Louisiana in Summer

Louisiana is an exciting summer vacation destination steeped in history and full of character and charm. Travelers can expect world-class museums, cuisine and entertainment combined with scenic escapes along the open road. Cool off while making memories that’ll last a lifetime in a state that will truly feed your soul.

Significant Sites 

Visiting Louisiana’s historical spots is a perfect way to combine learning with exploration while school is out. Wander the Natchitoches Historic District, with centuries-old buildings, informative museums and scenic riverfront views bringing history to life. Walk among earthen mounds at Poverty Point, a UNESCO World Heritage Site honored for its archaeological importance. 

New Orleans’ waterfront is home to the famed Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral and several institutions of the Louisiana State Museum system, while just down the Mississippi River is the Chalmette Battlefield where the crucial Battle of New Orleans took place. Tour one of the official state historic sites that include Fort St. Jean Baptiste, Rosedown Plantation and Plaquemine Lock. 

Indoor Attractions 

Escape the heat at an array of indoor institutions throughout the state. Learn through interactive displays at the National WWII Museum, get a 360-degree panorama of New Orleans from Vue Orleans Observation Deck and learn about the iconic celebration at Mardi Gras World before heading to the famed New Orleans Museum of Art or Louisiana Children’s Museum in City Park. 

The Acadian Cultural Center, one of the numerous sites of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, allows travelers to explore Cajun heritage through artifacts and cultural programs. The Abita Mystery House is a beloved roadside stop and self-guided folk art museum. Enjoy the air conditioning in must-visit exhibits like those at the Louisiana Art & Science Museum in Baton Rouge, or the Sci-Port Discovery Center, Barksdale Global Power Museum and Shreveport Aquarium in Shreveport.

Free Things to Do 

Louisiana on a budget still provides memorable experiences for all ages. Some attractions are free to visit for everyone during open hours, like the Old State Capitol building in Baton Rouge, as well as the self-guided tours at the Sazerac House and the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden in New Orleans. Most museums offer free days to Louisiana residents; check websites for details.

With cooler temperatures in the evening, many cities put on free concert series during summer, like Downtown Alive! in Lafayette, Live after 5 in Baton Rouge and Wednesdays at the Square in New Orleans. And Louisiana’s cities and towns are home to picturesque parks filled with amenities like playgrounds, picnic areas, restrooms and paved paths. 

Epic Road Trips 

Enjoy a classic summer road trip along scenic highways through charming towns filled with hidden gems and vibrant local culture. Louisiana has two official All-American Roads — Creole Nature Trail wanders through the wetlands of coastal Louisiana, and Great River Road travels 773 snake-like miles along the Mississippi River from the Arkansas border to the Gulf. 

The Zydeco Cajun Prairie Scenic Byway lets visitors experience the rhythmic sounds, local festivals and natural beauty of Cajun country. Driving the Cane River National Heritage Trail Scenic Byway offers a captivating blend of Creole history and picturesque landscapes of northern Louisiana, while fresh seafood in fishing villages with bayou backdrops become common along the Wetlands Cultural Trail.

Cooling Waters 

Nothing beats a dip in refreshing waters on a sun-soaked day in Louisiana. Swim along the sandy shores of Lake Pontchartrain in Fontainebleau State Park or get your motor or paddle craft into the large Toledo Bend Lake from public launches along its coastline. If you don’t have your own kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard, local companies statewide can provide you with all the equipment you need for a day of exploring the state’s waterways. 

Families can enjoy cooling off at one of the dozens of water parks found throughout Louisiana, perfect for those looking for an aquatic escape outside of nature. Visitors to Lake Charles can enjoy the lazy rivers and water slides at resort pools before getting ready for nightly lakefront dining and casino entertainment. 

Eclectic Dining 

Louisiana’s dining scene is a celebration of flavors with every bite, satisfying even the pickiest of eaters. During New Orleans Restaurant Week, food lovers can indulge in the city’s world-famous cuisine at discounted prices, from fine-dining establishments to adored neighborhood cafés. The culinary talent of Baton Rouge takes center stage during their restaurant week as chefs of the capital city showcase their creativity through exclusive multi-course meals.

Sit back with a cold one at one of dozens of stops on the Louisiana Brewery Trail. The culinary skill and cultural spice of Louisiana can be enjoyed at restaurants along numerous food trails throughout the state, like the Cajun Bayou Food Trail, Louisiana Oyster Trail, Cajun Boudin Trail, Shrimply Delicious Food Trail and No Man’s Land Gas Station Eats.

Frequently Asked Questions About Summer in Louisiana

What is the weather like in Louisiana during the summer? 

During the summer months, Louisiana experiences hot days with high humidity, reminding visitors of the state's subtropical climate. Temperatures will often climb above 90 degrees during the day, and sudden downpours do happen. Nights remain warm.

What should I pack for a vacation to Louisiana in summer? 

Because Louisiana summers can be hot and muggy, travelers should pack breathable clothing, comfortable shoes, and essentials like hats and water bottles to beat the heat. Sunscreen is recommended anytime going outside. 

What are the top summer festivals in Louisiana? 

With the warmer days, Louisiana comes alive in the evenings with vibrant celebrations of music, cuisine and culture. Free summer concert series are put on by many communities around the state, so get ready to dance into the night under a sky of stars.