When I’m traveling, I always like to seek out hidden gems and lesser-known places. Much like when you visit a charming small town in a new state, these hidden gems are often where you’ll find a new appreciation for the place you're visiting. Louisiana is no different! From Shreveport to Cajun Country, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best hidden gems in Louisiana that are worthy of your time. Let’s check it out:

1. Briarwood

If you’re a nature lover, specifically a Louisiana nature lover, then Briarwood needs to be at the top of your bucket list. Briarwood was the birthplace and home of Caroline Dormon, the first woman hired by the Forestry Service. She is a large reason Louisiana’s Kisatchie National Forest exists today, and before she died she left her property to be cared for so it can be visited today. The 200-acre site contains an endless array of natural flora and fauna, plus the original building she lived in. Tours can be set up by appointment in advance.

2. Black Bayou National Wildlife Reserve

Easily one of the best hidden gems in northeastern Louisiana, Black Bayou’s 4,600 acres are a lovely slice of paradise waiting for you to explore. The boardwalk trails allow you to really get “into the swamps,” and there’s plenty of wildlife to observe. The visitor center has several informative exhibits to make this an adventure the entire family can enjoy.

3. Driskill Mountain

Driskill Mountain may be a hill in any other state, but for Louisiana, it's our very own little mountain. It's not just any mountain, it's also the tallest natural summit in Louisiana! The trail to the summit is about a mile long and as far as mountain summits are concerned, this is one of the easier ones. While this hike is open year-round, I'd actually recommend doing this one in the winter months! This way, the leaves won't be in the way of the views at the top. Don't forget to sign the guestbook when you arrive, it's part of the journey.

4. Chimp Haven

Prior to 2000, chimpanzees were used for human disease research. Once the CHIMP Act was signed into law, Chimp Haven was established to provide a sanctuary for retired chimpanzees who couldn’t be released back into the while. Today, Chimp Haven is the forever home for more than 300 chimpanzees who get to live out their lives in luxury in a 200 acre oasis.

Chimp Haven is not open to the public year-round, but they do open their gates a few times a year for Discovery Days.

5. Bonnie and Clyde Death Spot

On May 23, 1934, America's most infamous criminals met their maker on a dirt road in rural Louisiana. You can visit the Bonnie and Clyde Death Spot today, and it's one of the best hidden gems in Louisiana. While you're in the area you can drive about seven miles away and visit the Bonnie and Clyde Ambush Museum to learn more about their crimes and their gang.

6. Prehistoric Park

Calling all dinosaur lovers! Prehistoric Park is a dinosaur-themed park in Henderson, Louisiana that's a great adventure for families. As you walk through the park you'll come across larger-than-life, realistic replicas of these ancient beasts. It makes for some really fun photo opportunities, that's for sure!

7. Zip Nola

Do you have the need for speed? Then make your way over to Zip Nola where you can zip line over the swamps! You might even catch a glimpse of a white-tailed deer, a swamp rabbit, or even an alligator below.

8. Gators & Friends

Located just outside of Shreveport, Gators & Friends is your one-stop shop for all your familie's adventurous needs. There's a petting zoo, a race car track, and of course, a live alligator pond with over 300 alligators. For the ultra-adventurous, you can even take an epic zip line that will have you soaring all across the park including directly over the alligator pond!

9. Chauvin Sculpture Garden

Located on Bayou Petit Caillou, the Chauvin Sculpture Garden is a fascinating hidden gem in Southern Louisiana. It was once the home of Kenny Hill, an artist who created all of the sculptures there today. Eventually, the city evicted him from his property and he was never seen again. Today, the sculpture garden is maintained by Nicholls State University and welcomes visitors seven days a week from dawn until dusk.

10. Barn Hill Animal Preserve

Barn Hill Animal Preserve might be my favorite place in Louisiana. This hidden gem in Ethel, Louisiana can be a bit of a drive to get to, but I promise it's worth it. In addition to daily visits where you can meet and greet the animals, Barn Hill also hosts several unique events that you won't find anywhere else. Want to swim with otters? Yes, please! Want to sip wine with sloths? Say less. How about hand-feeding a capybara? Take my money now.

For more hidden gems in Louisiana, gas up the car and embark on this epic road trip in Louisiana that'll take you to even more awesome attractions. Don't forget to pack the essentials!

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