9 Of The Best Family-Friendly Day Trips To Take In Louisiana
By Jackie Ann|Updated on May 30, 2023(Originally published May 29, 2023)
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Jackie Ann
Author
Louisiana native and LSU Alum (Geaux Tigers!), Jackie has lived in Louisiana for over three decades and currently lives in New Orleans. She's been writing for OnlyInYourState since 2016 and can often be found with a coffee at her side, dreaming of her next adventure.
Looking for some fun family day trips in Louisiana? Sometimes that can be tough, depending on the age range in the family and everyone’s interests. Hopefully, this list will help the next time you’re looking for someplace fun to spend the day. In no particular order, here are some of the best day trips in Louisiana that both kids and adults can enjoy. Gas up the car and pack some snacks!
1. Sci-Port Discovery Center
Sci-Port Discovery Center, 820 Clyde Fant Pkwy, Shreveport, LA 71101, USA
The Sci-Port Discovery Center is a 92,000-square-foot science and entertainment center that’s one of the most unique things to do around Louisiana. Kids and adults can interact with more than 200 hands-on exhibits, interactive demonstrations, a planetarium, and Louisiana’s only IMAX Dome Theatre. Plus, so much more.
The Kisatchie National Forest has tons of trails to choose from, all varying in difficulty. You can take the easy trails if you prefer, and then maybe work your way up to the medium or difficult terrains. Kisatchie offers beautiful vista views, challenging terrains (at times), and you’ll love being outside in nature with the family.
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3. Splash Kingdom Waterpark
Splash Kingdom Oasis, 7670 W 70th St, Shreveport, LA 71129, USA
Hit the waterparks with your family before they close for the year. Whether you’re a thrill seeker, flying down those super fast slides, or maybe you just want to chill out in a lazy river, Splash Kingdom is great fun for the whole family.
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4. LSU Rural Life Museum
Louisiana State University Rural Life Museum, 4560 Essen Ln, Baton Rouge, LA 70808, USA
Step back in time and learn what life was like in pre-industrial Louisiana at this hidden gem in Baton Rouge. Walk through the exhibits learning about the day-to-day lives of those who lived over a hundred years ago. From the construction of their houses to how they tended to the fields and animals, you’ll walk away with a greater knowledge of what rural life was like way back when.
It’s not just a touristy thing, y'all. Swamp tours are an amazing way to spend the day with your family, learn about the history of the swamps and wildlife, and really get a close look at Louisiana's natural landscape. Everyone of all ages will be amazed at the scenery, the wildlife, and the always fun experience of feeding a marshmallow to an alligator. There are plenty of incredible swamp tours in Louisiana, find one close to you and set up a tour!
6. Visit a state park
Palmetto Island State Park, 19501 Pleasant Dr, Abbeville, LA 70510, USA
There are more than 20 state parks in Louisiana, so chances are, you don't have to travel very far to visit one. Take the family and spend the day exploring the state park closest to you. Explore a new nature trail, let the kids play on the playground, pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic outdoors.
7. USS Kidd
USS KIDD Veterans Museum, 305 S River Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70802, USA
Tour the Tabasco plant then wander around the Jungle Gardens and Bird City and see hundreds of birds and other wildlife while surrounded by some of the most beautiful landscaping you’ve ever seen. Afterward, head over to Tabasco Restaurant 1868 for some delicious Cajun fare spiced with that famous little red bottle, Tabasco.
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9. Alexandria Zoological Park
Alexandria Zoological Park, 3016 Masonic Dr, Alexandria, LA 71301, USA
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Louisiana for families, there’s the Alexandria Zoo. Established in 1926, it houses more than 500 animals representing 160 species. There’s a playground for the kids to play, a cafe for a quick bite to eat, and you can hop on the zoo’s train, which is always a winner for kids and adults alike.
Have you visited any of these spots? Let us know in the comments below!
And once you tackle this list, you might be inspired to take the family for a fun hike along some of the most family-friendly hikes in Louisiana.
If you’re still in the mood for more Louisiana adventures, take a look at this video:
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More to Explore
More adventures in Louisiana
Jackie Ann|May 31, 2022
Are there any animal encounters in Louisiana?
Barn Hill Preserve in Ethel is where you can get up close and personal with exotic animals including holding baby sloths, swimming with otters, and enjoying a picnic with a giraffe.
Gators & Friends in Greenwood is an exotic animal petting zoo with pony rides, opportunities to feed exotic animals, go-karts, and a zipline.
The Global Wildlife Center in Folsom is the largest free-roaming wildlife preserve of its kind and is home to more than 4,000 exotic and endangered animals.
The Hotel Bentley in Alexandria was built in 1907 and is regarded as the most haunted hotel in Louisiana.
La Belle Esplanade is a quirky bed and breakfast inn situated in three houses built in 1883. It is known around the world for its vibrant colorful décor.
The Hotel Monteleone in the heart of the French Quarter has been a New Orleans landmark since it opened in 1886.