1. Lake Martin
Part of the Cypress Island Preserve, Lake Martin is not only a wildlife preserve, but also has one of the largest bird rookies in the state. Thousands of nesting birds migrate to the area each spring, including snowy egrets, anhingas, white ibis, herons, and more. Visitors can hike the levee trail or drive along rookery road for a beautifully scenic experience.
2. The French Quarter
Possibly the most popular place in Louisiana, millions of tourists visit New Orleans’ oldest neighborhood every year. While it’s known for its bars and nightlife, the French Quarter is also filled with charming boutiques, antique stores, restaurants, museums, and more.
3. Poverty Point
Constructed over 3,400 years ago, Poverty Point is quite the engineering marvel. While the earliest inhabitants left no written word about their day-to-day lives, archaeologists and historians are constantly uncovering new clues. When you visit, you can check out some of the incredible artifacts that have been discovered and tour the grounds. Address: 6859 LA-577, Pioneer, LA 71266
4. Avery Island
Avery Island is the birthplace of Tabasco and filled with wonderful adventures just waiting for you to explore. Not only can you take a tour of the Tabasco plant to learn about that famous little red bottle, you can also explore the beautiful grounds, including the Jungle Gardens and Bird City.
5. Myrtles Plantation
Known as the most haunted plantation in the country, the Myrtles Plantation was built in 1796 and has been converted into a bed and breakfast of sorts. You can take a tour of the plantation to learn about the history of this fascinating place, as well as the paranormal activity that has been reported, and you can also stay the night if you’re brave enough! Address: 7747 US-61, St. Francisville, LA 70775
6. Grand Isle
Louisiana’s only inhabited barrier island is perfect for anyone looking to spend some time outdoors. The area is a fisherman’s paradise, but anyone can enjoy the slower pace of Grand Isle - especially the beaches.
7. Kisatchie National Forest
Louisiana’s only national forest spans an impressive 604,000 acres, sprawling out across seven parishes and divided up into five ranger districts. With hundreds of trails to choose from, nature enthusiasts will love spending a weekend roughing it in the piney hills of the Kisatchie.
8. Vermilionville
Located in Lafayette, Vermilionville is a living history museum that the whole family will enjoy. The 23-acre space is filled with authentic homes from the 18th and 19th centuries, giving visitors a glimpse as to what life was like for early Acadians. Address: 300 Fisher Rd., Lafayette, LA 70508
9. Atchafalaya River Basin
The Atchafalaya is the largest river swamp in the nation, and it’s right in our backyard. Known for its beautiful bayous, bald cypress swamps, marshes, and plentiful wildlife, the Atchafalaya River Basin is one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Louisiana.
How many of these iconic places have you been to? Are there others that you would add to this list? Let us know in the comments below!
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