Here Are 7 Unique Day Trips Near New Orleans That Are An Absolute Must Do

There are some truly great day places in and near New Orleans that are perfect for a free afternoon. There are beaches all around that will bring joy, and there are some beautiful towns, sights, and sounds that'll make you feel like you've discovered something completely special (and really, you have). So, grab some folks you love and explore these amazing day trips near New Orleans. They are certain to provide some awesome memories for you and yours. Here are seven of the best day trips in New Orleans to do ASAP:

1) St. Francisville

This town north of New Orleans is so adorable you'll want to stay here for a week! There is an amazing combination of historic plantation homes and gorgeous gardens that are certain to bring a smile to your face. Stay at a bed and breakfast and soak in all of the sights and sounds of this sweet town.

2) Ship Island

If you're looking for a way to get to the shore in a hurry, check out the boat to Ship Island in Biloxi, Mississippi. If you wake up early enough, you can catch the earliest boat and have all day on this gorgeous island in the Gulf of Mexico.

3) Avery Island

The birthplace of Tabasco sauce makes for a lovely day trip, where you can explore the local factory for the sauce as well as check out the acres of Jungle Gardens, where there are some truly unique plants as well as a beautiful sculpture of a Buddha from the 1920s.

4) Dauphin Island

Another gorgeous Gulf Island, this one off the coast of Alabama. Dauphin Island is an amazing place to spend the day with loved ones. One of the most developed of the barrier islands, there's truly something for everything at this beautiful spot!

5) Ponchatoula

There are some amazing towns around New Orleans, but Ponchatoula is really special. The annual strawberry festival is a big attraction, but there are many other awesome places to eat and shop in this darling town.

6) Crosby Arboretum

This gorgeous park east of New Orleans includes a really beautiful trail as well as the Pinecote Pavilion, a unique structure that is an amazing photo taking opportunity.

7) Grand Isle

Keep going down Louisiana Highway 1 and you'll reach Grand Isle, one of the best beaches in Louisiana and an absolutely beautiful place for bird watching.

If you've never explored any of these places, then you're in luck. These are some of the most beautiful day trips near New Orleans to check out, and we're sure you're going to fall in love with them. Let us know if you've ever been to these places before - we love to hear about your experiences!