8 Darling Small Towns In Louisiana
Louisiana is famous for having vibrant cities, most notably New Orleans, where people really know how to have a good time. That said, along the Mississippi River, in the bayous near the Gulf of Mexico, and throughout the state, you will discover a rich tapestry of charming small towns that showcase Louisiana’s rich heritage and natural beauty. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, or just a traveler seeking a tranquil escape, these eight darling small towns in Louisiana will spark your wanderlust and warm your heart.
Saint Francisville
Stretched out along a narrow ridge that overlooks the Mississippi River, Saint Francisville is known as “the town that is two miles long and two yards wide.” That nickname is a bit of an exaggeration, but it is true that you get great river views from nearly every vantage point in this picturesque town founded in 1807. Wander through the quaint streets lined with antebellum homes and visit the charming shops and eateries that dot the historic district. Venture beyond downtown to visit Oakley Plantation, a state historic site that offers an honest look at 19th-century life and is renowned for its gardens and birdwatching.
New Iberia
New Iberia, located since 1779 along Bayou Teche in the heart of Louisiana’s Cajun Country, is a haven for history enthusiasts and food lovers alike. Downtown New Iberia, which won a “Great American Street” award in 2005 and includes a National Historic District, is tailor-made for a walking tour. Check out the Bayou Teche Museum for insights into New Iberia’s unique history and culture. And, if you love food festivals, New Iberia is the place to be—its celebrations include the Louisiana Sugar Cane Festival and the World Championship Gumbo Cookoff, to name just two.
Natchitoches
Try to sound like a local and pronounce “Natchitoches” as “Nack-a-tish,” but rest assured that you will be welcomed with open arms no matter how you mangle the name! Natchitoches is the oldest Euro-American town in the state and, in fact, the oldest in the entire area of the immense Louisiana Purchase. Rightly famous for its enchanting ambiance and historic charm, Natchitoches’ historic district features 33 blocks of beautiful Creole architecture and is perfect for a leisurely stroll. While locals enjoy festive celebrations throughout the year, the dazzling lights and fun events at the long-running Natchitoches Christmas Festival make it a true highlight.
Hammond
Hammond is a short drive from both New Orleans and Baton Rouge, each of which is about 45 miles from town but offers its own great mix of cultural attractions and outdoor activities. Downtown Hammond’s picturesque historic district looks frozen in time from the mid-twentieth century, and the presence of Southeastern Louisiana University in town helps support a nice collection of eclectic shops, cozy cafes, and charming boutiques. The historic district is also home to the excellent Louisiana Children's Discovery Center, while the nearby Tickfaw State Park features scenic boardwalks and diverse wildlife.
Grand Isle
If you are looking for a Louisiana seaside escape, the town of Grand Isle is a must-visit destination. Located on the state’s only inhabited barrier island (also called Grand Isle), the town offers stunning Gulf Coast beaches, where you can enjoy sunbathing, fishing, and shell collecting. The island is also known for its spectacular bird-watching opportunities and the annual Grand Isle Tarpon Rodeo, begun in 1928 and billed as the oldest fishing tournament in the United States. Grand Isle’s location makes it a regular target for hurricanes, but the town’s residents have always bounced back with a determination to restore and improve this wonderful coastal retreat.
Breaux Bridge
Breaux Bridge, a bastion of Cajun cuisine and heritage, is famously known as the "Crawfish Capital of the World." Try crawfish etouffee in the town where it was invented, enjoy a crawfish boil at one of the local eateries, or just explore the charming shops and galleries found downtown. The crawfish bonanza peaks during the town’s annual Crawfish Festival, which also showcases live music and celebrates the unique local culture. If you would rather see alligators than eat crawfish, Breaux Bridge is a gateway to the Atchafalaya Basin, where you can experience some of Louisiana's most scenic swamp tours.
Covington
Covington, located on the North Shore of Lake Pontchartrain, offers convenient access to New Orleans via the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, the longest continuous over-water bridge on earth. Covington Market Square is a great place to begin your exploration of town; from there, you can stroll along quaint streets, visit local art galleries, and enjoy great local cuisine. The Tammany Trace, a 31-mile-long recreational path, begins in town as well. If you are looking for a great place to stay near New Orleans, Covington is home to several charming bed-and-breakfasts, such as Camellia House and Blue Willow.
Abita Springs
Located only five miles from Covington, Abita Springs is a New Orleans suburb (across Lake Pontchartrain) known for its health-restoring spring water and laid-back vibe. The Abita Springs Trailhead Museum offers insights into the town’s history as a health resort getaway, and the many stately Victorian homes speak to the popularity of the springs in that era. Abita Springs connects to Covington and other local communities along the Tammany Trace recreational path, which is perfect for an autumn bike ride. If you are a craft beer enthusiast, be sure to check out the Abita Brewing Company as well.
Louisiana’s small towns offer the good times and great food that visitors expect but also capture—in a way big cities cannot—the essence of the state’s unique culture and natural beauty. From historic streets and charming eateries to scenic trails and coastal escapes, these eight towns provide a delightful glimpse into the heart of Louisiana. Enjoy yourself in New Orleans, for sure, but also set aside some time to experience a truly memorable small-town road trip through this enchanting state.
