Best Small Towns To Visit In Louisiana On Your Next Trip
Louisiana, renowned for its rich culture, music, food, and natural beauty, offers visitors a unique experience beyond the hustle and bustle of New Orleans. While the Crescent City steals much of the limelight, the state’s small towns hold untold treasures waiting to be discovered.
Let’s embark on a journey to five of the most captivating small towns in Louisiana, delving deep into their histories, attractions, and charm.
Five Charming Small Towns To Visit In Louisiana
Natchitoches
Natchitoches, pronounced Nack-a-tish, is a gem located on the banks of the Cane River. It boasts the title of the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase territory. Strolling down the brick-paved Front Street is like taking a step back in time with its boutiques, restaurants, and historic structures. The town’s Historic District encompasses a vast 33-block area, featuring landmarks such as the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception and the Roque House.
Additionally, the Cane River National Heritage Area is a picturesque region steeped in Creole history and dotted with scenic plantations. But if you’re considering the best time to visit, the Christmas season transforms Natchitoches into a winter wonderland, making the Christmas Festival a must-see event.
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Where To Stay:
For those planning an extended stay, Grand Ecore RV Park is a top recommendation. Located a short drive from downtown, this campground offers breathtaking waterfront views, full hook-ups for your RV, and direct access to the serene Cane River.
St. Francisville
St. Francisville, a town bathed in deep-rooted Southern charm, mesmerizes visitors with its antebellum mansions and centuries-old oak trees. Among its most prized attractions are the preserved plantations. Notable mentions include Rosedown and The Myrtles, with the latter often creating a buzz for its reputed haunting tales.
The Tunica Hills Wildlife Management Area serves as an escape for nature lovers, offering terrains marked with waterfalls, deep ravines, and a rich palette of wildlife. And as the sun sets, the downtown area comes alive with its boutique art galleries, treasure-filled antique shops, and intimate cafes serving up the best of Louisiana’s delicacies.
Where To Stay:
For the travelers keen on immersing themselves in the natural beauty of St. Francisville, Pond Store Cabins & RV Park is the ideal spot. Nestled amidst the trees, this campground blends modern amenities with the rustic charm of the forest.
Breaux Bridge
Breaux Bridge, fondly dubbed the “Crawfish Capital of the World,” offers a heady mix of Cajun culture and a culinary scene that’s simply unparalleled. Every year, the town is painted in festive hues as the Crawfish Festival takes center stage, celebrating Breaux Bridge’s rich culinary traditions.
If water adventures pique your interest, the Bayou Teche stands as an irresistible invitation for kayaking, birdwatching, or merely soaking in the natural vistas. The town’s pulse, however, beats in its downtown area. Here, vivid murals narrate tales of old, local boutiques showcase handcrafted treasures, and Cajun eateries serve plates full of passion and flavor.
Where To Stay:
When the day’s adventures come to a close, Poche’s Fish-N-Camp offers a tranquil retreat. Perfectly positioned to allow guests a rendezvous with nature, this campsite offers well-maintained fishing ponds, spacious RV spots, and a genuine taste of Louisiana’s landscapes.
Abita Springs
The quaint town of Abita Springs beckons travelers with its clear springs and an arts scene that thrives in every corner. A visit to the town is incomplete without a tour of the Abita Brewery, where you can sample some of the region’s finest craft beers.
The Uptown District is another feather in Abita Springs’ cap. Here, the Abita Mystery House intrigues with its peculiar exhibits, while eccentric art installations dot the streets, each telling its own unique story. For those with an adventurous spirit, the Tammany Trace offers a 31-mile stretch perfect for biking and hiking, all while enveloped in the town’s scenic beauty.
Where To Stay:
Should you wish to stay close to all these attractions, the Abita Springs RV Resort is a traveler’s dream come true. This family-friendly campground comes with a pool, a serene fishing pond, and direct access to the Tammany Trace, ensuring fun-filled days and peaceful nights.
Thibodaux
Our list of the best small towns to visit in Louisiana ends in the heart of Cajun country. Thibodaux is a town that seamlessly blends history, local cuisine, and vibrant festivities. The E.D. White Historic Site stands as a testament to the state’s illustrious political past, having been home to both a Louisiana governor and a U.S. senator.
The Bayou Lafourche, meandering through the town, offers the perfect backdrop for fishing or perhaps an enlightening bayou tour. Adventure seekers can also embark on the Cajun Country Swamp Tours to dive deep into the swamps, encountering a mesmerizing array of local wildlife.
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Where To Stay:
As night descends and the stars take over the Louisiana sky, Munson’s Swamp Tours & RV Park offers a sanctuary for the weary traveler. With its prime location, visitors can experience the allure of Louisiana’s wetlands, all while enjoying the comforts and amenities of this well-maintained campground.
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In conclusion, these small towns to visit in Louisiana are bursting with unique experiences, be it culinary, historical, or natural. As you plan your next trip, consider exploring these lesser-known gems to truly appreciate the diversity and vibrancy of the Pelican State. Safe travels and don’t forget to book your RV rental by owner in Louisiana for your Louisiana road trip today!
