7 Of The Best Day Trips From New Orleans

While New Orleans is a fun destination in and of itself, consider an adventure outside of the city limits. Try these day trips from New Orleans for a change of pace and to see a different side of the region.

If you need a break from the busy metropolis then the good news is there’s plenty of half-day, overnight and day trips to discover.

Best Day Trips From New Orleans

1. Hattiesburg

There’s always something to do in Hattiesburg, with over 150 annual events throughout the year! Downtown offers a variety of shopping from antiques, art galleries to rare vintage finds.

If you’re looking for an active escape, explore the Longleaf Trace, a 41-mile-long paved bicycle, pedestrian, equestrian, and rollerblade trail.

Photo Cred: hburgdowntown

2. Lafayette

This small friendly city is located 140 miles west of New Orleans, packed with great food and excellent live music venues.

The best way to experience the flavour of Louisiana in Lafayette is with a Cajun Food Tour. From bus tours to walking tours, you can learn the history, culture, and best of all, taste the renowned Cajun delights.

3. New Iberia

New Iberia is just a two-hour drive from New Orleans, with a Main Street that is home to a beautiful art deco Evangeline Theater.

Make sure to check out Avery Island, the salt dome that is home to the Tabasco hot sauce factory and the tropical Jungle Gardens. Be sure to watch out for alligators!

4. The Northshore

Looking for an adventurous day out? With over 80,000 acres of wildlife, there’s no shortage of things to do on the Northshore.

From historic sites and museums, swamp tours, and an array of water activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and flyboarding, you’ll be entertained throughout the day.

Photo Cred: guilhemfranck

5. Baton Rouge

This is a day escape for travellers of all ages. Baton Rouge city has a rich culture and history, making it a fantastic day trip.

Make sure to visit the Shaw Center for the Arts, tour the Plantation Country, and visit both the New and Old State Capitol buildings. The city has a great music scene, too. Browse the local Baton Rouge music venues and you’ll be sure to find a live music event.

Photo Cred: stacy.schoonie

6. Barataria Preserve

The walking trails through the marsh and bayous are full of life. Lush green, lizards, snakes, frogs, birds and even sunbathing alligators.

Get ready for some beautiful walks, admire the overhanging moss-covered trees with water views on the side. Make sure to check out the visitor center exhibitions to get the full history of the preserve.

Photo Cred: speakupmagazine

7. Natchitoches

Roughly a four-hour drive from New Orleans, you’ll find the oldest settlement in Louisiana. It’s anchored by the National Historic Landmark District, a 33-block area with shopping and plenty of charming bed-and-breakfasts.

Don’t leave town without sampling its famous meat pie.

Photo Cred: dqfamilytravel