Sneak Away To These 7 Underrated Attractions Near New Orleans For A Picture Perfect Day

Magnolia Mount is a plantation house located in Baton Rouge that’s a history lover’s paradise. The main house was built around 1791, making it one of the oldest surviving structures in the state. Tour the grounds, learn about the history of the property, the culture, and the family who lived here for a truly historic afternoon. 2161 Nicholson Dr., Baton Rouge, LA 70802.

Fairview Riverside State Park has something for everyone. Tiny but mighty, this state park clocks in at just under 100 acres but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in sheer beauty. Nestled on the beautiful Tchefuncte River, the views are simply breathtaking and history buffs will love taking a tour through the historic Otis House, built in 1885. Learn more about Fairview Riverside State Park in our previous article here.

Located about 70 miles south of the city, the Chauvin Sculpture Garden is quite the hidden gem, and one everyone should see. The garden features the work of Kenny Hill, an artist who used to live on the property. Today, the sculpture garden is maintained by Nicholls State University, and is truly an inspirational work of art. Learn more about this fascinating underrated attraction in our previous article here.

Named for the population of honey bees that were once spotted in a nearby island, the Honey Island Swamp is one of the least-altered swamps in the country, and also one of the most pristine. Located in St. Tammany Parish, you can get there in under an hour and take a swamp tour for a picture perfect day. Dr. Wagner’s Honey Island Swamp Tours has been around since 1982, and they’d love to take you out on a tour of this beautiful swamp.

For a truly spectacular afternoon, drive out to St. Francisville and take a stroll through the Afton Villa Gardens. In the springtime, you’ll see everything from azaleas to tulips and more. The grounds are quite mesmerizing, so be sure to bring your camera. 9247 US Highway 61, St. Francisville, LA 70775.

Located just south of New Orleans over in Marrero, Barataria Preserve features more than 20,000 acres of some of the most beautiful scenery in Louisiana. The endless boardwalk and gravel trails will give you a glimpse at the marshes, bayous, and forests that you just can’t see any other way. For wildlife enthusiasts, there’s no better place. Just about any time of year you go, you’re almost certain to spot either a deer, raccoon, alligator, turtle, or one of the countless species of birds that call the area home. Learn more about Barataria Preserve in our previous article here.