Travel Advice for Louisiana

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With mild, short winters Louisiana’s outdoors are enjoyed almost year round. However, the months of October and April bookend the hot summer with cool breezes and clear skies. December can also be an advantageous month to visit the Gumbo State with the French Quarter a-glow with Christmas décor and celebrated City of Lights Festival taking place in Natchitoches.

Any time of year one can find a festival to enjoy and the invitation is always open. But travellers should double check the times, dates and locations of smaller festivals before arriving to insure the information is up to date.  Booking ahead for more well-known festivals such as Mardi Gras and the Jazz & Heritage Festival is crucial for both independent travelers and groups.

Dining in Louisiana is second to none; travellers should expect a little weight gain and consider it a souvenir of good time.  But remember that many dishes feature seafood, and many seafood-based recipes have unique names like jambalaya, étouffée and gumbo that may be unfamiliar to some guests. If you have a seafood allergy always ask about the ingredients before ordering.

Driving from New Orleans to other destinations within the state is easily navigated. Key cities and small town stops are usually no further than an hour to two hours apart. A trip down River Road, one of Louisiana’s most stunning scenic drives, passes multiple plantations, historical churches and inspiring views of the Mississippi River.

Many prospective visitors are keenly aware of our hurricanes, both the cocktail served at famed piano bar Pat O’Brian’s and the weather condition. Should the latter be a concern note that visitor bureaus across the state have safety information available on request.   Most likely, during the wet season (June to September), only a brief rainfall will greet visitors in the late afternoon, as it does in Florida and many Southern USA States; so bring an umbrella.