Louisiana in Summer
Louisiana in summer means sunny days spent immersing yourself in the famous sites, diverse attractions, scenic landscapes and iconic tastes of the Bayou State.
Louisiana is an exciting summer vacation destination steeped in history and full of character and charm. Travelers can expect world-class museums, cuisine and entertainment combined with scenic escapes along the open road. Cool off while making memories that’ll last a lifetime in a state that will truly feed your soul.
Rockin’ River Fest
Capitol Park Museum
Seventh Tap Brewing Project
Fontainebleau State Park
Significant Sites
Visiting Louisiana’s historical spots is a perfect way to combine learning with exploration while school is out. Wander the Natchitoches Historic District, with centuries-old buildings, informative museums and scenic riverfront views bringing history to life. Walk among earthen mounds at Poverty Point, a UNESCO World Heritage Site honored for its archaeological importance.
New Orleans’ waterfront is home to the famed Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral and several institutions of the Louisiana State Museum system, while just down the Mississippi River is the Chalmette Battlefield where the crucial Battle of New Orleans took place. Tour one of the official state historic sites that include Fort St. Jean Baptiste, Rosedown Plantation and Plaquemine Lock.
Indoor Attractions
Escape the heat at an array of indoor institutions throughout the state. Learn through interactive displays at the National WWII Museum, get a 360-degree panorama of New Orleans from Vue Orleans Observation Deck and learn about the iconic celebration at Mardi Gras World before heading to the famed New Orleans Museum of Art or Louisiana Children’s Museum in City Park.
The Acadian Cultural Center, one of the numerous sites of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, allows travelers to explore Cajun heritage through artifacts and cultural programs. The Abita Mystery House is a beloved roadside stop and self-guided folk art museum. Enjoy the air conditioning in must-visit exhibits like those at the Louisiana Art & Science Museum in Baton Rouge, or the Sci-Port Discovery Center, Barksdale Global Power Museum and Shreveport Aquarium in Shreveport.
Free Things to Do
Louisiana on a budget still provides memorable experiences for all ages. Some attractions are free to visit for everyone during open hours, like the Old State Capitol building in Baton Rouge, as well as the self-guided tours at the Sazerac House and the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden in New Orleans. Most museums offer free days to Louisiana residents; check websites for details.
With cooler temperatures in the evening, many cities put on free concert series during summer, like Downtown Alive! in Lafayette, Live after 5 in Baton Rouge and Wednesdays at the Squarein New Orleans. And Louisiana’s cities and towns are home to picturesque parks filled with amenities like playgrounds, picnic areas, restrooms and paved paths.
Epic Road Trips
Enjoy a classic summer road trip along scenic highways through charming towns filled with hidden gems and vibrant local culture. Louisiana has two official All-American Roads — Creole Nature Trail wanders through the wetlands of coastal Louisiana, and Great River Road travels 773 snake-like miles along the Mississippi River from the Arkansas border to the Gulf.
The Zydeco Cajun Prairie Scenic Byway lets visitors experience the rhythmic sounds, local festivals and natural beauty of Cajun country. Driving the Cane River National Heritage Trail Scenic Byway offers a captivating blend of Creole history and picturesque landscapes of northern Louisiana, while fresh seafood in fishing villages with bayou backdrops become common along the Wetlands Cultural Trail.