Bayous, boudin, and brass bands in South Louisiana

Hotel Monteleone

Check into a historic, family-owned luxury hotel in the heart of the French Quarter, famous for its revolving Carousel Bar.

Photo by Hotel Monteleone

The National WWII Museum

Explore an immersive and deeply moving museum designated by Congress as America's official WWII museum. The exhibits detail the American experience in the war that changed the world.

Photo by Susan Travers Jones

French Quarter Walking Tour

Wander through the iconic Vieux Carré, admiring the intricate wrought-iron balconies, hidden courtyards, and vibrant history of Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral.

Photo by Max & Ariel

Preservation Hall

Experience intimate, acoustic traditional New Orleans jazz in its purest form at this legendary, no-frills venue. A quintessential NOLA music experience.

Photo by sachin r

Commander's Palace

Indulge in a classic Creole brunch at this landmark Garden District restaurant. Famous for its turtle soup, 25-cent martinis at lunch, and refined Southern elegance.

Photo by Eva Delawalla

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1

Take a guided tour through the oldest cemetery in New Orleans, known for its historic above-ground vaults and as the final resting place of Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau. Access is restricted to licensed tours only.

Photo by St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 Official Tour

Frenchmen Street

Spend the evening hopping between authentic live music clubs like The Spotted Cat and d.b.a., where the locals go for incredible jazz, blues, and funk without the Bourbon Street crowds.

Photo by Judith Mayer

Whitney Plantation

Visit the only plantation museum in Louisiana dedicated to the realities of slavery. This powerful, memorial-focused tour provides a sobering and essential perspective on the region's history through the eyes of the enslaved people who lived here.

Photo by Meghan

Cajun Man's Swamp Tours & Adventures

Glide through moss-draped cypress swamps on an authentic bayou tour led by a local Cajun captain. Spot alligators, turtles, and wading birds while learning about the unique ecosystem and Cajun way of life.

Photo by Cajun Man's Swamp Tours and Adventures LLC

Maison D'Memoire Bed & Breakfast Cottages

Stay in a genuine, private historic Louisiana cottage moved to a serene location on a crawfish pond. It offers an authentic and romantic Acadiana lodging experience.

Photo by Maison D'Memoire Bed & Breakfast Cottages

Vermilionville Historic Village

Step back in time at this living history museum and folklife park on the banks of the Bayou Vermilion. Explore restored original homes and watch artisans demonstrate crafts, cooking, and music of the Acadian, Creole, and Native American cultures from 1765-1890.

Photo by Vermilionville Historic Village

The Best Stop Supermarket

Visit a legendary spot in the Boudin Capital of the World for some of the best boudin, cracklins, and specialty meats in Louisiana. This is a must-do culinary pilgrimage for authentic Cajun flavors.

Photo by Charlie Ho

Blue Moon Saloon and Guesthouse

Experience world-famous live music at this quirky, laid-back venue with a lively back porch. It's a premier spot for hearing authentic Cajun, Zydeco, and other Louisiana roots music.

Photo by Blue Moon Saloon & Guest House

Jungle Gardens

Explore a 170-acre botanical garden and bird sanctuary on Avery Island, known for its massive live oaks, lush tropical plants, and the 'Bird City' egret rookery. A stunning display of the Gulf Coast's natural beauty.

Fred's Lounge

Experience a legendary Cajun tradition: the Saturday morning live radio broadcast from this rustic bar. Doors open at 8 AM for beer, bloody marys, and live Cajun music and dancing that goes until the early afternoon.

Photo by John Billings

St. Martin de Tours Catholic Church

Visit the 'Mother Church of the Acadians,' a pivotal landmark in Cajun history and the setting for Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's epic poem, 'Evangeline.' The serene grounds include the legendary Evangeline Oak.

Photo by Viva Yoyis

Poche's Market & Restaurant

Stop at a classic Cajun meat market and diner for a plate lunch. Experience authentic local specialties like tasso, boudin, andouille, and other smoked meats prepared with generations-old recipes.

Photo by SprayGun

The Old State Capitol

Explore the striking Gothic Revival 'castle-on-the-river' that served as Louisiana's statehouse. Don't miss the magnificent stained-glass dome and the ghost stories associated with the building.

Photo by Louisiana's Old State Capitol

WATERMARK Baton Rouge, Autograph Collection

Stay in a beautifully restored 1927 skyscraper in downtown Baton Rouge, combining historic architectural details with modern luxury.

Photo by WATERMARK Baton Rouge, Autograph Collection

Louisiana State Capitol

Visit the tallest state capitol building in the United States. Take the elevator to the 27th-floor observation deck for panoramic views of Baton Rouge and the Mississippi River.

Photo by Jeff Williams

Capitol Park Museum

Explore a comprehensive collection detailing Louisiana's diverse history, industry, and culture. Exhibits cover everything from Mardi Gras and Louis Armstrong to the civil rights movement and the legacy of Huey P. Long.

Photo by Pavel Push

USS Kidd Veterans Museum

Tour a Fletcher-class destroyer, restored to its 1945 configuration and moored on the Mississippi River. The 'Pirate of the Pacific' is a fascinating floating museum honoring the service of American veterans.

Photo by Jerry Dillon Jr

Magnolia Mound Plantation

Tour a rare surviving example of a French Creole plantation house from the 18th century. The house and outbuildings offer a glimpse into the life of early Louisiana settlers.

Photo by Hermes van Amstel

Louie's Cafe

Grab a final, classic Louisiana meal at this beloved 24-hour diner near LSU. A Baton Rouge institution since 1941, famous for its hearty breakfasts, hashbrowns, and old-school atmosphere.

Photo by Wanderfish

LSU Rural Life Museum

Wander through one of the country's best outdoor museums, showcasing the life and culture of 19th-century Louisiana. The extensive grounds feature dozens of historic buildings, including a slave cabin, a gristmill, and a blacksmith's shop.

Photo by Hermes van Amstel