mansion, or even opt for an evening tour to see why this place is known as “One of America’s Most Haunted Houses.” For a less ominous yet just as historic experience, Rosedown Plantation beckons with its 190-year-old roots. The 300+ acre grounds are full of opportunities, and the 8,000 square foot home is an added bonus, allowing for a full day of exploration.
While there truly is no end to the plantations and historic sites in St. Francisville, that is not all the state has to offer. A short walk into the downtown area offers a bustling vibe, with restaurants and stores full of smiling faces. Those hungry can stop for a bite at Audobon’s Cafe, a local breakfast spot with delicious coffee and sandwiches. Meanwhile, St. Francisville Market is nearby, offering everything you’ll need for a few days in this rustic abode.
Grand Isle
A stark contrast from the historical vibe of the last two towns, Grand Isle is a coastal charmer located on a barrier island. Just a short walk along the coast opens up scenic views of the Gulf of Mexico, and the Grand Isle State Park takes this a step further. Located on the island’s eastern side, it spans 140 acres, with tons of activities, animal species, and viewpoints. Birdwatching, boating, crabbing, and sunbathing are the most popular ways to take in the serene environment. Fishing is also a blast, as the park’s spots have over 300 species of fish you can catch. Speaking of fishing, Fish Commander is a local charter company offering fishing trips, which include tackles, cleaning, and a first mate.
Back inland, Grand Isle’s unique culture shines through every alley, with a laid-back vibe palpable in each store. Home to only around 1,000 people, it seems like everyone knows everyone here, and you can meet these locals at hotspots like Pirate Island Daiquiri, known for its drinks and lively ambience. However, keep in mind that Grand Isle often sees hurricanes, so it's best to plan a trip when weather conditions are calm.
Abita Springs
Last but not least, Abita Springs is a charming reprieve in St. Tammany Parish that was once a Choctaw Indian village. As the name suggests, this community is known for its medicinal springs, which were a Native American hotspot and made it a popular tourist destination. Today, another type of liquid heals visitors: the drinks at Abita Brewing Company, a popular spot in town. As Louisiana’s largest beer-making operation started in 1986, one can spend hours tasting unique craft brews, chatting with the locals, and enjoying one of their local salads and sandwiches. Afterward, one can enjoy a meal at Abita Brew Pub, where comfort classics and seasonal dishes pair perfectly with locally crafted beers in a relaxed historic-town atmosphere.
After taking in the calories, burn them off along the Tammany Trace, a 31-mile-long ex-railway corridor. It is open for hiking and biking, with plenty of amazing sights along the way, like the Camp Salmen Nature Park and Northlake Nature Center. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something less strenuous to spend the evening doing, a visit to the Abita Mystery House might be right for you. This roadside spot is one of the quirkiest in the state, with thousands of odd items and handmade displays. The folk museum has plenty of unique things, like a cave and a trailer supposedly hit by a UFO.
Must-See Spots In Louisiana
Louisiana’s small towns capture the essence of the Bayou State in ways big cities never could. From Breaux Bridge’s lively crawfish celebrations and Houma’s wetlands to the historic plantations of St. Francisville and the coastal beauty of Grand Isle, each destination offers a window into a different side of Louisiana. Add in the quirky creativity of Abita Springs and the festive charm of Natchitoches, and you have an itinerary filled with food, history, and culture. Exploring them guarantees a memorable and authentic Louisiana experience.
