The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Baton Rouge, Louisiana to New Orleans, Louisiana

Are you looking for a fun and exciting road trip in Louisiana? Look no further than the drive from Baton Rouge to New Orleans. This drive is approximately 80 miles long and is filled with beautiful scenery, delicious food, and exciting adventures. The two-hour drive is the perfect opportunity for a quick weekend getaway or a day trip. Whether you are traveling with family, friends, or alone, the drive from Baton Rouge to New Orleans is one of the most beautiful drives in the country.

So without further ado, let's take a look at the top places to see when driving from Baton Rouge to New Orleans.

Enjoy Nature at the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

Located about halfway between Baton Rouge and New Orleans, the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve is a must-see destination. The park offers a unique combination of culture, wildlife, and nature. The park includes six sites spread across southern Louisiana, including wetlands, swamps, and forests. Visitors can explore a range of activities, from hiking and paddleboarding to bird watching and fishing.

The park is named after Jean Lafitte, a pirate who used the bayous and waterways of Louisiana as his hideaway throughout the 1800s. The preserve comprises nearly 23,000 acres of marshland and cypress-swamp habitat. You can take a stroll down one of the many nature trails and immerse yourself in the park's diverse wildlife. The park also offers ranger-guided programs, kayak rentals, and hunting opportunities.

Shop and Dine at the Historic River Road

As you drive along the Mississippi River Road, you will be struck by the area's beautiful plantation homes, parks, and restaurants. The Historic River Road is the oldest and longest scenic byway in Louisiana. It extends 70 miles along the Mississippi River from New Orleans to Baton Rouge.

While on this drive, you can explore some of Louisiana's historic plantation homes and museums, such as the Oak Alley Plantation and Laura Plantation. The area also has many unique restaurants and boutique shops. Stop for lunch at B&C Seafood Market and Cajun Restaurant to enjoy some of the best seafood in the area.

Tour the Houmas House and Gardens

The Houmas House and Gardens are located in Darrow, Louisiana, just off the Great River Road. The plantation is known as "The Sugar Palace" and is famous for its magnificent architecture and beautiful gardens. The home is over 250 years old and has survived hurricanes, floods, and other disasters.

Visitors can explore the mansion, which has been restored to its former glory. They can also spend time admiring the 38-acre gardens. The gardens feature fountains, ponds, and a variety of plant life, including 250-year-old oaks. There is also an onsite restaurant, the Café Burnside, which serves delicious Cajun and Creole cuisine.

Learn About History at the National World War II Museum

The National World War II Museum is located in the heart of New Orleans. It is a must-see destination when you're driving from Baton Rouge to New Orleans. The museum tells the story of the American experience in World War II through a series of interactive exhibits, displays, and films.

The museum has thousands of artifacts, personal accounts, and oral histories from the war's veterans. Visitors can explore the European and Pacific theaters, including D-Day and the Battle of the Bulge. You can also learn about the home front, the war's impact on American culture, and the war's lasting legacy. The National World War II Museum is an educational and enlightening experience for visitors of all ages.

Soak Up Some Culture at the French Quarter

No visit to New Orleans is complete without a stop at the French Quarter. It is the oldest and most famous neighborhood in New Orleans and is a hub for arts, culture, and entertainment. The French Quarter is known for its unique architecture, delicious food, and fantastic music.

While in the French Quarter, make sure to explore Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and the famous Bourbon Street. The area has a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and clubs that serve up local cuisine and drinks. You can also visit the New Orleans Jazz Museum, which is dedicated to the history of jazz music in New Orleans.

Conclusion

The drive from Baton Rouge to New Orleans is a beautiful trip full of history, culture, nature, and entertainment. With so many exciting destinations, it's hard to choose just one. However, the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, Historic River Road, Houmas House and Gardens, the National World War II Museum, and the French Quarter are some of the best. Whether you have a day or a weekend, start planning your road trip today!