5 things to do in Louisiana — off the beaten track
Magical sunrise in the Louisiana bayou
Welcome to the hidden gems of Louisiana! While the vibrant nightlife and rich history of New Orleans often steal the spotlight, there's a whole world of adventure waiting beyond the well-trodden paths.
Louisiana is a unique state in many aspects, and its peculiar culture — eccentric in a good way — won’t leave you indifferent.
So, if you're ready to uncover the lesser-known wonders of the Pelican State, follow us! From secluded bayous to quaint small towns bursting with charm, Louisiana has something unique for every curious penguin.
Here are 5 things to do in Louisiana — off the beaten track. Laissez les bons temps rouler !
Stay in the bayou
Sleep in a fishermen cabin
As fun as New Orleans is, it can be overwhelming, especially for me (Eli) who always needs a nature fix! So, we booked a fisherman’s cabin deep in the Four Mile Bayou. The road leading there was spectacular, with swamps on one side and the bayou on the other. At sunset, the light filtering through the trees was magical! The cabin was simple but had all the comforts you need, with no phone coverage and a sweeping view of the bayou—our definition of paradise!
We saw a dozen alligators and hundreds of birds, from pink spoonbills to white ibis. It felt tropical, even reminding us of Borneo! At night, the sounds of frogs, toads, feral pigs, deer, and owls provided the perfect lullaby. And the sunrise? Unforgettable. For us, this is luxury beyond any fancy hotel!
Go on a swamp tour
But the fun’s just getting started! Hop aboard a swamp tour led by the coolest guides this side of the Mississippi. These guys know the bayou like the back of their hand and will take you on a wild ride through hidden waterways. Get ready to spot gators, spy on sunbathing turtles, and maybe even catch a glimpse of Bigfoot's Cajun cousin (just kidding... or not).
On our swamp tour with Skell’s Outdoor Adventures, we met Paul Blanchard, a real bayou expert. Paul, who hunts nutria and maintains crawfish nets, showed us the ropes—literally! We had a blast going full speed through the vegetation and spotting alligators, turtles, pink spoonbills, and even the mythical Rougarou.
Swim with gators
One day, I (Eli) decided to take a dip in the bayou. The locals assured me it was safe, so I went for it. The (brown) water was refreshing, but a few minutes later, I spotted what looked like a floating log… except it wasn't! We saw a dozen alligators in that spot the next day. Swim at your own risk!
Travel safe
Gator attacks are rare… Look how cute is this one with Eli!
But just in case, don’t forget to book travel insurance—grab a 5% discount when you book through us! Medical bills in the US can be steep, even for a simple visit, so it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Meet the locals
After our adventures, we headed to a small marina where the owner treated us to delicious jambalaya. A live zydeco band was playing, people were dancing, and gators were swimming nearby — a true Louisiana immersion!
Reflect on a plantation tour
Oak Alley Plantation
Our visit to Oak Alley Plantation was both beautiful and sobering, urging us to connect with history and remember its complexities.
Oak Alley, with its grand mansion flanked by ancient oaks, looked like a scene straight out of a movie. The mansion's classic architecture and Southern charm were striking, but inside, the beauty gave way to a somber atmosphere filled with the echoes of its past. Our guide shared captivating tales about the plantation's history, especially the lives of its notable owners like Jacques Telesphore Roman, a wealthy Creole sugar planter, and the Stewarts, who preserved its legacy.
The most impactful part of our visit was the slave quarters. Standing in those cramped spaces, we felt the weight of history and the resilience of those who endured such hardships. The "Wall of Names" and a detailed database honor the enslaved people, ensuring their stories are never forgotten.
Slave quarters at Oak Alley Plantation, Louisiana
The Great River Road - Plantation Alley
After this moving experience, we drove along the Great River Road, also known as Plantation Alley. This scenic highway winds along the Mississippi River, showcasing antebellum mansions amidst lush landscapes. Each plantation carries the weight of history, reminding us of the enslaved people who lived and worked there.
Vacherie and Donaldsonville
The journey wasn’t all somber. We explored vibrant communities like Vacherie, rooted in Creole heritage, and Donaldsonville, with its charming streets and vintage shop windows. These communities celebrate their culture and heritage, showcasing the spirit of Louisiana through soulful music, delicious cuisine, and rich traditions.
Reading suggestion
"The Invention of Wings" by Sue Monk Kidd follows the intertwined lives of two girls: Hetty, an enslaved girl, and Sarah Grimké, her reluctant owner. The story spans 35 years, chronicling their struggles for freedom. Sarah becomes an early abolitionist and women's rights advocate, while Hetty dreams of liberation. The novel draws inspiration from the real-life Grimké sisters, notable figures in the abolitionist movement.
Follow the Boudin Trail
Scott, boudin capital of the world
Welcome to the Boudin Trail in Louisiana's Cajun Country, where every bite is a love letter to tradition and flavor! Our journey began in Scott, the self-proclaimed "Boudin Capital of the World." This place is a treasure trove of boudin, a delicious Cajun sausage made from pork, rice, and spices. And no, don’t you dare call it just sausage – it’s boudin!
Imagine sinking your teeth into spicy boudin balls at Don’s Specialty Meats or savoring a boudin kolache from a local donut shop. Whether grilled, stuffed, or served hot with a splash of hot sauce, boudin is a must-try Cajun delight that keeps us coming back.
Cajun Country and Lafayette
Acadiana, also known as Cajun Country, is more than just food; it’s a vibrant region steeped in history and culture. This area, settled by the Acadians expelled from Nova Scotia in the 18th century, is alive with music, festivals, and friendly faces. Lafayette, the heart of Acadiana, is buzzing with energy, from its lively music scene to its rich culinary traditions.
Take a detour to Vermilionville and LARC’s Acadian Village, where history comes alive through interactive exhibits and artisan workshops. Here, you’ll experience the true spirit of Cajun life, with crafts, trades, and, of course, mouthwatering dishes like gumbo and crawfish étouffée.
If that sounds delicious, don’t miss our full article on the Boudin Trail and Cajun Country with reels included!
Eat cajun food
And speaking of yummy delights… Cajun food is a well-kept secret that every foodie needs to discover, and that definitely deserves a prime spot in our foodie corner!
A visit to Louisiana isn’t complete without indulging in its rich culinary heritage. From peaceful bayous to lively cities, the Pelican State offers unique, mouth-watering dishes.
The origins of Cajun food
Cajun cuisine has deep historical roots, blending French, Spanish, African, and Native American flavors, brought by the Acadian settlers exiled from Canada in the 18th century. The result is a bold, hearty, and slow-cooked cuisine that tells stories of resilience and cultural fusion.
Us trying to have a Cajun meal at home, in Spain!
Most popular Cajun dishes
One of the iconic dishes is gumbo, a soul-warming stew made from shrimp, sausage, chicken, duck, and okra, simmered in a rich roux-based broth — not rougarou ! It's often served over rice with a side of potato salad.
Another favorite is jambalaya, a one-pot rice dish packed with Andouille sausage, chicken, shrimp, and aromatic spices.
Crawfish étouffée is a creamy dish showcasing Louisiana's famous crustaceans, sautéed with onions, bell peppers, and roux, served over fluffy rice. And don't forget boudin, a flavorful blend of pork, rice, and spices, enjoyed as boudin balls or paired with Southern veggies.
If you're feeling adventurous, try alligator meat, either grilled with spicy remoulade or in a hearty gumbo. Alligator sausage, served on a po'boy or skewered as an appetizer, highlights the ingenuity of Cajun cooks.
Cajun cuisine hotspots
For the best of Cajun cuisine, explore culinary hotspots like New Orleans, Lafayette, and Breaux Bridge. And don’t miss out on local boils and cookouts for an authentic experience. Allons manger !
Hungry? Discover our full article on Cajun cuisine here!
Stay in a mansion (haunted or not) in Treme
New Orleans offers looots of hotel options, especially around Canal Street and the French Quarter, but we recommend finding accommodations that reflect the unique vibe of the city. That's why we loved staying at the Dragon Fly Guest House in Tremé — if there are ghosts, they didn’t show up during our stay!
Treme neighborhood
Tremé, one of the oldest neighborhoods in New Orleans, is rich in cultural and historical significance. Originally the plantation of Claude Tremé, it became a vibrant, mixed-race community and a hub for music and arts, particularly in Congo Square. Despite economic hardships and the impact of Hurricane Katrina, Tremé has shown resilience and revitalization.
The Dragon Fly Guest House
The Dragon Fly Guest House, an 1892 mansion with 12-foot ceilings, antique fireplaces, and a blend of old and modern furnishings, perfectly captures the spirit of old New Orleans. It’s less than a mile from the French Quarter and offers a quieter, more authentic experience. The guesthouse is intimate, accommodating up to eight guests with four bedrooms and five baths. It features a shared kitchen, cozy living room, and a tranquil saltwater pool with a pool house equipped with a flat-screen TV, soundbar, and barbecue grill.
We loved the eclectic decor, comfy beds, and the Balinese-style garden. Lore, the friendly owner, provided warm hospitality.
Penguin Trampoline tip:
For a truly New Orleans experience, we highly recommend staying in a mansion in Tremé over a chain hotel. Enjoy the rich history and vibrant culture of this incredible neighborhood, and support local businesses!
The cool ghosts of Louisiana
New Orleans, and Louisiana in general, is known for its haunted tales and voodoo practices, contributing to its spooky allure. Despite its ghostly reputation, we didn’t encounter any spirits at the Dragon Fly Guest House—maybe they were scared off by our late-night gumbo!
Read more in our full article: Stay in a mansion in Tremé, New Orleans.
Finally, here is some musical inspiration for your Louisiana trip!
From the tranquil beauty of the bayou to the storied halls of historic plantations, the tantalizing taste of authentic Cajun cuisine and the charm of a majestic mansion in Tremé, each experience was unforgettable.
Remember that the true essence of Louisiana — and of any place, actually — lies not only in its iconic landmarks, but also in its hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.
So until we meet again, may the spirit of Louisiana linger in your heart until you get a chance to visit!
Geaux Cajun, and allons explorer!
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