Day trips from New Orleans

Question

Hi, my husband and I have A week planned in September in New Orleans, our first visit. After the week is over, is there any drive recommended to spend a day or night at, preferably 2hr drive or less from New Orleans? ( We'd rent a car). Thought perhaps Biloxi Beach, any other possible ideas?

Answer

New Orleans is a fantastic base for exploring the surrounding areas, and there are plenty of great day trips you can take within a two-hour drive. Whether you're interested in coastal escapes, history, or nature, there are options that will make your trip even more memorable. Here are a few ideas:

Biloxi, Mississippi (Approx. 1.5 - 2 hours drive) - Biloxi is a popular choice for a coastal getaway. Known for its casinos, sandy beaches, and Gulf Coast seafood, it's a great spot to relax and enjoy the ocean. You can stroll along the beach, visit the Biloxi Lighthouse, and try the famous shrimp and oysters at local seafood spots. The city also has a rich history, and you can check out the Biloxi Lighthouse Pier or the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum.
Bay St. Louis, Mississippi (Approx. 1.5 hours drive) - Bay St. Louis is a charming, quieter alternative to Biloxi. This small coastal town offers a mix of local art galleries, antique shops, and laid-back beaches. It's a perfect spot for a romantic getaway, and you can enjoy walking around the Old Town area, which has a relaxed, small-town feel. The town also offers great seafood and some lovely, peaceful waterfront views.
Lafayette, Louisiana (Approx. 2 hours drive) - Lafayette is a great destination for experiencing Cajun culture. Known as the heart of Cajun country, Lafayette is rich in history and offers unique attractions, such as the Vermilionville Historic Village, which showcases the region's French, African, and Native American heritage. For nature lovers, you can visit the Atchafalaya Basin, which is the largest swamp in the United States. The town also has fantastic Creole and Cajun food, including gumbo and crawfish étouffée.
Hammond, Louisiana (Approx. 1 hour drive) - Hammond is a smaller, quieter destination but makes for a nice half-day trip. The town is home to the Tangipahoa Parish Fairgrounds and is known for its antique stores and local farmers’ markets. It's also close to the stunning Fontainebleau State Park, where you can enjoy walking trails and views of Lake Pontchartrain. If you like nature and small-town charm, this is a great option.
St. Francisville, Louisiana (Approx. 2 hours drive) - A little off the beaten path, St. Francisville is a picturesque small town filled with history and scenic beauty. You can visit historic plantations like Rosedown Plantation State Historic Site, tour the beautiful Audubon State Historic Site, or take a leisurely walk down the charming main street. If you're a fan of nature, the area has hiking trails and overlooks that offer beautiful views of the Mississippi River.
Grand Isle, Louisiana (Approx. 2 hours drive) - If you're looking for a beach getaway, Grand Isle is a peaceful spot located on the Gulf of Mexico. This barrier island is known for its fishing, wildlife, and nature reserves. Grand Isle State Park offers beautiful beach views and birdwatching, and you can enjoy fresh seafood at the local eateries. It's a quiet and less touristy alternative to Biloxi and a great option if you enjoy spending time by the sea.

Other considerations:

For a more nature-oriented day trip, you could consider visiting Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, located about 30 minutes from New Orleans. It's perfect for hiking, wildlife viewing, and experiencing the bayou.
If you're looking for something more unique, Natchez, Mississippi is about a 2-hour drive away and offers a great experience of historic Southern homes and plantations.

Each of these destinations offers a different experience, so it really depends on what kind of atmosphere you’re looking for: beach, history, nature, or Cajun culture. Regardless of your choice, any of these locations will give you a great taste of the region outside of New Orleans. Enjoy your trip!

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