My nephew is getting married in early June in New Orleans. I’m thinking of entending my vacation and explore the region. I realize June isn’t the ideal month but so it goes.
Anyone have any suggestions for places to visit? I’m thinking of camping / hiking / out doorsy stuff. Driving the Natches Trace?
Any ideas appreciated.
Thanks
Brian
When I lived in SW Louisiana I don’t remember anyone doing too much camping, though I think there are campsites along I-10. Cajun country, around Lafayette, is interesting. When we stayed in NO over Christmas we also spent a few days in Lafayette, but that was to visit a place we lived when I was in grad school. But we mostly cared about food.
I live in the area.
In June, camping with hiking and tents and stuff isn’t popular. Hot and humid. And that is the overnight condition. Lots of people camp though. They use trailers and find a park with a lake. I could get recommendations if that interests you.
As for touring the area, for me I would head west toward Lafayette. Just remember that outside New Orleans and Baton Rouge, La. is a pretty rural state. Lots of small towns. But with a bit of planning, there is a lot to see in Cajun country. The opposite direction from the Natchez trace, but more interesting in my opinion. Also, consider the plantation tours up the Miss. River. Those are quite interesting. Google them and see what you find.
The Natchez Trace runs from Natchez, MS to Nashville, TN. 50 mph speed limit, but it is a pretty drive. South of Jackson it is mostly pine forest. North of Tupelo, it gets hilly and curvey, but is fairly scenic, with lots of roadside exhibits, a few campgrounds, hiking trails, etc.
About an hour from New Orleans, near Raceland, LA you can take a swamp tour which involves an airboat ride through the swamps.
If you like antebellum homes, Oak Alley is worth a day trip from New Orleans. They filmed part of Gone with the Wind there.
I’m the type who would generally enjoy a historical road like the Natchez Trace but I didn’t get much out of it (between Tupelo and Natchez anyway).
NOLA region could also mean tour the Gulf coast to Apalachicola.
At this point I have no plans other that “hey, I’m going down there, might as well make the most of it”
Thanks for th input so far, keep it coming!
Brian