By: NOLA Weekend

Are you looking to get out of town for the day? Take a quick road trip and venture off the beaten path with one of these getaways!

Whether you're taking the family or exploring by yourself, you can travel to all of these destinations within driving distance of New Orleans. Just take note of the restrictions in place for COVID-19 and plan accordingly. Have fun on your adventure!

 

Cat Island and Ship Island

 

These two islands just off the coast of Gulfport, Miss. are part of the Gulf Island National Seashore. Cat Island is accessible by private boat only or charter a boat to get you there. Primitive camping is allowed on this island. Ship Island is accessible by a ferry that leaves multiple times throughout the day. Ferry fares range from $19 to $29.  During the summer months, the ferry can get busy so you’ll want to get there early to make sure you get a good spot on the beach. Food and chair rentals are available on Ship Island but you can also bring your own.  Check their website for tips on what to bring.
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*COVID-19 Update

  • Ship Island Excursions are still operating.

 

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Tunica Hills

 

Explore an outdoor playground like no other. Tunica Hills Wildlife Management Area in St. Francisville offers hills, hiking trails and even waterfalls perfect for the nature enthusiast.
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Global Wildlife Center

 

Walk on the wild side with more than 4,000 exotic, endangered and threatened animals from all over the world! Global Wildlife is located in Folsom and offers tours where you can even feed some of the animals! Click here to learn more about Global Wildlife.
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*COVID-19 Update

  • Open daily
  • Reservations only: Must pre-book/pre-pay

 

Covey Rise Sportsman's Retreat

 

Less than two hours away, Husser, La. brings you this hunting lodge providing full-service hunting adventures on 400 acres of property. Deer, quail, duck and pheasant are all part of the hunting experience. There are also activities for the non-hunters including fishing, hiking, cooking lessons and a tour of the Covey Rise Farm. On-site accommodations include a six-bedroom lodge or cabin rentals. Photo courtesy: Covey Rise Lodge
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*COVID-19 Update

  • full-service hunting adventures and more are still operating.

 

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Avery Island

 

Come see where one of the South’s favorite condiments is made! The Tabasco Pepper Sauce Plant offers tours seven days a week as well as a gift shop and restaurant. Make sure to check out the bird sanctuary while you’re there as well.
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*COVID-19 Update

  • Temporarily Closed. Check back for updates.

 

Vermilionville Historic Village

 

One of the largest living history museums dedicated to Cajun and Creole culture resides just next door in Lafayette. It features seven restored structures from the years 1765-1890. They also have live demonstrations by artisans of the crafts essential to the life of the early settler.
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*COVID-19 Update

  • Open for Business
  • Face masks required

 

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Abita Mystery House

 

This interesting spot on the Northshore features a vintage gas station turned “museum” where more than 1,000 pieces of folk art are displayed. Everything from old arcade machines to a miniature Southern town display-are all for the eye to behold.
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*COVID-19 Update

  • Open daily from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Face masks required

 

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Port Hudson National State Site

 

In East Feliciana lies the site of the longest siege in American history and the first-time African American troops made their first major assault during the Civil War. There is also a national cemetery in the city as well-just 20 miles from Baton Rouge.
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Chicot State Park

 

About 80 miles outside of Baton Rouge in Ville Platte is the largest of Louisiana’s state parks with 6,400 acres of wildlife and fun. They offer several activities such as hiking, boating, fishing and even camping.
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Angola Museum at Louisiana State Penitentiary

 

For over 130 years this institution still operates as a prison farm and the largest maximum security prison in America. The museum located outside the main gates chronicles its history as one of America’s most notorious prisons.
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*COVID-19 Update

  • Open for business
  • Face masks are required
  • $5 entry fee for adults

 

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Bogue Chitto Tubing

 

Over in Bogalusa, LA, you can spend your day on the water. The Bouge Chitto River offers water activities including tubing, kayaking and canoeing. Visit the website for pricing (dependent on hours spent on the water).
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*COVID-19 Update

  • Open for business

 

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Infinity Science Center

 

Right on the border of Louisiana and Mississippi is the Infinity Science Center in Pearlington, MS. The science museum has multiple activities and learning experiences touching on all different aspects of Earth and space. Admission prices are $15  -adults, $13 – seniors, military members, first responders and health care worker and $10 – children. Parking is free.
Google Maps 
*COVID-19 Update
COVID-19 Update

  • Open for Business (closed Mondays)
  • Face masks are required

 

Visit Website