Popular Scenic Day Trips from New Orleans

At a Glance 

• Popular day trip destinations from New Orleans includes Baton Rouge, St. Bernard Parish, The Northshore, Louisiana River Parishes and Jefferson Parish – all drivable from New Orleans in 90 minutes or less.
• Discover historic sites, state parks, fishing spots, nature trails, sandy beaches, local dining, wildlife and outdoor adventures while driving around Louisiana.

While the Crescent City’s joie de vivre makes for endless adventure, sometimes an escape from the hustle and bustle is in order. If you’re looking for a fun weekend or day trip from New Orleans, cities like Baton Rouge, Chalmette, Mandeville and Abita Springs deliver great restaurants, shopping and quaint cultural experiences. If you’re looking to explore more of Louisiana from behind the wheel, browse our byways.

Baton Rouge

1.5 hours from New Orleans | 82 miles 

Perhaps the top road trip from New Orleans, Louisiana’s capital city offers history, charm and outdoor adventure. Start at the Capitol Park Museum, where you can learn about everything from Mardi Gras to Louis Armstrong. See a 2,300-year-old mummy at the Louisiana Art & Science Museum, or explore Louisiana’s Old State Capitol. Spot sweet foxes, deer and birds at the Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center before cooling off with tart sours, hearty stouts and hoppy IPAs at Cypress Coast Brewing Co.

St. Bernard Parish

20 minutes from New Orleans | 9 miles 

Located in St. Bernard Parish just down river from New Orleans, Chalmette offers small-town charm and rich history. Start by exploring the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve: Chalmette Battlefield, where you can enjoy a self-guided tour around the premises, complete with Mississippi River views, before wandering St. Bernard State Park. Later, observe the Hurricane Katrina Memorial at Shell Beach before fishing along the Mighty Mississippi. When you're ready to fuel up, consider a steak from Brewster’s or a heaping plate of homemade mac and cheese at Rocky and Carlo's.

The Northshore

45 minutes from New Orleans | 36 miles 

The Northshore is one of the best day trips from New Orleans to take, not only for its proximity to the city, but for its picturesque waterfront views. Paddle down Cane Bayou, located between Fontainebleau State Park in Mandeville and the Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge in Lacombe. Rent a candy-colored bike from Brooks’ Bike Shop and glide through Old Mandeville — a historic community enveloped in charm. History lovers can explore the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Maritime Museum before grabbing a bite at Sal & Judy’s, a beloved Creole-Sicilian restaurant.

Louisiana River Parishes

1 hour from New Orleans | 53 miles

Stretching from the outskirts of the Big Easy down the Mighty Mississippi are the Louisiana River Parishes, where the innate beauty of Louisiana’s swamplands shine. Soar through forested greenspace at Zip NOLA in LaPlace, float down cypress-dotted marshlands with Swamp Adventures and marvel at the sprawling, lush oaks of Oak Alley Plantation in Vacherie. End the day with a long look at the Whitney Plantation, which tells the story of the South through the eyes of the formerly enslaved. Later, grab a bite of fried green tomatoes with lump crabmeat from Frenier Landing Restaurant, pillowy beignets from Chung's Heavenly Cafe or a spicy link of sausage along the area’s tasty Andouille Trail.

Jefferson Parish

30 minutes from New Orleans | 108 miles

Known as “Next Door NOLA,” Jefferson Parish is a favorite road trip from New Orleans, largely because of Grand Isle, Louisiana’s premier beach destination. Stroll 2 miles of beaches with postcard-perfect views, walk nature trails or camp along the waterfront. Along Jean Lafitte Harbor, trap crabs and spy gators, or learn about the city’s long standing fishing legacy at Lafitte's Barataria Museum (temporarily closed due to Hurricane Ida — visit the museum's website for more information). Looking to spruce things up? Explore the Lakeside Shopping Center, the area’s most extensive shopping area. For dinner, sample famous charbroiled oysters from legendary Metairie restaurant Drago's — just one stop along the Louisiana Oyster Trail.

For more adventurous day trips and weekend getaways, journey through Louisiana’s byways.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What are the best scenic day trips from New Orleans? 

Some of the best scenic day trips from New Orleans include Baton Rouge, St. Bernard Parish, the Northshore, the Louisiana River Parishes and Jefferson Parish. 

What is the closest recommended day trip from New Orleans? 

St. Bernard Parish is one of the closest day-trip destinations to New Orleans, with Chalmette approximately 20 minutes and 9 miles from the city. Visitors can explore Chalmette Battlefield, St. Bernard State Park, the Hurricane Katrina Memorial at Shell Beach and nearby fishing areas. 

How far is Baton Rouge from New Orleans? 

Baton Rouge is approximately 82 miles, or about a 1.5-hour drive, from New Orleans. A day trip to Louisiana's capital can include the Capitol Park Museum, Louisiana Art & Science Museum, Old State Capitol and Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center. 

Where can I experience Louisiana swamps and bayous near New Orleans? 

The Louisiana River Parishes offer opportunities to experience Louisiana's swamps, marshes and bayous close to New Orleans. Visitors can take a swamp tour, explore cypress-dotted waterways, visit historic plantation sites and experience the area's distinctive food and culture. 

Which day trip from New Orleans is best for beaches and coastal scenery? 

Jefferson Parish is a convenient choice for a coastal day trip, particularly Grand Isle. Visitors can enjoy beaches, nature trails, waterfront camping, fishing and wildlife viewing while experiencing one of Louisiana's distinctive coastal communities. 

What are the best day trips from New Orleans for history and culture? 

Baton Rouge, St. Bernard Parish and the Louisiana River Parishes are particularly well suited to travelers interested in history and culture. Highlights include museums and historic landmarks in Baton Rouge, Chalmette Battlefield in St. Bernard Parish, and historic plantation sites and cultural attractions along the River Parishes. 

What is the best New Orleans day trip for nature and outdoor activities? 

About 45 minutes from New Orleans, the Northshore area offers waterfront scenery, paddling on Cane Bayou, biking through Old Mandeville and opportunities to explore Fontainebleau State Park and Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge.