7-Day Louisiana Itinerary

Fly into Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY).

Top Things to Do in New Orleans

• Walk Down Bourbon StreetExperience the energy of live jazz & nightlife.
• Explore Jackson Square & St. Louis CathedralIconic landmarks in the heart of the city.
• Eat Beignets at Cafe du MondeA must-try New Orleans treat!
• Visit the Voodoo Museum or Take a Ghost TourLearn about the city's mysterious past.
• Dinner at Antoine's or Commander's PalaceClassic Creole cuisine.

Overnight in the French Quarter.

Explore More of New Orleans Beyond the Quarter.

Top Things to Do

• Ride the Historic St. Charles StreetcarSee beautiful 19th-century mansions.
• Visit Lafayette Cemetery No. 1One of the city's famous above-ground cemeteries.
• Take a Swamp Tour in Jean Lafitte National ParkSpot alligators, herons, and moss-covered cypress trees.
• Catch Live Jazz on Frenchmen StreetLess touristy than Bourbon Street but just as fun!

Overnight in New Orleans.

Drive from New Orleans to Baton Rouge via the Great River Road (1.5 hours).

Top Stops Along the Way

• Oak Alley PlantationFamous for its grand oak-lined entrance.
• Laura PlantationLearn about Creole history & slavery narratives.
• Houmas House PlantationOne of the most beautiful estates in Louisiana.

Top Things to Do in Baton Rouge

• Visit the Louisiana State CapitolThe tallest in the U.S.!
• Explore the USS Kidd Veterans MuseumA WWII battleship on the Mississippi.
• Dinner at Parrain's Seafood RestaurantTry a classic Louisiana crawfish boil.

Overnight in Baton Rouge.

Drive from Baton Rouge to Lafayette (1 hour).

Top Things to Do in Lafayette & Breaux Bridge

• Try a Crawfish Boil at a Local Eatery (Seasonal: Spring).
• Visit Vermilionville Living History MuseumExperience Cajun & Creole culture.
• Take a Bayou Teche Kayak TourA peaceful way to see Louisiana's waterways.
• Explore Lake Martin & See AlligatorsA hidden gem for birdwatching & wildlife.

Overnight in Lafayette or Breaux Bridge.

Drive from Lafayette to Natchitoches (2.5 hours).

Top Things to Do in Natchitoches

• Visit the Cane River Creole National Historical Park.
• See Melrose PlantationA historic home known for folk artist Clementine Hunter.
• If Visiting in December, See the Christmas Festival of Lights!
• Try the Famous Natchitoches Meat Pie at Lasyone's.

Overnight in Natchitoches.

Drive from Natchitoches to Shreveport (1.5 hours).

Top Things to Do in Shreveport

• Try Your Luck at the Casinos on the Red River.
• Explore the Red River DistrictGreat restaurants & live music.
• Visit the R.W. Norton Art GalleryA hidden gem for art lovers.
• Dinner at Herby-K'sHome of the legendary Shrimp Buster.

Overnight in Shreveport.

Drive from Shreveport back to New Orleans (4.5 hours).

Optional Stops Along the Way

• Visit the Louisiana Science & Space Center in Ruston.
• Stop at Kisatchie National Forest for a Short Hike.

Fly out of New Orleans (MSY).