There’s no place quite like the state of Louisiana. The culture and history that seep out of every crack and crevice in this state is incredible. The food is outstanding, the music is exciting, and the vibe is anything but boring.
There are plenty of things to see and do in the Bayou State, especially if you’re into history, food, or jazz. More often than not, the issue is not with finding something to do, but with narrowing the options down. This is where a Louisiana bucket list can be helpful.
By creating a Louisiana bucket list, you can narrow your options to the things you want to do most while exploring Louisiana. On top of that, you’re keeping your ideas in one place and you can pull one out if you need to fill more time on your vacation.
In this article, we will help you build your Louisiana bucket list, so you will never be without places to visit or things to do.
Cane River Creole National Historical Park
For over 200 years, the Creole people called the Cane River region home and they worked and lived at the Oakland and Magnolia Plantations. Now the Cane River Creole National Historical Park shares their stories. You can tour the outbuildings and see enslaved people’s and sharecroppers’ quarters, corn cribs, and more. Visit this park to learn about the unique culture and history of the Creoles.
Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve tells the stories of everyone from pirate Jean Lafitte to 19th-century activist Homer Plessy. It memorializes those who shaped the history of the state of Louisiana. The grounds of this park also include Chalmette Cemetery, where thousands of soldiers who died in wars from the Civil War to Vietnam are buried.
New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park
Learn about the history of jazz and get into the spirit of New Orleans as you listen to musicians practice this great American art form at New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park.
Poverty Point National Monument
Around 3,000 years ago, the Poverty Point culture was a huge trading network. The collection of mounds and earth structures they built stretched for hundreds of miles across the continent, and were an engineering marvel. In fact, people still marvel at these creations which took around 5 million hours of labor. Learn about the mounds and the people who made them at Poverty Point National Monument.
Vicksburg National Military Park
Vicksburg was referred to as “the nailhead that holds the South’s two halves together” by Confederate President Jefferson Davis. Meanwhile, Lincoln claimed that the battle at Vicksburg was the key to winning the Civil War. Learn all about this key battle at Vicksburg National Military Park.
Explore the French Quarter
Perhaps the most well-known part of the entire state of Louisiana, New Orleans’ French Quarter is a must-see when visiting. Not only will you see a number of beautiful historic buildings, you’ll also be treated to amazing shopping and dining, as well as plenty of street performances. Be sure to see Bourbon Street, Decatur Street, Royal Street, and Congo Square.
Learn at the National WWII Museum
At the National World War II Museum in Louisiana, you can learn about the war that changed the world. Learn about tactics, machinery, and a wide variety of other topics surrounding World War II.
Experience a New Orleans Mardi Gras
No place in the world does Mardi Gras quite like New Orleans. Visit during this annual festival for bright costumes, fun decorations, loud celebrations, and good food. After all, you haven’t fully experienced New Orleans until you see it during Mardi Gras!
Dig into a Crawfish Boil
As far as food goes, crawfish is a Louisiana staple. Make sure to stop somewhere to enjoy an authentic Louisiana crawfish boil. Enjoy the crawfish, potatoes, corn, sausage, and delicious Cajon-style seasoning in this tasty dish.
Tour the Melrose on the Cane
Originally known as Yucca Plantation, Melrose on the Cane holds lots of stories and secrets. The grounds are home to a number of buildings, including Yucca House (which was built in the 1790s) and the Big House (a West Indies Creole plantation house with early Greek Revival details).
A tour of the plantation is a peek into a complicated past.
Admire the Old State Capitol Building
The Old State Capitol is another historic spot to visit. The building is dramatic and features two huge towers, a crenelated roof, and tall windows which come together to create a castle-like appearance.
Enjoy a Bowl of Gumbo
Gumbo is a delicious stew featuring celery, bell peppers, onions, and meats such as sausage and shellfish. The spices included in the soup are spicy and flavorful.
Go on a Swamp Tour
The swamps of Louisiana are teeming with life. There are tons of swamp tour companies all across the state, and going on one of these tours allows you to check out local flora and fauna, including the famed Louisiana alligators.
Discover History at Laura Plantation
Laura Plantation was built in 1805 and served as a sugar plantation for many years. The house now contains period furniture and exhibits about Laura Locoul, who once called the plantation home. The plantation is also home to a large exhibit that tells the stories of those who were enslaved on the farm, giving visitors a look at plantation life from their point of view.
Step Back in Time at Vermilionville
Vermillionville is a living history museum that is focused on preserving the traditions and heritage of the Acadian settlers of the late 1700s and early 1800s. During your visit, you will see restored historic buildings and homes. You will also have the opportunity to chat with interpreters and costumed craftspeople who will help you understand the ins and outs of daily living for the Acadian people of this time.
Have a Beach Day
Louisiana has a number of lovely beaches. Some of the best beaches include Holly Beach and the beach at Grand Isle State Park, but there are a number of other possibilities as well.
Sweeten Things Up with Bananas Foster
A traditional New Orleans dessert, bananas foster is a must-try when you’re in the Bayou State. This delicious treat includes bananas, cinnamon, sugar, and butter. It’s all soaked in rum before being set aflame. Once the alcohol has burned away, the flame goes out, leaving a smoky-tasting banana dessert that is usually served over vanilla ice cream.
Get Hands-On at Sci-Port Discovery Center
The Sci-Port Discovery Center helps kids…and adults…learn through play. Learn about science through hands-on exhibits while having a blast. This is a great stop for families.
Visit the USS Kidd and Veterans Memorial
The USS Kidd is a decommissioned destroyer ship that was active during WWII, has been seen in film and TV productions, and is now used for tours. Tour the ship and then visit the museum to learn more about the it and to check out some nautical items, artifacts, a model ship collection, and more.
Wander Rosedown Plantation and Gardens
Rosedown Plantation State Historic Site is a site of both beauty and suffering. You can go for a lovely stroll through the flower gardens. But you can also learn about the lifestyles of plantation owners and the slaves who worked plantations of the South during the mid-19th century.
Chug Over to DeQuincy Railroad Museum
Train enthusiasts will love the DeQuincy Railroad Museum. See trains go by from one of multiple train-viewing platforms, admire an impressive collection of Gauge 1 model engines, and check out several historic train cars and a 1913 steam engine.
Chow Down on Cafe du Monde Beignets
Finally, we mustn’t forget to mention the beloved beignets of Cafe du Monde. Yes, the line will be long to get them, and yes, you should wait in it. These yummy little treats are well worth the wait, especially if you wash them all down with a coffee or chicory cafe au lait.
There are plenty of things to add to your Louisiana bucket list. But if you’re traveling the state to see all these sights, you might find yourself hopping around a lot. You may want to stay in a Louisiana RV rental so you can move from spot to spot with ease, staying in comfort wherever you land.
