Big cities are great, but sometimes it can be nice to get away from the hustle and bustle of big city life and head out to the smaller towns to get some peace and quiet. Small towns are great places to do some shopping, enjoy a meal from a local restaurant, and even spend some time at a museum you never knew existed. Here are nine museums tucked away in the smaller towns of Louisiana that are perfect for a day trip.
1. Abita Mystery House
A massive collection of found objects in a relatively small space. Thousands of folk art objects ranging from pottery to vintage keyboards… This is just one of those roadside attractions you have to see for yourself. Check out our recent featured article about
Louisiana's wackiest museum .
Address: 22275 Highway 36, Abita Springs, Louisiana 70420
2. Adai Indian Nation Cultural Center
Experience a day in the life of the Adai Indian by visiting historic dwellings, viewing artifacts, and exploring the cultural center. St. Anne’s Catholic Church is also on the site, and it’s the oldest church in the Louisiana Purchase and played a role in converting the Adai to Catholicism. AddressL 4460 Why. 45, Robeline, LA 71469
3. Angola Museum
This is an informative museum telling the history the prison, the lives of the inmates, and how the prison has reformed since it was established. You’ll also be able to view weapons that were made (and confiscated) in prison, and even stories of escapes. Address: 17544 Tunica Trace, Saint Francisville, LA 70775
4. Autrey House Museum
Built in 1849, the Autrey House is the oldest surviving structure in the Parish. The log dogtrot-style house was very common for that time period, as it allowed for a nice breeze throughout the house. Typically, one side of the house was used for cooking and eating while the other side was living space and a bedroom. Address: 8292 Highway 151, Dubach, LA 71235
5. Baker Heritage Museum
This general history museum seeks to preserve the history and heritage of the city of Baker. Address: 1606 Main St., Baker, Louisiana 70714.
6. Bayou Teche Museum
This lovely little museum has multiple exhibits that cover everything from shipwrecks in the Gulf to how the Civil War affected those in the Teche region. It’s a wonderfully informative museum that’s worth a few hours of your time. Address: 131 E. Main St., New Iberia, LA 70560
7. Cajun Music Hall of Fame
Music lovers of all genres would absolutely love a visit to this museum. Preserving and honoring the great musicians of Cajun music, this is one roadside attraction that’s worth pulling over for. Address: 240 S C C Duson St., Eunice, LA 70535
8. Camp Moore Historical Association
Camp Moore was the largest Confederate training camp in Louisiana and the only one in the country that is still open to the public. The museum will take you through the life of the average soldier, displaying everything from shaving kits and board games to uniforms and weapons. Address: 70640 Camp Moore Rd., Tangipahoa, LA 70465.
9. DeQuincy Railroad Museum
The DeQuincy Railroad Museum is filled with artifacts and information about how the railroad industry shaped the area. The museum is housed in the 1923 Kansas City Southern Depot, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Just some of the items on display include a restored 1913 steam locomotive, a 1947 passenger coach, two vintage cabooses, and many model trains. Address: 400 Lake Charles Ave., DeQuincy, LA 70633
How many of these museums have you been to? Are there others you know of that we should check out? Let us know in the comments below!
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