26 Essential Louisiana Experiences to Plan for 2026

Every year, I always make a bucket list of things I want to see and do in my home state. Thankfully, Louisiana has so many amazing attractions—both natural and man-made—available all year-round. Deciding what to fit on my 2026 calendar, however, will be a tricky task. There's too much to do!

If you're also hoping to make this year an action-packed adventure, check out this list I've compiled of 26 things to do in Louisiana in 2026. From kayaking in the swamps to Mardi Gras celebrations and jazz fests, there's something for everyone below. Let's see how many we can check off our bucket list.

1. Kayak at Manchac Swamp - LaPlace

Swamp boat tours are such a fun thing to do in Louisiana, but if you really want to take your aquatic adventures to the next level, sign up for a Manchac Swamp Kayak Tour. Paddling through the Manchac Swamp lets you take in those dreamy views at a much slower pace, and it’s perfect for all skill levels. 

2. Hike Driskill Mountain - Bienville Parish

If you’re a longtime resident of Louisiana, you’ve probably heard of Driskill Mountain, which would be considered a hill in northern states. Make 2026 the year you summit Louisiana’s tallest natural peak. The hike is only about a mile each way, and those treetop views at the top are pure perfection.

3. Attend the Omelette Festival - Abbeville 

Every year in November, Abbeville hosts the annual Giant Omelette Festival Celebration. Chefs from all over the world come out to cook up a massive 5,000+ egg omelette in downtown Abbeville. It’s a family-friendly event, complete with live music, an antique car show, a parade, arts and crafts vendors, and so much more. Come out and watch this massive omelette come together on a giant 12-foot skillet—we promise you’ve never seen anything like it.

4. Join the JazzFest - New Orleans

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is one of the most popular gatherings in Louisiana, and for good reason. The musical talent is undoubtedly the focus of this epic festival, but you can also count on some delicious food and drinks from local restaurants, several art vendors, and chances to learn about local history. The 2026 Jazz Fest dates are April 23 to May 3, 2026—visit the official Jazz Fest website to stay up to date on ticket prices and performance lineups.

5. Visit Kiroli Park - Monroe

If you live in the Monroe or West Monroe area, you know why Kiroli Park made this list. I think it’s one of the best parks in Louisiana, and I wish more cities would build something this awesome. From the all-abilities playgrounds to the dog park and nature trails—this park is incredible. Admission is only $1 per person, which is a steal these days.

6. Attend the Peach Festival - Ruston

Peaches are typically associated with Georgia, but the Pelican State grows 'em, too. To celebrate our bounty of juicy, fruity deliciousness, we hold a Louisiana Peach Festival every year in downtown Ruston. On June 6, 2026, fill up on decadent peach-flavored desserts like ice cream and cobbler, purchase peaches or crafts from local vendors, or watch the parade and antique car show. It's one of the best family-friendly events in Louisiana.

7. Walk Wild Azalea Trail - Alexandria

If one of your 2026 goals is to get outside more often, put the Wild Azalea Trail in Alexandria on your bucket list. At 24 miles long, it's the longest primitive trail in the state, so most people tackle it in chunks. I'd say spring is the best time to hike this trail—you’ll get to see all of those beautiful wild azaleas blooming.

8. Explore Creole Nature Trail - Southwest Louisiana

The Creole Nature Trail is a 180-mile All-American Road that takes you through some of the most scenic spots in southwest Louisiana. From Lake Charles all the way down to the Gulf, this scenic drive in Louisiana takes you through prairies, bayous, charming small towns, and more. You can even walk parts of it—it's fairly accessible.

9. Visit Chauvin Sculpture Garden - Chauvin

A bit of a hidden gem in Louisiana, the Chauvin Sculpture Garden is one of the most unique gardens you’ve ever seen. The hand-painted sculptures are the work of artist Kenny Hill, who lived on the property from 1988 to 2000, but now, the garden is maintained by Nicholls State University. Spot angels, cowboys, and all sorts of other depictions in this quirky attraction.

10. Zipline at Gators and Friends - Greenwood

Gators and Friends is an exotic animal petting zoo and adventure park all rolled into one awesome attraction in Greenwood, Louisiana, a town near Shreveport. Home to 150 alligators plus dozens of adorable exotic animals, this place is fun for all ages. My personal favorite attraction is the zipline adventure, where you can soar over the entire park.

11. Get Jazz Brunch at Commander’s Palace - New Orleans

Make 2026 the year you treat yourself—you deserve it. There’s no better way to do so than enjoying a jazz brunch at Commander’s Palace. As one of the oldest restaurants in Louisiana, Commander’s Palace is one of the best eateries in NOLA, and a must-do for anyone visiting the city. Make a day of it and catch the St. Charles Streetcar and then take a Garden District tour.

12. Stroll Through Audubon Park - New Orleans

Audubon Park is a New Orleans staple. Specifically, locals love to catch the sunset in one little corner of the park called The Fly. It's right on the water behind the Audubon Zoo, and is the perfect place to chill in a hammock, toss a frisbee, or simply take in the scenery. I'm definitely adding this spot to my 2026 bucket list.

13. Join the Tarpon Rodeo - Grand Isle 

Established in 1928, the Tarpon Rodeo is the oldest fishing tournament in the U.S. Every year in July, anglers from around the world head to Grand Isle to compete for the Grand Prize ($10,000). The Tarpon Rodeo is always held the last weekend in July, including Sunday, so mark your calendars in 2026. Make sure you book accommodations in Grand Isle early—this tiny barrier island fills up quickly.

14. Stay at a Beachfront Home - Cameron

If you’re planning on taking the Creole Nature Trail, book a night or two in this beachfront rental in Cameron. Soak in the beautiful view of the Gulf and spend your nights counting stars while listening to the sounds of gently crashing waves. If you’re a beach bum who likes to avoid the crowds, Cameron Beach is going to become your new favorite beach. 

15. Celebrate Cajun Mardi Gras - Louisiana

New Orleans may be known for Mardi Gras, but Cajun Mardi Gras has my heart. It’s a unique side of Mardi Gras that the general public doesn’t often see—I’d encourage everyone to do their own research on this celebration's traditions and what towns you can visit to join in. (One of the most popular is Mamou.) You’ll need to start working on your costume soon, as they take this very seriously.

16. Attend New Orleans Mardi Gras - New Orleans

New Orleans Mardi Gras should be on everyone’s bucket list. Even if you can’t make the actual date (Mardi Gras is February 17, 2026), there are plenty of parades you can attend before Fat Tuesday. Bacchus is one of my favorites, followed by the Muses and Orpheus. Every parade has a different vibe, and all of them are an undeniably good time. Check out these historic Mardi Gras photos for a peek into the past. My, how far we’ve come.

17. Explore the French Quarter - New Orleans

The French Quarter at night is no longer my vibe, but you can absolutely catch me enjoying the sights and sounds of the quarter during the day. Spend an afternoon wandering around, checking out the shops, restaurants, and bars—it’s a completely different vibe during the day. You might even be inspired to take a ghost tour.

Be sure to swing by Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar for a drink—it's the oldest building in the country (built between 1722 and 1732) that's now a bar.

18. Explore LARC’s Acadian Village - Lafayette

The Acadian Village is one of my favorite things to do in Lafayette. Here, you can walk around a 19th-century Acadian village with authentic Acadian buildings, including blacksmith shops, homes, and more. This is one of those attractions you’ll want to visit twice because it transforms into a winter wonderland during Christmas. 

19. Discover Avery Island - Iberia Parish

Spice up your life with a visit to Avery Island—the home of the Tabasco hot sauce brand. Take a tour of the factory, dine at the restaurant, and wander around the beautifully maintained grounds. Bird City and Jungle Gardens are simply mesmerizing, as well. It's a must-see place in Louisiana in 2026.

20. Visit Jefferson Island - Iberia Parish

Did you know you can island hop in Louisiana? That's right—not far from Avery Island is Jefferson Island, a unique little area with the vibrant Rip Van Winkle Gardens and views of Lake Peigneur. It's one of the greatest natural wonders in the Pelican State. Just watch out for those peacocks and spoonbills in the foliage; they can be a bit territorial.

21. Tour the Audubon Zoo and Aquarium - New Orleans

I’m embarrassed to admit how long it’s been since I’ve visited the Audubon Zoo and the aquarium. But 2026 is the year I'll return. Pro tip: Visit the zoo in the spring or fall and then visit the aquarium in the summer. It’s simply too hot to wander around during the Louisiana summer. 

22. Canoe at Chicot State Park and Arboretum - Ville Platte

Chicot State Park is my favorite state park in Louisiana, and not just because it’s the largest. Ville Platte and the surrounding area have always had my heart, and this park does a phenomenal job of letting you explore this natural landscape. Rent a canoe and spend some time exploring Lake Chicot. If you really want to enjoy yourself, rent one of the waterfront cabins within the park.

23. Take a Boat Tour at Atchafalaya - Breaux Bridge

There’s nothing like the feeling of soaring through the swamps on an airboat. This is another outdoor activity that’s more comfortable outside of summer (spring is ideal). Champagne’s Swamp Boat Tours in Breaux Bridge, Louisiana, is a leader of the pack—they know those waterways like the back of their hand. Make a weekend out of it and book a stay at this awesome cottage on the bayou.

24. Pet Exotic Animals at Magnolia Wilds - Ethel

Barn Hill Preserve—now called Magnolia Wilds—is an awesome animal sanctuary not far from St. Francisville, where you can interact with exotic animals like sloths, kangaroos, zebras, giraffes, and more. The folks at Barn Hill are always hosting incredible events, like swimming with otters or petting zoo tours, for adults and kids that will make the drive worth it. Just FYI: The preserve is closed from December 1 to January 31.

25. Spend the Day at City Park - New Orleans

You could spend an entire day at City Park in New Orleans and feel like you didn't see everything it has to offer. From the magnificent sculpture gardens to the fun little amusement park, this spot is super family-friendly and has something for everyone. The botanical gardens are my favorite, so I'm making a promise to myself to visit more often in 2026.

26. Dine at Boil Seafood House - Lower Garden District, Mid City

A Louisiana bucket list is not complete without a classic seafood boil. One of the most popular spots to get Cajun-style piles of crawfish, shrimp, potatoes, and corn is Boil Seafood House in the Lower Garden District and Mid City. Of course, they have other delicious fare on the menu, but the boil is bound to be the clear winner of your 2026 meal lineup.

Which of these Louisiana attractions are going on your 2026 travel bucket list? Between the nature trails, food festivals, and musical events, your calendar will never be empty in the Pelican State! Start planning your day trips and weekend getaways now, using Only In Your State's itinerary planner for personalized recommendations.