7 Of The Quietest Louisiana Towns
Craving a moment of peace and tranquility? Louisiana is dotted with small, laid-back towns that serve relaxation like a sweet, sizzling delicacy. Some of these towns also boast lively festivals, jazz-filled nights, and mind-calming outdoor venues. From Abita Springs — long famed for its artesian waters — to Leesville, a sleepy community close to the largest military base in the entire state, the following are 7 of the quietest Louisiana towns. The experience will feel like throwing one's shoes, switching off the phone, and grabbing a front-row seat at a mythical Pleasure Island.
Grand Isle
Grand Isle is an oasis of quiet without the gory glitz of concrete jungles and neck-straining skyscrapers. Instead, you will find a great sense of community and incredibly tranquil neighborhoods. Grand Isle State Park is a beautiful and quiet space with pelicans, porpoises, and an observation tower. It is a fantastic place to go fishing, swimming, or hiking. On the opposite side is Grand Isle Beach, which offers a relaxing, stress-free atmosphere. If you want to take in everything slowly and intimately, stroll down to the Grand Isle Marina to people-watch, eat delicious seafood, or drop a line for a yummy catch.
St. Francisville
If you are looking for a laid-back town with tons of personality, St. Francisville is just what the doctor ordered. The Myrtles, ostensibly one of America's most haunted houses, has a history that goes back to 1786. Their day tours, a tangible connection to the past, will see one exploring the halls of the main house and the downstairs rooms, most of which are adorned with period furnishings and decor. Alternatively, Rosedown Plantation State Historic Site is immersive and well worth the price. Don’t miss its breathtaking porch view. If you enjoy checking out small museums with tidbits of local history, the West Feliciana Historical Society and Museum should be on your to-do list.
Abita Springs
A family-oriented community with low crime and one of the highest pa capita incomes in the entire state, Abita Springs is a small, lovely town in St. Tammany Parish just north of Lake Pontchartrain. The environment is almost always peaceful and green (with lots of pine woods), and, hence, makes the town a fantastic spot for quiet living or a weekend getaway. Wondering what one can do here? Pick up a bike and ride the Tammany Trace, float down the Abita River, or step back into time at the free-to-visit Abita Springs Trailhead Museum, where you will learn about the area’s fascinating history and culture.
Eunice
It does not get frequent mentions, but Eunice is a quiet, laid-back town that is perfect for hassle-free living or a tranquil weekend getaway. The timid beauty of Eunice City Lake is often an irresistible draw to first-time visitors, as it is a space perfect for a reflective hour of calm and clarity. You will find nice BBQ areas, restrooms, fishing spots, and lovely trails, especially around the lake. Alternatively, come and experience the Cajun culture at the Prairie Acadian Cultural Center, a free-to-visit facility with lots of insightful demonstrations and shows. Right opposite is the library, where you can lose yourself in a good read. The Cajun Music Hall of Fame, a few steps away, has musical instruments, interesting old photos, and short biographies of famous Cajun singers.
Zwolle
Zwolle is a friendly town with peaceful neighborhoods and a close-knit community. It is in Sabine Parish, less than an hour west of Natchitoches. The Zwolle Tamale Fiesta, whose history goes back almost 50 years, is a light and fun-filled event that often draws people from every nook of the state. Designed as a celebration of the area's Spanish and Indian heritage, the event typically takes place on the second weekend of October. Fun, outdoor spots within the precincts of town include the Toledo Bend Reservoir, a top-notch venue for fishing, camping, and swimming; San Miguel Bayou; and the nearby Loring Lake. So, what makes Zwolle one of Louisiana’s quietest spots? It has to do with its setting among pine forests and away from major highways.
New Roads
Soothing water views await the first-time visitor to New Roads, a small, charming town that sits on False River just 40 minutes from Baton Rouge. Although False River is known for its striped bass population, and the Old Man River is a jaunt across, New Roads boasts several other alluring draws. For example, the Pointe Coupee Museum curates a vast history of the parish and is the go-to place for the intricacies of early Colonial life. On the flip side, bibliophiles will have a blast at the Pointe Coupee Library, whose collection includes some of the rarest of their kind in the United States. A visit here will transport you back to the lives and times of Louisianans as far back as the Civil War. Keep in mind that this slow-paced oasis is often touted as the “Prettiest City on the Water.”
Leesville
Leesville is a quiet, secluded town located close to Fort Johnson, the largest military base in the entire state. The presence of this landmark facility means the town is safe, modestly diverse, and vibrant, features that give it a touch of color and life. To the west of town are two spellbinding blue-space gems: Anacoco Lake and Vernon Lake. The former features quiet campgrounds with lovely water views, while the latter is primarily known for boating and fishing. If you have a thing for healthy drinks, Back to Nature serves the best smoothies in town. Alternatively, Brenda's Kitchen is a family-owned establishment that provides the tastiest introduction to authentic Puerto Rican delicacies.
The Takeaway
If you have not been told of the piney serenity of Abita Springs or the river-kissed charm of New Roads, you are yet to discover Louisiana’s quieter personality. There is no doubt that the Pelican State is known for its iconic Mardi Gras celebrations, a high-octane event best experienced in New Orleans. However, hidden among its slow-moving bayous, verdant swamps and coastal marshes are several beautifully laid-back towns, many of which are fun, lovely spots for relaxation.
