11 Best Family Vacations in Louisiana [for 2023]
Explore a captivating medley of flavors, cultures, and delightful family-centric adventures in Louisiana. With its rich tapestry of history and immersive educational encounters, alongside captivating wildlife havens, the state offers an abundant array of experiences for all ages.
Simplifying your vacation planning, we present the finest family getaways in Louisiana, ensuring cherished memories. As an added treat, discover expert tips to curate an unforgettable escapade. Embark on a journey of a lifetime with the best family vacations in Louisiana, where every moment becomes a treasure.
1. New Orleans
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Discover the unexpected allure of New Orleans as an exhilarating kid-friendly weekend escape in Louisiana. This vibrant city offers an intriguing blend of attractions tailored to all ages, ensuring a delightful family experience.
Despite its reputation for lively parties and Mardi Gras revelry, New Orleans boasts an array of captivating kid-friendly destinations. Don’t miss the enchanting Audubon Zoo and the enthralling Aquarium of the Americas, guaranteed to leave children awe-inspired.
For older kids, teens, and parents seeking excitement, Carousel Gardens promises an unforgettable time. But the wonders don’t end there – New Orleans hosts some of Louisiana’s top family-friendly hotels, ensuring comfortable stays.
To maximize savings on accommodations, consider the Royal Street Courtyard. Beyond its budget-friendly rates, the hotel features a spacious family suite accommodating up to 4 adults and 2 children. What’s more, it’s conveniently located just steps away from Washington Square and Bourbon Street, enhancing your New Orleans escapade.
2. Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge seamlessly weaves together history, culture, and family-centric enjoyment, making it an exceptional destination for a memorable family vacation.
For families with school-age children and history enthusiasts, Baton Rouge’s array of historical museums is a treasure trove of experiences. Immerse yourselves in the rich past while allowing educational exploration at the USS Kidd and Baton Rouge Gallery.
Within this city, two remarkable attractions stand out as must-visit spots for families in Louisiana: the Baton Rouge Zoo and the dynamic duo of Blue Bayou and Dixie Landin’. These locales promise boundless excitement for kids of all ages.
A trip to Baton Rouge remains incomplete without a visit to the LSU Rural Life Museum. This captivating outdoor museum spans 5 acres and brilliantly captures the essence of 19th-century rural plantation life. By experiencing these engaging attractions, your family can truly revel in the best of what Louisiana has to offer, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
3. Golden Nugget Lake Charles
On the quest for vibrant and entertaining family resorts? Look no further than Golden Nugget Lake Charles, where a plethora of family-friendly amenities ensures an unforgettable getaway.
This resort caters to all age groups with its diverse array of features, making it a perfect fit for every family member. If your ideal vacation involves refining your golf swing, you’re in for a treat. The resort not only houses an exceptional 18-hole golf course but also offers a casino and a lavish full-service spa for relaxation.
Children are in for a blast too, as they can revel in the excitement of the water park and indulge in the pleasures of a private beach area.
A savvy tip for an enhanced experience: opt for the resort’s deluxe double room. Equipped with two comfortable queen beds, this accommodation caters perfectly to a family of five. Moreover, the room treats guests to captivating views that further enhance the vacation’s charm. When in search of the best family vacations in Louisiana, Golden Nugget Lake Charles promises a dynamic and joyous retreat for all.
4. Alexandria
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Unveil the hidden gem of Alexandria, an undiscovered destination brimming with delightful discoveries.
Nestled within the heart of this quaint town lies a treasure trove of family-friendly attractions, making it an ideal getaway for all ages.
Embark on your vacation by immersing yourself in the Louisiana History Museum. Impeccably curated, it houses a captivating array of artifacts and vintage photographs that intricately weave the tapestry of the state’s history.
A visit to the Arna Bontemps African American Museum offers a thought-provoking exploration of cultural heritage and significance.
However, the true highlight lies in spending a day with your loved ones at the Alexandria Zoo. Here, exotic creatures roam freely in habitats meticulously designed to mirror their natural surroundings. The zoo promises an enchanting encounter with wildlife that fosters a deeper appreciation for our planet’s diverse inhabitants.
Intriguing and charming, Alexandria stands as a testament to the wealth of hidden treasures Louisiana has to offer, promising a vacation enriched with culture, history, and memorable family moments.
5. Ruston
Unlock the realm of affordable family adventures in Louisiana, proving that unforgettable vacations need not drain your wallet.
In Ruston, a world of Southern charm and delights unfolds without wreaking havoc on your budget.
For an economical family getaway, Ruston emerges as the perfect destination. Offering wallet-friendly accommodations and delectable dining options, the city caters graciously to those seeking a cost-effective experience.
Don’t be fooled by the affordability – Ruston boasts an array of attractions sure to captivate your entire crew. From the inviting Railroad Park to the exhilarating Soaring Spirit Ziplines, the city guarantees entertainment that won’t break the bank.
Moreover, Ruston provides access to neighboring family-friendly destinations, including the enchanting Magnolia, Arkansas.
A summertime highlight is Ruston’s Louisiana Peach Festival, a beloved annual event that beckons families. Overflowing with joyous elements like parades, eating contests, thrilling rides, rodeo spectacles, games, and antique car displays, this festival epitomizes family-oriented merriment.
In Ruston, the promise of an affordable yet immensely rewarding family vacation awaits, where cherished memories are crafted without the burden of excessive spending.
6. St. Francisville
Exploring distinctive and joyful family vacation ideas? Don’t overlook the charm of St. Francisville – an exquisite addition to your roster of family-friendly Louisiana destinations.
St. Francisville proves to be a haven for families encompassing budding photographers and aspiring Instagram luminaries. The town’s allure lies in its ability to captivate with every corner – from captivating cemeteries to streets adorned with ethereal Spanish moss, a breathtaking beauty is woven into its very fabric.
But St. Francisville offers more than just visual splendor; it is a sanctuary for relaxation and a paradise for antique enthusiasts.
For a tranquil retreat, venture into the embrace of nature at Mary Ann Brown Nature Preserve. A few hours here transports you far from the urban clamor. Observe wildlife, encounter a serene pond, and traverse wooden ridges and ravines, culminating in a unique microclimate that nourishes a variety of ecosystems.
By discovering St. Francisville, you gift your family an extraordinary escape, a realm where beauty, relaxation, and exploration unite harmoniously. When seeking the finest family vacations in Louisiana, St. Francisville beckons with its distinctive allure and abundant opportunities for cherished memories.
7. Grand Isle
Whether you’re embarking on a journey with toddlers or accompanying enthusiastic teens, the idyllic haven of Grand Isle guarantees to fulfill your quest for beachside euphoria.
This coastal gem, adorned with endless stretches of pristine, sugar-white sand beaches, is a haven that beckons families yearning for a sun-kissed escape from the shimmering waters.
Beyond the allure of the beach, Grand Isle unveils a captivating nature trail adorned with five designated bird-watching spots. Here, encounters with vibrant tanagers, graceful herons, majestic brown pelicans, and melodious songbirds are a common delight, offering an enriching experience for nature enthusiasts of all ages.
Enhance your family’s adventure by embarking on a fishing expedition at the enchanting Elmer’s Island Wildlife Refuge. Amidst the thrill of casting lines, take a moment to immerse yourself in the captivating views of the Gulf of Mexico, a mesmerizing sight that elevates your getaway to unparalleled heights.
Whether building sandcastles, exploring the diverse avian life, or angling by the sea, Grand Isle paints the canvas of your family vacation with unforgettable moments. As you seek the paramount family vacations in Louisiana, Grand Isle emerges as a coastal paradise, destined to be etched in your memories.
8. Monroe
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Monroe stands as an exceptional destination for those in pursuit of captivating and enlightening family excursions.
A visit to Monroe unveils a harmonious blend of enlightening museums and exhilarating attractions, making it an ideal canvas for educational and engaging family journeys.
Among the cherished family favorites lies the Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo, a haven that houses a captivating array of creatures, from the majestic leopard to the curious coati and the iconic buffalo.
Adding to the merriment, a vibrant water park awaits in Monroe, ready to shower kids with moments of exuberant splashing and laughter.
For those seeking a dose of knowledge intertwined with fascination, Monroe’s Chennault Aviation and Military Museum offers an enriching experience. Here, visitors delve into the annals of military history, both on the national and regional fronts, fostering an appreciation for the past and its impact on the present.
In Monroe, the tapestry of education and excitement comes to life, ensuring your family sojourn is a balance of enrichment and joy. As you scour the realm of best family vacations in Louisiana, Monroe’s allure beckons, promising memories that echo through generations.
9. Shreveport
Embark on a journey of boundless family entertainment as you uncover the array of family-friendly marvels in Shreveport.
Within Shreveport’s embrace, a cornucopia of delights awaits every member of your crew, ensuring a well-rounded experience tailored to diverse tastes and preferences.
For the little adventurers in your midst, a trip to Air-U Trampoline Park promises an exhilarating escapade filled with thrills and laughter, crafting cherished memories for years to come.
For those drawn to the embrace of the outdoors, the resplendent American Rose Center emerges as a haven of natural beauty. Amidst fountains, sculptures, and a staggering expanse of over 10,000 rose bushes, you’ll find a sanctuary that captivates the senses and offers tranquility to all who wander its pathways.
Pause for a captivating interlude at the R.W. Norton Art Gallery, a treasure trove of creativity that spans millennia. Within its walls, sculptures, and paintings by over a hundred artists take you on a journey through time and artistic expression, celebrating the tapestry of human creativity.
Shreveport beckons with its promise of all-encompassing enjoyment, ensuring that your family’s days are filled with wonder, laughter, and discovery. As you seek the pinnacle of family vacations in Louisiana, Shreveport stands ready to create a symphony of unforgettable experiences for each member of your cherished clan.
10. Avery Island
Discover the multifaceted allure of Avery Island, extending far beyond its renowned Tabasco museum and factory, particularly captivating for families with an affinity for wildlife and nature.
While Avery Island draws families to uncover the history of the iconic Tabasco hot sauce, its treasures span far wider. Amidst your visit, allow time to explore the museum and factory, indulging in the savory experience of sampling an array of hot-sauce-infused culinary delights.
Yet, Avery Island’s enchantment extends beyond gastronomic exploration. The island is a sanctuary for exotic avian life, with graceful egrets gracing its landscapes.
For an unforgettable adventure, immerse yourself in the embrace of Jungle Gardens. Encompassing a sprawling 170 acres along Bayou Petite Anse, this verdant expanse beckons with its captivating charm. As you traverse the island’s terrain, encounters with diverse creatures – from elegant deer to awe-inspiring alligators – paint a vivid picture of the island’s thriving ecosystem.
Beyond the confines of its Tabasco heritage, Avery Island emerges as a haven for families seeking immersion in both history and nature. When charting your path among the finest Louisiana vacations for families, Avery Island stands as a testament to the wonders that await those who seek a rich and diverse experience.
11. Houma
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Craft a tapestry of cherished travel memories on your family vacation as you delve into the array of family-friendly wonders awaiting in Houma.
Nestled within this charming and quaint town lies a trove of outdoor, cultural, and historical attractions designed to captivate young minds and hearts.
A visit to the Southdown Plantation stands as an imperative, a spot that effortlessly bridges generations with its timeless charm and educational offerings.
Venture into the heart of downtown Houma, where the past and present converge in a delightful stroll. Its inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places attests to its cultural significance and architectural allure.
Extend your exploration to the nearby Mandalay National Wildlife Refuge, a haven of flourishing wetlands. Enveloped by scenic trails, this refuge invites you to bask in the marvels of nature. Immerse yourself in wildlife observation and seize the chance for serene fishing encounters, creating memories that intertwine with the splendor of the natural world.
Houma unveils a world of family-oriented enchantments, promising a journey where laughter, learning, and discovery harmoniously unite. As you embark on your quest for the quintessential family vacation, Houma stands poised to deliver moments that linger in your heart for years to come.