New Orleans Day Trips

Best Day Trips in New Orleans

New Orleans is a city like no other, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and infectious energy. But sometimes, it’s nice to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the Big Easy and explore some of the amazing destinations within a day’s drive. Here are some of the best day trips in New Orleans:

1. Oak Alley Plantation

  • Distance: 75 miles (about 1 hour 15 minutes)
  • What to do: Take a scenic drive along the Mississippi River to reach this stunning antebellum mansion, surrounded by majestic oak trees. Explore the plantation’s grounds, take a guided tour of the mansion, and enjoy lunch at the on-site café.

2. Honey Island Swamp

  • Distance: 35 miles (about 45 minutes)
  • What to do: Venture into the mysterious Honey Island Swamp, where you can take an airboat tour or kayak through the misty waters. Spot alligators, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

3. Baton Rouge, Louisiana

  • Distance: 80 miles (about 1 hour 20 minutes)
  • What to do: Visit the Louisiana State Capitol building, explore the USS Kidd, a Fletcher-class destroyer turned museum, or stroll along the Mississippi River Levee Bike Path. Don’t forget to try some of Baton Rouge’s famous fried chicken!

4. St. Francisville, Louisiana

  • Distance: 120 miles (about 2 hours)
  • What to do: Head to this charming town on the Mississippi River and visit the historic Myrtles Plantation, said to be haunted by former owners. Take a stroll along the riverfront, grab lunch at one of the local eateries, and explore the scenic countryside.

5. Gulf Shores, Alabama

  • Distance: 200 miles (about 3 hours)
  • What to do: Escape to the white-sand beaches of Gulf Shores, where you can soak up the sun, take a dip in the Gulf of Mexico, or try your hand at water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.

6. Abita Springs, Louisiana

  • Distance: 45 miles (about 1 hour)
  • What to do: Visit the Abita Brewing Company for a tour and tasting, then head to the nearby Tammany Trace, a 31-mile hiking and biking trail that winds through scenic woods and along the Bogue Falaya River.

7. Fontainebleau State Park, Louisiana

  • Distance: 65 miles (about 1 hour 15 minutes)
  • What to do: Explore the sandy beaches of Lake Pontchartrain, hike through the park’s 2,800 acres, or take a guided kayak tour to spot alligators and birds.

These day trips offer a mix of history, nature, and adventure, and are easily accessible from New Orleans. So why not plan your next escape from the city and discover the hidden gems of Louisiana and beyond?