Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in New Orleans, United States

New Orleans, United States, New Orleans, Destination & Trip Type Pages, Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities

Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in New Orleans, United States

1. Audubon State Park

Experience a blend of nature and history at this park, home to a diverse array of wildlife and historical structures.
  • Nature Lovers' Paradise: Offers hiking trails, bird watching, fishing, and picnicking amidst natural beauty.
  • Historical Attraction: Includes the restored Audubon House, showcasing the life of John James Audubon.
  • Close to New Orleans: Located just a short drive from New Orleans city center.

2. Nottoway Plantation

Step back in time at the South's largest antebellum mansion, offering tours and overnight stays.
  • Historical Experience: Provides a unique glimpse into Louisiana's plantation past.
  • Overnight Stays Available: Offers the opportunity to spend a night in history with their elegant rooms.
  • Near Baton Rouge: Easily accessible from New Orleans and just a short drive away from Baton Rouge.

3. Bayou Teche Adventures

Discover the unique Cajun culture along the Bayou Teche aboard a flatboat or kayak.
  • Cultural Immersion: Provides an authentic Cajun experience with local guides.
  • Outdoor Adventure: Offers a variety of water-based activities such as paddling, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
  • Close to Lafayette: Located near Lafayette, ideal for combining with a city visit.

4. Jessamine Plantation

Explore the historic home and grounds of the Jessamine Plantation, a National Historic Landmark.
  • Historical Landmark: A well-preserved example of Greek Revival architecture.
  • Garden Lovers' Delight: Features a beautiful formal garden designed by Ellen Biddle Shipman.
  • Near Baton Rouge: Easily accessible from New Orleans and just a short drive away from Baton Rouge.

5. Oak Alley Plantation

Walk among the iconic oak-lined avenue at this historic plantation, with tours of the mansion and gardens.
  • Historic Icon: Recognizable by its famous oak-tree allé.
  • Mansion & Garden Tours: Includes guided tours of the mansion and beautiful gardens.
  • Near Vacherie: Located near Vacherie, a charming small town with local restaurants and shops.

6. Cypress Canopy Tours

Soar through the cypress swamps on a zip line adventure, offering thrilling views of the bayou.
  • Adventure Seekers' Paradise: Offers high-flying fun and a unique perspective of the swamp.
  • Nature & Wildlife: Provides opportunities to spot local wildlife such as alligators, birds, and raccoons.
  • Near Baton Rouge: Located near Baton Rouge, perfect for combining with a city visit.

7. Rosalia Plantation

Stroll through the gardens and learn about the history of this charming antebellum plantation.
  • Garden Delight: Features beautiful formal gardens with camellias, azaleas, and magnolias.
  • Historical Experience: Provides a glimpse into Louisiana's plantation history.
  • Near Lafayette: Located near Lafayette, ideal for combining with a city visit.

8. Swamp Tours on the Honey Island Swamp

Explore Louisiana's wild side with a swamp tour, spotting alligators, wildlife, and unique plant life.
  • Wildlife Watching: Offers opportunities to see alligators, birds, and other swamp creatures.
  • Nature & Wildlife: Provides a unique perspective on the bayou ecosystem.
  • Near Slidell: Located near Slidell, making it an easy day trip from New Orleans.

9. The Myrtles Plantation

Investigate the haunted tales of America's most-photographed plantation home.
  • Haunted History: Said to be one of the most haunted homes in America.
  • Historical Experience: Provides a look into Louisiana's plantation history.
  • Near St. Francisville: Located near St. Francisville, perfect for combining with other local attractions.

10. Cane River Creole National Historical Park

Discover the history and culture of Louisiana's Creole plantations along the Cane River.
  • Historical & Cultural Experience: Offers a glimpse into Creole culture and plantation life.
  • Nature & Wildlife: Features beautiful river scenery, bird watching, and wildlife spotting opportunities.
  • Near Natchitoches: Located near Natchitoches, a charming town with local restaurants and shops.

11. Poverty Point World Heritage Site

Explore the archaeological remains of an ancient Native American settlement, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Archaeological Marvel: Showcases a complex system of earthen mounds and ditches.
  • Historical & Cultural Experience: Provides insights into the ancient culture that once thrived here.
  • Near Epps: Located near Epps, making it an easy day trip from Monroe or Ruston.

12. Frogmore Plantation

Discover the history and architecture of this antebellum plantation, featuring a historic home and gardens.
  • Historical Experience: Provides a look into Louisiana's plantation history.
  • Garden Delight: Features beautiful gardens with azaleas, camellias, and magnolias.
  • Near Baton Rouge: Located near Baton Rouge, ideal for combining with a city visit.

13. Farm-to-Table Experiences in Covington

Savor fresh, locally sourced cuisine at farms and restaurants in the charming town of Covington.
  • Culinary Delight: Offers unique dining experiences with farm-fresh ingredients.
  • Small Town Charm: Features quaint shops, art galleries, and historic architecture.
  • Near New Orleans: Located near New Orleans, perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway.

14. The Odyssey Boat Tours

Cruise down the Mississippi River to see historic plantations, wildlife, and iconic New Orleans landmarks.
  • River Cruising: Offers a scenic boat tour on the mighty Mississippi.
  • Historical Experience: Provides views of historic plantations and New Orleans landmarks.
  • Close to New Orleans: Located in New Orleans, perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway.

15. Louisiana Swamp Tours

Explore the beauty and mystery of Louisiana's swamps with guided tours, spotting wildlife and learning about local ecology.
  • Wildlife Watching: Offers opportunities to see alligators, birds, and other swamp creatures.
  • Nature & Wildlife: Provides a unique perspective on the bayou ecosystem.
  • Close to New Orleans: Located near New Orleans, making it an easy day trip or weekend getaway.