Louisiana is a small state, home to heritage, history, and unique cultures in the United States. While it’s small but has plenty of gems that you could not even expect to explore. Every possible interest can find an attraction in Louisiana because of its massive array of attractions! Yes, stunning mountains, lakes, bayous, rivers, and nearby beaches consider are most beautiful places to visit in Louisiana.
There is no bad time to visit Louisiana, but for extreme fun and to gather unforgettable memories wintertime is the best season to plan your trip. From picturesque attractions to food, stunning sights, and fewer crowds, everything is crucial to making the most of your experience. Let’s explore 10 underrated places that are best to visit in winter, in this post.
How to Get to Louisiana?
When it comes to how to get to Louisiana, it all depends on what’s your priority. As a traveler what do you like the most, travel by train, cruise, or want to get to Louisiana by air?
- Traveling to Louisiana by Air: New Orleans International Airport is located 10 miles (16km) from the west of Orleans.
- Traveling to Louisiana by Train: Only in the USA, Amtrak trains serve New Orleans
- Getting to Louisiana by Boat: Canal Street Ferry boats cross the Mississippi in New Orleans
- Cruise Ships: American Cruise Lines runs the cruise’s schedule and stops at several cities
Wintertime in Louisiana: 10 Remarkable Destinations
Louisiana has mild winters because it is a blend of sunny and normal temperate. When you go to this location you will find plenty of destinations where you can enjoy outdoor activities. Here, we combine a list of the 10 most popular and best destinations to visit this winter.
1. Houma
Houma is a small southeastern city of Louisiana known as the soul of Bayou. Most of Houma’s residents earn money by fishing in the Gulf of Mexico.
Solo visitors or families looking to experience lives of land, Houma is the best place to visit.
Best Hotels to Stay Near Houma
- Courtyard by Marriott Houma
- Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Houma
- Holiday Inn Houma, an IHG Hotel
- Hampton Inn Houma
Best Restaurants to Eat
- Cristiano Ristorante
- Big Al’s Seafood
- Boudreau & Thibodeau’s Cajun Cookin’
- Spahr’s Seafood Restaurant
Highlights of Houma
- Bayou Terrebonne Waterlife Museum
- Southdown Plantation House
A Great Time to Visit
You can visit Houma in Spring and fall both seasons for pleasant weather and enjoy the journey
What Attracts Visitors to Houma?
Houma is Known for its Cajun culture, scenic bayous, rich history, and ancient heritage.
Top Fun Things to Do in Winter with Family or Friends
- Swamp tours
- Photography
- Visiting local museums
- Attending festivals and events
2. Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
The most beautiful national park in Louisiana is “The Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve” which offers trails and a boardwalk. It is considered the best place to visit in southern Louisiana to enjoy hiking trails, biking, and wildlife. Overall, an ideal destination to spend winter, summer, or fall vacations.
Ideal and Luxury Resort/ Hotels to Stay
- The Quisby (4.5 Star)
- Riverside Hotel (4.3 Star)
- Columns (4.6 Star)
- Omni Royal Orleans (4.5 Star)
Where to Eat?
- Johnny’s Po-Boys
- Southern Candymakers
- Big Easy Daiquiris
- Evangeline
- The Original Pierre Maspero’s
Top Attractions
- Barataria Preserve
- Chalmette Battlefield
When Is the Best Time to Go, Except in Winter?
Fall or spring for comfortable and mild temperatures to do plenty of things
Are There Any Admission Fees for The Park?
No! Not at all, it’s 100% Free for Visitors
Reasons to Visit Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
It is the only place in Louisiana, that offers a glimpse into Louisiana’s natural beauty and cultural history, including bayous, swamps, and ancient sites.
What Fun Things Are You Can Try in Winter?
- Hiking
- Biking
- Camping
- Birdwatching
- Ranger-led programs
3. Bogue Chitto State Park
Bogue Chitto State Park is not a well-known national park compared to “The Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve”. However, it is little yet one of the off-the-beaten paths of Louisiana. If you are with family rent a car, but best and most recommended hiking for the high-end experience.
Where to Stay?
- Normandy House (5 Star)
- Abita Springs Hotel (4.9 Star)
- Comfort Inn Amite (4 Star)
- Berry Creek Cabins (4.6 Star)
Where to Eat?
- Geaux Pizza & Wings
- Main’s Market
- La Hacienda Restaurant Bar & Grill
- Krispy Krunchy Chicken
What Is Special in Bogue Chitto State Park?
Canoeing/kayaking on the Bogue Chitto River, hiking trails, and much more
Which Season Is Good to Go?
Fall or spring for milder weather and winter is also good
What Is the Most Exciting Thing You Will Find There?
The Bogue Chitto State Park Offers outdoor recreational activities in a picturesque setting, where you can click several photos.
Best Things to Do In Bogue Chitto State Park
- Horseback ridings
- Camping
- Fishing
4. Acadiana
Acadiana is the name of the region located in southwestern Louisiana. The stunning place has its own distinctive Cajun culture, history, and even language (Cajun French). The region is home to small Louisan towns, with vibrant cultures. Plus, it hosts the famous “Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival”
Best Hotels to Stay
Lafayette offers several options such as Hilton Garden Inn, doubletree by Hilton, and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Lafayette South
Best Restaurants to Eat
- Olive Garden Italian Kitchen
- Starbucks
- Sarku Japan Sushi Bar
- Prejean’s, Blue Dog Cafe
Highlights of Acadiana
- Vermilionville Historic Village
- Cajun and Zydeco music scene
The Ideal Time to Visit Acadiana
Winter is best, Fall for festivals and mild weather
Specialties That Attract Visitors
- Heart of Cajun and Creole culture with vibrant music
- Mouthwatering Food
- Old heritage and diverse traditions
Activities to Do in Acadiana
- Attend Mardi Gras celebrations
- Explore cultural centers
- Visit museums
- Photography
5. Avery Island
Avery Island one of the most popular tourist destinations in Louisiana, is located in Acadiana. The extensive lands of the Tabasco Hot Sauce Factory are located there which is one of the famous factories in Louisiana. Every year, thousands of visitors are welcome to tour the factory and explore the secret behind the sauce.
Things to Do in Avery Island
- Exploring jungle gardens
- Birdwatching
- Touring the Tabasco Factory
Best Accommodation Near Avery Island
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites New Iberia-Avery Island, an IHG Hotel
- Ramada by Wyndham New Iberia
- Hampton Inn & Suites New Iberia Avery Island
- A Touch of Country Bed & Breakfast
Where to Eat?
- Bon Creole Seafood
- Restaurant 1868
- Cafe Jefferson
- Jane’s Seafood
Highlights of Avery Island
- TABASCO Factory and Visitor Center
- Jungle Gardens
Best Time to Go
Year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant weather
Admission Fees
No, the TABASCO Factory tour has a fee or charges to visit
6. New Orleans
Everybody from families and solos to honeymooners to party lovers New Orleans is the best place to go. It is famous as a party road, Bourbon Street. However, there is so much history, music, and art in the region that there is too much for everyone to enjoy.
Best Hotels to Stay
- The NOPSI Hotel, New Orleans (4.5 Star)
- Hilton New Orleans Riverside (4.2 Star)
- The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans (4.6 Star)
- Bourbon Orleans Hotel (4.4 Star)
Best Restaurants
- Commander’s Palace
- Daisy Dukes French Quarter
- Observatory Eleven
- Brennan’s
Highlights of New Orleans
- French Quarter
- Iconic for its music
- Food
- Mardi Gras celebrations
- Garden District
- Jazz music scene
The Ideal Time to Visit, If You Miss Winter
Well, you can visit around the year but, winter is most favorite, and Fall or spring for festivals and mild weather
Amusing Things to Do in Winter
- Exploring the French Quarter
- Visiting Audubon Zoo
- Spend relaxed holidays
7. Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge is situated in central Louisiana on the bank of Mississippi. It is home to historic buildings, stunning landscapes, parks, and museums.
From mouthwatering cuisine to arts, culture, theaters, museums, and much more in this small town waiting to be discovered.
Consider The Best and Luxury Hotels to Stay
- The Cook Hotel
- Hampton Inn & Suites Baton Rouge Downtown
- Drury Inn & Suites Baton Rouge
- WATERMARK Baton Rouge, Autograph Collection
- Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center
Where to Eat?
- The Chimes
- Pizza Art Wine
- Anthony’s Italian Deli
- Parrain’s Seafood Restaurant
Highlights of Baton Rouge
- Louisiana State Capitol
- USS Kidd Museum
- State capital with historical sites and vibrant culture
The Best Time to Visit
Well, seasons are all good to go but Fall or spring for pleasant weather and enjoy outdoor activities
Things to Do in Baton Rouge
- Visiting the Louisiana Art and Science Museum
- Exploring the Capitol Park Museum
8. The Atchafalaya Basin
One more stunning marsh in Louisiana is the Atchafalaya Basin. It is located in southwest Louisiana’s Acadiana section. Apart from the Mississippi River, the Atchafalaya River is a significant river that pours into South Louisiana.
Best Hotels or Resorts
- Holiday Inn Express Breaux Bridge/Henderson, an IHG Hotel (4.5 Star)
- Comfort Inn Lafayette North I-10 (4 Star)
- Holiday Inn & Suites Lafayette North (4.5 Star)
- Travelodge by Wyndham Livonia (4 Star)
Best Restaurants to Eat
- Mcgee’s Landing
- Hebert’s Boudin and Cracklins
- Sweet Shop
- Chris’s Po-Boy
- Vestal Restaurant
Peak Tourist Points of Atchafalaya Basin
- Swamp tours
- Atchafalaya National Heritage Area
What Is an Ideal and Favorable Time to Visit the Atchafalaya Basin?
Spring or fall for wildlife sightings and comfortable temperatures
Top Reasons to Visit Atchafalaya Basin
Largest swamp in the United States that offers unique ecological experiences.
What Activities You Can Do?
- Swamp tours
- Birdwatching
- Photography
9. The Northshore
The North Shore is rich in natural beauty and lured by healing and exhilarating nature. Visitors around the world still visit the destination to spend quality time and the best vacations. What’s the best part? The best part is that motor-powered boats take visitors on eco-tours of the perfect Honey Island Swamp. Overall, the best place to gather plenty of memories.
When Is the Ideal Time to GO, Except Winter?
Fall or spring for pleasant weather
What Attracts Visitors?
The Series of small scenic regions with outdoor activities and charming towns.
Best Hotels to Stay
- Covington offers several options like The Southern Hotel
- Country Inn & Suites
- Turtle Bay Resort
- Ke Iki Beach Bungalows
Taste Delicious Cuisine At
- Del Porto Ristorante
- Blue Marlin
- Ruth’s Chris Steak House – Columbia
- Motor Supply Company Bistro
- Ox Lot 9
Highlights of The Northshore
- Abita Brewery
- Fontainebleau State Park
Things You Can Enjoy
- Exploring Fontainebleau State Park
- Visiting local art galleries
- Touring Abita Brewery
10. Fontainebleau State Park
Mandeville is the center point of Fontainebleau State Park, which is located on Lake Pontchartrain’s northern side. The park structures a lakeside beach, a 4.8-mile hiking trail for an exciting hiking experience, camping on the way, and even the fragments of an old sugar mill.
What Is Special in Shoreline Fontainebleau State Park?
- Nature trails
- Lake Pontchartrain shoreline
- Outdoor recreation in a serene natural setting
Best Hotels Near Fontainebleau State Park
- Southern Hotel (5 Star)
- Best Western Covington (4 Star)
- Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Covington, LA (4.5 Star)
- Hilton Garden Inn Covington/Mandeville (4 Star)
Best Eateries Near Fontainebleau State Park
- Bistro Byronz
- Fat Spoon Café
- Subway
- Liz’s Where y’at Diner
- Albasha Express
The Ideal Time to Visit the Fontainebleau State Park
Spring or fall for outdoor activities
Fun Things to Do
- Camping
- Hiking
- Biking
- Photography
- picnicking
Summing Up
Louisiana is home to exceptional breathtaking landmarks that excite world tourists. Whether it’s about parks, museums, natural attractions, and historic sights, plenty of places to visit in Louisiana waiting g to be discovered.
The Little State is another name for natural treasures that offer a lot of things to see, activities to do, and scenic views to collect life-long memories with your loved ones. Still, thinning? What you want else, pack to bag and step out to discover Louisiana attractions.
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Ferona Jose is a passionate travel writer and blogger at Travelistia. She has traveled throughout Europe, Asia and the Americas. Her writing focuses on cheap travel destinations, travel experiences, cultural insights, and travel hacks.