Ready for a road trip? There are many historic places to visit in Louisiana, all of them just waiting for you to explore. Gas up the car and get ready for an epic adventure you’re sure to love.

This particular Lousiana history road trip will take you less than five hours, but since you’re going to want to spend ample time at each of these attractions, make a weekend out of it and stop off and stay in a new town you’ve never been to before. That’s what makes road trips so fun! Since the state is so big, we’ve kept this list to just the northern/central part of the state, so be sure to stay tuned for another article where we cover all of the fascinating historical sites in the southern part of the state.

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1. Poverty Point
Poverty Point World Heritage Site, 6859 LA-577, Pioneer, LA 71266, USA
GoVols79/Trip Advisor
We’ll start at the top of the state and work our way down. For a truly fascinating day, head over to Poverty Point. One of the oldest places in Louisiana, this ancient collection of earthworks is over 3,000 years old, and you’ll have the opportunity to see how some of the first inhabitants of Louisiana lived. Learn more about what a visit to Poverty Point entails.
2. Winter Quarters
PG/Trip Advisor
Editor's note: Unfortunately, this site is permanently closed. 

Just south of Poverty Point is Winter Quarters State Historic Site. Located on Lake St. Joseph in Tensas Parish, Winter Quarters is an antebellum cotton plantation that dates back to 1803. During the Civil War, there were 15 plantations dotted along the lake, but Winter Quarters was the only one spared. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978 and it’s truly an incredible piece of preserved history. Address: 4929 Hwy. 608, Newellton, LA 71357

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3. Natchitoches
Natchitoches, LA, USA
Natchitoches Tourism/Facebook
Head west and you’ll end up in Natchitoches, Louisiana’s oldest city. Established in 1714, Natchitoches is a delightfully charming town that’s full of Louisiana history, heritage, and beautiful architecture. Take a stroll through the historic district, enjoy the scenic views of the Cane River, or go shopping at one of the unique boutiques on Front Street. During the holidays, Natchitoches transforms into a winter wonderland that attracts thousands of visitors each year, and you need to see it to believe it. Natchitoches also has several bed and breakfasts, making it a great stopping point on this epic road trip. Read more about what Natchitoches has to offer visitors.
4. Los Adaes State Historic Site
Los Adaes State Historic Site, 6354 LA-485, Robeline, LA 71469, USA
51MikeHM/Trip Advisor
Just south of Natchitoches in Robeline, you’ll find Los Adaes State Historic Site. Once the capital of Texas, the area is considered to be one of the most intriguing historical sites in the state due to the numerous archaeological findings. Los Adaes dates back to the early 1700s, making it one of the oldest places in Louisiana. And the museum on site perfectly captures the unique French, Spanish, and Native American cultures. Get more information on Los Adaes State Historic Site.
5. Fort Jesup State Historic Site
Fort Jesup State Historic Site, 32 Geoghagan Rd, Many, LA 71449, USA
Pat Austin/Flickr
Not far from Los Adaes is Fort Jesup, another one of the best historic sites to visit in Louisiana that you shouldn’t pass up. Built in 1822 after the Florida Purchase Treaty of 1819, which defined the territorial boundaries of Louisiana, Fort Jesup was an important military post for over 20 years before being abandoned in 1846. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1961, and it’s worth your while to swing by and learn about an important part of Louisiana history. Head to the website for Fort Jesup State Historic Site to learn more.

Have you been to any of these historic places to visit in Louisiana? What are your favorite sites on the National Register of Historic Places? Let us know in the comments below!

All this sightseeing could leave you pretty hungry. Check out these unique restaurants in Louisiana.

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More to Explore

Places to Visit in Louisiana

Rachel Raimondi | May 27, 2023

What are some other historic sites to visit in Louisiana?

Eager to learn more Louisiana history? Check out these historic places to visit in Louisiana:

  • Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site: Located in St. Martinville, this spot is dedicated to education on the Bayou Teche region of the state. Enjoy taking in the museum as well as the site's walking paths.
  • Mansfield State Historic Site: This Mansfield site is known for being the site of the 1864 American Civil War Battle of Mansfield. Activities here include special tours, a short hiking trail, and outdoor classrooms.

 

What are the oldest places in Louisiana?

 There is no shortage of places to visit if you want to see some of the oldest places in Louisiana:

  • Parlange Plantation House: Located in New Roads, this French Colonial was built in 1750. It’s changed hands and uses over the years. Today, it is still a sugarcane and cattle plantation.
  • Pitot House: This home was built in 1799. It is one of only a few West Indies-style houses left in New Orleans. Today, this Creole Colonial houses the Louisiana Landmark Society and visitors can make an appointment to tour the house and its grounds.

 

What are some fun facts about Louisiana?

Think you know everything about the Bayou State?  How about these fun facts about Louisiana?

  • Tallest State Capitol: The Louisiana State Capitol Building, located in Baton Rouge, is 450 feet tall. That’s 50 feet taller than the second tallest in Nebraska.
  • Lake Pontchartrain Causeway: At 24 miles long, this is the longest bridge over water on the planet. It connects Mandeville to New Orleans.
  • St. Charles Streetcar Line: This streetcar line has been running in New Orleans since way back in 1835. In fact, it is the oldest still in operation.

 

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