7 Breathtaking Towns to Visit in Louisiana

Louisiana is a booming state characterized by Mardi Gras events, jazz festivals, and delicious Cajun and Creole food. But there is far more to the Pelican State than one might think. Travelers will find a wide array of breathtaking small towns outside the big, famous cities in Louisiana. These small towns offer a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, lined with bayous, old plantations, and immaculately landscaped gardens. From hiking through the Lake Fausse Pointe State Park in St. Martinville to devouring delicious seafood in Breaux Bridge, there are an abundance of reasons to fall in love with the following seven towns.

St. Martinville

Appropriately nicknamed “Little Paris,” St. Martinville, Louisiana, a predominantly French-speaking community, is one of the oldest surviving towns in the state. Situated on the shores of the Bayou Teche waterway, St. Martinville is home to several historical buildings and landmarks where travelers can get a taste of Creole heritage. Those looking to dive straight into the history and culture of St. Martinville can start their trip at the Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site. Here, guests can tour the old plantation house and enjoy nearby hiking trails. The African American Museum and the Acadian Memorial are also ideal attractions for anyone looking to expand their knowledge of Louisiana history. For the outdoor lovers, St. Martinville has plenty to offer. Take a relaxing stroll through Evangeline Oak Park or break out the binoculars and boots for an afternoon of hiking and wildlife viewing at Lake Fausse Pointe State Park.

Breaux Bridge

Roughly 13 miles away from St. Martinville, also on the shores of the Bayou Teche waterway, travelers will discover Breaux Bridge, Louisiana. Here, visitors rejoice at a hearty selection of tour companies offering memorable trips along the Bayou Teche. Country Swamp Tours, for example, has a 4.9-star rating on Yelp, with many customers raving about the guides and their passion for wildlife. After touring the bayou, head to Parc Hardy, a local park with baseball diamonds, tennis courts, pickleball courts, and a small water fountain. Parc Hardy is also an ideal spot to enjoy a picnic or rest after hours of exploration. Anyone looking to do some local shopping can visit Pink Alligator Gallery, where they will find a wide range of unique jewelry and artwork. Of course, a trip to Breaux Bridge isn’t complete without tasting some local crawfish. Known as the “Crawfish Capital of the World,” foodies should plan to visit in May when the annual Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival is on.

Natchitoches

Natchitoches, Louisiana, is a stunning small town offering visitors a taste of everything from live sports to family-oriented outdoor activities. Sports enthusiasts will want to visit the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame to learn about Louisiana athletes, coaches, and notable stars. If the museum doesn’t quite scratch that sports itch, don’t forget to watch a live game at Northwestern State University, home of the Demons. Those traveling with kids should visit the popular ​​Dark Woods Adventure Park. Here, people of all ages can participate in gem and fossil mining, teddy bear creation, and various events, including a haunted adventure. The park also has tasty food on site and, at the time of writing, is building a mini golf course.

For the history buffs in the group, Natchitoches is rich with historical sites, including the famous Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site and the Roque House and Gardens. Those looking to enjoy some time on the water should book a trip on the Cane River Queen Paddle Wheeler, a 49-passenger boat that offers beautiful views and history lessons.

Madisonville

Madisonville, Louisiana, is a beautiful town bordered by the Tchefuncte River. It is ideal for boat trips and outdoor exploration. One of the best places to experience Madisonville's beauty up close is Fairview-Riverside State Park. The park features a canopy of giant oak trees, picnic areas, a quarter-mile hiking trail, and picturesque views of the surrounding river. Filled with bass, bluegill, white perch, and bream, the park is also a hotspot for recreational fishing.

Another highlight of the Tchefuncte River is the Tchefuncte River Lighthouse. Located a short walk from the state park, the historic lighthouse is a sight to admire by boat but is also visible at a distance from the shore. An easy way to see both the lighthouse and the wildlife that calls Tchefuncte River home is to book a tour with Louisiana Tours & Adventures, a touring company offering a variety of relaxing cruises.

Grand Isle

Grand Isle, Louisiana, is a barrier island on the Gulf of Mexico, not far from the mouth of Barataria Bay. The island is an outdoor-lovers paradise, surrounded by sparkling water, sandy beaches, and abundant wildlife. Start a visit here by exploring the Grand Isle Birding Trail. The roughly two-mile round-trip trail features five distinct bird-watching locations, most of which are owned and protected by the local Nature Conservancy. Along the trail, explorers will likely see gulls, terns, skimmers, and brown pelicans. Next, head to Grand Isle State Park, where visitors are free to enjoy more birdwatching, hiking, swimming, and crabbing. Campsites are also available for those who wish to stay overnight. Those more interested in suntanning and swimming can head to Grand Isle Beach, a seven-mile stretch of warm sand and sky-blue water that looks postcard-perfect in the sun.

New Iberia

Roughly 20 miles outside of the bustling city of Lafayette, travelers will find New Iberia, Louisiana. Known as a hotspot for mouth-watering food, music, and popular community events, it is safe to say there is never a dull moment in New Iberia. That said, there is plenty of quiet beauty to be enjoyed here as well. For a relaxing afternoon, head to Jungle Gardens, where visitors can admire a wide range of wildlife and local flora. After a trip around the gardens, interested travelers can quickly tour the nearby Tabasco Brand Factory & Museum. Then, indulge in even more natural beauty at Rip Van Winkle Gardens. Here, guests will see immaculate gardens, various birds, and the old Joseph Jefferson Mansion.

St. Francisville

Last but certainly not least, St. Francisville, Louisiana, is a lively little town known for its many historical landmarks and old plantations. History lovers will want to visit the Audubon State Historic Site. Here, one can tour the old Oakley Plantation House and two cabins previously used by enslaved people. The site also offers opportunities for hiking and birdwatching.

Those visiting St. Francesville in the spring or summer months would be remiss not to visit Afton Villa Gardens. Filled with vibrant azaleas, camellias, and towering oak trees, the historic gardens are sure to take anyone's breath away. Next, take a break and relax by the Historic West Feliciana Railroad Caboose. Here, visitors can enjoy a picnic lunch while they learn about the history of this little orange caboose. To wrap up the trip, plan a visit to Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge, where hiking, fishing, and boating are all available.

In Conclusion

From cruising on the Bayou Teche looking for alligators to mining for gems at Dark Woods Adventure Park, there is a little something for everyone here in Louisiana. Whether travelers are looking for delicious food, outdoor exploration, or interactive history lessons, Bayou State will not disappoint. Moreover, these towns are astray from urban crowds, offering a tranquil environment to take in the sights. So the next time that adventure comes knocking, consider taking a trip to Louisiana.